JP2018187223A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To characterize information of a content showing that a lottery element is stored or consumed.SOLUTION: A drum unit starts operating in a fixed time (after 0.6 seconds pass) after variation start of a special symbol. A performance storage lamp is placed near a middle start winning port. In such a configuration, when the performance storage lamp is switched on or shifted as winning occurs or variation start occurs, a gap occurs to operation of the performance storage lamp and operation of the drum unit, and a player becomes confused. Then, liquid crystal storage display immediately performs update as winning occurs or the variation start occurs, whereas the performance storage lamp is operated after a fixed time passes. Thus, it becomes clear that a liquid crystal display above a board surface displays information interlocking with the special symbol and the drum unit and the performance storage lamp below the board surface display information not interlocking with the special symbol, so that wrong recognition by the player can be avoided.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 69

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that executes a game.

  Conventionally, a gaming machine including a rotating drum and a liquid crystal display device is known as this type of gaming machine (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-052381

  In the above-described prior art, when the rotation of the rotating drum is started to start the variable display of the decorative design, an image indicating the start of the variable display of the decorative design is displayed on the liquid crystal display device.

  However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, there is no such feature in the information indicating that the lottery element (hold) is stored or consumed.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of giving a feature to information of contents indicating that a lottery element is stored or consumed.

  The present invention employs the following means for solving the above-described problems. In addition, the wording in the following brackets is an illustration to the last, and this invention is not limited to this. Moreover, this invention can be set as the invention containing each invention specific matter shown in the following solution means. Furthermore, each invention specific matter shown in the following solution means can be subordinated by adding an element that limits the invention specific matter, and can also be subordinated by deleting an element that limits the invention specific matter. .

  Solution 1: The gaming machine of the present solution is a lottery element acquisition unit that acquires a lottery element necessary for execution of a predetermined lottery when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, and the lottery element acquisition unit that acquires the lottery element Lottery element storage means for storing a lottery element; and lottery execution means for consuming the lottery element and executing the predetermined lottery when the lottery element is stored in a state where a predetermined start condition is satisfied; When the predetermined lottery is executed, the symbol display means for displaying the symbols in a manner corresponding to the result of the predetermined lottery after the symbols are variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, and the lottery element stores Or a first information display means for displaying first information indicating that the lottery element is stored or consumed when consumed, and the lottery element is stored or consumed, wherein the lottery When the predetermined time has elapsed from when the element is stored or consumed, a game machine and a second information display means for displaying the second information content indicating that the lottery element is stored or consumed.

The gaming machine of the present solution has the following configuration.
(1) When a lottery trigger occurs during a game (when a game ball enters the start winning opening), a lottery element (a big hit random number for special symbol lottery) necessary for executing a predetermined lottery (special symbol lottery) is acquired. To do.
(2) The lottery element acquired by (1) is stored. The lottery elements can be stored, for example, up to a predetermined upper limit number (up to 4 per symbol).

(3) When the lottery element of (2) is stored in a state where a predetermined start condition (for example, the condition that the special symbol is not fluctuating or not stopped) is satisfied, the above-mentioned (2) ) And a predetermined lottery is executed.

(4) When the predetermined lottery of (3) above is executed, after the symbols (special symbols) are displayed in a variable manner over a predetermined fluctuation time, the symbols are displayed in a manner corresponding to the result of the predetermined lottery of (3) above. To stop display.

(5) When the lottery element of (2) is stored or consumed, the first information having contents indicating that the lottery element of (2) is stored or consumed is displayed. The first information may be an effect of displaying a marker (holding information) on the liquid crystal display, or may be a display for lighting a lamp (LED) of the integrated display board of the main control device.

(6) When the lottery element in (2) above is stored or consumed, and a certain time (for example, 0.6 seconds) has elapsed since the lottery element in (2) above is stored or consumed. The second information having the content indicating that the lottery element (2) is stored or consumed is displayed. The second information may be an effect of displaying a marker on the liquid crystal display, or a display of lighting a predetermined lamp.

  In this way, according to the present solution, the second information is displayed (updated) with a certain time delay from the first information, so the first information corresponds to genuine information (true information), and the second information It can be emphasized that the information corresponds to pseudo information, and the content information indicating that the lottery element is stored or consumed can be characterized.

  Solution 2: The gaming machine of the present solution causes the first effect symbol to be variably displayed in synchronization with the symbol change display, and the first effect symbol to be stopped and displayed in synchronization with the symbol stop display. A first variation effect executing means for executing a variation effect, and a second effect symbol in a variable manner without being synchronized with the symbol variation display, and when the predetermined time has elapsed since the symbol variation started. The second effect symbol is started, the second effect symbol is stopped and displayed without being synchronized with the symbol stop display, and the second time when the predetermined time has elapsed since the symbol variation stopped. A gaming machine comprising: a second variation effect executing means for executing a second variation effect for stopping the variation of the effect symbol.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) First variation effect in which the first effect symbol (this symbol displayed on the liquid crystal display) is variably displayed in synchronization with the symbol variation display, and the first effect symbol is stopped in synchronization with the symbol stop display. Execute.

(2) The second effect symbol (pseudo effect symbol displayed on the drum unit) is variably displayed without synchronizing with the symbol variation display, and a certain time (for example, 0.6 seconds) has elapsed since the symbol variation started. In such a case, the change of the second effect symbol is started, the second effect symbol is stopped and displayed without being synchronized with the stop display of the symbol, and a certain time (for example, 0.6 seconds) has elapsed since the change of the symbol is stopped. When the time has elapsed, a second variation effect for stopping the variation of the second effect symbol is executed.

  As described above, according to the present solution, the first effect symbol is synchronized with the symbol variation display or the like, but the second symbol is not synchronized with the symbol variation display or the like. It can be emphasized that the symbol is a pseudo effect symbol compared to the first effect symbol.

  In addition, in the present solution, both the operation of the second effect symbol and the display of the second information are executed when a predetermined time has elapsed since the lottery element was stored or consumed. The operation and the display of the second information are synchronized, and the confusion of the player due to the fact that they are not synchronized can be avoided.

  Solution means 3: The gaming machine of the present solution means that when the second information display means indicates that the lottery element is stored, the second information is displayed using addition data, and the lottery element The second information is displayed using subtraction data, and the addition data and the subtraction data are displayed before the preceding data is executed or during the execution of the preceding data. In addition, when subsequent data having the same content as the preceding data is executed, the content of the preceding data is destroyed by the subsequent data, and the addition data is stored in the lottery element. The gaming machine is characterized in that a number larger than the upper limit number is provided, and the subtraction data is provided with a number smaller than the upper limit number of the lottery elements stored.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) The second information display means displays the second information using the addition data when it indicates that the lottery element has been stored, and subtracts data when it indicates that the lottery element has been consumed. The second information is displayed using.

(2) The addition data and the subtraction data are determined by the subsequent data if the subsequent data having the same content as the previous data is executed before the previous data is executed or during the execution of the previous data. The data of the preceding data is destroyed.

(3) The addition data is provided with a larger number (for example, five) than the upper limit number of storage of lottery elements (upper limit number of one symbol). Note that six or more addition data may be provided depending on the relationship between the fixed time and the symbol variation time.
(4) The subtraction data is provided with a number (for example, one) smaller than the upper limit number of lottery elements stored. Two or more subtraction data may be provided depending on the relationship between the predetermined time and the symbol variation time (for example, when the symbol variation time is shorter than the certain time).

  In the above-described solving means, the display of the second information is updated with a certain time lag from the update timing of the display of the first information. If this is the case, the reversal phenomenon of the display update of the second information may occur.

  In other words, since the addition data is data in which the content of the preceding data is destroyed by the subsequent data, the addition data requires a number (four) corresponding to the maximum number of lottery elements stored. However, if four additional data are used before a certain time elapses, the first additional data will be used again, so the first addition is completed before the processing related to the first additional data is completed. The contents of the data will be destroyed.

  On the other hand, the subtraction data, depending on the relationship between the fixed time (0.6 seconds) and the symbol variation time, will pass as long as the fixed time is set to a time shorter than the symbol variation time. A scene that requires a plurality of subtraction data does not occur. For this reason, it is sufficient that the subtraction data is provided with a number (preferably one) smaller than the upper limit number of lottery elements stored.

  In the present solution, the subtraction data is set to a number smaller than the upper limit number of lottery elements and the addition data is set to a number greater than the upper limit number of lottery elements. Regardless of the number of data, control is performed so that the update order will not be reversed (additional data or subtraction data is not destroyed) no matter what timing (storing of lottery elements) or consumption occurs Can do.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to give a feature to information of contents indicating that the lottery element is stored or consumed.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a game board unit independently. It is a figure which shows the detail of the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31. FIG. It is a figure which shows the detail of the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31. FIG. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. It is a block diagram which shows the various electronic devices with which the pachinko machine was equipped. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an interruption management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a switch input event process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the production | presentation determination process at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage area shift process. It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the 1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the structure column of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the stop symbol selection table at the time of the 2nd special symbol small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening big opening opening pattern setting process. It is a figure which shows an example of the open pattern setting table according to symbol pattern at the time of big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. It is a figure which shows an example of the opening pattern setting table at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big prize opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd big winning opening opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a specific area | region opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the process at the time of specific area passage. It is a figure which shows an example of the open pattern setting table according to symbols at the time of specific area passage. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st big winning opening opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an end process. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when the 1st special symbol fluctuates in normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when the 2nd special symbol fluctuates in normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when the 1st special symbol fluctuates in drive mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when the 2nd special symbol fluctuates in drive mode. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the production image matched with the change display and stop display of a special symbol (1/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the production image matched with the change display and stop display of a special symbol (2/2). It is a continuation figure which shows the flow of the reach production performed at the time of big hit (1/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the reach production performed at the time of big hit (2/3). It is a continuation figure which shows the flow of the reach production performed at the time of big hit (3/3). It is a continuation figure which shows partially an example of a big role production performed during a big hit game (1/4). It is a continuation figure which shows in part an example of the big role production performed during the big hit game (2/4). It is a continuation figure which shows in part an example of a big role production performed during a big hit game (3/4). It is a continuation figure which shows in part an example of the big role production performed during a big hit game (4/4). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of an effect of drive mode (1/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of an effect of drive mode (2/3). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of a production in drive mode (3/3). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of an effect at the time of the 2nd special symbol changing in the drive mode in the non-time shortening state (1/2). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of an effect at the time of the 2nd special symbol changing in the drive mode in a non-time shortening state (2/2). It is a continuation figure which shows the operation timing of various symbols etc. (1/5). It is a continuous figure which shows the operation timings of various symbols etc. (2/5). It is a continuous figure which shows the operation timings of various symbols etc. (3/5). It is a continuous figure which shows the operation timings of various symbols etc. (4/5). It is a continuous figure which shows the operation timings of various symbols etc. (5/5). It is a continuation figure showing details of gradation control of the fluctuation lamp 65 concerned. It is a figure explaining the light extinction mode of the fluctuation lamp 65 of the production memory lamp 60 (comparative example). It is a figure explaining the light extinction mode of the fluctuation lamp 65 of the production memory lamp 60 (embodiment). It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an operation | movement memory production | presentation management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the effect selection process at the time of effect memory lamp winning. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect selection process at the time of effect memory lamp fluctuation start. It is a figure explaining the display mode of the marker M1 of the liquid crystal display 42 and the fluctuation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 (comparative example). It is a figure explaining the display aspect of the marker M1 of the liquid crystal display 42, and the said fluctuation | variation lamp | ramp 65 of the production | presentation memory lamp 60 (embodiment). It is a figure explaining how to turn on the effect storage lamp 60. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an effect design change pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the effect symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the process at the time of variable winning apparatus operation | movement. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a drum unit effect management process.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) 1. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 uses a game ball as a game medium, and a player borrows a game ball from a game hall operator to play a game with the pachinko machine 1. In the game of the pachinko machine 1, each of the game balls is a medium having a game value, and a privilege (benefits) enjoyed by the player as a result of the game is, for example, a game acquired by the player. The game value can be converted based on the number of balls. The overall configuration of the gaming machine will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[Overall configuration of gaming machine]
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (a plastic frame, a gaming machine frame) as its main body. The integrated door unit 4 is located on the foremost side when viewed from the front facing the player. An inner frame assembly 7 is located on the back side (back side) of the integrated door unit 4, and the outer frame unit 2 is disposed so as to surround the outer side of the inner frame assembly 7.

  The outer frame unit 2 is a structure in which wood and metal materials are combined in a vertically long rectangular shape. The outer frame unit 2 has a fastener such as a screw attached to an island facility (not shown) in the game hall. It is used and fixed. In the vertically long rectangular outer frame unit 2, wood is used for a portion corresponding to the upper and lower short sides, and a metal material is used for a portion corresponding to the left and right long sides.

  The integrated door unit 4 has a structure in which the tray unit 6 is integrated at a lower position thereof. The integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are attached to the island facility via the outer frame unit 2, and these operate in an openable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). An opening / closing axis of a hinge mechanism (not shown) extends in the vertical direction along the left end as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1.

  A unified lock unit 9 is provided on the inner side of the right edge (the left edge in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, a locking tool (not shown) is also provided on the right side edge (back side) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2. As shown in FIG. 1, in the state where the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly together with the locking device. 7 cannot be opened.

  Further, a cylinder lock 6 a with a key hole is provided on the right edge of the tray unit 6. For example, when an administrator of the game hall inserts a dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened together with the inner frame assembly 7. . If these are opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

  On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the locking of the integrated door unit 4 is released while the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. Further, when the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the tray unit 6 is also opened to the front side together.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes the game board unit 8 described above as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The integrated door unit 4 is formed with a vertically oval window 4a at the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is attached in the window 4a. The glass unit is a combination of, for example, two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via a fixture (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and this game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface.

  The saucer unit 6 has a shape projecting from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper plate 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. The upper plate 6b can store a game ball (rental ball) lent to a player and a game ball (prize ball) acquired by winning a prize. In the tray unit 6, a lower plate 6c is formed at the lower position of the upper plate 6b. The lower tray 6c stores game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray 6b is full. The pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (model connected to the CR unit), and the game balls borrowed by the player are separated from the payout device unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize balls. It is paid out to the dish 6b or the lower dish 6c).

  A lending operation unit 14 is provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged on the lending operation unit 14. When a player operates the ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted in a CR unit (not shown), the number corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees). (For example, 125) game balls are lent out. For this reason, a frequency display unit (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation unit 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium put in the CR unit is displayed on this frequency display unit. The player can receive the return of the valuable medium with the remaining frequency by operating the return button 12. Although the CR machine is taken as an example in the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a model not connected to the CR unit) different from the CR machine.

  Further, on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, an upper dish ball removal button 6d is installed in front of the upper dish 6b in the upper position, and a lower dish ball removal lever 6e is located in the center of the lower dish 6c. Is installed. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper plate 6b to flow down to the lower plate 6c by, for example, pressing the upper plate ball removing button 6d. Also, the player can drop the game balls stored in the lower plate 6c downward and discharge them by sliding the lower plate ball removal lever 6e to the left, for example. The discharged game ball is received by, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

  A grip unit 16 is installed at the lower right portion of the tray unit 6. The player operates the grip unit 16 to operate the launch control board set 174 and can launch (shoot) a game ball toward the game area 8a (ball launcher). The launched game ball rises from the lower edge portion of the game board unit 8 along the left edge portion, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (without reference numerals in the drawing) and the like are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown-in game balls flow down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmill. The configuration of the game area 8a (board surface) will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for production. Among these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decoration lamp 48, and the upper right electrical decoration unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decoration lamp 50. In addition, left and right glass frame decoration lamps 52 are installed in the integrated door unit 4 so as to be connected to the lower part of the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the tray unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46 and the left and right glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50, 52, and the like are arranged so as to surround the glass unit (no reference symbol).

  The various lamps 46, 48, 50, and 52 described above perform effects by, for example, the light emission of the built-in LEDs (lighting and blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, etc.). In addition, on the upper part of the integrated door unit 4, speakers on the glass frame 54 and 55 are incorporated in the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. On the other hand, an outer frame speaker 56 is incorporated in the lower left position of the outer frame unit 2. These speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sound effects, BGM, voice, etc. (sound in general) and execute effects.

  In the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 45 (operation input receiving means) is installed at a position in front of the upper plate 6b. The effect switching button 45 is, for example, a form in which a push-type circular button and a rotary jog dial are combined around it. The player switches the effect contents (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pushing or rotating the effect switching button 45, or performs some effect (for example, during the change of the symbol or during the big hit game). A notice effect, a probable promotion effect, a promotion effect during a major role, etc.) can be generated.

[Configuration on the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176. A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) constituting the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed. The electronic devices will be further described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 7).

  The payout device unit 172 includes, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference symbol), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. In this state, game balls replenished from a replenishment route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to a prize ball case through an upper prize ball basket (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game ball sent out from the payout device unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

  The external terminal board 160 is used for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.). Various external information signals (for example, award ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) indicating the progress state and maintenance state are output to an external electronic device. ing.

  The power cord 164 secures a power source (electric power) necessary for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power source device (for example, AC 24V) installed in an island facility of a game arcade. In addition, the ground wire 166 is connected to a ground terminal that is also installed in the island facility, thereby securing the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

[Configuration of the board]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. In the game area 8a, a relatively large effect unit 40 is arranged at the center position, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left part, a right part and a lower part with the effect unit 40 as the center. Further, in the game area 8a, a middle start winning opening 26, a starting gate 20, a normal winning opening 22, 25, a variable start winning apparatus 28, a first variable winning apparatus 30, and a second variable winning apparatus are provided around the effect unit 40. 31 etc. are distributed and installed. Among these, the middle start winning opening 26 is located in the center of the lower part of the game area 8a. In the right portion of the game area 8a (so-called right-handed area), the starting gate 20, the normal winning opening 25, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31 are arranged in this order from the top. Has been.

  The game ball thrown into the game area 8a passes through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, enters the middle start winning port 26, the normal winning ports 22 and 25 (wins), or releases. Or the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, and the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation. Here, the game ball flowing down the left area of the game area 8 a may enter the middle start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22. The game balls flowing down the right area of the game area 8a pass through the start gate 20, enter the normal winning opening 25, enter the variable start winning device 28 during the opening operation, There is a possibility of entering the first variable winning device 30 or entering the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation. The game balls that have entered the middle start winning opening 26, the normal winning openings 22 and 25, the variable start winning apparatus 28, the first variable winning apparatus 30, and the second variable winning apparatus 31 are game boards (a combination of the game board unit 8). It is collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through a through hole formed in a plate material, a transparent plate or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner), and accordingly, to the right start winning port 28b. Enables the entry of a ball (ordinary electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right opening / closing members 28a, and these opening / closing members 28a reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the left and right open / close members 28a are in the closed position with their tips facing upward, and at this time, it is difficult to enter the right start winning opening 28b (the game ball enters the ball). There is no gap that can be). On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is operated, the left and right opening / closing members 28a are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position, and the right opening winning opening 28b is opened by expanding the opening width to the left and right. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state in which a game ball can enter, and can enter the right start winning port 28b (variable start winning means). At this time, the opening / closing member 28a also functions as a member that guides the entry of the game ball into the right start winning opening 28b. Further, the arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 is basically an aspect that does not extremely impede the flow of the game ball toward the variable start winning device 28 (the right start winning port 28b at the time of opening). However, the game ball does not necessarily enter the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28b) at the time of the opening operation, and the balls are generated randomly. The variable start winning device 28 is opened, for example, for 0.1 seconds in the non-time shortened state, and is opened for 6.0 seconds in the time shortened state.

  The first variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big-hit manner, or when a game ball passes a specific area during a small-hit game). , It is possible to enter the first grand prize opening 30b (special electric accessory, special prize event generating means). The first variable winning device 30 has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a. The opening / closing member 30a is displaced from the closed position toward the open position by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the drawing, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) with the tip facing upward, and at this time, it is difficult to enter the first big prize opening 30b (the first big prize opening 30b is closed). It is. When the first variable winning device 30 is actuated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall rightward with its lower end edge portion as a hinge, thereby opening the first big winning opening 30b (open state). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is in a state in which a game ball can flow in, and can generate an event of entering the first big winning opening 30b. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member that guides the inflow of game balls into the first grand prize opening 30b. The arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 is basically an aspect that does not extremely impede the flow of the game ball toward the first variable winning device 30 (the first big winning port 30b during operation). However, the game ball does not necessarily enter the first variable prize-winning device 30 at the time of operation, and the ball is generated randomly.

  The second variable winning device 31 operates when a special condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit state), and enables the player to enter the second big winning opening 31b ( Special electric accessory, second special prize event generating means). Note that the second variable winning device 31 may operate when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big hit manner.

  The second variable winning device 31 is a device arranged on the right side of the effect unit 40 and has, for example, one opening / closing member 31a. The first variable prize-winning device 30 employs a device in which the opening / closing member 30a is tilted in the right direction (one-blade tulip-type attacker), but the second variable prize-winning device 31 has an opening / closing member 31a. A device that slides inside the board is used (sliding type attacker). The opening / closing member 31a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by, for example, a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). The opening / closing member 31a is in the closed position (closed state) in a state of protruding from the board surface to the player side. At this time, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening / closing member 31a. Is difficult (the second big winning opening 31b is closed). Then, when the second variable winning device 31 is activated, the opening / closing member 31a is drawn into the board surface, and the second large winning opening 31b is opened (open state). During this time, the second variable winning device 31 is in a state where it is not difficult for the game ball to flow in, and can generate an event of entering the second large winning opening 31b.

[Specific area]
In addition, a specific area 31x is provided inside the second variable winning device 31. The specific area 31x is an area where it is difficult for a game ball to pass when the second variable winning device 31 is closed, and the specific variable slide device 31c is a case where the second variable winning device 31 is open. This is an area through which a game ball can pass when it is drawn into the inside of the board. Details of the second variable winning device 31 will be described later.

  Further, although not particularly illustrated, the second variable winning device 31 (opening / closing member 31a) may be provided with a game ball rolling speed lowering portion that reduces the speed at which the game ball rolls. The game ball rolling speed lowering portion is formed by gradual inclination of the opening / closing member 31a or by forming protruding protrusions alternately for advancing the game ball in a zigzag manner at a position where the game ball on the opening / closing member 31a passes. Can be realized. Thereby, many game balls can be made to enter the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31 during a small hit game.

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not won a prize are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out port 32. In addition, the middle start winning port 26, the normal winning ports 22, 25, the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28b), the first variable winning device 30 (first big winning port 30b), and the second variable winning device 31 ( All game balls that have been driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls that have entered the second grand prize opening 31b, the specific area), are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8. The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join a supply path of an island facility (not shown).

4 and 5 are diagrams showing details of the second variable winning device 31. FIG.
The second variable prize winning device 31 has a second big prize opening 31b arranged below a sliding type opening / closing member 31a. The inside of the second grand prize winning opening 31b is inclined downward on the left side, and a passage extends downward at the left end. A second count switch 85 is disposed in the path extending downward, and the second count switch 85 counts the number of game balls that have entered the second variable winning device 31.

The passage extending downward is divided into two routes ahead. One first passage 31d extends downward as it is, and the other second passage 31e branches to the left.
The specific region slide member 31c is disposed in the first passage 31d, and the specific region 31x is disposed downstream of the first passage 31d. A specific area switch (not shown) is arranged inside the specific area 31x.
On the other hand, no special member is disposed in the second passage 31e, and a discharge hole 31y is disposed downstream of the second passage 31e.

  The specific area slide member 31c operates when a special condition is satisfied (between the first variable time 31 and before the second time elapses after the second variable prize-winning device 31 operates). Allows the passing of game balls. The specific area slide member 31c slides along the front-rear direction of the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a specific area solenoid (not shown), for example. For example, after the first time has elapsed, 0.2 seconds have elapsed since the operation of the second variable winning device 31, and after the second time has elapsed, 1.8 seconds have elapsed since the operation of the second variable winning device 31. After the lapse.

  When the specific area solenoid is in the OFF state, the specific area slide member 31c blocks the first passage 31d, so that it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the specific area 31x. On the other hand, when the specific area solenoid is in the ON state, the specific area slide member 31c is drawn inside the board surface, so that the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 31x.

Next, the operation of the second variable winning device 31 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 4A, the slide-type opening / closing member 31a is drawn into the inside of the board surface, and a game ball enters the second big prize opening 31b. In the example shown in the figure, four game balls are progressing toward the second grand prize opening 31b. Here, it is a state immediately before the first game ball is detected by the second count switch 85.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the first game ball has reached the specific area slide member 31c. The second and third game balls are moving toward the second count switch 85. The fourth game ball is about to enter the second grand prize opening 31b.

  As shown in FIG. 4C, at this time, the specific area slide member 31c is not drawn inward (because it is not operating), the first game ball is a specific area slide. The traveling direction is changed to the left side by the member 31c and travels through the second passage 31e. In this case, the first game ball is collected by the discharge hole 31y.

  As shown in FIG. 5D, it is assumed that the specific area slide member 31c is drawn into the board surface at this time (during operation). In this case, the second game ball passes through the front side of the specific area slide member 31c and proceeds to the first passage 31d. Then, the second game ball passes through the specific area 31x and is detected by the specific area switch.

  As shown in FIG. 5E, the third game ball also passes through the near side of the specific area slide member 31c and proceeds to the first passage 31d. In this case, the third game ball passes through the specific area 31x and is detected by the specific area switch.

  As shown in FIG. 5F, at this time, the operation of the specific area slide member 31c is completed, and the specific area slide member 31c protrudes to the front side of the board surface. In this case, the fourth game ball is guided to the left by the specific area slide member 31c and proceeds to the second passage 31e. And the 4th game ball is collect | recovered by the discharge hole 31y.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower left position in the window 4a).
The game board unit 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 (normal symbol display means) and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a at the lower right position in the window 4a, for example, and a first special symbol display device 34 (first 1 special symbol display means), a second special symbol display device 35 (second special symbol display means), a first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, a second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a, and a game state display device 38 are provided. Yes.

  Among these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, turns on two lamps (LEDs) alternately to display the normal symbols variably, and stops and displays the normal symbols when the lamps are turned on or off. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 memory numbers depending on, for example, a combination of turning off, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are extinguished, a memory number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a memory number of 1 is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed. Here, although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a may be configured using four lamps (LEDs). In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps to be lit.

  The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to the display mode after being incremented one by one in the sense of memorizing the occurrence of an operation lottery trigger each time a game ball passes through the start gate 20. Then, every time a change of the normal symbol is started with the passage (up to 4) as a trigger, the display mode is changed by one by one. In this embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in a state in which the normal symbol can already start to change (during stop display). However, the display mode does not change. That is, the memorized number (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a represents the number of passages at which the variation of the normal symbol has not started yet.

  Further, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 can display the variation state and the stop state of the special symbol by, for example, a 7-segment LED (with dots) (symbol display means, first symbol). Symbol display means, second symbol display means). In addition, the special symbol display devices 34 and 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

  Further, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a have 0 to 4 each, for example, depending on a display mode constituted by a combination of extinction or lighting and blinking of two lamps (LEDs). Is stored (memory number display means). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, 0 stored number is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is turned on, 1 stored number is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is stored. For example, four are displayed.

  The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a changes to the display mode after being incremented one by one in the sense of memorizing that every time a game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26. Every time the change of the special symbol is started, the display mode is decreased one by one every time the ball is entered (up to 4). Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is one by one in the sense of memorizing that every time a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28b), it is generated. It changes to the display mode after the increase (up to a maximum of 4), and changes to the display mode after the decrease one by one every time the change of the special symbol is triggered by the entry. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the first special symbol (first symbol) can be already started to change (during stop display). Even if a game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26, the display mode does not change. In addition, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the variable start winning device 28 is in a state where the second special symbol (second symbol) can already start to change (when stopped). Even if a game ball enters the (right start winning opening 28b), the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum of 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a is the number of incoming balls for which the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not yet started. It represents the number of times.

  In addition, the game state display device 38 includes, for example, six LEDs corresponding respectively to the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, the short time state display lamp 38e, and the launch position designation display lamp 38f. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol are described. The symbol operation memory lamp 35a and the game state display device 38 are attached to the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89.

[Other configuration of the game board: see FIG. 3]
The effect unit 40 has an upper edge 40a that functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts 40b and 40c on the inner side. The decorative parts 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a stunning operation by emitting transmitted light from, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED or the like). . In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed on the inner upper part of the effect unit 40, and this liquid crystal display 42 has an effect symbol (this symbol) corresponding to a special symbol, a fourth symbol, Various effect images including a storage marker (hold display) are displayed. In this way, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface (design of a cell plate (not shown)) and the decoration of the effect unit 40.

Further, a drum unit 200 is installed in the lower part inside the effect unit 40.
The drum unit 200 includes a left reel 201, a middle reel 202, and a right reel 203, and each reel displays a pseudo effect symbol (7 symbols, a panda symbol, a cherry symbol, etc.). For example, if seven symbols of the same color are displayed on the middle line that is an effective line, it indicates that a special jackpot result was obtained in the special symbol lottery. Each reel of the drum unit 200 is a movable body that is movable at a plurality of movable speeds.

An effect storage lamp 60 is installed below the drum unit 200.
The effect storage lamp 60 is composed of five lamps, and each of the five lamps has a built-in light-emitting device (LED) (not shown), and by changing its lighting state (lighting color, lighting pattern). The number of memories can be expressed.

  Of the five lamps, the leftmost lamp is the fluctuation lamp 65 that is lit while the fluctuation is being executed (during the fluctuation of the first special symbol), and the second lamp from the left is the memory of the first special symbol. Is the first lamp 61 that lights when one is stored, and the third lamp from the left is the second lamp 62 that lights when two memories of the first special symbol are stored, from the left The fourth lamp is the third lamp 63 that is turned on when three memories of the first special symbol are stored, and the fifth lamp from the left side is when four memories of the first special symbol are stored This is a fourth lamp 64 that is turned on.

For example, during the variation of the first special symbol, the variation lamp 65 is lit in a predetermined display color (for example, white). When the stored number of lottery elements of the first special symbol is “0”, none of the lamps is lit. When the stored number of lottery elements of the first special symbol is “1”, the first lamp 61 is lit in a predetermined display color (for example, white). When the number of lottery elements stored in the first special symbol is “2”, the first lamp 61 and the second lamp 62 are lit in a predetermined display color (for example, white). When the stored number of lottery elements of the first special symbol is “3”, the first lamp 61 to the third lamp 63 are lit in a predetermined display color (for example, white). When the stored number of lottery elements of the first special symbol is “4”, the first lamp 61 to the fourth lamp 64 are lit in a predetermined display color (for example, white).
Each lamp of the effect storage lamp 60 can be changed in color according to the expected degree of winning.

  In addition, a ball guide passage 40 d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40. The ball guide passage 40d passes through the back side of the effect unit 40 and is connected to the lower rolling stage 40e. The ball guide passage 40d is opened obliquely upward to the left in the game area 8a. When a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide path 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. Released onto the stage 40e. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface. Here, the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball that has rolled on the rolling stage 40e will eventually flow into the lower game area 8a. A ball discharge path 40k is formed at the center position of the rolling stage 40e, and the game ball guided from the rolling stage 40e to the ball discharge path 40k easily flows into the middle start winning opening 26 just below the ball discharge path 40k. .

  In addition, a movable source 40f (for example, a heart-shaped ornament) for production and a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) not shown are attached to the inside of the upper center of the effect unit 40. The effect movable body 40f can execute an effect accompanied by an operation of a tangible object in addition to an effect using an image by the liquid crystal display 42 and an effect by a light emitter. Due to such an effect using the movable body 40f, an appealing power different from the effect using a two-dimensional image can be exhibited.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. Yes. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 described above.

  The main controller 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72 as a central processing unit is mounted. The main control CPU 72 includes a ROM 74, a RAM ( RWM) 76 and other semiconductor memories are integrated as an LSI. The main controller 70 is equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77. Among these, the random number generator 75 generates a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for the big symbol determination of the special symbol lottery or the normal symbol lottery, and the random number generated here is generated. Is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input / output (I / O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter / timer circuit (CTC), etc., and these are circuited together with the main control CPU 72. It is mounted on the board. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or the inner layer portion).

  The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of a game ball. In addition, the game board unit 8 includes a medium start winning port 26, a variable start winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, and a second variable winning device 31 corresponding to the middle start winning port switch 80 and the right start winning port, respectively. A switch 82, a first count switch 84, and a second count switch 85 are provided. Each of the start winning port switches 80 and 82 is for detecting a winning of a game ball to the starting winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28b). Further, the count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of a game ball to the first variable winning device 30 (first big winning opening 30b) and counting the number thereof. Further, the second count switch 85 is for detecting the winning of the game ball to the second variable winning device 31 (second big winning port 31b) and counting the number thereof.

  In addition, a specific area switch 83 is provided corresponding to the specific area 31x. A specific area switch 83 is provided at a position corresponding to the specific area 31x inside the second big prize opening 31b, and the specific area switch 83 detects that the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x.

  Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning port switch 86 for detecting the winning of the game ball to the normal winning ports 22 and 25. Here, a configuration using a common winning opening switch 86 for all the normal winning openings 22 and 25 is described as an example. For example, separate winning opening switches 86 are installed on the left and right sides of the board, and the left winning opening is set. The switch 86 detects the winning of the game ball for the normal winning ports 22 and 25 located on the left side of the board, and the right winning port switch 86 detects the winning of the game ball for the normal winning hole 25 located on the right side of the board. It is good.

  In any case, winning detection signals and passage detection signals of these switches 80, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Note that due to the configuration of the game board unit 8, in this embodiment, winning detection signals and passing detection signals from the gate switch 78, the specific area switch 83, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86 pass through the panel relay terminal plate 87. The panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with wiring patterns, connection terminals, etc. for relaying the respective winning detection signals.

  The above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and game The state display device 38 is controlled in display operation based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals for the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. The display devices 33, 34, 35, and 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, and 35a are installed in the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89 as described above. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the display substrate 89 through the panel relay terminal board 87.

  In addition, the game board unit 8 includes a variable start winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, a second variable winning device 31, and a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and a first grand prize opening solenoid corresponding to the specific area 31x, respectively. 90, a second grand prize winning solenoid 97 and a specific area solenoid 99 are provided. These solenoids 88, 90, 97, 99 are operated (excited) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72, and variable start winning device 28, first variable winning device 30, second variable winning device 31, and specific area 31x, respectively. Open and close. The solenoids 88, 90, 97, and 99 also transmit control signals from the main control CPU 72 through the panel relay terminal plate 87.

  In addition, a glass frame opening switch 91 is installed in the integrated door unit 4, and a plastic frame opening switch 93 is installed in the inner frame assembly 7. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened alone, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72), and the inner frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame unit 2. Then, a contact signal from the plastic frame opening switch 93 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. When the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the integrated door unit 4 or the inner frame assembly 7, the main control CPU 72 generates a door open information signal as the external information signal.

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a payout control device 92 is equipped (special privilege grant means). The payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 described above. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which a payout control CPU 94 is mounted. The payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI in which a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98 is integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as the above external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

  In a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172, a payout device substrate 100 is installed together with a payout motor 102 (for example, a stepping motor). The payout device substrate 100 is provided with a drive circuit for the payout motor 102. Yes. The payout device substrate 100 specifically controls the rotation angle of the payout motor 102 based on the payout number instruction signal from the payout control device 92 (the payout control CPU 94), and pays out the designated number of game balls from the prize ball case. Let it come out. The paid-out game ball is sent to the tray unit 6 through the payout flow path in the flow path unit 173.

  Further, for example, a payout path ball cut switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at a downstream position of the payout motor 102. When a prize ball is actually paid out by driving the payout motor 102, a count signal from the payout count switch 106 is input to the payout device substrate 100 each time. Further, when a ball break occurs at an upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device substrate 100. The dispensing device substrate 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the dispensing control device 92 (dispensing control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual payout number and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device substrate 100.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a full tank switch 161, for example, inside the lower plate 6c (the position of the bowl as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The prize balls (game balls) that are actually paid out are discharged to the upper plate 6b through the flow path unit 173. When the upper plate 6b is full of game balls, As described above, it flows into the lower plate 6c. When the lower tray 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned ON, and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even if the payout control CPU 94 receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, it temporarily suspends further prize ball operations, and stores the unpaid prize ball remaining number in the RAM 98. Note that the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, so that even if a power failure (including momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the information on the number of remaining unsold prize balls will not be lost. .

  In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with the launch control board 108. A ball feed solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above, and the launch control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Among these, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation of sending out the game balls stored in the tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. In addition, the launch solenoid 110 hits the game ball sent to the launch position, and performs the operation of firing game balls one by one continuously (intermittently) toward the game area 8a as described above. Note that the game ball is fired at intervals of, for example, about 0.6 seconds (within 100 per minute).

  On the other hand, the grip unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Among these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the operation amount (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. The touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the grip unit 16 (launching handle) from the change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal. The firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) in accordance with the player's operation.

  The above receiving tray unit 6 is provided with a launch relay terminal plate 118, and each signal from the launch lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the launch stop switch 116 is sent via the launch relay terminal plate 118. Sent to. The drive signal from the launch control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the launch relay terminal board 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the operation amount, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. Thereby, the strength of launching a game ball is adjusted according to the operation amount of the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. To do. In addition to this, the launch relay terminal plate 118 is connected with a lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, and when the above-mentioned CR unit is not connected to this lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, the launch is similarly performed. The drive circuit of the control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110.

  The tray unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a lending / return switch board 123. Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with the display of the frequency display unit (7-segment LED for 3 digits). In addition, switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12 are mounted on the lending / return switch board 123, and when the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is lended. And the return switch board 123 via the game ball lending device connection terminal board 120 to the CR unit. Further, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted from the CR unit to the frequency display board 122 via the gaming ball lending device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives the display unit based on the frequency signal, and displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium as a numerical value. In addition, when no valuable medium is inserted into the CR unit, or when the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes zero, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display to display a demonstration (value medium). Display for urging the user to input.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes an effect control device 124 (effect control computer) as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126 that is a central processing unit is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The production control device 124 is provided at a position covered with the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  The effect control device 124 is equipped with an input / output driver (not shown) and various peripheral ICs, as well as a lamp drive circuit 132 and an acoustic drive circuit 134. The production control CPU 126 performs production control based on the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and gives commands to the lamp driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134 to emit various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53. Or a process of actually outputting sound effects, voices, and the like from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  The effect control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other via, for example, a communication harness (not shown). However, the communication between these is performed only in one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the reverse direction is not performed. The communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus widths of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and each driver IC (I / O). A serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration.

  The lamp driving circuit 132 includes a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET (not shown). The lamp driving circuit 132 switches driving voltages (or duty switching) applied to various lamps including LEDs. ) And manage the operation such as light emission and flashing. In addition to the glass frame top lamp 46 and the glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50, 52, the various lamps include a decoration / production board lamp 53 installed in the game board unit 8. The panel lamp 53 corresponds to an LED incorporated in the above-described effect unit, or an LED incorporated in the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the like. Here, an example is given in which the glass frame decoration lamp 52 is connected to the glass frame decoration board 136, but a saucer decoration board is installed in the tray unit 6, and the glass frame decoration lamp 52 has a tray decoration. It may be configured to be connected to the lamp driving circuit 132 through a substrate.

  The acoustic drive circuit 134 is a sound generator incorporating a sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, etc. (not shown), for example, and this acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the glass frame speakers 54 and 55 and the outer frame speaker 56. Sound output.

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame lighting board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134 pass through the glass frame lighting board 136 and various lamps 46. To 52 and speakers 54, 55, and 56. Further, the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are connected to the glass frame decorating board 136. When the player operates the effect switching button 45 or the jog dial 45a, the contact signal is sent to the glass frame decorating board 136. Is input to the production control device 124. In addition, although the example which connected the production | presentation switch button 45 and the jog dial 45a to the glass frame electrical decoration board | substrate 136 is given here, when installing said saucer illumination board, the production | presentation switch button 45 and the jog dial 45a are saucer illuminations. It may be connected to the substrate. In addition, a panel board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a movable body motor 57 and an effect storage lamp 60 are connected to the panel board 138 in addition to the panel lamp 53. The movable body motor 57 drives the movable body 40f via a link mechanism (not shown), for example. The drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53, the movable body motor 57, and the effect storage lamp 60 via the panel illumination board 138, respectively. The movable body motor 57 may be a solenoid.

[Drum unit]
In addition, the drum unit 200 is connected to the effect control device 124.
The drum unit 200 includes a left reel 201, a middle reel 202, and a right reel 203 that are arranged coaxially.
The left reel 201, the middle reel 202, and the right reel 203 are each formed in an annular shape, and a reel band in which a plurality of pseudo effect designs are arranged in a row at intervals is wound around the periphery. . The left reel 201, the middle reel 202, and the right reel 203 have a rotation axis at the center thereof, and can be rotated or rotated around the rotation axis.

  The drum unit 200 is provided with a stepping motor (not shown) corresponding to each reel (hereinafter also simply referred to as a motor) and a position detection mechanism (not shown) corresponding to each reel. The position detection mechanism may be disposed inside the stepping motor or may be disposed outside the stepping motor. The position detection mechanism can be constituted by, for example, a light shielding plate and a photo sensor.

  The stepping motor is driven by a drum unit control device (driver, IC) (not shown) that controls the drum unit 200. The drum unit control device drives each reel according to the movable body data transmitted from the effect control device 124. Further, the drum unit control device transmits a detection signal to the effect control device 124 in response to detection of the position (for example, the origin position) of each reel detected by the position detection mechanism.

  And the production | presentation control apparatus 124 produces | generates the movable body data transmitted with respect to the stepping motor corresponding to each reel based on the detection signal transmitted from a drum unit control apparatus, and controls operation | movement of each reel.

  The stepping motor is a motor that drives each reel (movable body) by alternately repeating one-phase excitation and two-phase excitation (1-2 phase excitation drive). The stepping motor includes four coils (coils 1 to 1). A coil 4) is included.

  The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display screen is visible through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power source that is applied to a backlight (for example, a cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Further, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146 that is a general-purpose central processing unit and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a VDP 152 that is a display processor is mounted. Among these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). The VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which a semiconductor core such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 is integrated with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of the storage area as a frame buffer.

  The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program related to effect control, and the effect control CPU 126 executes effect control according to this program. The production control includes production control using various lamps 46 to 53 and speakers 54, 55, and 56 as described above, and production control by image display using the liquid crystal display 42. . The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 that receives the information transmits a specific effect image based on the basic information. Control the display.

  The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data in the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time) on the VRAM 156, and individually handles each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data. To drive.

  In addition, a power control unit 162 (power control means) is provided on the back side of the inner frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit. When external power (for example, AC 24V) is taken from the island facility through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V) can be generated therefrom. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the payout control device 92, the effect control device 124, and the inverter board 158. Furthermore, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120. The low voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 162 is grounded (grounded) to the island facility through the ground wire 166.

  The external terminal plate 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) pass through the payout control device 92 to the external terminal plate 160. Is output to the outside. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output an external information signal to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are collected by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in a game hall. Here, the configuration via the payout control device 92 is taken as an example, but a configuration in which an external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160 may be used.

  The above is a configuration example relating to the control of the pachinko machine 1. Next, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts a reset start process. The reset start process restores the gaming state based on the backup information saved at the previous power shutdown (so-called power recovery) or conversely clears the backup information, thereby adjusting the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 Process. The reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

  8 and 9 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the process performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

  Step S101: First, the main control CPU 72 sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

  Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector-type interrupt mode (mode 2) and corrects the default RST-type interrupt mode (mode 0). Thus, thereafter, the main control CPU 72 can refer to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute a designated interrupt handler.

  Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a standby process at reset. This process is for securing a certain standby time (for example, about several thousand ms) at the time of reset start (for example, power-on) and checking the main power-off detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the waiting time, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power-off detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power-off detection signal is input from, for example, a power monitoring IC that is a peripheral device. If the input of the main power-off detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the process from the beginning. As a result, for example, the system can be protected when a main power switch (not shown) is turned on and off repeatedly within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

  Step S104: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value in the work area is reset (00H). As a result, thereafter, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

  Step S105: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of a mask register in order to set an interrupt mask. Specifically, a value for enabling the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

  Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the input signal from the previously cleared RAM clear switch and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch is not operated (No), step S107 is executed next.

  Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not a backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, “A55AH”) is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

  Step S108: The main control CPU 72 executes a sum check on the backup information in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sum-checks all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (a user work area including a use-prohibited area and a stack area) except the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup validity determination flag (for example, “0000H”).
Step S110: Also, the main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the previous power-off occurrence.

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 instructs the effect control device 124 to return a command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, an effect command when the working memory number increases, an effect command when the working memory number decreases, Counter command, special gaming state designation command, etc.). In response to this, the effect control device 124 performs the effect state (for example, the internal probability state, the effect symbol display mode, the operation memory count effect display mode, the sound output content, and the various lamps being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown. Light emission state, etc.) can be restored.

  Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes state return processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and the gaming state (for example, the display state of special symbols, the internal probability state, The operation memory contents, various flag states, random number update states, etc.) are restored. Further, the main control CPU 72 restores the backed up PC register value.

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated at power-on (step S106: Yes), when the backup validity determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or when the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to Step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the stored contents other than the use prohibited area of the RAM 76. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, the contents are erased.
Step S114: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of the RAM 76.

  Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs a command (command necessary for effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after the initial setting.

  Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes a payout control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command for starting the payout of prize balls to the payout control device 92.

  Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes CTC initial setting processing, and performs initial setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) that is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector register and sets an interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when a CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU 72 can continue the processing from the program address of the PC register that has been backed up.

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 9 (connection symbol A → A).

  Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU 72 executes the power interruption occurrence check process after prohibiting interruption. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs bit check on the input port of the main power-off detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power-off (decrease in drive voltage). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the big prize opening solenoid 90, etc., and the entire area excluding the backup validity judgment flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76. Is backed up, and the sum result value is stored in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the above effective value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup validity determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops (NOP) the process. On the other hand, if the power shutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU executes the process at the time of the occurrence of power interruption as a non-maskable interrupt (NMI) process.

  Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, jackpot determined random numbers (hardware random numbers) and various random numbers excluding hit determined random numbers (hardware random numbers) corresponding to ordinary symbols (for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) Is generated in the program. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 11). In this process, the initial value of the loop counter (all The random number of may not be the target). The initial value updating random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value updating random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interruption is prohibited in step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 11), so there is a duplication (contention). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in the present embodiment, the big hit determined random number and the hit determined random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle is faster than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms). Since it is (for example, several μs), it is not necessary to update the big hit determined random number and the initial value of the hit determined random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this processing are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among software random numbers. This process is performed for the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 11). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process.
Step S130: First, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power interruption. This check condition can be set as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power-off detection signal is continuously output, for example.

  Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power-off detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power-off detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly illustrated, the main power-off detection switch is mounted on the main controller 70, for example, and this main power-off detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power control unit 162, and the voltage level is monitored. When the voltage falls below the reference voltage, the main power-off detection signal is output. Note that the main power-off detection switch may be built in the power control unit 162. When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power-off detection signal is not output at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the main power-off detection signal is output (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S134.

  Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check conditions are satisfied. Specifically, for example, 1 is subtracted from the on-counter value set in the previous step S130, and it is confirmed whether or not the result is 0. If the on-counter value is not yet 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and reconfirms the main power-off detection switch input port. When the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S136.

  Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the big prize opening solenoid 90 as described above.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76 in units of 1 byte, and repeats until the addition is completed for all areas. .
Step S142: When the calculation of the sum is completed for all the areas (Step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value in the backup validity determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: Further, the main control CPU 72 stores “01H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the use prohibition area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters a standby loop, and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply. After the main power is cut off, the backup power is supplied from a backup power circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70), so the stored contents of the RAM 76 are lost even after the main power is turned off. Held without. The backup power supply circuit may be incorporated in the power supply control unit 162, for example.

  Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum added) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. The stored memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming the normality of the checksum in the previous reset start process (FIG. 8).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the registers (accumulator A, flag register F, and general-purpose registers B to L) used during execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. Another value can be written in the registers (A to L) after the value is saved in the interrupt management process.

  Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a lottery random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76 and loops within a specified range. Various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers.

  Step S202: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process also here. The content of the process is the same as described above.

  Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from an input / output (I / O) port 79. Specifically, a passage detection signal from the gate switch 78, a middle start winning port switch 80, a right starting winning port switch 82, a first count switch 84, a second count switch 85, a winning port switch 86, and a specific area switch 83. The input state (ON / OFF) of the winning detection signal from is read.

  Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this processing, among the switch signals input in the previous input processing, the gate switch 78, the middle start winning port switch 80, the right starting winning port switch 82, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85, and the specific area switch 83. Based on the passage detection signal from, an event that occurred during the game is determined, and further processing is executed according to the event that has occurred. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the middle start winning opening switch 80 or the right starting winning opening switch 82, the main control CPU 72 performs internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that becomes an opportunity (a lottery opportunity, a first lottery opportunity, a second lottery opportunity) has occurred. Further, when a passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event serving as a lottery trigger corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. If it is determined that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each event. Note that processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the middle start winning opening switch 80 or the right starting winning opening switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically proceeding with the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 34. 2 Controls the display of fluctuation and stop by the special symbol display device 35, and controls the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and operates the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. Or control. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (ordinary random number per symbol) acquired in response to the passage of the start gate 20 in the previous switch input event processing (step S204). The random number value is read out from the memory, and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (normal symbol lottery execution means). When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner, and after stopping the normal symbol in a predetermined hit state, the main control CPU 72 switches the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 on. Excitingly activates the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece actuating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a normal symbol stop display in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

  Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 82, 84, 85, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction for instructing the payout control device 92 the number of prize balls. Output the command.

[About the number of prize balls and number of game balls won]
The number of prize balls at the start port of the first special symbol and the number of prize balls at the start port of the second special symbol are each set to a specified number of one or more. In addition, the number of prize balls may be different between the start port of the first special symbol and the start port of the second special symbol. In addition, the minimum number of winning balls is set based on the winning probability of the special symbol and the expected value of the total number of game balls (the average number of balls that can be obtained during the period from the start to the end of the time reduction state) May be. Furthermore, the winning probability of special symbols, the expected number of game balls won, the number of opening of the big prize opening, the opening time of the big winning opening, the maximum number of winning of the big winning opening, the number of winning balls of the big winning opening are predetermined. When the condition is satisfied, a big hit may be set such that the number of game balls acquired by one big hit is less than 1/4 of the maximum number of acquired game balls.

  Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above-mentioned external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start port information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in port output request buffer.

  In this embodiment, among the various external information signals, for example, “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” are output to the outside as jackpot information, so that an external electronic device (data display) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is displayed. Various jackpot information can be provided (external information signal output means). In other words, the jackpot information is divided into a plurality of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” and output, so that the type of jackpot (winning type) from these combinations can be tabulated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) or internal Recognize changes in the probability state (low probability state or high probability state) or shortened state of symbol variation time, or generate a small hit (a hit where the condition device does not work) that is not classified as a “big hit” even if it is not winning Can be aggregated and managed. Based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each jackpot is currently hit Or can recognize whether or not each symbol is currently in a shortened state of the symbol variation time. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls each output state (set of ON or OFF) of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” in detail.

  Step S209: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). These are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main controller 70.

  Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol. The lighting state of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, etc. is controlled. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the previous special symbol game process (step S205) or the normal symbol game process (step S206). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode of performing symbol variation display, stop display, working memory number display, game state display, etc.).

  Step S211: The main control CPU 72 executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). In addition, the main control CPU 72 drives the driving signals and test signals of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first big prize opening solenoid 90, the second big prize opening solenoid 97, and the specific area solenoid 99 stored in the port output request buffer. Etc., and port output.

  Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for presentation control) that the main control CPU 72 should transmit to the presentation control device 124 in the command buffer. Output port.

  Step S213: The main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored by the current CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing (game control program module) in steps S205 to S212 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processing are incorporated in the main loop of the CPU and executed. There are also known programming examples.

  Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) for designating the end of interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 11). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a lottery opportunity is generated) from the middle start winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. Specific processing contents will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a lottery opportunity is generated) from the right start winning port switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Here again, the details of the specific processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

  Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 corresponding to the first big winning opening 30b of the first variable winning device 30. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S19 and executes the first big winning mouth count process. In the first grand prize winning count process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the first variable prize winning device 30 for each round during the big hit game. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S20.

  Step S20: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the second count switch 85 corresponding to the second large winning opening 31b of the second variable winning device 31. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S21 and executes the second big winning mouth count process. In the second big prize winning count processing, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable prize winning device 31 during the big hit game (during the small hit game). On the other hand, if no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

  Step S22: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes the normal symbol memory update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current number of normal symbol working memories is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit number, obtains a random number per normal symbol To do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol operation memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, when there is no input of the passage detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S26.

  Step S26: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the specific area switch 83 corresponding to the specific area 31x in the second big prize winning opening 31b. If the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S28 and executes a process of turning on the specific area reserve flag. On the other hand, when there is no input of the passage detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 11).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (the number of sets) of big hit determination random numbers and big hit symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into eight sections (for example, 2 bytes each) used in common for the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and each section has a big hit decision random number and a big hit symbol. Random numbers can be stored one by one. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

  Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol operation memory number counter is stored, for example, in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11).

  Step S32: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of first lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. In the case where the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of the random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S34: Also, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as a random value related to the variation condition of the first special symbol (variation pattern determination element acquisition). means). Similarly, these random number values are acquired by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. Then, when the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, it saves them in the transfer destination address.

  Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and these random numbers are stored in the empty section in the area. Are stored as a set (first lottery element storage means, lottery element storage means). The order (for example, first to fourth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, the random numbers are stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, the random numbers are stored in order from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

  Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current special game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not during the big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the effect of pre-reading is not performed for the incoming ball generated during the big hit.

  Step S37: When the jackpot is not a big hit (Step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the first special symbol. In this process, the special symbol lottery random number, the big hit symbol random number and the variation pattern determination random number obtained in the previous steps S32 to S34 are obtained in advance (before the variation starts). To determine the content of the production (so-called “look ahead”). In this processing, the result of the first special symbol pre-determination is set to the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command.

  Step S38: When the acquisition-time effect determination process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper bytes (for example, “B8H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command for the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the first special symbol”. Since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command (information relating to whether or not it is correct and information related to the variation time) is set in the previous effect determination process at the time of acquisition (step S37), the upper byte is combined with the lower byte here. By doing so, for example, a command having a length of one word is generated.

  Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. Specifically, for the preceding value (for example, “BBH”) of the upper byte representing the type of command, a 1-word length in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte. A production command is generated. At this time, for the lower byte, the second place is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “result (change information) due to increase in number of working memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the current working memory number has become “01H” as a result of increasing by one from the previous working memory number “00H”. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers “01H” to “03H”, so that the current working memory number is “02H” to “02H”. 04H ". The preceding value “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

  Step S39: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the first special symbol. In this process, the special figure destination determination effect command generated in the previous step S38, the operation memory number increase effect command generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning sound control command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 ( Memory number notification means).

  When the above procedure is completed or the first special symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol actuated memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of jackpot determination random numbers and jackpot symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and thereafter.

  Step S41: The main control CPU 72 increments the second special symbol working memory number by one (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similarly to the previous step S31 (FIG. 13), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) based on the counter value added here. Will be.

  Step S42: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method for acquiring the random number value is the same as step S32 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method for acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S33 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S44: Also, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number regarding the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means). Acquisition of these random values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and these random numbers in the empty section in the area Are stored as a set (second lottery element storage means, lottery element storage means). The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not a big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. Conversely, if it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the effect of pre-reading is not performed for the same incoming ball that occurred during the big hit.

  Step S46: When it is other than big hit (step S45a: No), next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the second special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of the change) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the second special symbol obtained in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, It is for judging. In this process, the result of prior determination of the second special symbol is set for the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command.

  Step S47: When the acquisition effect determination process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper byte (for example, “B9H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the second special symbol”. Similarly, since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition-time effect determination process (step S46), the upper byte is synthesized with the lower byte here, for example, by 1 word length. Will be generated.

  Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for increasing the number of working memories with respect to the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-length production command in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) representing the command type. Is generated. Similarly, for the second special symbol, the second place of the lower byte is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “a result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)”. it can. The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S49: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the second special symbol. As a result, a special figure destination determination effect command, an operation command for increasing the number of operating memories, a start opening winning sound control command, and the like are transmitted to the effect control device 124 regarding the second special symbol (memory number notification means). When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Acquisition process during acquisition]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of an acquisition effect determination process. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 13 and step S46 in FIG. 14) (preliminary determination). means). As described above, this processing is executed for each of the first special symbol (when entering the middle start winning opening 26) and the second special symbol (when entering the variable start winning device 28). Therefore, the following description may correspond to a process related to the first special symbol and a process related to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the contents of the processing will be described along each procedure.

  Step S50: The main control CPU 72 sets the lower byte (for example, “00H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command (point determination information). The byte data set here represents the standard value of the command (at the time of loss).

  Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the first determination random value. The random numbers to be loaded here are those stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). .

  Step S54: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (here, the lower limit value or less) (lottery result destination determination means, prior determination means). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value (lower limit value) in the A register, and subtracts the loaded random number value from this comparison value. The comparison value (lower limit value) is defined in advance according to the jackpot probability of the special symbol lottery in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is 0 or a positive value from the value of the flag register, for example. As a result, if the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S80.

  Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a variation pattern information preliminary determination process at the time of deviation (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command for the variation time at the time of disconnection. In the variation pattern destination determination command generated here, prior determination information regarding the variation time (or variation pattern number) particularly when the “time reduction function” is activated is reflected. For example, if the current state is when the “time reduction function” is activated, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “out-of-reach fluctuation fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)” based on the loaded reach determination random number. Judge whether there is. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “outlier reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “short-time / non-shortening fluctuation time”. In the case of reach variation, it is also possible to determine a “reach group (type of reach)” from the reach mode random number and generate a variation pattern destination determination command from the result. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to the “outlier reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the “short / mid-shortening fluctuation time”. Alternatively, if the current state is when the “time reduction function” is inactive (low probability state), the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “normally out of reach reach fluctuation” based on the loaded reach determination random number. It is determined whether or not. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “normally deviation reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normally deviation reach fluctuation time”. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to “normally deviation reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normal deviation fluctuation time”. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49). In this process, the main control CPU 72 may generate a change pattern destination determination command for the change pattern at the time of the small hit, similarly to the process at the time of the above-described loss.

  When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 ends the acquisition-time effect determination process, and returns to the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14). On the other hand, if it is determined in the previous step S54 that the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S74.

  Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the big hit type (winning type) at that time based on the big hit symbol random number paired with the big hit decision random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random number for each symbol stored in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). Then, similarly to step S54, an operation using the comparison value is executed, and which winning symbol is determined from the result. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S78.

  Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. The special symbol destination determination value, for example, is set to “00H” when it corresponds to “a symbol that does not shift to a time reduction state”, and is set to “01H” when it corresponds to a “a symbol that shifts to a time reduction state”. . In any case, by setting the lower byte data here, the standard lower byte data “00H” set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

  Step S79: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern information prior determination process (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-described variation pattern destination determination command for the variation time at the big hit. In the variation pattern destination determination command generated here, for example, prior determination information related to the reach variation time (or variation pattern number) at the time of big hit is reflected. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49).

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14).

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 11) will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process includes an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and a variable winning device management process. This is a configuration including a subroutine (program module) group of (Step S5000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

  Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S2000 to S5000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process as the return address in the stack pointer.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started changing display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol variation is in progress. If the process has been completed (special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified by the “jump table” and the process is selected. However, apart from such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects a process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process in a single way, and at the top step, the conditional branch (continuation / return) is performed by referring to the flag one by one. However, in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control is performed. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2000: In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation to prepare conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbol. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol variation processing, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a special symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the big win or small win mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. The big hit game or the small hit game is started in accordance with the stop display of the special symbol.

[Big hit game]
For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit for 15 rounds, a big hit game (a special game advantageous to the player) is executed. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the first large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds or until 10 winnings are counted) for a preset number of continuous operations (for example, 15 times). Thus, the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is made to win game balls in a concentrated manner, thereby giving the player an opportunity to collect a lot of prize balls (special game execution means). Note that the opening and closing operation of the first variable prize-winning device 30 at the time of the big hit is referred to as “round”, and if the total number of continuous operations is 15 times, these may be collectively referred to as “15 rounds”. In the present embodiment, for the 15 round big hit, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided therein. In addition to the 15 round big hits, other types of big hits such as 4 round big hits and 2 round big hits may be provided.

  Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets a large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 opens / closes the first variable winning device 30 for one round. Each time the operation is completed, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big player) only for that round.

  When the big hit game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game (time reduction state) based on the game state flag (time reduction function operation flag) (time reduction state transition means). In the “time reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated, the lottery probability of the normal symbol operation lottery is set from the normal probability (low probability) to the high probability, the variable symbol variation time is shortened and the variable start prize is awarded The opening time of the device 28 is extended and the number of times of opening increases (so-called electric Chu support is performed).

[Small hits]
Further, in the present embodiment, small wins are provided as winning types other than non-winning. When winning a small winning game, a small winning game is performed separately from the big winning game, and the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed (special game executing means). For example, when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small-hit manner, a small-hit game (a special game advantageous to the player) is executed. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the second large winning opening solenoid 97 is set for a predetermined time (for example, 1.8 seconds or until 10 winnings are counted) for a preset number of operations (for example, one or more times). As a result, the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed with a predetermined pattern (operation of the special electric accessory). During this time, the player is given an opportunity to acquire a certain amount of prize balls (special game execution means) by allowing the second variable prize winning device 31 to win the game balls intensively.

  Further, in the variable winning device management process during the small hit game, the specific area solenoid 99 is excited for a predetermined time (for example, 1.6 seconds) for a predetermined number of operations (for example, once). The slide member 31c opens and closes in a predetermined pattern. By allowing the game ball to pass through the specific area 31x during this period, the player is given an opportunity to start a big hit game. That is, whether or not to start the big hit game in the variable winning device management process is determined by whether or not the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game. In the present embodiment, for the small hits, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided therein, and when the game ball passes the specific area 31x, a big hit game corresponding to the winning type is started.

  In addition, even if the small hit game is finished without the game ball passing through the specific area 31x, the “time reduction function” does not operate, so the privilege to shift to the “time reduction state” is not given (for that reason) (This is not a precondition for.) (Except when the upper limit is reached).

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, “16 round big hit” is provided in addition to the above “15 round big hit” as a plurality of winning types. “15 rounds big hit” starts when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the big win mode, whereas “16 rounds big hit” is displayed when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, and the game ball is played during the small hit game. Is started when it passes the specific area 31x. In addition, the operation of the second variable winning device 31 corresponds to the first round of the 16 round big hits, and the operation of the first variable winning device 30 corresponds to the remaining 15 rounds. However, in this embodiment, jackpots other than 16 rounds and 15 rounds may be provided.

  The winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, “15 round jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “first winning symbol” to “third winning symbol”, and “16 round jackpot” is the jackpot of “fourth winning symbol” to “six winning symbol” ( Corresponding to the big hit when passing through the specific area 31x). Therefore, hereinafter, the “winning type” will be appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[First winning design]
In the special symbol stop display process, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “first winning symbol”, a big hit game is executed (special game execution means). In this case, the first big prize opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the fifth round. From the sixth round to the fifteenth round (final round), the first big prize opening 30b is opened once for a short time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). For this reason, the big hit game of the “first winning symbol” is a big hit game in which five rounds of winning balls (prize balls) can be given to the player. In addition, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is generated in one round, the first big winning opening 30b is closed without waiting for the longest opening time (hereinafter the same). . In addition, if the “first winning symbol” corresponds to the “non-time shortened state”, it will shift to the “non-time shortened state” even after the big hit game ends, but the “first winning symbol” in the “time reduced state”. In the case of “”, the “time reduction function” is activated after the big hit game is finished, thereby shifting to the “time reduction state”.

[Second winning design]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of the “second winning symbol”, the big hit game is executed (special game execution means). In this case, the first big prize opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the fifth round. From the sixth round to the fifteenth round (final round), the first big prize opening 30b is opened once for a short time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). For this reason, the big hit game of the “second winning symbol” is a big hit game in which 5 rounds of winning balls (prize balls) can be given to the player. Then, after the big hit game ends, the “time reduction function” is activated to shift to the “time reduction state”.

[Third winning design]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “third winning symbol” mode, a big hit game is executed (special game execution means). In this case, the first big prize opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the 15th round. For this reason, the jackpot game of the “third winning symbol” is a jackpot game in which 15 rounds of winning balls (prize balls) can be given to the player. Then, after the big hit game ends, the “time reduction function” is activated to shift to the “time reduction state”.

[4th winning design]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of the “fourth winning symbol”, the small hit game is executed, and when the game ball passes the specific area 31x during the small hit game, Transition from the small hit gaming state to the big hit gaming state. In this case, the first big prize opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the second round, and this continues until the sixth round. From the 7th round to the 16th round (final round), the first big prize opening 30b is opened once each for a short time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). Therefore, the big hit game in the case of the “fourth winning symbol” can give the player 5 balls (prize balls) for the game. Then, after the big hit game ends, the “time reduction function” is activated to shift to the “time reduction state”.

[5th winning design]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of the “fifth winning symbol”, the small hit game is executed, and when the game ball passes the specific area 31x during the small hit game, Transition from the small hit gaming state to the big hit gaming state. In this case, the first grand prize opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the second round, and this continues until the eleventh round. From the twelfth round to the sixteenth round (final round), the first big prize opening 30b is opened once each for a short time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). For this reason, the jackpot game in the case of corresponding to the “fifth winning symbol” can give 10 rounds of award (prize balls) to the player. Then, after the big hit game ends, the “time reduction function” is activated to shift to the “time reduction state”.

[Sixth winning symbol]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of the “sixth winning symbol”, the small hit game is executed, and when the game ball passes the specific area 31x during the small hit game, Transition from the small hit gaming state to the big hit gaming state. In this case, the first grand prize opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the second round, and this continues until the 16th round. For this reason, in the big hit game in the case of corresponding to the “sixth winning symbol”, it is possible to give the player 15 balls (prize balls) for 15 rounds. Then, after the big hit game ends, the “time reduction function” is activated to shift to the “time reduction state”.

In any case, in the “non-time shortened state”, if it corresponds to the “first winning symbol”, it will shift to the “non-time shortened state” after the jackpot game ends, and the “second winning symbol” or “third winning symbol” If this is the case, after the jackpot game is over, the state shifts to a “time reduction state”.
In the “time reduction state”, when the “first winning symbol”, “second winning symbol”, or “third winning symbol” is met, the game shifts to the “time reduction state” after the big hit game is over.

  Furthermore, regardless of whether the game is in the “non-time shortened state” or “time shortened state”, if the game ball passes through the specific area 31x and the big hit game is started during the small hit game, the winning symbol is “No. In any of the “4 winning symbols” to the “six winning symbols”, the game shifts to the “time reduction state” after the big hit game.

  It should be noted that, in this way, winning a small hit in the internal lottery, if the game ball passes a specific area during the small hit game, the big hit game is executed, and after the big hit game ends, it shifts to a time reduction state according to the type of the winning symbol The gaming machine is called a so-called one-type and two-type mixed type gaming machine.

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be made with reference to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes a demonstration setting process in step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. At the time of return, it returns to the end address as described above (and so on).

  On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2200.

  Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number, etc.) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 and that corresponds to the second special symbol. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections (only the first special symbol is applicable), the main control CPU 72 reads out the random numbers in order from the first section and deletes (consumes) the random numbers. Move (shift) to the previous section one by one. The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area. When the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. As a result, in the present embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially performed over the first special symbol. In addition, the program which reads a random number in the order memorize | stored simply may be sufficient, without providing the priority order according to such special symbols. Further, in this processing, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value from the working memory number counter (the one of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, which has been subjected to the random number shift) stored in the RAM 76, and subtracts it. The later value is set to “Number of working memories at start of change”. Thereby, the display mode of the number stored by the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a changes (decreases by 1) in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11). . When the procedure so far is finished, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

[Special symbol memory area shift processing]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. When the value of the operation memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than “0” in the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 17), the main control CPU 72 Executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the oldest one of the existing working memories corresponds to the first special symbol. That is, when the storage area of the RAM 76 is accessed and the oldest working memory among them does not correspond to the first special symbol but corresponds to the second special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 The process proceeds to step S2212.

  Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates the second special symbol as a special symbol for shifting the storage area. This designation is performed, for example, by setting “02H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2214: On the other hand, if the oldest working memory corresponds to the first special symbol (Step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 designates the first special symbol as the special symbol to be shifted in the storage area. . The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting “01H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 for the target special symbol designated in either step S2212 or step S2214. The details of the specific processing are as already described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the target to shift the current storage area is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “the number of operation memories at the start of fluctuation” from the value of the operation memory counter after the subtraction. Here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the value of the operation memory counter may be added and the “number of operation memories at the start of change” may be set.

Step S2222: Further, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the special symbol to be shifted in the current storage area is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the working command when the number of working memories is reduced for the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word-length command, but its structure is in contrast to the above-described “effect command when increasing the number of working memories”. That is, the production command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is lower than the value of lower bytes (for example, “00H” to “03H” that represents the number of working memories after reduction with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) of the upper bytes representing the command type )) And an additional value (for example, “10H”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories accompanying consumption” is further added (logical sum) to the lower byte value. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second value becomes “1” by ORing the added value “10H”, and this value represents “the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories”. It will be a thing. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is “13H”, it means that the number of working memories up to the previous time “4” (command notation is “14H”) is reduced by one, so that the number of working memories this time is “3” (command The notation is “13H”). Similarly, if the lower byte is “12H” to “10H”, it means that the number of working memories “3” to “1” up to the previous time (command notation is “13H” to “11H”) is decreased by one respectively. This indicates that the current operation memory number is “2” to “0” (command notation is “12H” to “10H”). The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S2226: If the current target is the first special symbol (Step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as the above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, “BBH”) indicating that the previous value is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the production command for reducing the number of working memories set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 to the production control device 124 (memory number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 17).

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of the jackpot value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (first special symbol lottery execution means, second special symbol lottery execution). Means, lottery execution means). If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

  When the above big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 sets the range of the small hit value next in the same big hit determination process, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (first Special symbol lottery execution means, second special symbol lottery execution means, lottery execution means). The “small hit” here is other than non-winning (out of), but is different from “big hit”. In other words, “big hit” generates an opportunity (game milestone) to shift to the “time reduction state”, but “small hit” does not generate such an opportunity. “Small Win” is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating only the second variable winning device 31 (the condition for operating the condition device is not satisfied). Further, when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the “small hit”, it is positioned as being developed into the “big hit” (conditions for operating the condition device are satisfied). In any case, if the read random number value is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be performed while comparing with the random value.

  In the present embodiment, in the first special symbol lottery, the winning probability of the big hit is set to 1/224, and it is set not to win the small hit. In the second special symbol lottery, the probability of winning a big hit is set to the same 1/224, and the probability of winning a small win is set to a quarter. Therefore, in the second special symbol lottery, it is easier to win a small hit than a big win. In order to satisfy these jackpot winning probabilities and jackpot winning probabilities, the jackpot value range and the jackpot value range are set by the main control CPU 72 and compared with the read random number value.

  Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the big hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2402.

  Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set in the small hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine the big hit (for example, 01H is set) or the small hit (for example, 0AH is set) according to the value of the common hit flag without separately preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag.

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes an off-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of losing) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11).

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always set to one segment (the center It is possible to fix the stop symbol number data to one value (for example, 64H) by keeping only the lighting display of the bar "-"). In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol (fluctuation pattern selection means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. The fluctuation pattern includes various fluctuation patterns such as normal fluctuation (non-reach fluctuation), reach fluctuation, super reach fluctuation, and the like (the same is true for big hits and small hits). Information regarding the variation pattern of the selected special symbol is transmitted to the effect control device as a variation pattern command (the same applies to the ordinary symbol).

  Here, since the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection varies depending on whether or not it is the above “time reduction state”, in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and the current state is “time reduction state”. It is confirmed whether or not it is “state”. In addition, even when not in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of losing is, for example, the “variable display start operation memory number (0 to 3) set in step S2200”, except when the fluctuation for executing the reach effect is performed. (For example, the number of operating memories at the start of variable display is 0 to about 12.5 seconds, the number of operating memories at the start of variable display is about 1 to about 8 seconds, the number of operating memories at the start of variable display is 2 → about 5 seconds, number of working memory at the start of variable display 3 → about 2.5 seconds). Note that the symbol stop display time at the time of disconnection is constant (for example, about 0.6 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (at the time of disconnection) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case other than non-winning), but the determination result is a big hit (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes). The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of jackpot will be described.

  Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit stop symbol determination process (winning type determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of jackpot) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type defining means). For this reason, the main control CPU 72 can determine the type of winning symbol based on the big hit symbol random number from the stored contents by referring to the big hit symbol stop selection table in the big hit symbol stop determination process.

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
In the present embodiment, three types of winning symbols are prepared as winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The breakdown regarding the first winning symbol is “first winning symbol” or “second winning symbol”, and the breakdown regarding the second winning symbol is only “third winning symbol”. Each winning symbol of these winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of “first winning symbol”, “first winning symbol A”, “first winning symbol B”, “first winning symbol C”, and so on.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the selection ratio of the winning symbol selected at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is different. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the winning symbol to be selected depending on whether the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[First Special Symbol Big Stop Stop Symbol Selection Table]
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) to determine the type of the winning symbol.

  In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each distribution value “50”, “50” is the ratio when the denominator is 100. Equivalent to. In the second column from the left, “first winning symbol” and “second winning symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting the “first winning symbol” is 50/100 (= 50%), and the proportion of selecting the “second winning symbol” is 100 minutes. Of 50 (= 50%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number.

  In any case, if the current jackpot result corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table To select the winning symbol selectively. Further, in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and among these, the MODE value “B1H” of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. Further, the EVENT values “01H” and “02H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each in the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol and “first winning symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as “B1H01H” It will be.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
In the right column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (limit number) given after the end of the big hit game is shown. In the present embodiment, the number of time reductions is not given when the “first winning symbol” is met during normal time (in a non-time shortened state). On the other hand, if it falls under the “first winning symbol” during the time reduction (in the time reduction state), the time reduction number is given 4 times (or 8 times).

  In addition, when it corresponds to the “second winning symbol”, the number of time reductions is given 4 times (or 8 times) regardless of whether it is normal or time reduction. Note that the number of time reductions is not limited to the above value and may be 1 to 3 times, or may be 5 times or more (9 times or more).

  Here, “4 times (or 8 times)” means that when the total number of fluctuations of the second special symbol is 4 times, or when the total number of fluctuations of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 8, It means that the shortened state ends.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol with reference to the second special symbol big-hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) when the result of the big jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol.

  Also in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each distribution value “100” corresponds to the ratio when the denominator is 100. . Similarly, in the second column from the left, “third winning symbol” corresponding to each distribution value is shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of the “third winning symbol” being selected is 100/100 (= 100%).

  When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol with the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Again, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value. Among these, the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of the second special symbol is the current winning symbol. It represents that. Further, the EVENT value “01H” in the lower byte represents the type of the winning symbol corresponding to each in the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, and “third winning symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command is described as “B2H01H”. .

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
In the right column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (limit number) given after the end of the big hit game is shown. In the present embodiment, when the “third winning symbol” is met, the number of time reductions is given 4 times (or 8 times) regardless of whether the time is normal or time saving.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In general, in the case of big hit reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of loss is determined.

  Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, when the type of winning symbol (big hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is “second winning symbol” or “third winning symbol”, the main control CPU 72 displays the flag area of the RAM 76. A time reduction function operation flag as a certain game state flag is set to ON (01H) (time reduction state transition means, time reduction function operation means). The main control CPU 72 resets the time shortening function operation flag to OFF (00H) when it corresponds to the “first winning symbol” in the non-time reduction state, and corresponds to the “first winning symbol” in the time reduction state. In this case, the value of the time reduction function operation flag is set to ON (01H).

  In the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the big hit time stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of the big hit) together with the stop symbol command (at the time of the big hit). The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, processing for small hits will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (stop symbol number at small hit) based on the big hit symbol random number. Here, similarly, the relationship between the big hit symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol at the time of small hitting is defined in advance in the small hitting symbol selection table (winning type defining means). In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is determined using the big hit symbol random number, but a dedicated random number may be used separately. In the present embodiment, no small hit is set for the first special symbol, but only for the second special symbol.

[Winning pattern for small hits]
In the present embodiment, three types of winning symbols are prepared as winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a small hit. The three types of breakdown are “fourth winning symbol”, “fifth winning symbol”, and “sixth winning symbol”. These winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of “fourth winning symbol”, “fourth winning symbol A”, “fourth winning symbol B”, “fourth winning symbol C”, and so on.

[2nd special symbol small symbol stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol with reference to the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

  Also in the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value for each winning symbol, and each distribution value “33”, “33”, “34” is the denominator. This corresponds to the ratio of 100. Similarly, in the second column from the left, “fourth winning symbol”, “fifth winning symbol”, and “sixth winning symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a small hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting the “fourth winning symbol” is 33/100 (= 33%), and the proportion of selecting the “fifth winning symbol” Is 33/100 (= 33%), and the ratio at which the “sixth winning symbol” is selected is 34/100 (= 34%).

  As a result of this small hit, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selectively determines the winning symbol at the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table. In the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Again, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value. Among these, the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is the small special hit of the second special symbol. It is a thing. Further, the EVENT values “02H”, “03H”, and “04H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other in the selection table. Therefore, for example, when “fourth winning symbol” is selected as the winning symbol as a result of this small hit, the stop symbol command is described as “B2H02H”.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a small hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
In the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, the fourth column from the left (right column), during the small hit game, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x and the big hit game is started. The value of the number of short hours given after the end is shown. In the present embodiment, when the “fourth winning symbol”, “fifth winning symbol”, or “sixth winning symbol” is met, the number of time reductions is four times (or 8) regardless of whether the time is normal or short. Times).

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, the small hit is set only for the second special symbol lottery, and the variation pattern having the variation time for the small hit is selected at the small hit. Note that a small hit may be set in the first special symbol lottery.

  Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting and other setting process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the second special symbol display device 35 based on the stop symbol number at the time of small hit. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of a small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 16: Special symbol change processing, special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter value). Decrement the counter value. Then, while referring to the value of the timer counter, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol variation display as described above until the value becomes zero. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 17). The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer (decrements by the interrupt period).

  Step S4200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, and jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

  On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4250.

  Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. In addition, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag here. The “stop display time end command” is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

  Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4350.

[When winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to “variable winning device management process”. The main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation in this processing. Specifically, the time reduction function is deactivated. Thereby, before the special game (big player) is started, the state is shifted to the normal state (non-time shortened state).

  When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed in cases other than the big hit.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), it next executes step S4600.

  Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 next checks whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. If the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and is simply shifted (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602.

  Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation pre-processing address as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4605: On the other hand, if the value (01H) of the small hit flag is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the number cut counter. In the “number-of-times cut counter”, a counter value related to “time reduction state” is set in the time reduction count area of the RAM 76. In the present embodiment, a so-called frequency reduction time reduction function is employed, and when shifting to the “time reduction state”, the first frequency reduction counter value related to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 4 times). The second turn-off counter value related to the time shortening state is set to a specified numerical value (for example, 8 times). Note that the information on the first turn-off counter value and the second turn-off counter value is notified (transmitted) to the effect control device 124 by a turn-off counter command.

  Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded counter value (first count cut counter value or second count cut counter value) is zero. At this time, if the count cut counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the count-down counter value is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4630.

  Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the first turn-off counter value and the second turn-off counter value. Specifically, when the second special symbol stop display is being performed, both the first number cut counter value and the second number cut counter value are decremented and the first special symbol stop display is being performed. Decrements only the second rounding counter value.

  Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result of any of the number-of-times cut counter values (first number-of-turns counter value or second number of times-cut counter value) is zero. As a result of the subtraction, if any of the turn-off counter values is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if any of the number-of-times cut counter values is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets a flag at the time of turning off the number of times function. In the present embodiment, the count-down counter value related to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 4 times or 8 times). For this reason, the time shortening function operation flag is reset when the deviation variation of the second special symbol is executed four times in the time shortening state (including the small hit variation at that time when the specific region is not passed). Is done. On the other hand, even if the first special symbol deviation fluctuation is executed four times in the time shortening state, the time shortening function operation flag is not reset, and then the first special symbol or the second special symbol four times in the time shortening state. When the deviation deviation is executed, the time reduction function operation flag is reset. As a result, the time reduction state ends after the special symbol stop display. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

  By executing such processing, the main control CPU 72 has reached the specific number of times (for example, four times) when the second transition condition is satisfied (the number of times the symbols are changed after the transition to the time reduction state is reached). ), The time shortening state (advantageous gaming state) can be terminated and shifted to the non-time shortening state (predetermined gaming state) (predetermined gaming state transition means).

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), an operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation number display setting. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S1240).

  Among these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display unit 34 as described above. Generate and output drive signals to be applied to the LEDs of the symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a. It is processing.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the gaming state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the time-short state display lamp 38e according to the value of the time shortening function operation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 displays the time reduction state display lamp 38e regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. A lighting signal is output to the corresponding LED. Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the launch position designation display lamp 38f in accordance with the special game management status. For example, when the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is activated due to the big hit game or the small hit game, the main control CPU 72 sends a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the launch position designation display lamp 38f. Output. If the value (01H) is set in the time shortening function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 turns on the lighting signal for the LED corresponding to the firing position designation display lamp 38f in addition to the time-short state display lamp 38e. Is output. Note that the launch position designation display lamp 38f is lit from the start of the big hit game until the end of the "time reduced state" when it shifts to the "time reduced state" through the big hit game, and is not turned on when the "time reduced state" ends. (OFF).

  The main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the above-mentioned continuous operation number status. At this time, one of the display lamps 38a and 38b corresponding to the jackpot symbol designated by the value of the continuous operation number status is the target of outputting the lighting signal. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status designates “16 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing “16 rounds (16R)”. Further, if the value of the continuous operation number status specifies “15 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a representing “15 rounds (15R)”.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes a gaming process selection process (step S5100), a special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a special winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), a special winning opening closing process (step S5400), and an end. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5500).

  Step S5100: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening / closing operation) of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 has not yet started, the main control CPU 72 sets the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step) as the next jump destination. S5200) is selected. On the other hand, if the winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and has completed the winning opening opening / closing operation process. Then, the special winning opening closing process (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the big prize opening / closing operation process and the big prize opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects an end process (step S5500) as the next jump destination. . Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times of opening and closing the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 and the time of each opening at the time of big hit or small hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. As a result of the confirmation, if the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5203. On the other hand, when the big hit flag value (01H) is not set (No), that is, when the small hit flag value (01H) is set, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5204.

  Step S5203: The main control CPU 72 executes a big winning big opening opening pattern setting process. In this process, the winning pattern opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol at the time of the big hit is set based on the opening pattern setting table by the symbol at the big hit. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5205.

  Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a small winning big prize opening opening pattern setting process. In this process, the opening pattern of the big winning opening is set based on the opening pattern setting table for each small hit symbol. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5205.

  Step S5205: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process for big hits]
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a big winning opening opening pattern setting process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5210: The main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device. Here, the “condition device” is a device whose operation is a condition necessary for the operation of the accessory continuous operation device, and “the accessory continuous operation device” is the first variable winning device 30 or the second This is a device that can continuously operate the variable winning device 31. Note that the “condition device” and the “continuous agent continuous operation device” can be used as control flags. Therefore, unless the condition device is operated, the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 are not operated in the big hit game. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5212.

  Step S5212: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation number status according to the type of jackpot symbol. In the present embodiment, a value representing “15 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status regardless of the type of jackpot symbol. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5214.

  Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit time symbol-specific opening pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the jackpot symbol-specific opening pattern setting table and selects an opening pattern corresponding to the type of winning symbol related to the special symbol. Here, the opening pattern represents a setting for operating the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31, and represents settings such as the number of execution rounds, the opening time, and the interval time, for example. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5216.

[Open pattern setting table for each jackpot symbol]
FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of a symbol pattern opening pattern setting table for a big hit. This big hit symbol-specific opening pattern setting table defines the opening / closing operation pattern of the variable winning device (the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31) to be operated for each round for different winning symbols related to special symbols. It is. Specifically, the following special winning opening patterns are determined for each winning symbol.

[First winning design]
When the first winning symbol is met, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. Further, the number of execution rounds is 15 rounds, and 5 of them are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first big prize opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. Moreover, the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between rounds without a ball).

  In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the first winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 from the first round to the fifth round is held during each round for 29.0 seconds. In operation, the first big prize opening 30b is opened (but closed when an upper limit number of balls are confirmed. The same applies hereinafter), and from the sixth round to the fifteenth round, the first variable prize-winning device 30 is operated. Opens for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, when it corresponds to the first winning symbol, it is possible to substantially obtain 5 rounds.

[Second winning design]
When it corresponds to the second winning symbol, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. Further, the number of execution rounds is 15 rounds, and 5 of them are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first big prize opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. Moreover, the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between rounds without a ball).

  Thus, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the second winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 from the first round to the fifth round is held during each round for 29.0 seconds. By operating, the first big prize opening 30b is opened, and the first variable prize winning device 30 is opened for 0.5 seconds from the sixth round to the fifteenth round. Therefore, when it corresponds to the second winning symbol, it is possible to substantially obtain 5 rounds.

[Third winning design]
In the case of corresponding to the third winning symbol, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. Moreover, the number of execution rounds is 15 rounds, and 15 rounds are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first big prize opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds. The interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second.

  As described above, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the third winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 from the first round to the fifteenth round is held during each round for 29.0 seconds. It operates to open the first grand prize opening 30b. Therefore, when it corresponds to the third winning symbol, it is possible to substantially obtain 15 rounds.

  As described above, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening pattern of the big winning opening corresponding to the type of the winning symbol with reference to the opening pattern setting table for each jackpot symbol.

[Refer to Figure 26: Big Open at the Big Hit Opening Pattern Setting Process]
Step S5216: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the first variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the type of the variable winning device to be operated for each round (1 round to the final round) in the big hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol in the first variable winning device 30. To do. In the present embodiment, since the opening pattern corresponding to all the winning symbols (first winning symbol to third winning symbol) at the time of the big win is the 1st round to the final round, the first big prize opening 30b is opened, The operation of the first variable winning device 30 is set. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5218.

  Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed during the big hit game based on the release pattern corresponding to the winning symbol. In the present embodiment, 15 rounds are set as the number of execution patterns of the open pattern corresponding to all winning symbols (first winning symbol to third winning symbol) at the time of the big hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5220.

  Step S5220: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets an opening time (opening timer) per time when the big winning opening is opened for each round at the time of big hit. In the present embodiment, it is set for each round based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (first winning symbol to third winning symbol) at the time of big hit. For example, in the case of the first winning symbol, the opening time for opening the first grand prize opening 30b is set to 29.0 seconds for the round with the ball, and the first big prize opening 30b for the round without the ball. The opening time for releasing is set to 0.5 seconds. Accordingly, if a value of about 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the release timer, the release time is a sufficient time for easily entering the first big prize opening 30b during one release (for example, launching) 10 or more game balls are fired by the control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if about 0.5 seconds is set as the value of the opening timer, the opening time is a time during which it is difficult to enter the first big prize opening 30b during one opening. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5222.

  Step S5222: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a waiting time (interval timer) between rounds at the time of big hit. In the present embodiment, the interval timer of the open pattern corresponding to all the winning symbols (first winning symbol to third winning symbol) at the time of all the big wins is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between rounds without a ball). ) Is set. For example, after the opening of the first big prize opening 30b between the first round and the second round is finished and once closed, an interval timer of about 1.0 seconds is set. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5224.

  Step S5224: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the number of execution rounds set in the previous process (step S5218). Therefore, based on the number of execution rounds “15R” of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (first winning symbol to third winning symbol) at the time of big hit, the value indicating “15 rounds” is generated as the continuous operation number command. . The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special winning opening opening pattern setting process (FIG. 25).

[Big winning opening opening pattern setting process for small hits]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of a small winning big opening opening pattern setting process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5252: The main control CPU 72 sets “small hit start (during small hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that a small hit game is being played. The state command indicating that a small hit game is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5254.

  Step S5254: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit release pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the opening pattern setting table for small hits and selects an opening pattern. Here, the opening pattern represents a setting for operating the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, and represents, for example, settings such as the number of times of opening, the opening time, the interval time, and the opening time of the specific area 31x. ing. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5256.

[Open pattern setting table for small hits]
FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of the small hit opening pattern setting table. This small-hit opening pattern setting table defines the opening / closing operation pattern of the variable winning device (second variable winning device 31). In the present embodiment, one opening pattern is set at the time of a small hit, but a plurality may be defined for each winning symbol.

  In the case of hitting a small hit, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the second variable winning device 31. The number of times the second variable winning device 31 is opened is two, and the time for one opening is 0.9 seconds. The interval time is set to about 1.0 seconds, for example.

The opening start time of the specific area 31x (timing at which the specific area solenoid 99 is turned on to activate the specific area slide member 31c) is 0.2 seconds after the opening of the second variable winning device 31 is started.
The opening end time of the specific area 31x (timing at which the specific area solenoid 99 is turned off and the specific area slide member 31c is inactivated) is 1.8 seconds after the opening of the second variable winning device 31 is started. .

[Refer to Figure 28: Big Opening Game Opening Pattern Setting Process for Small Hits]
Step S5256: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the second variable winning device 31. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the type of the variable winning device to be operated during the small hit game in the second variable winning device 31 based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5258.

  Step S5258: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of releases. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of times to be released during the small hit game based on the open pattern corresponding to the small hit. In the present embodiment, two is set as the number of times of opening of the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5260.

  Step S5260: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hit release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets an opening time (opening timer) per time when opening the big winning opening based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In the present embodiment, 0.9 seconds is set based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5262.

  Step S5262: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a waiting time (interval timer) between opening of the big winning opening based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In the present embodiment, the interval timer is set to a predetermined time (for example, 1.0 second). Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5264.

  Step S5264: The main control CPU 72 sets a release timer for the specific area 31x (specific area slide member 31c). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (release timer) of the specific area 31x during the small hit game based on the open pattern corresponding to the small hit time. In the present embodiment, the specific area 31x is opened 0.2 seconds after the opening of the second variable winning device 31 is started, and the specific area 31x is closed 1.8 seconds after the opening of the second variable winning apparatus 31 is started. Is done.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special winning opening opening pattern setting process (FIG. 25).

[Big prize opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening / closing operation process. This process is mainly for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current internal state is “busy”. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer of the RAM 76, and the current internal state is “whether or not a big game (during big hit game)” is set as an internal state flag for control. To see if it is “Big Duty”. It should be noted that the flag “in the middle of a big game (during big hit game)” is set by the main control CPU 72 during the previous process (during the big hit big opening opening pattern setting process: step S5212) or the specific area passing process described later. . As a result of the confirmation, if the current internal state is “Big Busy” (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes Step S5306. On the other hand, if the current internal state is not “big duty” (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5304.

  Step S5304: The main control CPU 72 executes a second big prize opening opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the second variable prize winning device 31 to open and close the second big prize opening 31b based on the set opening pattern (applied to the second big prize opening solenoid 97). A process of outputting a drive signal is performed. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S5306: The main control CPU 72 executes a first big prize opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the first variable winning device 30 to open and close the first big winning opening 30b based on the set opening pattern (applied to the first big winning opening solenoid 90). A process of outputting a drive signal is performed. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process (FIG. 24).

[Second grand prize opening and closing operation processing]
FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the second grand prize opening / closing operation process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5310: The main control CPU 72 opens the second big prize opening 31b. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the second grand prize winning solenoid 97 is output. Thereby, the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31 operate | moves and it transfers to an open state from a closed state. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5312.

  Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes the count-down of the release timer set in the previous process (step S5260 or step S5264 in the small winning big prize opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 28)). In this process, in addition to the release timer related to the opening of the second big prize opening 31b, a countdown is performed for the release timer (open start time, release end time) related to the opening of the specific area 31x. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5314.

  Step S5314: The main control CPU 72 executes a specific area opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the specific area slide member 31c to open and close the specific area 31x based on the set opening pattern (outputs a drive signal to be applied to the specific area solenoid 99). Process. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5316.

  Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the second big winning opening 31b has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer for the second big prize opening 31b during the countdown process is 0 or less. As a result of this confirmation, when the opening time of the second big prize opening 31b has ended (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5322. On the other hand, when the opening time of the second big winning opening 31b has not ended (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5318.

  Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the second variable prize-winning device 31 (the big prize opening being opened) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the second count switch 85 within the opening time. Next, main control CPU 72 executes step S5320.

  Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening at the time of a small hit as described above. If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the steps S5310 to S5320 described above.

  If it is determined in step S5316 that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5320 that the count has reached a predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5322. In addition, since the value of the release timer is set to a short time (for example, 1.8 seconds), the main control CPU 72 normally confirms that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S5310. In most cases, it is determined in step S5316 that the opening time has ended before confirmation.

  Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 closes the second big prize opening 31b. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the second grand prize winning solenoid 97 is stopped. Thereby, the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31 returns from an open state to a closed state. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5324.

  Step S5324: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the specific area passage flag is ON. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the specific area passing flag is ON based on whether or not the value of the specific area passing flag is 01H. As a result of this confirmation, if the specific area passing flag is ON (Yes), that is, if the game ball passes the specific area 31x while the second big winning opening 31b in the small hit game is open, Next, the control CPU 72 executes step S5326. On the other hand, when the specific area passing flag is not ON (No), that is, when the game ball does not pass the specific area 31x while the second big winning opening 31b in the small hit game is open, the main control is performed. Next, the CPU 72 executes step S5327a. Note that the specific area passing flag may be set to ON in the previous specific area opening / closing operation processing (step S5314).

  Step S5326: The main control CPU 72 executes a specific area passing process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 activates the condition device and the accessory continuous action device based on the fact that the game ball has passed the specific area 31x while the second big prize winning port 31b in the small hit game is open. Then, a process of continuously operating the first variable winning device 30, that is, a process of starting a big hit game is executed (special game via special game execution means). The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5328.

  Step S5327a: The main control CPU 72 executes interval standby processing. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the previous process (step S5265 in the small winning big winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 28)). When the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5327b. Although not specifically shown here, until the interval time elapses (until the interval timer value becomes 0), the main control CPU 72 manages the variable winning device management that is the caller from step S5327a for each interrupt. Return to the end address of the process (FIG. 24). When the special winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed at the next call, step S5327a is executed directly, not from the top step S5310.

  Step S5327b: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the second grand prize opening number counter. It should be noted that the value of the second grand prize opening number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

  Step S5327c: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented second big prize opening number counter reaches the number set within the current round. Here, the reason why “the number of times set in the current round” is determined corresponds to an opening pattern of “opening the second variable winning device 31 a plurality of times during one small hit”, for example. It is. In particular, when such an open pattern is not adopted, the “number of times set in the current round” is set to once in each round, and therefore the counter value is changed by one opening / closing operation. Since the set number of times is reached (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5328.

  On the other hand, when the opening pattern of “opening the second variable prize-winning device 31 multiple times during one small hit” is adopted, the counter value has reached the set number of times at the end of one opening. There will be no (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation process at this stage, the procedure from step S5310 to step S5327b is repeatedly executed. As a result, in step S5327b, the release counter is incremented. When the counter value reaches the set number (step S5327c; Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5328.

  Step S5328: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the special winning opening closing process, and returns to the special winning opening / closing operation process (FIG. 30). Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening closing process.

[Specific area open / close operation processing]
FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the specific area opening / closing operation process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5330: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the opening time of the specific area 31x has been started. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the release timer for the opening start time related to the release of the specific area 31x that has been counted down in the countdown process (step S5312) is 0. Check if the 31x opening time has started. As a result of the confirmation, when the opening time of the specific area 31x is started (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5332. On the other hand, if the opening time of the specific area 31x has not been started (No) or has already been opened, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5334.

  Step S5332: The main control CPU 72 opens the specific area 31x. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the specific area solenoid 99 is output. As a result, the specific area slide member 31c is operated to shift the specific area 31x from the closed state to the open state. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5334.

  Step S5334: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the storage area of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the specific area reserve flag is ON. As a result of the confirmation, when the specific area reserve flag is ON and it is confirmed that the game ball has passed the specific area 31x (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5336. On the other hand, when the specific area reserve flag is OFF and it is confirmed that the game ball does not pass through the specific area 31x (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5338.

  Step S5336: The main control CPU 72 sets the specific area passing flag to ON. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and sets the value of the specific area passing flag to 01H. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5338. The specific area passing flag and the specific area preliminary flag are reset at the end of the big hit game.

  Step S5338: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the opening time of the specific area 31x has ended. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the release timer value relating to the release of the specific area 31x that has been counted down in the countdown process (step S5312) is 0, so that the release time of the specific area 31x is Check if it is finished. As a result of the confirmation, when the opening time of the specific area 31x is ended (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5340. On the other hand, when the opening time of the specific area 31x has not ended (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the second big prize opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 31).

  Step S5340: The main control CPU 72 closes the specific area 31x. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the specific area solenoid 99 is stopped. Thereby, the slide member 31c for specific area | regions returns from an open state (operation state) to a closed state (non-operation state).

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the second big prize opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 31).

[Processing when passing a specific area]
FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of processing when passing through a specific area. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5350: The main control CPU 72 resets the small hit flag. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and resets the value of the small hit flag to 00H. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5352.

  Step S5352: The main control CPU 72 ends the small hit game. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 deletes “inside a small hit game” from the internal state flag, and ends the small hit game in the control processing (end of the small hit game). Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5354.

  Step S5354: The main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device. Thereby, the 1st variable prize-winning apparatus 30 can be operated continuously, and a big hit game can be started. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5356.

  Step S5356: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation number status according to the type of winning symbol. In the present embodiment, a value representing “16 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status regardless of the type of winning symbol. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5358.

  Step S5358: The main control CPU 72 executes an open pattern selection process for each symbol when passing a specific area. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the symbol-specific opening pattern setting table when passing through a specific area, and selects an opening pattern corresponding to the type of winning symbol corresponding to the small hit. Next, main control CPU 72 executes step S5360.

  Step S5360: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the first variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 is a variable winning device that is operated for each round (2 rounds to the final round) in the big hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol when the small hit is hit. The type is set to the first variable winning device 30. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5362.

  Step S5362: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed during the big hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol when the small hit is hit. In the present embodiment, 16 rounds are set as the number of execution patterns of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (the fourth winning symbol to the sixth winning symbol) regarding the special symbol when all the small hits are hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5364.

  Step S5364: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets an opening time (opening timer) per time when the big winning opening is opened for each round at the time of big hit. In the present embodiment, it is set for each round based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (the fourth winning symbol to the sixth winning symbol) regarding the special symbol at the time of hitting the small hit. For example, in the case of the 4th winning symbol, the opening time for opening the first grand prize opening 30b is set to 29.0 seconds for the round with the ball, and the first big prize opening 30b for the round without the ball. The opening time for releasing is set to 0.5 seconds. Accordingly, if a value of about 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the release timer, the release time is a sufficient time for easily entering the first big prize opening 30b during one release (for example, launching) 10 or more game balls are fired by the control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if about 0.5 seconds is set as the value of the opening timer, the opening time is a time during which it is difficult to enter the first big prize opening 30b during one opening. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5366.

  Step S5366: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit time timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a waiting time (interval timer) between rounds at the time of big hit. In this embodiment, as an interval timer of an open pattern corresponding to a winning symbol (fourth winning symbol to sixth winning symbol) related to a special symbol when hitting a small hit, 1.0 second (between no rounds) Is set to 5.0 seconds). For example, after the opening of the first big prize opening 30b between the second round and the third round is finished and once closed, an interval timer of about 1.0 seconds is set. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5368.

  Step S5368: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the number of execution rounds set in the previous process (step S5362). Therefore, the continuous operation number command is “16 rounds” based on the number of execution rounds “16R” of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (the fourth winning symbol to the sixth winning symbol) relating to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit. A value representing is generated. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5370.

  Step S5370: The main control CPU 72 executes a specific area passing time reduction function setting process. In this process, if the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit is “fourth winning symbol” to “sixth winning symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the time reduction function operation flag to ON (time (Shortening state transition means, time shortening function operating means). In the present embodiment, when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x corresponding to the “fourth winning symbol” to the “sixth winning symbol”, the time is always shifted to the time shortening state. Only the winning symbol may be shifted to the time reduction state.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the second big prize opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 31).

[Open pattern setting table by design when passing through specific area]
FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an example of a symbol-specific open pattern setting table when passing through a specific area. The opening pattern setting table for each symbol when passing through the specific area defines the opening / closing operation pattern of the first variable winning device 30 for each round for different winning symbols related to the special symbol at the time of hitting a small hit. Specifically, the following special winning opening patterns are determined for each winning symbol.

[4th winning design]
When the game ball passes through the specific area 31x corresponding to the fourth winning symbol, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. The number of execution rounds is 16 rounds. The number of execution rounds includes the operation of the second variable winning device 31 that is released with a small hit, so in the big hit game that will be started, 15 rounds are obtained by subtracting one round from 16 rounds. It is the number of rounds in a substantial jackpot game (the same applies to the fifth winning symbol and the sixth winning symbol). Of the 15 rounds, 5 rounds are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first big prize opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds. The interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second.

  In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit is the fourth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the opening of the second variable winning device 31 at the small hit is regarded as the first round. Therefore, the first variable prize-winning device 30 operates during each round for 29.0 seconds from the second round to the sixth round, and the first big prize opening 30b is opened. Therefore, when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x corresponding to the fourth winning symbol, it is possible to substantially obtain the ball for five rounds.

[5th winning design]
When the game ball passes through the specific area 31x corresponding to the fifth winning symbol, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 16 rounds (the number of rounds in a substantial jackpot game is 15 rounds), of which 10 rounds are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first big prize opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. Moreover, the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between rounds without a ball).

  In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit is the fifth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the opening of the second variable winning device 31 at the small hit is regarded as the first round. Therefore, the first variable winning device 30 is operated during each round for 29.0 seconds from the second round to the eleventh round, and the first big prize opening 30b is opened. From the 12th round to the 16th round, The 1 variable winning device 30 is opened for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, when the game ball passes through the specific area corresponding to the fifth winning symbol, it is possible to obtain 10 rounds of the ball.

[Sixth winning symbol]
When the game ball passes through the specific area 31x corresponding to the sixth winning symbol, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. The number of execution rounds is 16 rounds (the number of rounds in a substantial jackpot game is 15 rounds), of which 15 rounds are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first big prize opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds, and the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second.

  As described above, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small win is the sixth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 is 29.29 from the second round to the 16th round. It operates during each round for 0 second, and the first big prize opening 30b is opened. Therefore, when the game ball passes through the specific area corresponding to the sixth winning symbol, it is possible to obtain 15 rounds.

  As described above, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening pattern of the special winning opening corresponding to the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol when hitting a small hit with reference to the symbol specific pattern passing pattern setting table. Will be.

[First grand prize opening opening and closing operation processing]
FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the first big prize opening opening / closing operation process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5380: The main control CPU 72 opens the first big prize opening 30b. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the first grand prize winning solenoid 90 is output. Thereby, the 1st variable prize-winning apparatus 30 operate | moves and it transfers to an open state from a closed state. The main control CPU 72 next executes step S5382.

  Step S5382: The main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 is set in the previous process (step S5220 of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 26) or the step S5364 in the specific area passing process (in FIG. 33)). The countdown of the release timer is executed. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5386.

  Step S5386: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the opening time of the first big winning opening 30b has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer for the first big winning opening 30b after the countdown process is 0 or less. As a result of this confirmation, when the opening time of the first big winning opening 30b has ended (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5392. On the other hand, when the opening time of the first big winning opening 30b has not ended (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5388.

  Step S5388: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the first variable winning device 30 (open winning opening) during the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 within the opening time. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5390.

  Step S5390: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round of big hit) as described above. If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the big winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the procedure of the above steps S5380 to S5390.

  If it is determined in step S5386 that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5390 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5392. Note that when the big hit is open and there is no round, the value of the release timer is set to a short time (for example, 0.5 seconds). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 normally sets the count in step S5390. In most cases, it is determined in step S5386 that the opening time has ended before confirming that the predetermined number has been reached.

  Step S5392: The main control CPU 72 closes the first big prize opening 30b. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first grand prize winning solenoid 90 is stopped. Thereby, the 1st variable prize-winning apparatus 30 returns from an open state to a closed state. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5394.

  Step S5394: The main control CPU 72 executes interval standby processing. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 is set in the preceding process (step S5222 of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 26), or step S5366 in the specific area passing process (in FIG. 33)). Performs interval timer countdown. Then, when the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5395. Although not specifically shown here, until the interval time elapses (until the interval timer value becomes 0), the main control CPU 72 manages the variable winning device management that is the caller from step S5394 for each interrupt. Return to the end address of the process (FIG. 24). Then, when the special winning opening / closing operation processing is executed at the next call, step S5394 is executed directly, not from the top step S5380.

  Step S5395: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter. Note that the value of the number-of-releases counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

  Step S5396: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the number set within the current round. Here, the reason why the “number of times set in the current round” is determined is to deal with an opening pattern in which, for example, “the first variable prize-winning device 30 is opened a plurality of times within one round of big hit”. It is. In the present embodiment, since such an open pattern is not particularly employed, the “number of times set in the current round” is set once for each round. Accordingly, since the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5398.

  If a pattern in which a plurality of opening / closing operations are repeated in one round as described above is employed, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, since the jump destination is set to the big winning opening / closing operation process at this stage, the procedure from step S5380 to step S5390 is repeated. As a result, the increment of the number-of-releases counter proceeds in step S5395, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5398.

  Step S5398: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the special winning opening closing process, and returns to the special winning opening / closing operation process (FIG. 30). Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening closing process.

[Large prize closing process]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a special prize closing process. This large winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 or terminating the operation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5401: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game is a big game (big hit game), and if it is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5402.

  Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. Thereby, for example, the value of the round number counter is “1” at the stage where the first round ends and the second round is reached. If the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game and the big hit game is started after the end of the small hit, the opening of the second big winning opening 31b at the small hit is treated as the first round, and the big hit The first round when the game starts is treated as the second round.

  Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the incremented round number counter value has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1 to 15) of the round number counter after increment, and if the value is less than the set execution round number (14 or 15 after 1 subtraction) ( No) Next, step S5405 is executed.

  Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the current round number counter value. This command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process as described above. The effect control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

  Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the big prize opening / closing operation process.

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 24). Then, after execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again, and repeatedly executes the above steps S5402 to S5408. Thus, the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual round number reaches the set execution round number (15 times or 16 times).

  When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: YES), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

  Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (= 0), it sets the next jump destination to the end process.

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[Small hit]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation execution means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not playing a major role (step S5401: No), the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the number-of-releases counter.

  Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the set number of times of release. The number of times of opening is set in the previous small hitting big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5258 in FIG. 28). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening / closing operation process.
Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 24). Then, after the execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, and goes through the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No) to step S5416. Step S5408 is repeatedly executed. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 is repeatedly executed until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of times of opening.

  When the actual number of times of opening at the small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5414.

  Step S5414, Step S5412: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the end process when the release counter is reset (= 0).

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

〔End processing〕
FIG. 37 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the end process. This end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5503. To do.

  Step S5503, Step S5504: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72. In addition, the main control CPU 72 deletes “big hit” from the internal state flag, and ends the big hit game on the control process (end of big role). The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation number status.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the time shortening function activation flag is 01H (is set). This flag is a big hit time other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol variation pre-processing, or a specific area passing time shortening function setting process (FIG. 17). 33 is set in step S5370).

  Step S5512: If the value of the time reduction function operation flag is 01H (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time reductions (for example, 4 times (or 8 times)). The value of the set time reduction count is stored in the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The number of time reductions set here is the upper limit number of times for shortening the variation time of the special symbol in subsequent games. In the present embodiment, in order to manage the number of time reductions, two types of count-down counter values (first count-down counter value, second count-down counter value) relating to the time reduction state are prepared. Here, the first turn-off counter value is a variable that is decremented (subtracted by 1) every time the second special symbol fluctuates once, and “4” is set as an initial value. The second cut counter value is a variable that is decremented each time the first special symbol or the second special symbol fluctuates once, and “8” is set as an initial value. If the value of the time shortening function activation flag is not 01H (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

  By executing such processing, the main control CPU 72, when the first transition condition is satisfied (when winning with the winning symbol to shift to the time shortening state), after the big hit game ends, It is possible to shift from a predetermined gaming state) to a time shortening state (advantageous gaming state) in which advantageous conditions are applied compared to the non-time shortening state (the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is a high probability state). Yes (advantageous gaming state transition means).

  Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on the flag. Specifically, a state designation command representing “normal” is generated as the gaming state when the big hit flag is reset or the big game ends. If the time shortening function operation flag is set, a state designation command representing “time shortening” is generated as the internal state. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  The procedure so far is a big hit, but in the case of a big hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

  Steps S5520 and S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H), and deletes “small hit game” from the internal state flag. It should be noted that in the case of a small hit, the internal condition device does not operate in particular, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of erasing the flag.

  Step S5516: After the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Game Flow (Part 1)]
FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating a game flow that is developed when the first special symbol changes in the normal mode.
When a game is started with the pachinko machine 1, the game is started from [F1] normal mode (park mode). “Normal mode” is a “low probability non-time shortened state”, the winning probability of a special symbol is “low probability state”, and the winning probability of a normal symbol is “low probability state”.

  [F1] When a game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26 during a game in the normal mode (if there is no memory of the second special symbol and the memory of the first special symbol exists) ), [F2] The first special symbol varies.

  [F3] If the first special symbol lottery results in “out of”, [F1] starts over from the normal mode.

  [F4] The first special symbol lottery results in a “hit (winning probability 1/224)”, and when [F5] the first winning symbol is met, [F6] the big win game is executed, but [F1] shifts to the normal mode. To do.

  [F4] The first special symbol lottery results in “big hit (winning probability 1/224)”, and if [F7] the second winning symbol is met, [F6] big hit game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode. [F8] The drive mode is “low probability time reduction state”, the winning probability of the special symbol is “low probability state”, and the winning probability of the normal symbol is “high probability state”.

[Game Flow (Part 2)]
FIG. 39 is a diagram for describing a game flow developed when the second special symbol fluctuates in the normal mode.
[F1] When a game ball enters the right start winning opening 28b during a game in the normal mode (if the second special symbol is stored), [F12] the second special symbol changes.

  [F13] When the second special symbol lottery results in “out”, [F1] starts over from the normal mode.

  [F14] The second special symbol lottery results in “big hit (winning probability 1/224)”, and if [F15] corresponds to the third winning symbol, [F6] big hit game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

  [F16] In the second special symbol lottery, it becomes “small hit (winning probability ¼)”, [F17] corresponds to the fourth winning symbol, [F18] When the game ball passes a specific area during the small hit game, [F6] A big hit game is executed, and [F8] shifts to the drive mode.

  [F16] The second special symbol lottery results in “small hit (winning probability 1/4)”, [F19] corresponds to the fifth winning symbol, and [F18] a game ball passes a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] A big hit game is executed, and [F8] shifts to the drive mode.

  [F16] The second special symbol lottery results in “small hit (winning probability 1/4)”, [F20] corresponds to the sixth winning symbol, and [F18] a game ball passes a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] A big hit game is executed, and [F8] shifts to the drive mode.

[Game flow (part 3)]
FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating a game flow that is developed when the first special symbol changes in the drive mode.
[F8] When a game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26 during a game in the drive mode (if there is no memory of the second special symbol and the memory of the first special symbol exists) ), [F2] The first special symbol varies.

  [F3] If the first special symbol lottery results in “out of”, [F8] the drive mode is restarted. However, in the case of the short time final fluctuation when the time shortening state is finished, the mode is shifted to the normal mode by the end of the deviation fluctuation.

  [F4] The first special symbol lottery results in a “big hit (winning probability 1/224)”, and if the [F5] first winning symbol is met, the [F6] big hit game is executed, and the mode shifts to the [F8] drive mode.

  [F4] The first special symbol lottery results in “big hit (winning probability 1/224)”, and if [F7] the second winning symbol is met, [F6] big hit game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

  In this way, if you win in the first special symbol lottery while staying in the drive mode (time shortened state), no matter what winning symbol you win, after the jackpot game ends, the drive mode Migrate to

[Game Flow (Part 4)]
FIG. 41 is a diagram for describing a game flow developed when the second special symbol changes in the drive mode.
[F8] When a game ball enters the right start winning opening 28b during a game in the drive mode (if the second special symbol is stored), [F12] the second special symbol changes.

  [F13] If the second special symbol lottery results in “out of”, [F8] the drive mode is restarted. However, in the case of the short time final fluctuation when the time shortening state is finished, the mode is shifted to the normal mode when the deviation fluctuation ends.

  [F14] The second special symbol lottery results in “big hit (winning probability 1/224)”, and if [F15] corresponds to the third winning symbol, [F6] big hit game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

  [F16] In the second special symbol lottery, it becomes “small hit (winning probability ¼)”, [F17] corresponds to the fourth winning symbol, [F18] When the game ball passes a specific area during the small hit game, [F6] A big hit game is executed, and [F8] shifts to the drive mode.

  [F16] The second special symbol lottery results in “small hit (winning probability 1/4)”, [F19] corresponds to the fifth winning symbol, and [F18] a game ball passes a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] A big hit game is executed, and [F8] shifts to the drive mode.

  [F16] The second special symbol lottery results in “small hit (winning probability 1/4)”, [F20] corresponds to the sixth winning symbol, and [F18] a game ball passes a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] A big hit game is executed, and [F8] shifts to the drive mode.

  In this way, if you win in the second special symbol lottery, even if you stay in the normal mode (non-time shortened state) or stay in the drive mode (time shortened state) Move to drive mode.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 and the operation of the drum unit 200 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the big hit internal lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the variation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (Design display means). However, as described above, the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lighted and blinked by 7-segment LEDs, so that they have poor appeal. Similarly, the stop display mode of the first special symbol or the second special symbol by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 is also a symbolic design by 7 segment LED or the like. Visual impact as “winning design” is poor. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, a variable display effect and a stop display effect using the liquid crystal display 42 and the drum unit 200 are performed.

  In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display 42 displays the effect symbol Hz (this symbol), the marker M1, the marker M2, the fourth symbol Z1, Z2, the background image corresponding to the stay mode, the image relating to the notice effect, and the like. On the drum unit 200, pseudo-design symbols such as seven symbols are displayed.

  The effect symbol Hz displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 includes, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. Displayed side by side. Numbers “1” to “9” are displayed on each effect symbol. Here, the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol all constitute a symbol row (effect symbol array) arranged in descending order of numbers “9” to “1”. Such symbol rows are variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction.

  The pseudo effect design displayed on the drum unit 200 includes the pseudo left design design displayed on the left reel 201, the pseudo mid design design displayed on the middle reel 202, and the pseudo right design design displayed on the right reel 203. These are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the display area of the drum unit 200. Each reel includes 7 symbols, a panda symbol, and a cherry symbol. As each reel rotates, a pseudo effect symbol is variably displayed.

  42 and 43 are continuous diagrams showing examples of effect images corresponding to the change display and stop display of special symbols. Here, an example of the change display effect and the stop display effect performed using the liquid crystal display 42 and the drum unit 200 is shown for the change of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (disappearance). This variable display effect corresponds to a series of effects performed from when the special symbol (here, the first special symbol) starts the variable display until the stop display (including the fixed stop). The stop display effect is an effect indicating that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is displayed. Here, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the change display effect and stop display effect for each change employed in the present embodiment will be described.

[Before change display]
42 (A): For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate (a state in which the demonstration effect is not being performed), a row of three effect symbols Hz is displayed in the lower right area of the liquid crystal display 42. It is displayed. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect symbol Hz is also stopped and displayed.

[Memory display effect]
In the lower left area of the liquid crystal display 42, markers (represented by reference numerals M1 and M2 in the figure) indicating the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed. ing. These markers M1 and M2 indicate the number of operating memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol corresponding to the respective display numbers (the number of displays of the first special symbol operating memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operating memory lamp 35a). The number of displays is increased or decreased in conjunction with the change in the number of working memories during the game. In addition, for the markers M1 and M2, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed as, for example, a circle (◯) in order to facilitate visual discrimination, and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is, for example, a heart It is displayed with the shape. In the example shown in the figure, all four markers M1 are lit up to indicate that the number of working memories of the first special symbol is four, and all the markers M2 are hidden (indicated by broken lines). This indicates that the number of working memories of the second special symbol is 0 (memory display effect).

  Further, a fourth symbol (reference numerals Z1 and Z2 are attached in the figure) is displayed in the lower right area of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1, Z2 are “fourth effect symbols” following the left, middle, and right effect symbols, and are displayed in a synchronized manner during the change display of the effect symbol Hz. Note that the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are simple marks (for example, “□” figure) with colors, and for example, changing the display color can express a variable display. The fourth symbol Z1 corresponds to the first special symbol, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponds to the second special symbol.

  Further, the fourth symbols Z1, Z2 are stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the dislocation. This is to objectively clarify that the stop display effect is correctly performed corresponding to the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Is. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually “big hit” or “small hit” instead of “out of”, the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 in a mode (for example, blue display color or red display color) corresponding to them. Is stopped.

  On the other hand, on the effective line in the middle of the drum unit 200, a “panda symbol” corresponding to “displacement” is displayed.

[Variable display production start]
42 (B): For example, each reel of the drum unit 200 starts rotating in synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol, and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 is changed by scrolling. Is started (design effect execution means). In the drawing, the fluctuation display of the pseudo effect symbol of the drum unit 200 and the fluctuation display of the effect symbol Hz are simply indicated by downward arrows.

  A background image is displayed in the central area of the liquid crystal display 42, and this background image represents a park landscape. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the production is, for example, “normal mode”. The “normal mode” is a low probability non-time shortened state. In addition to this, various modes are provided for production, and background images with different landscapes and scenes are prepared for each mode. The difference between these modes corresponds to an internal “time reduction state”. Although not specifically illustrated here, a mode in which a notice effect is performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 may be used.

  Further, during the variation display of the production symbol Hz, the fourth symbol Z1 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 expresses the variation display by changing its display color. .

[Left effect symbol stop]
42C: For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, first, the pseudo left effect design of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200 and the left effect of the effect design Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 are displayed. The design stops changing. In this example, the “seven green symbols” are stopped as a pseudo left effect symbol at the middle position of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200, and the number “8” is displayed as the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The directing symbol that represents is stopped.

[Example of production when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in (B) in FIG. 42, since the number of working memories of the oldest first special symbol decreases by one as the change starts, the position is located on the leftmost side in conjunction with it. The number of displayed markers M1 is reduced by one. In other words, the total number of working memories of the marker M1 has been four so far, but the marker M1 which is the oldest (oldest) memory number display is not displayed, and the effects consumed by the internal lottery are also performed. Is called. As a result, the player can be instructed that the total number of working memories has decreased to three, and the working memory corresponding to any special symbol (in this case, the first special symbol) is consumed. Can be taught in an easy-to-understand manner.

  In the example of (C) in FIG. 42, since the first operation memory in the storage order is consumed and the remaining number becomes three, the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are each one by one. An effect of shifting in the direction (here left direction) is performed. As a result, the context of the change in the number of working memories can be accurately expressed in the production, and the player can be intuitively and easily informed that the working memory has been consumed and decreased by one. it can.

[Right production symbol stop]
43 (D): Next, the “panda symbol” is stopped as a pseudo right effect symbol at the middle position of the right reel 203 of the drum unit 200, and a numerical value is given as the right effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The production symbol representing “3” is stopped.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 43 (E): The stop display effect is executed in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. If the result of this internal lottery is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (out-of-game) manner, the pseudo effect design of the drum unit 200 and the effect design Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 are the same. In addition, a stop display effect is performed in a non-winning manner. In other words, in the illustrated example, the “panda symbol” is stopped as a pseudo medium effect symbol at the middle position of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200, and the number “1” is set as the medium effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The production symbol representing is stopped. In this case, the combination of the pseudo effect design displayed on the middle effective line of the drum unit 200 is a gap between “seven green design”-“panda design”-“panda design”, and the production design of the liquid crystal display 42. Since the combination of Hz is a gap of “8”-“1”-“3”, it is expressed in the production that the current variation corresponds to a normal “missing”. At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the dislocation.

  The above is an example of a change display effect and a stop display effect (at the time of non-winning) performed for each change. Through such an effect, the player can have a sense of expectation for winning, and finally the result of the internal lottery can be clearly taught in the effect.

[Production example at the time of big hit]
44 to 46 are continuous diagrams showing the flow of reach production executed at the time of the big hit. Here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a notice effect are included. In addition, an example of a notice effect (pre-reach notice notice effect, reach notice notice effect) executed during the variable display effect will be described.

  In the following reach production, for example, the first special symbol is displayed in the first special symbol display device 34 according to the variation pattern at the time of the big hit, and then the first special symbol is “first winning symbol” or “second winning symbol”, for example. (For example, 7-segment LED “self”, “yo”, “mouth”, “巳”, “F”, “E”, “L”, “Γ”, etc.) Reach production execution means).

[Variable display effects]
In FIG. 44A, each reel of the drum unit 200 starts rotating substantially in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol (or second special symbol), and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 scrolls. By doing so, the variable display effect is started.

[Preliminary production before reach (first stage)]
In FIG. 44 (B): When a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the change, the first stage pre-reach notice effect using the character image (picture card) is performed on the liquid crystal display 42. This pre-reach pre-announcement effect is a pre-announcement effect in which the change of the mode progresses in stages from one stage to a plurality of stages (for example, 2 to 5 stages) according to a predetermined order. The pattern image used in the pre-reach notice effect is displayed so as to appear from the left end of the screen (other appearance modes may be used). Note that the “pre-reach notice” is an effect of notifying the possibility of reach and the possibility of a big hit. By executing such a “pre-reach announcement effect”, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “it may develop into a reach = the possibility of a big hit increases” is obtained.

[Advance notice before the reach occurs (second stage)]
44 (C): After the first stage of the pre-reach notice effect is executed, the change of the pre-reach notice effect proceeds to the second stage. Here, an effect using a character pattern image different from the previous one is performed as the notice effect before the occurrence of reach in the second stage. Specifically, another pattern image additionally appears from the right end of the screen, and is displayed so as to overlap the front of the previously displayed pattern image. The picture image displayed at this time is larger in size than the picture image displayed previously. And the effect by the sound output that the character expressed by the picture image emits a dialogue (for example, “I will reach” etc.) is also performed.

  Such a pre-reach notice effect (second stage) using the second picture image is one step further than the pre-reach notice effect (first stage) performed in FIG. 44 (B). It is a development type. In general, it may be expressed as “step-up notice” or the like, referring to the “pre-reach notice notice effect” that develops in this way. Here, an example is given in which the second-stage pattern image appears in the pre-reach notice effect, but the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. There may be. Further, for example, the size may be enlarged each time the third, fourth, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. Even at this stage, the variable display effect is continued. In any case, it is possible to indicate to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation) that this change will be a big hit by making the change in the aspect of the pre-reach notice effect to more stages. (For example, the maximum expectation is suggested when progressing to the fifth stage).

[Stop of left design]
45 (D): When the middle stage of the variable display effect is reached, the pseudo left effect symbol of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200 and the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 stop changing. In this example, the “seven red symbols” are stopped as the pseudo left effect symbol at the middle position of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200, and the number “7” is displayed as the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The directing symbol that represents is stopped.

[Occurrence of reach condition]
(E) in FIG. 45: Next, fluctuations in the pseudo right effect design of the right reel 203 of the drum unit 200 and the right effect design of the effect design Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 stop. In this example, “seven red symbols” are stopped as a pseudo right effect symbol at the middle position of the right reel 203 of the drum unit 200, and the number “7” is assigned as the right effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The directing symbol that represents is stopped. As a result, in the pseudo effect design of the drum unit 200, a reach state of “red 7 design” − “being changed” − “red 7 design” is generated, and in the design design Hz of the liquid crystal display 42, “7 "-" Fluctuating "-" 7 "reach state has occurred. In addition, an effect of outputting a voice such as “Reach!” Is performed. After the reach state occurs, the reach effect at the time of winning is executed. It should be noted that the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 may be set to a display state of “changed” − “changed” − “changed” without generating a clear reach state.

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs]
FIG. 45 (F): After a reach state has occurred, for a while, a notice effect after the occurrence of reach has occurred on the liquid crystal display 42, for example, images representing “heart” figures form a group and pass diagonally on the screen. Done. In this case, the image of the “heart group” is suddenly displayed on the screen so that the visual appeal to the player can be enhanced. By executing such a notice effect after the visually lively reach occurs, the player can have an even greater expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 46 (G): Following the notice effect after the occurrence of the reach, the “pumpkin ghost” as an enemy character appears on the left side of the screen on the liquid crystal display 42, and the “male character” as the ally character appears on the right side of the screen. ”Appears, and the effect that the character“ VS ”appears in the center of the screen is performed.

  In FIG. 46 (H): When the reach production is in the final stage, “Pumpkin's Haunted” unleashes countless punches, and the “male character” responds with a chop. In this state, if the “male character” wins, it will be a big hit, and if the “male character” loses, it will be lost.

[Stop display effect (effect when winning)]
In FIG. 46 (I): “Men character” is displayed large together with “Victory!” And “Pumpkin ghost” is displayed small, which means that it is a big hit. Then, substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, the pseudo intermediate effect symbol of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200 and the medium effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 stop changing. In this example, the “seven red symbols” are stopped as the pseudo right effect symbol at the middle position of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200, and the number “7” is set as the medium effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The directing symbol that represents is stopped. The fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display color) corresponding to the big hit.

  At the time of non-winning (at the time of a loss), “Pumpkin's ghost” is displayed large and “Men character” is displayed small along with the characters “defeated”. In this case, the “panda symbol” is stopped as a pseudo right effect symbol at the middle position of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200, and the effect representing a number other than the number “7” as the medium effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The symbol is stopped.

[Director during big role]
47 to 50 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of the big role production performed during the big hit game. It should be noted that the following big role effects are effects executed on the liquid crystal display 42.

[Big hit game start]
47 (A): When the jackpot game is started, for example, character information such as “BIG BONUS” is displayed on the screen, and an effect image (for example, a female character) unique to the jackpot game is displayed. .

(Displays “right-handed” during major roles)
In the present embodiment, since the first variable winning device 30 is arranged in the right portion in the game area 8a, the right portion in the game area 8a is designated as the launch position (launch direction) of the game ball during the major role. I am going to do that. For this reason, the above-mentioned launch position designation display lamp 38f is lit and displayed under the control of the main control CPU 72, and a launch position designation command representing “right-handed” is transmitted to the effect control device 124. In response to this, guidance information (such as an arrow indicating a right direction, a “right-handed” character, etc.) prompting “right-handed” is displayed on the display screen under the effect control by the effect control CPU 126).

[Round 1]
In FIG. 47 (B): When the first round of the jackpot game is started, for example, five circles are displayed together with the character information “BIG BONUS” in the upper left part of the screen. The circle mark located at the leftmost of them is displayed in red, and the remaining four circles are displayed in white. As a result, it is possible to obtain 5 rounds, that the current round is the first round of the 5 rounds, and that each time a round that can be taken out progresses, a circle is displayed. The player can be instructed to be displayed in red.

  Here, the number of “◯” increases in accordance with the winning symbol. For example, when the winning symbol is “first winning symbol” or “second winning symbol”, the number of “○” is “5”, but the winning symbol is “third winning symbol”. In this case, the number of “◯” is “15”.

[5th round]
In FIG. 47 (C): After this, the big hit game proceeds smoothly, and, for example, when the fifth round is entered, for example, all five circles are displayed in red. Thereby, it is possible to tell the player that all the rounds in which the fifth ball can be obtained are finished.

[Direction during no rounds]
In FIG. 47 (D): When the round in which the player can obtain a ball (fifth round) ends, the ball without a ball starts. When the round without starting ball is started, for example, an effect during round without ball is displayed in which character information such as “drive mode challenge” is displayed on the screen. This effect during no-round can tell the player whether or not to shift to the drive mode after this big hit game.

  In FIG. 48 (E): Then, when the production during the round without advancing proceeds, for example, character information such as “Enter the drive mode if you hit the button repeatedly to drop the heart character!” Is displayed on the screen. Production is performed. Accordingly, it is possible to tell the player whether or not to enter the drive mode depending on whether or not the movable body 40f falls.

[Button press effect]
In FIG. 48 (F): For example, an image simulating the effect switching button 45 is displayed on the front surface, and character information “continuous hitting !!” is displayed above the effect switching button 45. Thereby, it is possible to prompt the player to hit the effect switching button 45 repeatedly. Further, when the player presses down the effect switching button 45, an effect switching button 45 representing the pressed state is displayed.

[Successful button press effect]
In FIG. 48 (G): When the winning symbol at the time of the big hit is a winning symbol that shifts to the drive mode (for example, when it corresponds to “second winning symbol”), the player switches the effect switching button 45. By repeatedly hitting the button, the button press success effect for dropping the movable body 40f to the near side of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed. Thereby, it can be taught to the player that the game in which the effect switching button 45 is continuously hit is successful.

  In FIG. 49 (H): A female character also appears and character information such as “Great success! Congratulations” is displayed. Thereby, the player can be instructed to enter the “drive mode”.

[Time reduction state entry production]
In FIG. 49 (I): Then, an effect is displayed in which character information such as “Driving in drive mode!” Is displayed using the end time (ending time) of the big hit game. As a result, the player can be informed that the “drive mode” will be started. In addition, character information such as “Please make a right stroke as it is” is displayed together with an arrow indicating the right direction, and the player can be instructed that the game proceeds with a right stroke even in the “drive mode”.

  Here, during the ending production, a notice that alerts you to forget to take a prepaid card, such as “Let's forget to take a prepaid card,” or a game that prevents you from getting into the game, for example, “Let ’s be careful about getting into the game.” The notification may be executed. In this case, it may be executed every time an ending effect is generated, or may be executed under a predetermined condition (when other than winning winning change). Furthermore, the above-mentioned effects may be executed simultaneously, or any one of them may be executed, or the above-mentioned effects may be notified in turn. By doing in this way, the effect regarding alerting can be easily executed at an appropriate timing, and the disadvantage of the player can be reduced.

[End of jackpot game, reduced time]
In FIG. 49 (J): When the big hit game is finished and the internal state (game state) is set to the time shortening state, the stay mode is set to “drive mode”, and the background image is the car on which the woman has boarded. It is changed to an image that represents the state of traveling on the ground. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the current internal state (game state) is a time-reduced state different from the normal state.

[Time short and middle production]
As described above, when the game is progressing in the time shortening state, a short time medium effect (advantageous game effect effect) for displaying the background image corresponding to the time shortening state (advantageous game state) is executed.

[Right-handed suggestion]
In addition, a right-hand suggesting effect is executed at the top of the screen. In the right-hand suggestion effect, a band-shaped area is provided at the upper part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and right-handed character information and a right-pointing arrow symbol are displayed in the band-shaped area. Note that such a right-handed suggestion effect is continuously executed when the gaming state is a time shortening state. Then, by executing such an effect, it is possible to prompt the player to “right strike”.

[Remaining number of times display effect]
Furthermore, the remaining number display effect is executed in the lower left of the screen. In the remaining number display effect, a rectangular area is provided at the lower left of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the remaining number of times that the game can proceed in the drive mode is displayed in the rectangular area. In the illustrated example, information of “remaining 8 times” is displayed. The remaining number is decremented by 1 every time the second special symbol fluctuates and stops in the time reduction state, and is subtracted by 1 every time the second special symbol fluctuates and stops in the non-time reduction state. For this reason, the remaining number is not subtracted even if the first special symbol fluctuates and stops in the time shortening state or the non-time shortening state.

[Button press failure production]
In FIG. 50 (K): On the other hand, when the winning symbol at the time of the big hit is not the winning symbol that shifts to the drive mode (for example, when it corresponds to the “first winning symbol”), in FIG. 48 (F) After the button press effect, a female character appears, and an effect is displayed in which character information such as “Sorry. Next is Gambaro!” Is displayed. As a result, the player can be instructed not to enter the “drive mode”.

[Big hit game end, normal state]
In FIG. 50 (L): When the big hit game ends and the internal state (game state) is set to the normal state, the stay mode is set to “normal mode” and the background image is changed to an image representing a park. Is done. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the current internal state (game state) is a normal state different from the time reduction state. In addition, a female character appears, and an effect that produces a speech such as “Please return to the left” is executed. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the game proceeds in a state where the player has left-handed.

[Production example in drive mode (time reduction state)]
51 to 53 are continuous diagrams showing examples of effects in the drive mode.

In FIG. 51 (A): In the drive mode, the background image is changed to an image representing a state in which a car on which a woman rides travels on the ground. The combination of the pseudo effect symbols displayed on the effective line in the middle stage of the drum unit 200 is a winning combination of “seven symbols of red” — “seven symbols of red” — “seven symbols of red”, and the effect of the liquid crystal display 42 The combination of symbols Hz is a winning combination of “7”-“7”-“7”. This shows the outcome at the time of winning. In addition, a right-hand suggestion effect is executed in the upper part of the screen, and such a right-hand suggestion effect is continuously executed when the gaming state is a time shortening state.
Note that the backlight of the drum unit 200 may emit light in a predetermined color in conjunction with the background image of the liquid crystal.

[Start of special symbol changes]
In FIG. 51 (B): When the first special symbol is first hit, the memory of the first special symbol is often stored, and the memory of the second special symbol is generally not stored. In the example shown, four first special symbol memories (markers M1) are stored. Therefore, when the drive mode is entered in such a situation, the first special symbol is variably displayed. In addition, when the memory | storage of the 1st special symbol is not accumulated, the fluctuation | variation of a 2nd special symbol is first performed by a player performing right strike. When the variation display of the first special symbol is started, the drum unit 200 starts to rotate accordingly, and the variation of the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z1 of the liquid crystal display 42 is also started. Here, it is assumed that the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol corresponds to a loss.

[First special symbol change end]
51 (C): When the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in an out-of-phase manner, the pseudo effect symbol of the drum unit 200, the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 of the liquid crystal display 42 are also lost. Is stopped and displayed. During this time, it is assumed that the player has made a right strike, a plurality of game balls have passed through the start gate 20, the variable start winning device 28 is opened, and four game balls have entered the right start winning port 28b. . In this case, four memories of the second special symbol (marker M2) are stored.

  Here, since the first special symbol is stopped and displayed, the remaining number is not subtracted. Specifically, the display of the remaining number remains 8 times.

  52D: Since the memory of the second special symbol is digested in preference to the memory of the first special symbol, the internal lottery is executed next using the memory of the second special symbol. Then, when the variation display of the second special symbol is started, the drum unit 200 starts to rotate accordingly, and the variation of the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z2 of the liquid crystal display 42 is also started. Here, it is assumed that the small lottery is won in the internal lottery regarding the second special symbol.

[Starting a small hit, opening the second big prize opening]
In FIG. 52 (E): When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hitting manner, a pseudo effect design of the drum unit 200 (a combination of "cherry symbol"-"cherry symbol"-"cherry symbol") The effect symbol Hz (a combination of “5”-“2”-“6”) of the liquid crystal display 42 and the fourth symbol Z2 (green display color) of the liquid crystal display 42 are also stopped and displayed in a small hitting manner. . Thereby, a small hit game is started and the second big prize opening 31b is opened. Then, an effect is performed in which the car on which the female character is riding increases the speed and proceeds to the right side of the screen.

  Here, since the second special symbol is stopped and displayed, the remaining number of times is displayed by subtraction. Specifically, the remaining number of times is displayed seven times.

  In FIG. 52 (F): When the small hit game is started, an effect is produced in which the hermit character utters the line “Just aiming at the lower right attacker”. Thereby, it can be transmitted to the player that the game ball must be entered into the second variable prize-winning device 31.

[Passing specific area]
In FIG. 53 (G): the second variable winning device 31 is shifted to the open state due to the small hit game, the game ball passes the specific area 31x, and the winning symbol at the small hit is the fourth winning symbol. To do. In this example, a female character in a car raises a heart mark with the letter V and produces an effect that produces a dialogue such as “Yeah! BIG BONUS!”. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the game ball has passed the specific area 31x and that a big hit game (BIG BONUS) will be started.

[End of jackpot, start of jackpot game]
In FIG. 53 (H): Thereafter, the small hit game is terminated, and the second variable winning device 31 (second large winning port 31b) is closed. Further, the big hit game is started when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game. In this example, a female character peculiar to the big hit game appears, character information such as “BIG BONUS” is displayed, and an effect in which the female character emits a similar line is executed. In addition, on the display screen, character information such as “Please make a right strike” is displayed together with an arrow indicating the right direction, and the player can be instructed that the big hit game proceeds by making a right strike.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to (B) in FIG. 47, and the same effect during the jackpot game is started as described above, and the jackpot game proceeds. For example, if the winning symbol for the second special symbol corresponds to the 4th winning symbol, you can actually get 5 rounds and get 5 rounds. Later, an effect of entering the drive mode through a button press effect or a button press success effect is executed. In addition, if the winning symbol for the second special symbol at the time of the small hit corresponds to the 5th winning symbol, it is possible to practically win 10 rounds and win 10 rounds. Later, an effect of entering the drive mode through a button press effect or a button press success effect is executed. In addition, if the winning symbol at the time of small hits related to the second special symbol corresponds to the sixth winning symbol, it was possible to substantially get 15 rounds, and won 15 rounds Later (or during acquisition), an effect of entering the drive mode through a button press effect or a button press success effect is executed. In addition, when a big hit game is executed in the drive mode, it is confirmed that the next mode will be shifted to the drive mode, so when the winning in the drive mode without executing the button press effect or the button press success effect You may also perform a dedicated big role production.

  54 and 55 are continuous diagrams showing an example of effects when the second special symbol fluctuates in the drive mode in the non-time shortened state. Such a situation occurs mainly when the memory of the second special symbol is accumulated, although there is a shift in the final fluctuation in the time shortening state.

  Here, it is assumed that there are four memories of the second special symbol. For this reason, the short and medium production is continuously executed. In addition, “remaining 4 times” information is displayed as the remaining number display effect. However, the right-handed suggestion effect is not executed.

[Exchanging special symbols]
54 (A): When the second special symbol variation display is started in the drive mode in the non-time shortened state, the drum unit 200 starts rotating accordingly, and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 and the second The variation starts for 4 symbols Z2.

[Continuation of variable display effects]
(B) in FIG. 54: The variation display of the second special symbol is continuously executed in the drive mode in the non-time shortened state. Further, along with this, the rotation of the drum unit 200 is continued, and the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z2 of the liquid crystal display 42 are continuously changed. In addition, since the situation here is not a time shortening state, even if the starting gate 20 is passed, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is low. For example, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery in the time shortening state is about 1/100, and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery in the non-time shortening state is 1 / 60,000. For this reason, it is difficult for the variable start winning device 28 to shift to the open state, and basically it is not possible to store the memory of the second special symbol. Therefore, the drive mode in such a non-time shortened state is a chance zone in which the second special symbol fluctuates up to four times.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 54 (C): Here, it is assumed that the small lottery is won in the internal lottery regarding the second special symbol. Then, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hitting manner, the dummy effect symbol of the drum unit 200 (the combination of “cherry symbol”-“cherry symbol”-“cherry symbol”), the effect of the liquid crystal display 42 The symbols Hz (a combination of “2”-“2”-“3”) and the fourth symbol Z2 (green display color) of the liquid crystal display 42 are also stopped and displayed in a small hitting manner. In this case, an effect is performed in which the animal character raises the “mark displaying the number 7”.

  Here, since the second special symbol is stopped and displayed, the remaining number of times is displayed by subtraction. Specifically, the remaining number of times is displayed three times.

[Starting a small hit, opening the second big prize opening]
(D) in FIG. 55: When the small hit game is started, the second big prize opening 31b is opened, and the car on which the female character is riding speeds up and proceeds to the right side of the screen. Executed. At this time, an effect of leaving the animal character behind is executed.

[Passing specific area]
(E) in FIG. 55: The second variable prize-winning device 31 shifts to the open state due to the small hit game, the game ball passes the specific area 31x, and the winning symbol at the small hit is the fourth winning symbol. To do. In this example, a female character in a car raises a heart mark with the letter V and produces an effect that produces a dialogue such as “Yeah! BIG BONUS!”. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the game ball has passed the specific area 31x and that a big hit game (BIG BONUS) will be started.

[End of jackpot, start of jackpot game]
(F) in FIG. 55: After that, the small hit game ends, and the second variable winning device 31 (second big winning port 31b) is closed. Further, the big hit game is started when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game. In this example, a female character peculiar to the big hit game appears, character information such as “BIG BONUS” is displayed, and an effect in which the female character emits a similar line is executed. In addition, on the display screen, character information such as “Please make a right strike” is displayed together with an arrow indicating the right direction, and the player can be instructed that the big hit game proceeds by making a right strike. Thereafter, the process proceeds to (B) in FIG. 47, and the same effect during the jackpot game is started as described above, and the jackpot game proceeds.

  56 to 60 are continuous diagrams showing operation timings of various symbols, the drum unit 200, the effect storage lamp 60, and the like.

[Before change display]
56 (A): The first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 34 of the integrated display board 89 is stopped and displayed in a detachment mode (“−”). Here, it is assumed that four memories of the first special symbol are stored. For this reason, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a of the integrated display board 89 has a display mode in which both lamps blink.

  The production symbol Hz is stopped and displayed in an off mode ("3"-"1"-"5"), and the fourth symbol Z1 is also stopped and displayed in a off mode (white). Since four first special symbols are stored, all four markers M1 are lit.

On the other hand, the pseudo effect symbol on the effective line in the middle stage of the drum unit 200 is stopped and displayed in an out-of-line manner (“panda symbol” − “blue seven symbols” − “panda symbol”).
Since four memories of the first special symbol are stored, the first lamp 61 to the fourth lamp 64 of the effect storage lamp 60 are lit. Since the first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 34 is not changing, the changing lamp 65 is turned off.

[Start of change]
56 (B): When the first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 34 starts to change, the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 starts to change in synchronization therewith, and the fourth symbol Z1. Also starts to fluctuate. In this case, since the memory of the first special symbol is decreased by one, one marker M1 located on the leftmost side disappears in conjunction with it. Since there are three memories of the first special symbol, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a of the integrated display board 89 has a display mode in which the upper lamp blinks and the lower lamp is lit.

On the other hand, the drum unit 200 and the effect storage lamp 60 operate with a predetermined time (for example, 0.6 seconds) behind the first special symbol change start.
For this reason, the drum unit 200 and the effect storage lamp 60 are maintained in the state shown in FIG. 56 (A) until a predetermined time elapses from the start of the variation of the first special symbol.

  In FIG. 57 (C): when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the fluctuation of the first special symbol, the drum unit 200 and the effect storage lamp 60 start to operate. Specifically, when a certain period of time has elapsed from the start of the variation of the first special symbol, each reel of the drum unit 200 starts rotating, and the variation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 is turned on. The first lamp 61 to the third lamp 63 are turned on, and the fourth lamp 64 of the effect storage lamp 60 is turned off.

  As described above, the storage display displayed on the effect storage lamp 60 is displayed in the pre-change display area (the area of the first lamp 61 to the fourth lamp 64) before the start of change (memory display effect). After the start, the display moves to the fluctuation display area (the area of the fluctuation lamp 65), and the display of the memory display is maintained during the fluctuation of the first special symbol (maintenance effect).

[Left effect symbol stop]
In FIG. 57 (D): Thereafter, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 stops changing. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “2” is stopped as the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42.

  58E: The pseudo left effect symbol of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200 stops changing after a certain time delay from the stop of the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. In this example, “seven green symbols” are stopped at the middle position of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200 as a pseudo left effect symbol.

[Right production symbol stop]
58 (F): Thereafter, the effect design representing the number “1” as the right effect design of the effect design Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 stops.

  59 (G): “Panda design” stops as a pseudo right effect design at the middle position of the right reel 203 of the drum unit 200 after a certain period of time has elapsed since the right effect design Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 has stopped. ing.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 59 (H): Thereafter, a stop display effect by the effect symbol Hz or the like of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. When the result of the internal lottery this time is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (disconnected) manner, the design symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 and the fourth symbol Z1 are not winning (missing). ) Is stopped and displayed. In the example shown in the figure, the effect symbol representing the number “6” is stopped as the medium effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 is an aspect corresponding to the deviation (for example, white display color). Is stopped. In this case, since the combination of the production symbols Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 is a gap between “2”-“6”-“1”, it is expressed in the production that the current variation corresponds to a normal “out of”. Has been.

  In FIG. 60 (I): “Panda design” stops as a pseudo intermediate production symbol at the middle position of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200 after a certain time delay from the middle production symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. In this case, since the combination of the pseudo-directive symbols displayed on the effective line in the middle stage of the drum unit 200 is a gap between “seven green symbols”-“panda symbol”-“panda symbol”, It is expressed in the production that it corresponds to the usual “out of”. Further, in this case, the fluctuation lamp 65 is gradually turned off (extinction effect) by gradation control described later.

  In FIG. 60 (J): When the next change of the first special symbol starts, the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 starts changing in synchronization with the change, and the fourth symbol Z1 also starts changing. In this case, since the memory of the first special symbol is decreased by one, one marker M1 located on the leftmost side disappears in conjunction with it. Since there are two memories for the first special symbol, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a of the integrated display board 89 has a display mode in which the upper lamp is lit and the lower lamp is lit.

On the other hand, the drum unit 200 and the effect storage lamp 60 operate with a certain time behind from the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol.
For this reason, the drum unit 200 and the effect storage lamp 60 are maintained in the state shown in (I) in FIG. 60 until a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation of the first special symbol.

FIG. 61 is a continuous diagram showing details of the gradation control of the variable lamp 65.
The gradation control of the fluctuation lamp 65 is executed as an extinction effect, and is started when the first special symbol stops changing, and the stop display time (for example, 0.6 seconds) of the first special symbol. It is executed using part or all of it.

  (A) in the figure shows a state in which the variable lamp 65 is lit at 100% brightness, and (B) in the figure shows a state in which the variable lamp 65 is lit at 75% brightness. In the figure, (C) shows a state in which the variable lamp 65 is lit with 50% brightness, and (D) in the figure shows that the variable lamp 65 is lit with 25% brightness. The state (E) in the figure shows a state in which the variable lamp 65 is turned on (that is, turned off) with 0% brightness.

  By such gradation control, the brightness of the variable lamp 65 can be reduced smoothly. In the illustrated example, gradation control is described in the example of control in five steps, but it may be controlled in steps less than five steps, or may be controlled in steps more than five steps.

  FIG. 62 and FIG. 63 are diagrams for explaining how the fluctuation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 is turned off. 62 shows a turn-off mode of a gaming machine of a comparative example (for example, a general game machine), and FIG. 63 shows a turn-off mode of the gaming machine of this embodiment.

[Comparative example]
As shown in FIG. 62, in the gaming machine of the comparative example, when the special symbol starts to fluctuate, this symbol is in operation (fluctuating) in synchronization with this, and the fourth symbol is blinking (fluctuating), The variation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 is lit.

  When the variation of the special symbol is stopped, the present symbol is stopped in synchronization with this, the fourth symbol is turned on (stopped), and the variation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 is turned off.

  When the next special symbol starts to change, this symbol is in operation (being changed) in synchronization with this, the fourth symbol is also blinking (being changed), and the change lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 is changed. Light.

Embodiment
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 63, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the special symbol starts to change, this symbol is in operation (being changed) and the fourth symbol is blinking (being changed). )
On the other hand, the fluctuation lamp 65 of the drum (each reel of the drum unit) and the effect storage lamp 60 does not synchronize with the start of the change of the special symbol, and a certain time T (eg, 0.6 seconds) from the start of the change of the special symbol (18 frames)) The operation starts after elapse.

  Specifically, the drum starts to change (rotate) after a lapse of a certain time T from the start of the change of the special symbol, and thereafter, high-speed fluctuation, deceleration, sliding, and the like are executed. In addition, the fluctuation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 is turned on after a predetermined time T has elapsed from the start of fluctuation of the special symbol.

When the variation of the special symbol is stopped, this symbol is stopped in synchronization with this, and the fourth symbol is also turned on (stopped).
On the other hand, the fluctuation lamp 65 of the drum and effect storage lamp 60 does not synchronize with the fluctuation stop of the special symbol and ends the operation after a lapse of a predetermined time T from the fluctuation stop of the special symbol.

  Specifically, the drum ends the fluctuation (rotation) after a lapse of a predetermined time T from the stop of the special symbol fluctuation. In addition, the fluctuation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 is turned off after a predetermined time T has elapsed since the special symbol fluctuation was stopped.

  Here, when the variation of the special symbol stops, the drum performs a stop preparation operation. The stop preparation operation is an operation executed before the drum is stopped, for example, an operation such as drum speed adjustment, drum vibration or drum deceleration before the stop.

  When the variation of the special symbol is stopped, the gradation control is started for the variation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60. Thereby, the brightness (luminance) of the variable lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 shifts from 100% to 0%.

When the next special symbol starts to change, this symbol is in operation (being changed) in synchronization with this, and the fourth symbol is also blinking (being changed).
On the other hand, the fluctuation lamp 65 of the drum (each reel of the drum unit) and the effect storage lamp 60 does not synchronize with the change start of the special symbol, and starts to operate after a certain time T has elapsed from the start of the special symbol change.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The above-described variable display effect, reach effect, pre-reach notice effect, memory display effect, active role effect, effect using the liquid crystal display 42 or the drum unit 200, short-time effect, right-handed suggestion effect, remaining number display effect, maintenance The effects, disappearance effects, and the like are all controlled through the following control process.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 64 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a period of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes a command reception process (step S400), an operation memory effect management process (step S401), an effect symbol management process (step S402), a time reduction and a pseudo time reduction other effect process (step S402a), and a drum unit effect management process. (Step S403) Subroutines of display output processing (Step S404), lamp driving processing (Step S406), acoustic driving processing (Step S408), effect random number update processing (Step S410) and other processing (Step S412) are included. It is a configuration. Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 according to type. The command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, a special symbol destination determination effect command, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number is increased, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number is decreased, and start. Oral winning sound control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, round number command, launch position designation command, error notification command, jackpot There are an end effect command, a change pattern destination determination command, a stop display time end command, a count cut counter command, and the like.

  Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the memory display effect and the effect using the effect memory lamp 60 described above (memory display effect execution means, maintenance effect execution means). The contents of the working memory effect management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbols Z1, Z2, or the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable. The content of the effect at the time of opening / closing operation of the winning device 31 is controlled. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects effect patterns of various notice effects (notice effect before reach occurrence, notice effect after reach, etc.). In this way, in the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 displays the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 (the effect symbols Hz, the fourth symbols Z1, Z2, the effect content relating to the active role effect, the contents of various notice effects). Execute the process to determine. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  By executing such processing, the effect control CPU 126 variably displays the main symbol Hz (first effect symbol) displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol, and displays the special symbol as a stop display. The first variation effect for stopping and displaying the symbol Hz to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 can be executed (first variation effect execution means).

  Step S402a: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect processing during the time reduction and the simulated time reduction. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of determining the effect content related to the right-hand suggesting effect and the remaining number display effect. Here, time reduction (time reduction) is a time reduction state, and pseudo time reduction (pseudo time reduction) is a state in which a background image is displayed in a non-time reduction state (in a non-time reduction state). Drive mode).

  Step S403: In the drum unit effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of controlling the drum unit 200 based on the effect content determined in the effect symbol management process. In this way, in the drum unit effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process for determining the effect contents (the effect contents related to the pseudo effect symbol and the contents related to the movement of the drum unit 200) to be displayed on the drum unit 200. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , An operation memory effect pattern number, a prefetch notice effect pattern number, a change effect pattern number, a change notice effect number, a background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect executing means).

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes in luminance gradation, etc.) the various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53 based on the control signal.

  Step S408: In the next sound drive process, the effect control CPU 126 sends the effect contents (for example, BGM, sound data, etc. during the variable display effect, during the reach effect, during the mode transition effect, during the jackpot effect) to the sound drive circuit 134. Instruct. Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  Step S410: In the effect random number update process, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The effect random number includes, for example, a random number used for selecting a notice and a random number used for a normal background change lottery (effect lottery).

Step S412: In other processing, for example, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the driving IC of the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates using the movable body motor 57 as a drive source, and produces an effect in synchronism with the display of an image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.
In this process, the effect control CPU 126 may perform effect management of the drum unit 200 (process for controlling the drum unit 200).

  Through the above-described effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the contents of the effect symbol management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Working memory production management process]
FIG. 65 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the working memory effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories increases is stored. When it is confirmed that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories is stored (step S700: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S702 and step S703. When it is not possible to confirm that the production command when the number of working memories increases is saved (step S700: No), the production control CPU 126 does not execute step S702 and step S703.

  Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes an effect selection process when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect for displaying the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol or the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S703: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect memory lamp winning effect selection processing. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 corresponds to the storage of the first special symbol, and the effect storage lamp 60 (the first lamp 61 to the first lamp 61) after the elapse of a certain time from the winning time (for example, after 0.6 seconds). An effect pattern for newly lighting one of the four lamps 64) is selected. Specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored. When it is confirmed that the production command when the number of working memories decreases is saved (step S704: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706 and step S707. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored (step S704: No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S706 and step S707.

  Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect selection processing when the number of working memories decreases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes an effect of eliminating the marker M1 or the marker M2 corresponding to the lottery element consumed by the internal lottery, and the remaining markers M1, M2 not consumed by the internal lottery are moved to the left. Perform the slide effect.

  Step S707: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect memory lamp fluctuation start effect selection processing. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 turns on the change lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 after a certain time has elapsed from the start of the change of the first special symbol (for example, after 0.6 seconds), and has already been turned on. An effect pattern for turning off the rightmost lamp among the first lamp 61 to the fourth lamp 64 of the effect storage lamp 60 is selected. Specific processing contents will be described later.

  By executing such processing, when the lottery element (holding) is stored or consumed, the effect control CPU 126 executes a memory display effect that indicates that the lottery element is stored or consumed (first). Information can be displayed) (first information display means).

  Further, by executing such processing, the effect control CPU 126 is a case where the lottery element is stored or consumed, and a certain time (for example, 0.6 seconds) from when the lottery element is stored or consumed. When elapses, it is possible to execute an effect by the effect storage lamp 60 having contents indicating that the lottery element has been stored or consumed (display the second information) (second information display means).

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 64).

[Direction selection process when directing the performance memory lamp]
FIG. 66 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect selection process at the time of effect memory lamp winning. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S710: The effect control CPU 126 executes an Nth addition ACT setting process. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of setting an addition ACT corresponding to the value of the counter N stored in the RAM 130. The initial value of the counter N is 1, and the counter N takes a value of 1 to 5. The addition ACT is a message transmitted to a lamp control unit (device) that controls the effect storage lamp 60 at the time of winning a prize, and includes information that the lamp is turned on after a predetermined time has elapsed since the winning time.

  For example, when the value of the counter N is 1, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process for setting the addition ACT1. By setting the addition ACT1, the lamp control unit turns on any one of the first lamp 61 to the fourth lamp 64 in the effect storage lamp 60 after a predetermined time has elapsed since winning. Which lamp is lit may be determined by the effect control CPU 126 or the lamp controller, but in any case, the rightmost lamp is turned on. .

  Step S712: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of incrementing the value of the counter N.

  Step S714: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process for confirming whether or not the value of the counter N is larger than a maximum value (for example, 5).

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the counter N is larger than the maximum value (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S716. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the counter N is larger than the maximum value (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the operation memory effect management process (FIG. 65).

  Step S712: The effect control CPU 126 executes processing for initializing the value of the counter N. Specifically, a process of setting 1 to the counter N is executed.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the working memory effect management process (FIG. 65).

[Production selection process at the start of production memory lamp fluctuation]
FIG. 67 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of an effect selection process at the start of effect memory lamp fluctuation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S720: The effect control CPU 126 executes a subtraction ACT setting process. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process for setting the subtraction ACT. The subtraction ACT is a message transmitted to the lamp control unit (device) that controls the effect storage lamp 60 at the start of variation, and the memory shift operation (the lighting state of the effect storage lamp 60 is turned on) after a lapse of a certain time from the start of variation. Information to start (sliding leftward) is included.

  By setting the subtraction ACT, the lamp control unit executes the storage shift operation of the effect storage lamp 60 after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the fluctuation. For example, when the fluctuation lamp 65 is turned off at the start of the fluctuation and the first lamp 61 and the second lamp 62 are turned on, the lamp control unit, after a certain time has elapsed from the start of the fluctuation, The first lamp 61 is turned on and the second lamp 62 is turned off. The effect control CPU 126 may determine which lamp is to be turned on or off, or may be determined by the lamp controller, but basically, the variable lamp 65 is turned on and turned on. The rightmost lamp of the lamps goes out.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the working memory effect management process (FIG. 65).

  68 and 69 are diagrams for explaining display modes of the marker M1 of the liquid crystal display 42 and the fluctuation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60. FIG. 68 shows a display mode of the gaming machine of the comparative example, and FIG. 69 shows a display mode of the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

[Comparative example]
As shown in FIG. 68, in the gaming machine of the comparative example, when the game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26 in a state where the number of memories of the first special symbol has not reached the upper limit (when the memory is won), Synchronously, the marker M1 (liquid crystal storage display) of the liquid crystal display 42 is turned on (display start), and any one of the effect storage lamps 60 is turned on (display start).

  In the gaming machine of the comparative example, when the first special symbol starts to change (change start), in synchronization with this, the marker M1 of the liquid crystal display 42 slides to the left (starts the memory shift operation), and the effect memory is stored. The lighting state of the lamp 60 slides to the left (start of the memory shift operation).

  As described above, in the gaming machine of the comparative example, the display of the marker M1 of the liquid crystal display 42 and the update of the effect storage lamp 60 are immediately performed at the time of memory winning and the start of change.

Embodiment
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 69, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26 in a state where the number of memories of the first special symbol has not reached the upper limit (when the memory is won). In synchronization with this, the marker M1 (liquid crystal storage display) of the liquid crystal display 42 is turned on (display start), but any one of the effect storage lamps 60 is turned on after a predetermined time has passed (display start).

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the first special symbol starts to change (change start), the marker M1 of the liquid crystal display 42 slides to the left in synchronization with this (memory shift operation start). The lighting state of the effect storage lamp 60 slides to the left after a predetermined time has elapsed (memory shift operation starts).

  As described above, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the display of the marker M1 of the liquid crystal display 42 is immediately updated at the time of memory winning and the start of change, whereas the effect storage lamp 60 is displayed after a certain time has elapsed. Operate.

FIG. 70 is a diagram for explaining how to turn on the effect storage lamp 60.
As shown in FIG. 70A, there are five data such as addition ACT1, addition ACT2, addition ACT3, addition ACT4, and addition ACT5 as addition data ID (message, addition data). Yes. On the other hand, as the subtraction data ID (subtraction data), there is one data of only subtraction ACT.

  As described above, the addition data ID is provided with a number larger than the upper limit number of the lottery elements stored, and the subtraction data ID is provided with a number smaller than the upper limit number of the lottery element storages.

  Addition data and subtraction data are the preceding data depending on the succeeding data if the succeeding data having the same contents as the preceding data is executed before the preceding data is executed or during the execution of the preceding data. The data of is destroyed.

  For example, when the addition ACT1 is executed as the preceding data and the addition ACT1 is executed as the succeeding data at the time when 0.3 in the middle of waiting for 0.6 seconds has elapsed due to the execution, the preceding ACT1 is executed. The contents of the data of the addition ACT1 are destroyed, and it waits for 0.9 seconds in total, or the lamp of the area corresponding to the location of the memory 2 is turned on without lighting the lamp of the area corresponding to the location of the memory 1 The problem of lighting up occurs.

  As shown in (B) of FIG. 70, it is assumed that four first special symbols are won continuously from a state where no first special symbol is stored.

  When the number of memories is zero (memory 0), there is no usage ID. The use ID is identification information for specifying a message transmitted from the effect control CPU 126 to the lamp control unit.

When there is one memory (memory 1 winning), the usage ID is addition ACT1.
In this case, since the variation of the first special symbol is started immediately, the number of memories is changed from 1 to 0.

When the number of memories becomes zero (from memory 1 to 0), the usage ID is subtraction ACT.
When there is one memory (memory 1 winning), the usage ID is addition ACT2.
When there are two memories (memory 2 winning), the usage ID is addition ACT3.
When there are three memories (memory 3 winning), the usage ID is addition ACT4.
When the memory becomes four (memory 4 winning), the use ID is addition ACT5.

As shown in (C) of FIG. 70, it is assumed that the memory 4 is again won at the timing when the memory of the first special symbol is subtracted from four to three.
In this case, the number of memories is changed from four to three.
When there are three memories (from memory 4 to 3), the usage ID is subtraction ACT.
When the memory becomes four (memory 4 winning), the use ID is addition ACT1.
The reason why the usage ID is addition ACT1 is that the addition ACTs 1 to 5 are used, and the next step is to return to the top ID.

  Here, with respect to the winning of memory, even if each ID for each storage position (four from 1 to 4) is managed, if a continuous operation of “memory winning → memory subtraction → memory winning” occurs, The memorized winning action is the same ID, and ID (data) is overwritten.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the above five IDs are managed, and at the end of ID (after execution of addition ACT5), the operation for turning on the effect storage lamp is set using the head ID (addition ACT1) again. Therefore, care for continuous winning (measures to prevent overwriting of ID) is implemented. For subtraction of memory, only one ID “subtraction ACT” is used.

  By executing such processing, the effect control CPU 126 executes the effect by the effect storage lamp 60 using the five additional data in order when indicating that the lottery element has been stored, and the lottery element. When it is shown that is consumed, an effect by the effect storage lamp 60 can be executed using one piece of subtraction data (second information display means).

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 71 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), an effect symbol change process (step S504), an effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and a variable winning device operation. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the situation has not yet started the variation display effect, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol variation in-process has been completed, As a jump destination, the effect symbol stop display in-progress process (step S506) is selected. Further, the variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 16) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

  Step S502: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting the variable display effect using the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbols Z1, Z2. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the reach effect according to various conditions (the lottery result, the winning type (the winning symbol type), the variation pattern, etc.), or the effect pattern (reach) for the notice effect. Pre-occurrence notice pattern, reach occurrence notice pattern, etc.). In addition, the production control CPU 126 also performs demonstration production control when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during the execution of the variable display effect, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and the contents of the effect (button effect) according to the result. Control information is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the stop display effect according to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect that has been actually executed in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the stop display effect. Thereby, the stop display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be effectively taught (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player (design effect execution). means).

  Step S508: In the variable winning device operating process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit game or the big hit. In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the prominent effect according to various conditions (for example, winning type). The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

[Preliminary design change processing]
Next, FIG. 72 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S600: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the command for demonstration effect is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demonstration effect pattern. The demonstration effect pattern defines the contents of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.
It should be noted that the content representing the waiting state for the customer may be displayed with contents for preventing the game from being inserted, such as “Let's watch out for the game.” By doing in this way, it is possible to easily execute an effect relating to prevention of sinking at an appropriate timing, and it is possible to reduce a player's disadvantage.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the contents of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 64) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 64). To do.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demonstration effect command is not stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S604.

  Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out of place (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. Note that whether or not the current variation is off can be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. In other words, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the outlier normal variation or outlier reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is outlier. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is out of sync.

  Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (missing) (step S604: No), the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is not stored (No), since only the lottery result command at the time of small hit is left, in this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. Whether or not the current variation is a big hit can also be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the big hit variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a big hit. If the current stop symbol command corresponds to the jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot.

  Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes a small hit hour variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 can select an effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time by referring to an effect pattern selection table (not shown). it can. The production pattern numbers may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern commands, or a plurality of production pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

  When the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), the effect symbol Hz corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time, the change schedule (change time) of the fourth symbols Z1, Z2, and stop. The display mode and the like are determined.

For example, the effect control CPU 126 changes the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z2 in the “drive mode” state when the second special symbol small hit variation in the time shortening state, and finally the effect corresponding to the small hit The process which selects the production | presentation pattern which stops and displays the symbol Hz and the 4th symbol Z2 is performed.
On the other hand, the effect control CPU 126 changes the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z2 while executing the zone display effect at the time of small hit fluctuation of the second special symbol in the non-time shortened state, and finally the effect corresponding to the small hit The process which selects the production | presentation pattern which stops and displays the symbol Hz and the 4th symbol Z2 is performed.

  The above procedure corresponds to the case of “small hit”, but in the case of hitting the big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is “big hit” in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610.

  Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes a big hit hour fluctuation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. Note that, in the big hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each big hit stop symbol.

  In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. In other words, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that there is a shift in step S604 (Yes), it next executes step S612.

  Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes a deviation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of deviation based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of losing are classified into “ordinary deviation fluctuation”, “short-time deviation fluctuation”, “outlier reach fluctuation”, and the like, and a fine reach fluctuation pattern is defined in “outlier reach fluctuation”. Note that which effect pattern number the effect control CPU 126 selects is determined based on the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  When the effect pattern number at the time of losing is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbols Hz and the fourth symbols Z1, Z2 corresponding to the effect effect pattern number at that time change schedule (change time and reach) Presence / absence of occurrence, reach type in the case of reach occurrence, reach occurrence timing), and stop display mode (for example, “7”-“2”-“4”, etc.). It should be noted that such an effect determination method at the time of loss is the same at the time of big hit.

  When any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S614.

  Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes a notice selection process (notice effect executing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect by lottery. The content of the notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, time reduction state). As described above, the notice effect is for notifying the player of the possibility that a reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or for notifying that there is a possibility that it will eventually be a big or small hit. . Therefore, the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be higher than that at the time of non-winning in order to increase the player's expectation at the time of winning.

  Step S616: The effect control CPU 126 executes mode effect management processing (advantageous game effect executing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image corresponding to the stay mode. For example, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image corresponding to the normal mode when the internal state is in a non-time-reduced state in principle, and when the internal state is in a time-reduced state, A process of selecting a background image corresponding to the drive mode (a process of selecting a short time medium effect) is executed.

  However, the effect control CPU 126, as an exception, even when the internal state is the non-time shortening state, when the memory of the second special symbol exists when the time reduction state shifts to the non-time shortening state. To select a background image corresponding to the drive mode (advantageous game effect execution means, advantageous game effect effect execution means).

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). As a result, in the subsequent effect symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 71), the variation display effect and the stop display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (symbol effect executing means), A notice effect is executed based on various notice effect patterns. In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here.

[Processing during the stop of the design symbol display]
FIG. 73 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol stop display process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S650: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect memory lamp fluctuation stop effect selection processing (disappearance effect executing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 starts gradation control for gradually decreasing the brightness of the variation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 when the first special symbol variation is stopped, and is constant after the first special symbol variation stop. After the elapse of time (for example, after elapse of 0.6 seconds), an effect pattern that completely turns off the fluctuation lamp 65 of the effect storage lamp 60 is selected.

  Step S652: The effect control CPU 126 executes other processing. In the other processing, as described above, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the stop display effect in a mode corresponding to the result of the internal lottery.

  When the above processing is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (FIG. 71).

[Processing when the variable winning device is activated]
FIG. 74 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of the variable winning device operating process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S800: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the result of the current variation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, confirms the lottery result command, and confirms whether it corresponds to the big hit or the small hit. As a result of this confirmation, if the result of the current variation is a big hit (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S802. On the other hand, if the result of the current variation is not a big hit (No), that is, if the result is a small hit, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S804.

  Step S802: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process for operating the variable winning device at the big hit. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern to be executed between the start of the jackpot game and the end of the jackpot game.

  Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 stores various image data related to the effect pattern at the time of the big hit stored in advance in the image ROM 154 of the effect display control device 144 (VDP 152) as a prominent effect to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. A process of reading out according to the winning symbol is executed.

  Step S804: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process for operating the variable winning device for small hitting operation. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern to be executed between the start of the small hit and the end of the small hit.

  Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern (for example, an effect of increasing the speed of a car on which a female character is riding) indicating that a small hit game has started at the start of the small hit game, and suggests a right-handed strike. When a game ball passes through a specific area during a small hit game, an effect pattern at the time of passing through the specific area (a female character riding a car has a heart symbol with a letter V drawn on it) A process of selecting (effect) is executed.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (FIG. 71).

[Drum unit production management processing]
FIG. 75 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of drum unit effect management processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S900: The effect control CPU 126 executes a movable body operation schedule determination process. Specifically, the production control CPU 126 operates the operation schedule (variation mode, stop mode, etc.) of the drum unit 200 based on the production pattern (production pattern number, etc.) determined by the production symbol management process (step S402 in FIG. 64). Execute the process to determine.

  When the operation schedule is determined, the effect control CPU 126 stores the determined operation schedule in the operation schedule storage buffer of the RAM 130. When the operation schedule is determined, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of turning on the drum unit operating flag in the RAM 130, and executes a process of turning off the drum unit operating flag when all the determined schedules are executed. .

  The operation schedule is set for each reel (each movable body). For example, in the case of the left reel 201, “acceleration” → “constant speed” → “deceleration” → “stop” in order from the start of change to the end of change. And so on. Among them, there are a plurality of speed changes in “acceleration” and “deceleration”, and there may be a plurality of speed changes in “constant speed” (for example, “low speed constant speed”, “medium speed, etc.”). Speed "," high speed constant speed ", etc.).

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of motor (reel) setting speeds (for example, about 100 kinds of speeds) are prepared, and various setting information (the number of motor steps) is stored in a plurality of movable body data tables (not shown). , Motor setting speed, time required for motor operation, motor excitation method, phase designation information for designating the phase to be excited by the motor, etc.) are stored. Different setting information is stored in each movable body data table.

  Based on the operation schedule of the drum unit (movable body unit) 200, the effect control CPU 126 determines which order and which timing the movable body data table is to be referred to. The movable body data stored in the movable body data table being referred to is transmitted to a driver (IC) of the drum unit 200 by being stored in a movable body data setting area (not shown). The driver of the drum unit 200 drives each reel based on the movable body data.

  The effect control CPU 126 basically overwrites the new movable body data in the movable body data setting area (changes the movable body data table being referred to) when the speed of each reel is changed. Even when the speed of each reel is maintained, new movable body data may be overwritten in the movable body data setting area (the movable body data table being referred to is not switched).

  This is because, when maintaining a constant speed, if the number of movable body data tables corresponding to the number of seconds of fluctuation of the special symbol is prepared, the number of movable body data tables corresponding to the number of seconds of variation of the special symbol is obtained. This is because the capacity of the movable body data table is increased.

The operation schedule of the drum unit 200 corresponding to the production pattern is as follows.
For example, when the effect pattern is an effect pattern corresponding to a non-reach effect, the effect control CPU 126 starts rotating the left reel 201, the middle reel 202, and the right reel 203 at the start of fluctuation, and the left reel 201 after a predetermined time has elapsed. And then the right reel 203 is stopped and finally the middle reel 202 is stopped. The stop eye can be an arbitrary break or a break corresponding to the stop symbol of the production symbol Hz.

  On the other hand, when the effect pattern is an effect pattern corresponding to the reach effect (big hit fluctuation, small hit fluctuation, and deviation fluctuation), the effect control CPU 126 starts rotation of the left reel 201, the middle reel 202, and the right reel 203 at the start of the change. Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed, the left reel 201 is stopped, then the right reel 203 is stopped, a reach state is generated, and finally the middle reel 202 is stopped. The stop eye corresponds to the stop eye corresponding to the stop symbol of the production symbol Hz (the winning combination of the triple of 7 symbols of the same color corresponding to the big hit, the winning winning of the triple set of the cherry symbols corresponding to the small hit The middle reel 202 is shifted by one frame).

  In any case, the effect control CPU 126 determines the operation schedule of the drum unit 200 based on the effect pattern determined by the effect symbol management process in the movable body operation schedule determination process, and the effect is determined based on the determined operation schedule. The contents and order of the movable body data table (deceleration sequence, deceleration sequence with added control code, acceleration sequence, drive start sequence, drive stop sequence, etc.) to be referred to are determined.

  Step S901: The effect control CPU 126 executes movable body operation timing determination processing. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 determines at which timing the operation schedule of the drum unit 200 determined in step S900 starts and ends at which timing.

  Specifically, the production control CPU 126 starts the operation schedule of the drum unit 200 after a lapse of a certain time (for example, after 0.6 seconds has elapsed) from the start of the variation of the special symbol, and after the lapse of the certain time since the suspension of the variation of the special symbol. It is determined that the operation schedule of the drum unit 200 is finished. The effect control CPU 126 can also determine to start the operation schedule of the drum unit 200 simultaneously with the start of the variation of the special symbol and to end the operation schedule of the drum unit 200 simultaneously with the stop of the variation of the special symbol.

  Step S902: The effect control CPU 126 executes movable body data setting start processing. This process is executed only when the setting of the movable body data is started during the performance, that is, when the overwriting of the movable body data occurs.

  Specifically, the production control CPU 126 overwrites the movable body data of the movable body data table that is scheduled to be referred to next, that is, the next reference. Executes processing to store the movable body data stored in the scheduled movable body data table in the movable body data setting area, and determines whether or not it is the end of the movable body data (the next scheduled movable body data to be referred to) Check whether the body data table exists) and execute the process of storing the movable body data stored in the movable body data table in the movable body data setting area until it is determined that the end of the movable body data is reached. Execute the process.

By executing such processing, the effect control CPU 126 causes the pseudo effect symbol (second effect symbol) to be displayed on the drum unit 200 to be variably displayed without being synchronized with the change symbol display of the special symbol, and starts to change the special symbol. When a certain period of time (for example, 0.6 seconds) has elapsed from the time when the pseudo-designation symbol is displayed, the pseudo-designation symbol to be displayed on the drum unit 200 is started without being synchronized with the special symbol stop display. It is possible to execute the second variation effect for stopping the display and stopping the variation of the pseudo effect symbol displayed on the drum unit 200 when a certain time has passed since the variation of the special symbol is stopped (second variation effect executing means). ).
When the above process is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 64).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, there are the following effects.
(1) According to the present embodiment, the effect (second information) by the effect storage lamp 60 is executed with a certain time delay from the effect (first information) by the marker M1 of the liquid crystal display 42, so that the liquid crystal display It can be emphasized that the effect by the marker M1 of the device 42 corresponds to a real effect, the effect by the effect storage lamp 60 corresponds to a pseudo effect, and the lottery element (hold) has been stored or consumed. It is possible to give a characteristic to the production of the contents indicating

(2) According to the present embodiment, the effect symbol Hz (first effect symbol) displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 is synchronized with the fluctuation display or the like of the first special symbol, but the pseudo effect symbol displayed on the drum unit. Since the (second effect symbol) is not synchronized with the fluctuation display of the first special symbol, the pseudo effect symbol displayed on the drum unit is compared with the effect symbol Hz displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. Can be emphasized.

(3) In the present embodiment, since the operation of the pseudo effect symbol displayed on the drum unit 200 and the effect by the effect memory lamp 60 are executed when a certain time has elapsed since the lottery element was stored or consumed, The operation of the pseudo effect symbol displayed on the drum unit 200 and the effect by the effect memory lamp 60 are synchronized, and the confusion of the player due to the fact that they are not synchronized can be avoided.

(4) In this embodiment, one subtraction ACT is prepared for subtraction, five additions ACT1 to 5 are prepared for addition (for winning), and a total of six data (dedicated type information) are provided. It is possible to control the update order so as not to be reversed, regardless of the timing of winning or consumption, while keeping the minimum number of data required.

(5) The drum unit 200 according to the present embodiment operates with a predetermined time (for example, 0.6 seconds) shifted from the fluctuation of the special symbol. The effect storage lamp 60 is disposed in the vicinity of the middle start winning opening 26. In the gaming machine configured as described above, if the effect storage lamp 60 is turned on or shifted in the same manner as a conventional winning opportunity or change start opportunity, the movement start timing of the effect storage lamp 60 and the operation of the drum are changed. Deviations occur in the start timing and confuse the player.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the update timing of the effect storage lamp 60 is changed so as to operate with a uniform 0.6 second shift from the stored winning and subtraction. In addition, although it is not necessary to shift the memory prize by 0.6 seconds, it is shifted together with the subtraction in order to emphasize that it is not explicitly related to the first special symbol.

  In the present embodiment, the functions are unified in the upper part of the board and the lower part of the board, that is, the upper liquid crystal display 42 includes the production symbol Hz (this symbol), the fourth symbol Z1, and the marker for holding the liquid crystal. It is a device that displays M1, and the lower drum unit 200 and the effect storage lamp 60 are clearly classified as devices that are not linked to the first special symbol, so that misidentification of the player can be avoided. .

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented with various modifications. The aspect of the effect mentioned in one embodiment is an example, and is not limited to the aspect of the effect described above.

  In the above-described embodiment, the effect symbol has been described as an example in which the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol are provided. However, only one effect symbol may be provided.

  In the above-described embodiment, the second effect symbol is described as an example in which the second effect symbol is not synchronized with the first special symbol, but may be synchronized.

  The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Further, the structure, board surface configuration, specific numerical values and the like of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the drawings, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Start gate 28 Variable start winning device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation | movement memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol display device 34a 1st special symbol operation memory Lamp 35a Second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game state display device 42 Liquid crystal display 45 Effect switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU
200 drum units

Claims (3)

When a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, lottery element acquisition means for acquiring a lottery element necessary for execution of a predetermined lottery,
Lottery element storage means for storing the lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition means;
Lottery execution means for consuming the lottery element and executing the predetermined lottery when the lottery element is stored in a state where a predetermined start condition is satisfied;
When the predetermined lottery is executed, after the symbols are variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, the symbol display means for stopping and displaying the symbols in a manner according to the result of the predetermined lottery,
When the lottery element is stored or consumed, first information display means for displaying first information having contents indicating that the lottery element is stored or consumed;
When the lottery element is stored or consumed, and when a certain time has elapsed since the lottery element is stored or consumed, the second information indicating that the lottery element is stored or consumed A gaming machine comprising: a second information display means for displaying. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
A first variation effect executing means for executing a first variation effect for causing the first effect symbol to be displayed in a synchronized manner in synchronization with the symbol change display, and to stop and display the first effect symbol in synchronization with the symbol stop display; ,
The second effect symbol is variably displayed without being synchronized with the symbol variation display, and the variation of the second effect symbol is started when the predetermined time has elapsed since the symbol variation started. Execute the second variation effect to stop the variation of the second effect symbol when the fixed time has elapsed since the variation of the symbol is stopped, while the second effect symbol is stopped and displayed without being synchronized with the stop display. And a second variation production execution means. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
The second information display means includes
When the lottery element is stored, the second information is displayed using the addition data, and when the lottery element is consumed, the second information is displayed using the subtraction data. Is displayed,
The addition data and the subtraction data are:
Data in which the content of the preceding data is destroyed by the succeeding data when the succeeding data having the same content as the preceding data is executed before the preceding data is executed or during the execution of the preceding data And
The addition data is
More than the upper limit number of memories of the lottery element is provided,
The subtraction data is
A gaming machine characterized in that a number smaller than the upper limit number of the lottery elements is provided.