JP2018191908A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of suppressing such a case as to spoil a player's interest in a game.SOLUTION: The game machine is configured to dispose a right operation-start winning hole 27 (a first winning hole) on an upstream side of a deceleration passage 200, so as to make an arrangement relation of "the right operation-start winning hole 27 → the deceleration passage 200 → a second large winning hole 31b (a second winning hole)" on a rightward shooting area (a game area) from the upstream side to a downstream side. Accordingly, a distance between the right operation-start winning hole 27 and the second large winning hole 31b can be spaced by the deceleration passage 200, so that the right operation-start winning hole 27 is not present near the second large winning hole 31b, thereby avoiding such a situation that, though, in a current state, a game ball can enter the second large winning hole 31b (though the second large winning hole 31b is open), the game ball hardly enters the second large winning hole 31b. This configuration can suppress such a case as to spoil the player's interest in the game.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 50

Description

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

  Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, there has been disclosed a gaming machine capable of preventing aiming after winning a small hit by providing a delay route as a flow path for gaming balls (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2010-178806 A

  In the technique of Patent Document 1, a first start winning opening, a second starting winning opening, and a general winning opening are arranged between the delay route and the big winning opening.

  For this reason, in the technique of Patent Document 1, even if the grand prize opening is shifted to an open state and the player tries to enter a game ball into the grand prize opening, the first starting prize opening, the second starting prize opening, There is a concern that a game ball will enter the general prize opening, etc., and the game ball will not go to the big prize opening, and the interest of the game will be lost.

  Then, this invention makes it a subject to provide the technique which can suppress that the interest of a game is cut.

  The present invention employs the following means for solving the above 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 game area where game balls flow down, a first winning port that is arranged in the game region and into which a game ball can enter, and the first winning port in the gaming area. And a path through which game balls that have not entered the first prize opening pass, and a path that is disposed downstream of the path in the game area and is in a special gaming state. A gaming machine having a possible second winning opening.

This solving means has the following configuration.
(1) A game area where game balls flow down is provided. The game area is, for example, a left-handed area formed in the left half of the game board surface or a right-handed area formed in the right half of the game board surface.

(2) In the gaming area of (1) above, a first winning opening (a starting winning opening of the second special symbol) through which a game ball can enter is disposed. The first winning port may be a winning port (starting winning port or normal winning port) in which a game ball can enter regardless of the gaming state, and a predetermined gaming state (a winning state in a normal symbol lottery, special In the case of a big hit state or a small hit state in the symbol lottery), it may be a winning opening where a game ball can enter.

(3) In the game area of (1), a passage through which a game ball that has not entered the first prize port of (2) passes is arranged downstream of the first prize port of (2). Yes. The passage guides the game ball downstream.

(4) In the gaming area of (1) above, the game ball can enter in the special game state (big hit state or small hit state in the special symbol lottery) downstream of the passage of (3) above. A second winning opening (second winning opening) is arranged.

  It is preferable that only a passage is formed between the first winning port and the second winning port, and no other winning ports or out ports are formed. By doing in this way, many game balls can be guided to the 2nd prize opening.

  According to this solution, since the first winning opening is arranged upstream of the passage, the arrangement relationship is “first winning opening → passage → second winning opening” from upstream to downstream in the game area. The distance between the first prize opening and the second prize opening can be increased by the amount of the passage.

  As a result, there is no first winning opening near the second winning opening, and the game ball can enter the second winning opening (even though the second winning opening is open). Regardless of this, it is possible to avoid a situation in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second winning opening, and it is possible to suppress the excitement of the game.

  Solution 2: The gaming machine of the present solution may be any one of the solutions described above, wherein the passage is a passage that decelerates the speed of the game ball, and it is determined that the special gaming state is started. A decelerating passage that secures at least a part of the second time longer than the first time until the special gaming state ends, and the second time is a ball launcher that launches a game ball This is a gaming machine characterized in that it is the time from when the game ball is fired by the time until the game ball reaches the second prize opening.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) The passage is a deceleration passage that reduces the speed of the game ball.
(2) The passage is determined after the start of a special gaming state (for example, after a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit mode, after a small hit game is started, the second prize opening For a period longer than the first time (for example, 5 seconds) until the special gaming state is completed (for example, until the small winning game is completed, or the second prize opening is closed). This is a deceleration passage that secures at least a part of time (for example, 3 seconds) of 2 hours (for example, 6 seconds).
(3) The second time is the time from when the game ball is launched by the ball launching device that launches the game ball until the game ball reaches the second winning opening.

  A part of the second time is secured by the passage, and the remaining time of the second time is the time from when the game ball is launched until it reaches the passage, and after the game ball crosses the passage. 2 Secured by the time required to reach the prize opening.

  According to this solution, since the speed reduction passage that secures at least a part of the second time longer than the first time is provided, the game ball can stay in the speed reduction passage for a long time. It is possible to avoid aim shooting such as launching a game ball after starting the game and causing the game ball to enter the second winning opening.

  Further, according to the present solution, the game ball can stay in the deceleration passage for a long time, so that the game ball enters the first winning opening upstream of the deceleration passage and flows down the game area. Even if the total amount decreases, the length of the stay in the deceleration path can give the illusion that the total amount of the game balls has increased, and the length of the stay in the game balls It is possible to forget the fact that the ball entered the 1st prize opening itself, and further, the game ball that has passed through the deceleration path can be slowly directed to the 2nd prize opening at the speed after deceleration. It is possible to give the player a feeling that more game balls are entering the second winning opening.

  Furthermore, according to this solution, since the second time is the time from when the game ball is launched by the ball launching device that launches the game ball until the game ball reaches the second winning opening, the deceleration path It is possible to easily secure the second time using the game, and to reliably avoid aim shooting such as launching the game ball after the special game state is started and causing the game ball to enter the second winning opening. it can.

  Other solution means: The gaming machine according to this solution means that in any one of the solution means described above, the passage is arranged such that all the game balls that have entered the passage without entering the first winning opening are the second. A gaming machine characterized by being a passage leading to a winning opening.

  According to this solution, the passage is a passage that guides all the game balls that have entered the passage without entering the first prize opening to the second prize opening, so that the game balls that have entered the passage are not leaked. It can be directed to the second winning opening, and the feeling of winning with respect to the second winning opening (feeling that many game balls have won without waste) can be improved.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it can suppress that the interest of a game is cut off.

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 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 example of a procedure of a 1st special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd special symbol game process. It is a figure which shows the open | release operation | movement pattern of a variable winning apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of a 1st special symbol deviation (low probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of a 1st special symbol deviation (low probability time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of a 1st special symbol deviation (high probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows the structural example of the stop symbol selection table at the time of the 1st special symbol big hit. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening state) at the time of the 1st special symbol big hit. It is a figure which shows an example of the 2nd special symbol big hit time fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability time shortening state) at the time of the 1st special symbol big hit. It is a figure which shows an example of the 2nd special symbol big hit time fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state). It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortening state) at the time of the 1st special symbol big hit. It is a figure which shows an example of the 2nd special symbol big hit time fluctuation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows the 2nd special symbol small hit time fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening / low probability time shortening state). It is a 2nd special symbol small hit hour fluctuation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows the internal lottery correspondence table. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a count cut counter value management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage area shift process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the process during special symbol change. It is a timing chart which shows the change of the change display of the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol. 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 big win time variable winning apparatus management 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 flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning opening big opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning prize closing opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the end process at the time of big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of the variable winning device management process at the time of a small 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 flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning opening opening / closing operation | movement process at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning opening closing process at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the end process at the time of a small hit. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol" in normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "16 round probability variation symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol" in fireworks rush. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of an effect in the fireworks rush of embodiment (1/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of an effect in the fireworks rush of embodiment (2/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of an effect in the fireworks rush of a comparative example. It is a figure explaining the arrangement | positioning of the right start winning opening 27 grade | etc., Of an embodiment and the arrangement | positioning of the right starting winning prize slot 27 grade | etc. Of a comparative example contrasting. 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 effect design management processing.

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 game ball is a medium having a game value, and a privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, a game ball acquired by the player Based on the number of games, it can be converted into a game value. Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

〔overall structure〕
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 a 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.

  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, game board) 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 protruding 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 a 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 according to 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 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 provided in front of the upper dish 6b in the upper position, and a lower dish ball removal lever 6e is provided 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 handle unit 16 is installed on the lower right side of the tray unit 6. The player operates the handle 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, game board) 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, and 52 are arranged so as to surround the glass unit.

  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 addition, an effect switching button 45 is installed in the center of the tray unit 6 at a position in front of the upper plate 6b. The player switches the contents of the effect (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pressing the effect switching button 45, or is changing the symbol, displaying the big hit, or playing the big hit game. It is possible to generate a certain effect (notice effect, probability change promotion effect, promotion effect while playing a big role, etc.).

  Further, a jog dial 45a is installed around the effect switching button 45 so as to surround the effect switching button 45 (operation input receiving means, rotary selector). The player can change the contents of the effect displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, for example, by rotating the jog dial 45a.

[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 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 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.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 includes a game board 8b serving as a base, and a game area 8a is formed on the front side of the game board 8b. The game board 8b is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate. With the game board unit 8 fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit. On the front surface of the game board 8b, the above-described game area 8a is formed inside a launch rail (not indicated by reference numeral) installed in a substantially circular shape.

  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. The left part of the gaming area 8a is used in the first gaming state (for example, a low probability non-time shortened state, a low probability time shortened state, a big hit state where the first variable winning device 30 operates, a left-handed state, etc.). 1 game area (left-handed area), and the right portion of the game area 8a is in the second gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state in which the second variable winning device 31 operates, a small hit in which the second variable winning device 31 operates) A second gaming area (right-handed area, gaming area) used in a gaming state, a high probability non-time shortened state, a right-handed state, or the like. Further, in the game area 8 a, an upper start winning opening 26, a right starting winning opening 27 (first winning opening), a starting gate 20, a normal winning opening 22, a variable start winning apparatus 28, a first start area are provided around the effect unit 40. The variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31 (second winning port), the deceleration passage 200 and the like are distributed and installed.

  Among these, the upper start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning device 28 are arranged in the center of the lower portion of the game area 8a, and the first variable winning device 30 is arranged below the variable start winning device 28. . On the other hand, the right start winning port 27, the deceleration passage 200, and the second variable winning device 31 are arranged in this order from the top in the right portion of the game area 8a. In addition, the start gate 20 is disposed at the upper left portion of the game area 8a, and the three normal winning ports 22 are disposed at the lower left portion of the game area 8a.

  The deceleration passage 200 is a passage that is disposed between the right start winning port 27 and the second variable winning device 31 and through which game balls that have not entered the right start winning port 27 pass. The deceleration passage 200 has two entrances and one exit, and the middle passage is a passage that causes the game ball to fold back and forth (to meander).

The deceleration path 200 is a path for decelerating the speed of the game ball, and is a first time (for example, 5 seconds at the maximum) from when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hitting manner until the small hitting game ends. ) That secures at least a part of the second time (for example, 6 seconds) longer than (for example, 3 seconds). A part of the second time is secured by the deceleration passage 200, and the remaining time of the second time is the time from when the game ball is fired until it reaches the deceleration passage 200, and the game ball reaches the deceleration passage. It is ensured by the time from exceeding 200 until reaching the second grand prize opening 31b.
Here, the time for the game ball to pass through the deceleration passage 200 (the time required for the game ball to pass through the deceleration passage 200) is the second time in order to ensure most of the second time with the structure. It is preferable that the time is half (half) or more.

  The deceleration path 200 is a path for guiding substantially all game balls that have entered the deceleration path 200 without entering the right start winning opening 27 to the second large winning opening 31b.

  In addition, a plurality of protrusions 21 for reducing the speed at which the game ball moves is arranged inside the passage of the deceleration passage 200. The plurality of protrusions 21 are alternately arranged on the front side and the rear side with respect to the front-rear direction (depth direction) of the game board unit.

  For example, the protrusion on the front side is arranged on the front side of the game board unit (for example, the surface on the back side of the cover of the front transparent member constituting the deceleration passage 200), and the protrusion on the rear side is on the rear side of the game board unit. It arrange | positions at the side (for example, the surface of the front side of the cover of the back side transparent member which comprises the deceleration channel | path 200).

Thus, since the plurality of protrusions 21 are alternately arranged with respect to the front-rear direction (depth direction) of the game board unit 8, the game balls flowing down at random can be advanced in a zigzag manner. The speed reduction effect can be improved.
In addition to the inside of the deceleration passage 200, the plurality of protrusions 21 are appropriately disposed at a place where the game ball needs to be decelerated (for example, an upper portion of the opening / closing member 31a of the second variable winning device 31). .

  The game ball thrown into the game area 8a passes through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, enters the normal winning port 22, the upper starting winning port 26, the right starting winning port 27, or during the opening operation. Or the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation and the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation.

  The game balls flowing down the left area of the game area 8a mainly pass through the starting gate 20, enter the normal winning opening 22, enter the upper starting winning opening 26, or variable start at the time of opening operation. There is a possibility of entering the winning device 28 or entering the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation. On the other hand, the game balls flowing down the right area of the game area 8a may possibly enter the right start winning opening 27 or enter the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation.

  The game balls that have passed through the start gate 20 continue to flow down in the game area 8a, but the upper start winning port 26, the right start winning port 27, the normal winning port 22, the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, The game balls that have entered the second variable winning device 31 are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through through holes formed in the game board 8b (plywood material, transparent board, etc. constituting the game board unit 8).

  The variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed for a predetermined stop display time in a winning manner), and accordingly, the variable start winning device 28 is connected to the lower start winning port 28b. Makes it possible to enter the 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, for example, a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). . That is, as shown in the figure, the left and right opening / closing members 28a are in the closed position with the tip facing upward, and at this time, it is difficult (impossible) to enter the lower start winning opening 28b. 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 opening width of the variable start winning device 28 is increased to the left and right. During this time, the game ball easily enters the lower start winning opening 28b. The variable start winning device 28 is a tongue-type device that moves from a position where the opening / closing member is retracted to the back of the board to a position protruding to the near side, or a lower edge portion of the opening / closing member as a hinge forward. The device may be displaced so as to fall down.

  The first variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a 9-round normal symbol and a 9-round probability variable symbol), and the first variable winning device 30 is connected to the first big prize opening 30b. Enables entry (special electric accessory, first special entry event generating means).

  The first variable winning device 30 is a device arranged at the lower part of the upper start winning opening 26 and has one opening / closing member 30a. The opening / closing member 30a is opened and closed by reciprocating in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface 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) along the board surface, and at this time, it is difficult to enter the first big prize opening 30b. When the first variable winning device 30 is actuated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall forward with its lower 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 where it is not difficult (easy or possible) for the game ball to flow in, and an event of winning a prize to the first big winning opening 30b can be generated. 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 second variable winning device 31 is activated when it is in a special game state (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a 16-round probability variable symbol mode, or when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit mode). Then, it is possible to enter the second grand prize opening 31b (special electric accessory, second special entry event generating means).

  The second variable winning device 31 is a device disposed below the deceleration passage 200 and has one opening / closing member 31a. The second variable winning device 31 is a device of a type in which the opening / closing member 31a slides inside the board surface (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.

In addition, a guide passage 31c for guiding a game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 to the inside is disposed inside the second variable winning device 31. The guide passage 31c is branched into two routes, and a second count switch 85 is disposed in each route.
A game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 is detected by any one of the second count switches 85, and is finally guided to the outlet 31f and collected therein.

  The game board unit 8 is provided with the effect unit 40 at the center position. The effect unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a that functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts 40b, 40c and the like (including those not shown). 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 inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, including effect symbols corresponding to special symbols. . 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 and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40.

  In addition, a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) is attached to the inside of the production unit 40 together with the production movable body 40f. 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 the effects using these movable bodies 40f, appealing power different from the effects using two-dimensional images can be exhibited.

  In addition, a ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed at the lower edge thereof. 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 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 upper start winning opening 26 directly below the ball discharge path 40k. .

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not entered (winned) in various winning ports are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board unit 8. In addition, the game area includes the game balls that have entered the normal winning port 22, the upper starting winning port 26, the right starting winning port 27, the lower starting winning port 28b, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31. All game balls that have been driven into the 8a 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).

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

  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.

  In addition, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 display, for example, a change state and a stopped state of the corresponding first special symbol or second special symbol by 7 segment LED (with dots), respectively. (First symbol display means, second symbol display means). The first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 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 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.

  The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is connected to the upper start winning port 26 or the variable start winning device 28 (every time a game ball enters the upper start winning port 26 or the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning port 28b). In order to memorize that a game ball has entered the lower start winning opening 28b), the display mode is increased one by one (up to a maximum of 4), and the special symbol changes with the entry as a trigger. Each time is started, the display mode changes to one after the decrease. Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is incremented by one in the sense that it stores that a game ball has entered the right start winning port 27 each time a game ball enters the right start winning port 27. Change to the display mode (up to 4), and each time the change of the special symbol is started with the entry, the display mode is changed by 1 each. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the first start symbol 26 is in a state where the first special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). Alternatively, even if a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning port 28b), the display mode does not change. When the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), a game ball enters the right start winning opening 27 in a state where the second special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). Even if it is a sphere, 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.

  The game state display device 38 includes LEDs corresponding to, for example, jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, a probability variation state display lamp 38d, a short time state display lamp 38e, and a launch position designation 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.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 5 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. Further, the game board unit 8 corresponds to the upper start winning port 26, the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning port 28b), the right start winning port 27, the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. The upper start winning port switch 80, the lower starting winning port switch 82, the right start winning port switch 83, the first count switch 84, and the second count switch 85 are provided. Each start winning port switch 80, 82, 83 is for detecting the entrance of a game ball into the upper start winning port 26, the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning port 28 b), and the right start winning port 27. is there. The first count switch 84 is for detecting the number of game balls that have entered the first variable prize-winning device 30 (first big prize opening) and counting the number thereof. Furthermore, the second count switch 85 is for detecting the number of game balls that have entered the second variable winning device 31 (second big winning port 31b) and counting the number thereof. In addition, about the two 2nd count switches 85, although the structure using a common switch is mentioned as an example, you may install two switches and may detect the entrance of a game ball separately.

  Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning opening switch 86 for detecting the entering of a game ball into the normal winning opening 22. In addition, although the structure using the common winning opening switch 86 is given as an example for the three normal winning openings 22, for example, three winning opening switches are installed and a game ball is inserted into each of the ordinary winning openings 22. May be detected individually.

  In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches 78, 80, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). In the present embodiment, the detection signals from the upper start winning port switch 80, the lower starting winning port switch 82, and the right starting winning port switch 83 have the most direct influence on the player's profit because of the configuration of the game board unit 8. Therefore, other detection signals are transmitted to the main control device 70 via the panel relay terminal board 87. The panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with a wiring pattern, a connection terminal, and the like for relaying each winning detection signal.

  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 an ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, a first big prize opening solenoid 90, and an upstream of the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. A second big prize opening solenoid 97 is provided. These solenoids 88, 90, 97 operate (excited) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72, and open / close operations (activate) the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. Let Note that these solenoids 88, 90, 97 also transmit control signals from the main control CPU 72 via 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 provided. 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 balls are 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. Further, when the lower plate 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. In addition, a ball feeding 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 handle 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. Further, the touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the handle unit 16 (launching handle) from the change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal thereof. 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 rental / 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 in which the glass frame decoration lamp 52 is connected to the glass frame decoration board 136 is described. However, a saucer illumination board is installed in the tray unit 6, and the glass frame decoration lamp 52 is a saucer illumination. 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 with a built-in sound ROM, acoustic control IC, amplifier, and the like (not shown), for example, and the acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the speakers 54, 55, and 56 to output sound.

  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. Also, the effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is sent to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. Entered. Furthermore, the jog dial 45a is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136, and when the player rotates the jog dial 45a, the rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. . In addition, although the example which connected the effect switch button 45 and the jog dial 45a to the glass frame decor substrate 136 is given here, when the above-described saucer decor board is installed, the effect switch button 45 and the jog dial 45a are the saucer decor. 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 is 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. A drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 and the movable body motor 57 via the panel illumination board 138, respectively.

  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 on the VRAM 156 for each frame (still image per unit time) in a frame buffer, and each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 is expanded based on the buffered image data. Drive individually.

  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.

  6 and 7 are flowcharts showing a procedure example 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, a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when the working memory number is increased, the action memory number (Decrease effect command, number-of-times counter value command, special game 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. 7 (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 cut-off occurs, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first big prize opening solenoid 90, the second big prize opening solenoid 97, etc., and then backs up the work area of the RAM 76. The entire contents except the validity judgment flag and the sum check buffer are 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. 9). 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. 9). ) 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 in 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. 9). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 8 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 uses the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output ports corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first big prize opening solenoid 90, and the second big prize opening solenoid 97 as described above. Clear the corresponding output port buffer.

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. 6).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 9 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 contents of the processing are the same as those described above (step S120 in FIG. 7).

  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, an upper start winning port switch 80, a lower starting winning port switch 82, a right starting winning port switch 83, a first count switch 84, a second count switch 85, a winning port. The input state (ON / OFF) of the winning detection signal from the switch 86 is read.

  Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, a game is being performed based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the upper start winning port switch 80, the lower starting winning port switch 82, and the right starting winning port switch 83. The event that occurred is determined, and another process is executed according to the event that 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 upper starting winning port switch 80, the lower starting winning port switch 82, or the right starting winning port switch 83, the main control CPU 72 respectively receives the first special symbol or the second special symbol. It is determined that an event serving as an internal lottery trigger (lottery trigger) corresponding to the special symbol 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 upper start winning port switch 80, the lower starting winning port switch 82, or the right start winning port switch 83 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205, Step S206a, Step S206b: The main control CPU 72 executes the normal symbol game process, the first special symbol game process, and the second special 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 normal symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, or 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 (operation 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. The variable start winning device 28 is operated by excitation. 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.

  Further, in the first special symbol game process (step S206a), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol (first lottery execution means) or changes by the first special symbol display device 34. The display and stop display are controlled, and the operations of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 are controlled according to the display result. Further, in the second special symbol game process (step S206b), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol (second lottery execution means) or changes by the second special symbol display device 35. The display and stop display are controlled, and the operation of the second variable winning device 31 is controlled according to the display result. The details of the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, the number of winning balls is instructed to the payout control device 92 based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 in the previous input process (step S203). A prize ball instruction command to be output.

  Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs a prize ball content command for transmitting the contents of the number of prize balls to the effect control device 124 in the prize ball payout process. When a winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 corresponding to the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, it corresponds to the first profit (for 15 game balls). Generate a prize ball content command. Further, when a winning detection signal is input from the winning opening switch 86 corresponding to the normal winning opening 22, a winning ball content command corresponding to the second profit (for 10 game balls) is generated. The prize ball content command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9).

[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, based on the winning probability of the special symbol lottery and the expected value of the total number of game balls (the average number of balls that can be obtained in a series of periods from the first hit to the end of the time reduction state) It may be set. Furthermore, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery, the expected value of the total number of game balls to be won, the number of times of opening of the grand prize opening, the opening time of the big prize opening, the maximum number of winnings of the big prize opening, the number of winning balls of the big prize opening When the above 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. The external information signal stored in the port output request buffer is transmitted to the data display device and the hall computer via the external terminal board 160.

  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 indicating its own internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function is activated, variation time reduction function is activated). And store them 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 signals stored in the port output request buffer in the previous normal symbol game process (step S205), the first special symbol game process (step S206a), and the second special symbol game process (step S206b) are displayed. Output port. 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 combines the drive signals, test signals, etc. of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first big prize winning solenoid 90, and the second big prize winning solenoid 97 stored in the port output request buffer. 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. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 9). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: 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 S11 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 S12.

  Step S12: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the upper start winning port switch 80 corresponding to the upper start winning port 26 (the lottery opportunity has occurred). When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S13 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: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the lower start winning port switch 82 corresponding to the lower start winning port 28b (the lottery opportunity has occurred). When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S15 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. Specific processing contents 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 S16.

  Step S16: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the right start winning port switch 83 corresponding to the right start winning port 27 (the lottery opportunity has occurred). When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S17 to execute the second special symbol memory update process. Specific processing contents 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 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 big winning opening 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 grand prize winning count process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable prize winning device 31 during the big hit game. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 9).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process. 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 four sections for the first special symbol and four sections (for example, 2 bytes each) for the second special symbol. 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. 10). 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. 9).

  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 (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. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol respectively acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, and thereby the production contents This is for determination (so-called “look ahead”). The specific processing contents will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S38: After returning from the at-acquisition effect determination process, 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 is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S37), the upper byte is combined with the lower byte, for example. Will be 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. This process is for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command generated in the previous step S38, the effect command for increasing the number of working memories generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning tone control command 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. 10).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process. 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. 10). 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. 11), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) based on the counter value added here. Will be.

  Step S42: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the second special symbol (acquisition of second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method for acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S32 (FIG. 11) 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. 11) 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. 11) 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 (storage means). The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 11) 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. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S47: After returning from the effect determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU 72 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 effect determination processing at the time of acquisition (step S46), for example, one word is synthesized by combining the upper byte with the lower byte. A long command 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, preparation for transmitting a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when increasing the number of operating memories, a start opening winning sound control command, and the like regarding the second special symbol to the effect control device 124 is performed (memory number notifying means). . When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10).

[Acquisition process during acquisition]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. 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. 11 and step S46 in FIG. 12) (predetermined determination). Execution means). As described above, this process includes the first special symbol (when entering the upper start winning port 26 or the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning port 28b)), the second special symbol (to the right start winning port 27). It is executed for each (when entering). 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. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). .

  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 winning probability of the internal 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 the variation pattern destination determination command described above for the variation time at the time of disconnection. The change pattern destination determination command generated here reflects in advance determination information related to the change time (or change pattern number) when the “change time reduction function” is activated. For example, if the current state is when the “variable time shortening function” is activated, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “reach reach variation (non-shortened variation time)” based on the loaded reach determination random number. It is determined whether or not. 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 “variation time shortening function” is not in operation, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the variation time corresponds to “normally deviation reach variation” based on the loaded reach determination random number. Determine whether. 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) as described above. 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 returns to the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12). 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 S56.

  Step S56: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set when there is a winning value among the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, although the fluctuation has not yet started. Specifically, when there is a winning value for the jackpot determination random number stored so far, the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to “probability variation (9 round probability variation symbol, 16 round probability variation symbol)” If it is, “A0H” is set in the probability state schedule flag, for example. This value represents a flag value for setting as a schedule that a high probability state is to be set in advance determination (prefetching determination) of the jackpot determined random number acquired after the jackpot determined random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot decision random number stored so far, and the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to "non-probable (normal) symbol", the probability state For example, “01H” is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting as a schedule that a normal (low) probability state is set in advance determination (prefetching determination) of the big hit determination random number acquired after this big hit determination random number. If the winning value does not exist in the big hit determination random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). Further, the value of the probability state schedule flag is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76, for example. Here, an example is given in which the advance hit determination is strictly performed using the “probability state schedule flag”. However, when the advance hit determination is simply performed based on the current probability state, step S56 and the subsequent steps are performed. Step S58, step S60, step S62, step S76, etc. may be omitted.

  If the probability state schedule flag has not yet been set (step S56: No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S66.

  Step S66: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the comparison value for the next low probability (normal time) in the A register. The low probability comparison value is also defined in advance according to the winning probability at the low probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S68: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the “current probability state flag”. This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state has a high probability (probably changing), and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the current probability state is a high probability (probably changing), the value “01H” is set as the state flag, and if the current probability state is low (normally), the value of the state flag is reset (“00H”). ").

  Step S70: Then, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded current special symbol probability state flag does not represent a high probability (≠ 01H), and if the result indicates a high probability (No Then, step S64 is executed.

  Step S64: The main control CPU 72 sets a comparative value for high probability. As a result, the low-probability comparison value set in the previous step S66 is rewritten. The high probability comparison value is defined in advance according to the winning probability at the high probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is not yet set and the current internal state is high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for high probability and the next step S72 is performed. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not represent a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

  Step S72: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the random number loaded in the previous step S52 is out of the winning value range (lottery result destination determination means). That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the jackpot determination random number value from the comparison value set for each state. Similarly, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is a negative value (<0) from the value of the flag register, and if the result is that the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes) ), The main control CPU 72 executes the above-described variation pattern information preliminary determination process (step S80). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but is within the range (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. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in the above step S54, and from the result, “normal symbol (9 round normal symbol)” or “probability variation symbol (9 round probability variation symbol, 16 round probability variation symbol) is selected as the jackpot type. "Is determined. 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 S76.

  Step S76: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 represents “normal symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “01H” in the probability state schedule flag. On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value represents “probability variation symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “A0H” in the probability state schedule flag. As a result, in the subsequent processing, it is determined that “flag set has been completed” in step S56.

  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. As the special symbol destination determination value, for example, “01H” is set when it corresponds to “normal symbol”, and “A0H” is set when it corresponds to “probable variation”. 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) as described above.

  The above is the procedure before the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set (before the internal first hit). On the other hand, when the probability state schedule flag is set through the previous step S76, the following procedure is executed. However, when the previous hit determination is performed only with the current probability state as described above, it is not necessary to execute the following step S56, step S58, step S60, step S62, and step S76.

  Step S56: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that a value has already been set in the probability state schedule flag (Yes), it next executes step S58.

  Step S58: The main control CPU 72 first sets a low probability (normal time) comparison value in the A register.

  Step S60: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads a “probability state schedule flag”. The probability state schedule flag is for setting a probability state in a subsequent determination based on the immediately preceding determination result as described above, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. . If the probability state based on the immediately preceding destination determination result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (probability change), “A0H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag as described above. If the probability state based on is scheduled to return to a low probability (normal), “01H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

  Step S62: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule (≠ 01H), and if the result indicates a high-probability schedule ( No) Next, step S64 is executed, and a comparative value for high probability is set.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is already set and the value is a high probability, the next step S72 and subsequent steps after rewriting the comparison value for the high probability. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent a schedule with a high probability but a schedule with a normal (low) probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 performs a step. S64 is skipped and the subsequent step S72 and subsequent steps are executed. Thus, in the present embodiment, it is possible to make a prior jackpot determination in consideration of subsequent changes in internal state (normal probability state → high probability state, high probability state → normal probability state) based on the previous determination result. .

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12).

[Parallel variation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol]
Next, the details of the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process will be described. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display device 34 displays the change in the first special symbol and the second special symbol by separately executing the internal lottery corresponding to each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to display the second special symbol variation display on the display device 35 in parallel (design parallel variation means). For this reason, in the present embodiment, the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process are separately performed for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol on the control by the main control CPU 72 (one in one interrupt cycle). To run).

[First special symbol game processing]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol game process.
The first special symbol game process has a procedure (step S1000a) for confirming whether or not the internal state flag is “start of big game (during big hit game)”.

  Step S1000a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the gaming state (internal state) corresponding to the second special symbol is “start of big game (during big hit game)”. This confirmation can be performed based on the progress status of the processing performed so far on the second special symbol (the value of the second special symbol game management status). This confirmation is performed in the present embodiment because the game related to the first special symbol is not allowed to proceed when the big hit game is related to the other second special symbol.

  At this time, in particular, if the big special game is not being played regarding the second special symbol (the second special symbol game management status is a value that is big hit) (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the processing of the next step S1000b.

  In the first special symbol game process, a procedure (step S1000b) for confirming whether or not the variable time measurement pause flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON and whether or not the game state is a small hit is made. Have. When the variable time measurement pause flag is ON, it means that the measurement of the variable time is paused, and when the variable time measurement pause flag is OFF, the measurement of the fluctuation time is It means that it is not paused.

  Step S1000b: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the variation time measurement pause flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON and whether or not the gaming state is a small hit. In the present embodiment, this confirmation is made when a small hit game is being performed with respect to the other second special symbol and the first symbol is fluctuating, and the variation time of the first special symbol is temporarily measured. It is because it is going to stop.

  At this time, if the variable time measurement pause flag is not ON, or even if the variable time measurement pause flag is ON, if the gaming state is not in the small hit state (No), the main control CPU 72 performs the next step. The processing after S1000b1 is executed. Steps S1000b1 to S6000 are program modules that form the basis of the first special symbol game process. The main control CPU 72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the first special symbol through the processes of the basic steps S1000b1 to S6000.

  On the other hand, when the variable time measurement pause flag is ON and the small hit game is being played (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the process of step S7000.

  The basic part of the first special symbol game process includes a special game special symbol determination flag update process (step S1000b1), an execution selection process (step S1000c), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), and a special symbol change process (step S3000), special symbol stop display processing (step S4000), big hit variable variable winning device management processing (step S5000), small bonus variable winning device management processing (step S6000) subroutine (program module) group is included. . Here, first, a basic flow of the basic part of the first special symbol game process will be described along each process.

  Step S1000b1: The main control CPU 72 executes a special game special symbol determination flag update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process for determining a processing target symbol as to which of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is to be processed. Here, the special game special symbol determination flag is a flag for specifying the symbol to be processed, and is stored in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting a value corresponding to the first special symbol (for example, “0”) as the value of the special game special symbol determination flag.

  Step S1000c: 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 S6000) 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 first special symbol game process as the return destination 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 (first special symbol game management status). For example, if the first special symbol has not yet started to display the variation (first special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 performs the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. select. If the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (first 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 processed. If the process during the change is completed (first special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop display 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 of preparing conditions for starting the variation display of the first special symbol. Specifically, the big hit determination (first lottery execution means) and the variation pattern are determined here, and in the case of the big win, the winning type is also determined. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets a count-down counter for the “time reduction state” and the “high probability state” in accordance with the determination of the winning type. 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 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 the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  In addition, in this process, a process for determining whether or not to operate the skip function is also performed. In the previous jackpot determination, for example, the first special symbol is changing to the big jackpot, and the second special symbol is not won. If applicable, the skip function is activated for the second special symbol. By the operation of the skip function, a process for forcibly terminating the non-winning variation of the second special symbol is performed. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  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. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the drive signal pattern is constant, whereby the first special symbol is stopped and displayed. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S5000: The big win variable winning device management process is selected when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big hit manner in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, if the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of 9 round normal big hit, 9 round probable big hit, or 16 round probable big hit, the game will change from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state (special gaming state advantageous to the player). An opportunity to migrate occurs. During the big hit game with respect to the first special symbol, the jump destination is set in the big win variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000c), and the variable display of the first special symbol is not performed. In the big win variable winning device management process, the number of continuous operations set in advance for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds or until 9 winnings are counted) for the first big winning port solenoid 90 or the second big winning port solenoid 97. The first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). During this time, the player is given an opportunity to collect a large number of prize balls by concentrating on the first variable prize winning device 30 or the second variable prize winning device 31 in a concentrated manner (special game). Execution means). The opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit is called “round”, and if the total number of continuous operations is nine, this is called “9 round”. Collectively. In the present embodiment, not only the 9 round normal big hit and the 9 round probability variable big hit, but also a plurality of types of 16 round positive change big hits are provided as the types of big hit.

  When the main control CPU 72 sets the big winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the big win variable winning device management process, the first variable winning device 30 or the first round for one round is set. 2 Each time the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 31 is finished, 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. 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 game) for the first special symbol only for that round.

  When the big hit game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game (high probability state, time reduction state) based on the game state flag (probability fluctuation function operation flag, fluctuation time reduction function operation flag). (High probability state transition means, time shortening state transition means, low probability time shortening state transition means, high probability non-time shortening state transition means). In the “high probability state”, the probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery is, for example, about 10 times higher than normal. In the “time reduction state”, the variable time reduction function is activated, and the normal symbol operation lottery has a high probability, the normal symbol fluctuation time is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended and released. The number of times increases (so-called electronic Chu support is performed). Note that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” may be transferred to only one of them in terms of control, or may be transferred in accordance with both of them.

  In this embodiment, the “time reduction state” means that the fluctuation time of the normal symbol or the special symbol is shortened by the activation of the fluctuation time reduction function, and the winning probability of the normal symbol operation lottery becomes high and variable. This means that the opening time of the start winning device 28 is extended (open extension function is activated).

  In addition, the “non-time reduction state” means that the fluctuation time reduction function is not activated, so that the fluctuation time of the normal symbol or special symbol is not shortened, and the winning probability of the normal symbol operation lottery becomes low, This means that the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is not extended (open extension function is not activated).

  Step S6000: The small winning hour variable winning device management process is selected when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small winning manner in the special symbol stop display process. For example, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit state, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the small hit gaming state occurs. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set in the small hit variable variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000c), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the small hit game, the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, once) for a predetermined opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds), so that the player can play a certain amount of balls during the small hit game. Can be earned. In this embodiment, since the small hit is not set for the first special symbol, this process is not executed. However, when the small hit is set for the first special symbol, this process is not performed. Is executed.

  Step S7000: The variation time measurement paused process is a process of maintaining the fluctuation of the first special symbol without stopping it. The main control CPU 72 controls the driving of the first special symbol display device 34 when the small special game is being played with respect to the second special symbol and the first special symbol is changing. As the drive control of the first special symbol display device 34, a process of outputting an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) to each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED is executed. As a result, the state in which the first special symbol is not stopped is maintained. In addition, when measurement of the variation time of the first special symbol is temporarily stopped, measurement of the variation time is resumed after the end of the small hit game. Note that, even if the main control CPU 72 determines that a small hit game is being played with respect to the second special symbol, if the first special symbol is not changing, the main control CPU 72 does not execute the variable time measurement suspension processing.

[Second special symbol game processing]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol game process.
The second special symbol game process has a procedure (step S1900a) for confirming whether or not the other first special symbol is a big hit.

  Step S1900a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the gaming state corresponding to the first special symbol is “in jackpot game”. This confirmation can also be performed based on the value of the first special symbol game management status as described above. Note that this determination excludes the determination as to whether or not the game is “small hit game” because the first special symbol has no small hit.

  At this time, if the jackpot game is not being played regarding the first special symbol (the value of the first special symbol game management status is a jackpot value) (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the processing from the next step S1900a1. Steps S1900a1 to S6900 are program modules that form the basis of the second special symbol game process. The main control CPU 72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the second special symbol through the processes of steps S1900a1 to S6900 as the basis.

  As described in the first special symbol game process, the special game special symbol determination flag update process (step S1900a1), the execution selection process (step S1900b), and the special symbol change are also performed on the basis of the second special symbol game process. Pre-processing (step S2900), special symbol changing processing (step S3900), special symbol stop display processing (step S4900), big hit variable variable winning device management processing (step S5900), small winning variable variable winning device management processing (step S6900) subroutine (program module) group is included. Note that the description of the same content as the first special symbol game process is omitted as appropriate.

  Step S1900a1: The main control CPU 72 executes a special game special symbol determination flag update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process for determining a processing target symbol as to which of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is to be processed. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting a value (for example, “1”) corresponding to the second special symbol to the value of the special game special symbol determination flag.

  Step S1900b: 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 S2900 to S6900) 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 second special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

  Here again, which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (second special symbol game management status). For example, if the second special symbol has not yet started to change display (second special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 performs the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2900) as the next jump destination. select. If the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (second special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3900) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol variation is processed. If the process during the change is completed (second special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4900) is selected as the next jump destination.

  Step S2900: In the special symbol variation pre-processing in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation for preparing conditions for starting the variation display of the second special symbol (second lottery execution means).

  Step S3900: In the special symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 controls the driving of the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the change timer.

  Step S4900: In the special symbol stop display process in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of 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, and thereby the second special symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Step S5900: The jackpot variable winning device management process is selected when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big-hit manner in the special symbol stop display process. Similarly, the stop display mode of the second special symbol is determined in a mode corresponding to the winning type. When the main control CPU 72 sets the big winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the big win variable winning device management process, the second variable winning device for one round is set. Each time the opening / closing operation 31 is completed, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. 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 game) for the second special symbol only for that round.

  Then, when the big hit game is finished with respect to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game is finished based on the game state flags (probability variation function operation flag, variation time shortening function operation flag).

  Step S6900: The small winning hour variable winning device management process is selected when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit state in the previous special symbol stop display process (special game executing means). For example, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit mode, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the small hit gaming state occurs. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set in the small hit prize variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the small hit game, the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, once) for a predetermined opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds), so that the player can play a certain amount of balls during the small hit game. Can be earned.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, (1) “9 round normal jackpot”, (2) “9 round probability jackpot” and (3) “16 round probability jackpot” are provided as a plurality of winning types. Big hits other than 16 rounds and 9 rounds may be set.

  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, “16 rounds probable big hit” corresponds to the big hit of “16 rounds probable symbol”, “9 round normal big hit” corresponds to the big hit of “9 round normal symbol”, and “9 rounds probable big hit” is “9 rounds” Corresponds to the jackpot of "probable variation". Therefore, hereinafter, the “winning type” will be appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[Opening pattern of variable winning device]
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an opening operation pattern of the variable winning device. The contents of the opening of the special winning opening corresponding to each winning symbol will be described.

[9 round normal design]
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “9 round normal symbol” mode in the special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means). In this case, the first big prize opening 30b of the first variable prize winning device 30 is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round. Continue until round. For this reason, the “9-round normal symbol” jackpot game gives 9 rounds of award (prize balls) to the player.

  In addition, in the case of “9 round normal symbols”, even if the “variable time shortening function” is inactive in the previous game, the “variable time shortening function” should be activated after the big hit game ends. Then, it shifts to the “time reduction state”.

  The first big prize opening 30b of the first variable prize winning device 30 is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is generated in one round. Is done. Similarly, the second big prize opening 31b of the second variable prize winning device 31 does not wait for the longest opening time to elapse when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is won in one round. Closed.

[9-round probabilistic design]
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “9-round probability variation symbol” mode in the special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means). In this case, the first big prize opening 30b of the first variable prize winning device 30 is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round. Continue until round. For this reason, the big hit game of “9 rounds probable change pattern” gives 9 rounds of a game (prize ball) to the player.

  In addition, in the case of “9 round probability variation symbol”, after the jackpot game ends, the “probability variation function” is activated, and the state shifts to the “high probability state”.

[16 rounds probable design]
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “16-round probability variable symbol” mode in the special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means). In this case, the second big prize opening 31b of the second variable prize winning device 31 is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, the opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, which is 16 times. Continue until round. For this reason, the big hit game of the “16 round probability variation pattern” gives the player 16 balls (prize balls) for the game.

  In addition, in the case of “16 round probability variation symbol”, after the jackpot game is ended, the “probability variation function” is activated to shift to the “high probability state”.

  As described above, when the winning symbol corresponds to the above “9 round normal symbol”, the “probability variation function” does not operate after the jackpot game ends, and the “variation time shortening function” operates, so the internal state is Transition to the “low probability time reduction state”.

  In addition, if the winning symbol corresponds to the above “9 round probability variation symbol” or “16 round probability variation symbol”, the “probability variation function” is activated after the jackpot game ends, and the “variation time shortening function” is not activated. The internal state shifts to a “high probability non-time shortened state”.

  In the operation pattern shown in this table, the interval time between rounds is a common “1.5 seconds”. The interval time between rounds is a waiting time set between rounds.

[Small hits]
In the present embodiment, a small hit is provided as a winning type other than non-winning for the second special symbol. When winning a small hit, a small hit game is performed separately from the big hit game, and the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed (special game execution means). That is, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small-hit manner in the previous special symbol stop display process, a small-hit game (a game in which the second variable winning device 31 operates) is executed.

  Here, in the present embodiment, a small hit is not set for the first special symbol, but a small hit may be set for the first special symbol. However, in that case, in order to increase the chance of small hits in the second special symbol lottery, in the second special symbol lottery than the probability of hitting the small bonus (special winning type) in the first special symbol lottery It is preferable to define a high probability of hitting a small hit. In the small hit game, the second variable winning device 31 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, once) for a predetermined opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds), so that the player can play a certain amount of balls during the small hit game. Can be earned.

  In addition, even if the small hit game ends, the “probability variation function” does not operate and the “variation time shortening function” does not operate, so “high probability state” and “time shortening state” The privilege to transfer to is not granted (it is not a prerequisite for that). Also, even if you win a small hit in the “high probability state”, the “high probability state” will not end after the small hit game ends. The “time reduction state” does not end after the winning game ends (except when the upper limit is reached).

  Furthermore, the opening pattern of the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a small hit is not limited to one type, a plurality of small hits symbols are set, a two-time open pattern, a three-time open pattern, a 12-time open pattern, etc. A plurality of opening patterns may be set as follows. However, the small hit game ends within a first time (for example, 5 seconds) regardless of which release pattern is set.

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. The contents of the special symbol change pre-processing described below can be common to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) and the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when the following procedure is applied to the second special symbol game process, the control target is the second special symbol. To do. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2090: First, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of confirming whether or not the variable time measurement pause flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON.

  When determining that the variable time measurement pause flag is ON (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S2092.

  Step S2092: The main control CPU 72 executes a stop symbol reading process. In this process, the information of the stop symbol saved in the RAM 76 is read out. Then, based on the read stop symbol information, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34. 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 S2094: The main control CPU 72 executes a remaining variation time reading process. In this process, the value of the variation timer saved in the RAM 76 (remaining variation time value) is read. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the read fluctuation timer in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  Step S2096: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol revariation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol re-variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a re-variation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This re-variation start command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Step S2098: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of turning off the variation time measurement pause flag stored in the RAM 76. As a result, the situation that the measurement of the variation time is temporarily stopped is cancelled.
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000 or step S3900) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

  On the other hand, if it is not possible to confirm in step S2090 that the variable time measurement pause flag is ON (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2100.

  Step S2100: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the number of the special symbol operation memory to be controlled (the first special symbol operation memory number or the second special symbol operation memory number) remains (is greater than 0). To do. 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 the target symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S2150.

  Step S2150: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the other special symbol operation memory number is zero. That is, if the object to be controlled is the first special symbol, it is confirmed whether or not the second special symbol operation memory number is 0. If the object to be controlled is the second special symbol, the first special symbol operation memory is stored. Check if the number is zero. This confirmation can also be performed with reference to the value of the special symbol operation memory number counter. If the other special symbol operation memory number is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the demonstration setting process of step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether there is no winning for a predetermined time in any start winning opening, and generates a demonstration effect command when confirming that there is no winning for a predetermined time. . The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). When returning, it returns to the end address of each special symbol game process (and so on).

  On the other hand, if the other special symbol working memory number is not 0 (step S2150: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute the demo setting process, the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game Return to the process (FIG. 15).

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol operation memory number counter to be controlled is larger than 0 (step S2100: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2160.

  Step S2160: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) is set in the big hit flag or the small hit flag for the other special symbol. The big hit flag or the small hit flag is a flag that is set when the big hit or the small hit is hit by the internal lottery, and is reset at the end of the big hit game. Therefore, the confirmation in this process is confirmation whether or not the result of the internal lottery regarding the other special symbol is won in the big hit or the small hit. When the other special symbol variation display is not executed, the result of the confirmation is inevitably No because the big hit flag or the small hit flag is not set. Further, here, the determination content is “big hit or small hit”, but only “big hit” or “small hit” may be used.

  In this process, when the value (01H) is set in the big hit flag or the small hit flag related to the other special symbol (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2202. On the other hand, when the value (01H) is not set in the big hit flag or the small hit flag related to the other special symbol, that is, when the value is “00H” (No), the main control CPU 72 next performs step S2200. Execute.

  Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 reads out a lottery random number (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the special symbol to be controlled. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads and erases (consumes) the random numbers in order from the first section, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ) The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value of the working memory number counter (the first special symbol or the second special symbol which is to be controlled) stored in the RAM 76, and the value after the subtraction Is set to “Number of working memories at start of fluctuation”. As a result, in the display output management process described above, the display mode of the stored number changes (decreases by 1) for the control target of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a. . When the procedure so far is finished, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

  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 (the jackpot determined random number value) is included in this range (first lottery execution means, second Lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time is different between the low probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In the high probability state, the range of the jackpot value is expanded to about 10 times that of the low probability state. The If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets “01H” in the big hit flag.

Step S2302: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit determination process (internal lottery).
If the big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 next sets a range of the small hit value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (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 above “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, but “small hit” does not generate such an opportunity. However, “small hit” is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the first variable winning device 30 as in “big hit”. If the read random number value is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets “01H” in the small hit flag. In the present embodiment, the winning probability for the small hit is “substantially 1/1”, and unless it corresponds to the big hit, it corresponds to the substantially small hit.

  In this embodiment, as a hit range other than non-winning, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is preliminarily defined in the program (non-winning non-winning means), but the state-specific jackpot determination table, The big hit determination table may be written in the ROM 74, read out and compared with the random number value to determine the big hit.

  Step S2202: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, since the same process as in the previous step S2200 is performed, the description is omitted. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S2404.

  On the other hand, when the small hit determination process ends (step S2302), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2400.

  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 proceeds to step S2402, and if the value (01H) is set in the jackpot flag (Yes), the main control CPU 72 Step S2410 is executed.

  Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the small hit flag in the previous small hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to 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.

  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 variation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol to be controlled (variation pattern determination means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol to be controlled or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. The fluctuation pattern includes various fluctuation patterns such as non-reach fluctuation, reach fluctuation, super reach fluctuation, etc. (the same applies to 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.

  Here, since the fluctuation time at the time of loss differs depending on whether it is the above-mentioned “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag, It is confirmed whether or not the state is a “high probability state” or a “time reduction state”. For example, in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is set to a shortened time (for example, about 4 to 12 seconds).

  In addition, even if not in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of losing is based on, for example, “the number of operating memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)” set in step S2200, except when the reach fluctuation is performed. It may be shortened. However, when a special variation pattern is selected, the variation time does not change depending on the number of memories. The stop display time of the symbol at the time of detachment is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of disconnection) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  In the present embodiment, if the result of the internal lottery by the first special symbol is a non-winning result, for example, a “reach effect” is generated on the effect, or the “reach effect” is not generated. It is supposed to be controlled. The “variation pattern selection table at the time of loss” preliminarily defines variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects such as “non-reach effect” and “reach effect”. One of the fluctuation patterns is selected from the inside. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, story reach production, and the like.

[Example of variation pattern selection table at the time of the first special symbol deviation]
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the first special symbol deviation variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduced state).
This selection table is a table that is used when the first special symbol lottery is out of the low probability non-time shortened state (when it corresponds to non-winning) (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “1” to “8” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  Fluctuation pattern numbers “1” to “5” correspond to fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without performing a reach effect, and fluctuation pattern numbers “6” to “8” are fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reaching. It corresponds. The variation pattern selection table may have different table contents depending on the number of operation memories at the start of variation (the same applies hereinafter).

  Here, the length of the set fluctuation time is greatly different between the non-reach fluctuation pattern and the reach fluctuation pattern. That is, the “non-reach variation pattern” basically corresponds to a short variation time (for example, about 3.0 seconds to 12.0 seconds depending on the number of working memories), whereas the “reach variation pattern” This corresponds to a long fluctuation time (for example, about 30 seconds to 150 seconds) more than twice as long.

  Then, the main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, The corresponding variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number. In the present embodiment, since the non-winning is not set for the second special symbol, there is no loss variation pattern selection table for the second special symbol, but when the non-winning is set for the second special symbol, An extraordinary variation pattern selection table for special symbols can be prepared.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the first special symbol deviation variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state).
This selection table is a table used when the first special symbol lottery is out of the low probability time shortened state (when it corresponds to non-winning) (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “21” to “28” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  Variation pattern numbers “21” to “25” correspond to variation patterns that are out of reach without performing a reach effect, and variation pattern numbers “26” to “28” are variation patterns that are out of reach after reaching. It corresponds.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “22” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first special symbol deviation variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used when the first special symbol is out of the high probability non-time shortened state (when it corresponds to non-winning) (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “41” to “48” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “41” to “48” correspond to variation patterns that are out of reach without the reach effect.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “42” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case of non-winning), but when the determination result is big hit (step S2400: Yes) or 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, there are roughly three types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The three types of breakdown are “9-round normal symbol”, “9-round probability variable symbol” and “16 round probability variable symbol”. Each of the three types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, “9 round normal symbol a”, “9 round normal symbol a”, “9 round normal symbol b”, “9 round normal 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. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a 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 “35”, “55”, “10” has the denominator as 100. Corresponds to the ratio of cases. In the second column from the left, “9 round normal symbol”, “9 round probability variation symbol”, and “16 round probability variation 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 “9 round normal symbol” being selected is 35/100 (= 35%), and the rate of selecting “9 round probability variable symbol” is 100 minutes. The ratio at which “16 round probability variation” is selected is 10/100 (= 10%). 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”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, and “9 round normal 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 second column from the right of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (time reduction times) given after the big hit game ends is shown.
In this embodiment, when it corresponds to “9 round normal symbol”, 100 times is set as the number of time reductions. On the other hand, in the case of “9 round probability variation” or “16 round probability variation”, 0 is set as the number of time reduction (no time reduction is set).

[Probability of change]
In the right column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the probability variation number (number of probability variation, ST number) given after the big hit game is shown is shown.
In the present embodiment, in the case of “9 round normal symbol”, 0 is set as the probability variation number (the probability variation number is not set). On the other hand, in the case of “9 round probability variation symbol” or “16 round probability variation symbol”, 10,000 times is set as the probability variation number.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a configuration example 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 for each winning symbol, and each of the distribution values “35”, “5”, “60” has a denominator of 100. This corresponds to the ratio of Similarly, in the second column from the left, “9 round normal symbol”, “9 round probability variation symbol”, and “16 round probability variation symbol” corresponding to the distribution value are shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting “9 round normal symbol” is 35/100 (= 35%), and the rate of selecting “9 round probability variable symbol” is It is 5/100 (= 5%), and the ratio at which the “16-round probability variation symbol” is selected is 60/100 (= 60%).

  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 values “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other 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 “16 round probability variation symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described as “B2H03H”. .

  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. Note that the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at the time of small hit as well as at the time of big hit.

[Short-time number of times and number of times of probability change]
The values of the number of time reductions and the number of probability changes in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table are the same as the values in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table.

[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.

  In the present embodiment, as a result of the internal lottery, when a 9-round normal big hit, a 9-round probable big hit, or a 16-round probable big hit is achieved, for example, a “reach effect” is generated to control the big hit. In the “big hit fluctuation pattern selection table”, fluctuation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of “reach effects” are defined, and when 9-round normal big hit, 9 round positive change big hit, 16 round positive change big hit One of the variation patterns is selected from among them. Also, when winning with the fluctuation time shortening function activated, select a fluctuation pattern with a short fluctuation time (a fluctuation pattern without reach production) without selecting a fluctuation pattern with a long fluctuation time. Also good.

[Example of big hit fluctuation pattern selection table]
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a first special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability non-time shortened state in the first special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). In this embodiment, the variation patterns are not distinguished for the 9 round normal big hit, the 9 round probability variation big hit, and the 16 round probability variation big hit, but a dedicated variation pattern selection table may be used for each big hit (hereinafter the same). ). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “61” to “68” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “61” to “68” all correspond to the variation pattern that is a hit when the reach effect is performed.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “62” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability non-time shortened state in the second special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “71” to “78” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “71” to “78” all correspond to the variation pattern that is a hit without the reach effect.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “72” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability time reduction state in the first special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “81” to “88” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “81” to “88” all correspond to the variation pattern that is a hit when the reach effect is performed.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “82” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second special symbol jackpot change pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability time reduction state in the second special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “91” to “98” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “91” to “98” all correspond to the variation patterns that are hit without reaching the reach effect.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “92” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduced state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the high probability non-time shortened state in the first special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means).
In this table, the same variation pattern (variation time is about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds, for example) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (non-reach variation pattern 101) is set. ) Is selected.

  Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “101” as the variation pattern number regardless of the value of the obtained variation pattern determination random number value.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the high probability non-time shortened state in the second special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means).
In this table, the same variation pattern (variation time is about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds, for example) is set. In this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (non-reach variation pattern 102) is set. ) Is selected.

  Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “102” as the variation pattern number regardless of the value of the obtained variation pattern determination random number value.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process.
In this process, when the type of winning symbol determined in the previous step S2410 (big hit stop symbol number) is “9 round probability variation symbol” or “16 round probability variation symbol”, the main control CPU 72 displays the flag area of the RAM 76. A value (01H) is set to the stored probability variation function operation flag as a gaming state flag (high probability state transition means, probability variation function operation means, advantageous game state transition means).

  Also, in this process, when the winning symbol type (big hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is “9 round normal symbol”, the main control CPU 72 stores the gaming state stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. A value (01H) is set to the variable time shortening function operating flag as a flag (time shortening state transition means, variable time shortening function operating means).

  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. Similarly, the relationship between the big winning symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol at the time of small hitting is preliminarily defined in the special symbol selection table at small hitting (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.

[Winning pattern for small hits]
The winning symbol at the time of a small hit may be only one type of “one time opening small hit symbol”, and other types such as “two times opening small hit symbol” or “three times opening small hit symbol” You may prepare. The “small hit” as a result of the internal lottery is not an opportunity for the subsequent state to change to a “high probability state” or a “time shortening state”, so “2 rounds (2 The “one-time opening small hit symbol” can be provided without being bound by the definition of “more than once opening”.

  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 first special symbol or 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 reach variation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, or a variation pattern equivalent to that in the normal variation can be selected.

[Second special symbol small fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction / low probability time reduction state)]
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a second special symbol small hit hour variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening / low probability time shortening state).
This selection table is a table used for small hits in the low probability non-time shortening or low probability time shortening state in the second special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means).
In this table, the same variation pattern (variation time is a specified time (eg, a time of several minutes to several hours)) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (non-reach small) is set. The table configuration is used to select the hit variation pattern 201) (variation time defining means).

  Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “201” as the variation pattern number regardless of the value of the obtained variation pattern determination random number value.

[Second special symbol small fluctuation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortened state)]
FIG. 30 is a second special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduced state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of a small hit with the second special symbol in the high probability non-time shortened state (fluctuation pattern defining means).
In this table, the same variation pattern (variation time is about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds, for example) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (non-reach small hit variation pattern) is set. 202).

  Accordingly, the main control CPU 72 selects “202” as the variation pattern number regardless of the value of the obtained variation pattern determination random number value.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or 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.

  Step S2416: The main control CPU 72 executes a count-down counter value management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process for updating the value of the count-down counter value. Details of the process will be described later. Such a process may be executed in the special symbol stop display process.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000 or step S3900) as the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 14, Fig. 15: Special symbol change processing]
In the special symbol variation processing (step S3000 or step S3900), the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the variation timer set as described above from the register to the timer counter, and then passes the time (the number of clock pulses counted). Alternatively, the timer counter value is decremented according to the interrupt counter value). The main control CPU 72 controls the variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) to be controlled while referring to the value of the timer counter until the value becomes zero. When the value of the timer counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000 or step S4900) as the next jump destination.

  In addition, in this process, a determination process for determining whether or not to operate the skip function is also performed, and in the big hit determination or the small hit determination of the previous special symbol change pre-processing, one special symbol is in a change of deviation, and When it is determined that the other special symbol corresponds to the big hit or the small hit, the skip function is activated for the one special symbol. By operating the skip function, the change display of one special symbol is forcibly terminated.

[FIGS. 14 and 15: Special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 or step S4900), the main control CPU 72 uses the special symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (step S2092, step S2404, step S2407, step S2410 in FIG. 17). Control the stop display. 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.

  Here, the execution conditions of the big hit determination process (step S2300) and the small hit determination process (step S2302) will be briefly described.

[Internal lottery table]
FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an internal lottery correspondence table.
In the internal lottery correspondence table, the corresponding special symbol is executed based on the status of the other special symbol when the internal lottery big hit lottery (big hit determination processing) or small lottery lottery (small hit determination processing) is executed. It is shown that it is determined whether or not to do.

  When the other special symbol is “change in big hit (during change display when the big hit flag is 01H)”, the big win lottery and the small hit lottery are not executed in the internal lottery of the special symbol. Therefore, the result in the internal lottery of the special symbol corresponds to “out of”.

  Similarly, when the other special symbol is “change in small hits (displaying fluctuation when the small hit flag is 01H)”, in the internal lottery of the special symbol, the big hit lottery and the small hit lottery are Not executed. Therefore, the result in the internal lottery of the special symbol corresponds to “out of”. In the case of “change in small hits (during change display when the small hit flag is 01H)”, a method of executing the big hit lottery and the small hit lottery may be employed.

  On the other hand, if the other special symbol is “outside variation (change display when big hit flag or small hit flag is 00H)”, in the internal lottery of the special symbol, the big hit lottery is first executed, Therefore, if it does not correspond to the big hit, the small hit lottery is executed. Therefore, the result in the internal lottery of the special symbol corresponds to “big hit”, “small hit”, or “out of place”. It should be noted that the change in deviation includes waiting for change and a stop display.

  In this way, when one special symbol is “fluctuating big hit” or “fluctuating small hit”, the big special lottery or small lottery will not be executed in the other special symbol, Small hit games are not executed. That is, when one special symbol is “fluctuating big hit” or “fluctuating small hit”, the other special symbol is substantially in a lottery state of big hit or small hit.

[Counting counter value management processing]
FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the count-down counter value management process. Hereinafter, a description will be given according to a procedure example.

  Step S2420: The main control CPU 72 executes a process for loading the count cut counter value. In the “high probability state” and “time reduction state”, the “counting counter value” is set in the probability variation count region and the short time count region of the RAM 76, respectively. In the present embodiment, when shifting to the “high probability non-time shortening state”, the number cut counter relating to the high probability state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 10,000 times), but the number cut counter relating to the time shortening state is not set. . In addition, in the case of shifting to the “low probability time shortening state”, the number cut counter relating to the high probability state is not set, and the number cut counter relating to the time shortening state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times).

  Step S2422: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded 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 cut counter value is not 0 (No), after generating the count cut counter value command (time reduction count designation command, special count designation command, ST count designation command, etc.), the main control CPU 72 Step S2424 is executed.

Step S2424: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the count-down counter value.
Step S2426: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is zero. As a result of the subtraction, when the value of the number cut counter is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes Step S2428. On the other hand, when the value of the number cut counter is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 17).

  Step S2428: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of resetting a flag when the number cut function is activated. In the present embodiment, when shifting to the “high probability non-time shortening state”, the count-off counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 10,000 times). Only the probability variation function activation flag. Further, when shifting to the “low probability time shortening state”, the count-off counter relating to the time shortening state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times). Only the activation flag.

  When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 17).

[Special symbol memory area shift processing]
FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. The contents of the special symbol storage area shift process can be common to the first special symbol process and the second special symbol process. However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol, the control target is the second special symbol. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2210: First, the main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 corresponding to the special symbol to be controlled. The details of the specific process are as described in the previous special symbol change pre-process.

  Step S2212: Also, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the special symbol to be controlled. For example, if the special symbol to be controlled is the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol, and the special symbol to be controlled is the second special symbol. If so, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2214: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the “number of operating memories at the start of change” for the special symbol to be controlled from the value of the operating memory counter after the subtraction.

  Step S2216: Also, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories regarding the special symbol to be controlled. 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 preceding value (for example, “BBH”) indicating the command type, and the value of the lower bytes (for example, “00H” to “03H” indicating the number of operating memories after the decrease. )) 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. That is, if the lower byte of the command is “13H”, it means that the previous working memory number “4” (command notation is “14H”) is decreased by 1, so that the current working memory number 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 “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol. If the control target is the second special symbol, the preceding value is a value (for example, “BCH”) indicating that it is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2218: The main control CPU 72 executes effect command output processing. This process is for transmitting an effect command for reducing the number of working memories for the special symbol to be controlled set in the previous step S2216 to the effect control device 124 (memory number notifying means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 17).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol changing process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure. The contents of the special symbol changing process described below can be made common in the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) and the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol game process, the control target is the second special symbol.

  Step S3100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the variation timer for the special symbol to be controlled (decrements the value corresponding to the interrupt cycle).

  Step S3200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the variation timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the variation timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the variation 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 S1000b in FIG. 14 or step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the next interrupt cycle to perform the special symbol variation display process. Repeatedly.

  On the other hand, if the value of the variation timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the variation display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S3300.

  Step S3300: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a value (01H) is set in the jackpot flag for the special symbol to be controlled. When the value (01H) is set in the big hit flag (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S3400. On the other hand, when the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15).

  Step S3400: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the other special symbol is being variably displayed. Is this confirmation process necessary to activate the skip function for the other special symbol (forcibly end the deviation of the other special symbol) when the fluctuation display at the time of the big hit of the target special symbol ends? It is executed to confirm whether or not. When it is confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S3500, assuming that the skip function needs to be activated for the other special symbol. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (No), the other special symbol is not displayed in a variable manner and it is not necessary to operate the skip function. S3600 is executed.

  Step S3500: The main control CPU 72 executes processing for operating the skip function for the other special symbol. That is, the main control CPU 72 executes a process for ending the variable display related to the other special symbol. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets 0 to the value of the variation timer for the other special symbol.

  Step S3600: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol variation end process. In this process, when the variable display of the special symbol to be controlled is terminated, a value (01H) is set to the special symbol stop display flag of the special symbol in the RAM 76. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 or S4900) as the next jump destination. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15).

Here, the big hit lottery probability and the small hit lottery probability of the gaming machine of this embodiment are set as follows.
For example, the big hit probability when the gaming state is the normal state (the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is low) is set to about 1/319. In addition, the jackpot probability when the gaming state is the advantageous state (the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is a high probability state) is set to about 1/50. The small hit probability is defined according to the type of the special symbol regardless of the gaming state, and since the first special symbol has no small hit, there is no small hit probability. On the other hand, the small hit probability of the second special symbol is set to about 1/1. For this reason, the setting of the second special symbol lottery is more likely to correspond to a small hit than the first special symbol lottery (winning type defining means).

[Skip function and variable time measurement pause function]
Hereinafter, in the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35, the skip function for forcibly stopping the variable display halfway and the measurement of the variation time of the first special symbol display device 34 are temporarily stopped. The function will be specifically described.

FIG. 35 is a timing chart showing changes in the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.
Among these, (A) in FIG. 35 shows “an example in which the skip function and the variation time measurement pause function are not activated”, and the first special symbol corresponds to the detachment while the second special symbol is displaying the fluctuation at the time of the big hit. 6 is a timing chart showing changes in each variation display when the skip function and the variation time measurement pause function are not activated when the variation display is started.

  Further, (B) in FIG. 35 shows an “actual example of fluctuation time measurement temporary stop function operation”. While the second special symbol is in the fluctuation display at the time of the small hit, the first special symbol is in the fluctuation display corresponding to the loss. 6 is a timing chart showing changes in each variation display when the variation time measurement pause function is activated when the operation is started.

  Furthermore, (C) in FIG. 35 shows a “skip function operation example”, in the case where the first special symbol starts a variable display corresponding to the big hit while the second special symbol is in the variable display at the time of losing. FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing changes in each variable display at each time when the skip function is activated. The skip function and the variation time measurement pause function will be described by taking the timing charts (A) to (C) as examples.

[(A) in FIG. 35: Examples of non-operation of each function]
The state of each special symbol at the time t0 indicates that the first special symbol is in a variation waiting state, and the second special symbol is in a variable display during a big hit.

  Then, at time t1, an internal lottery regarding the first special symbol is executed in response to the game ball winning at the start winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, and the first special symbol is based on the result of the internal lottery. The display device 34 starts the variable display. Here, since the second special symbol is being displayed during the big hit, the big lottery and the small hit lottery are not performed in the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol. Accordingly, the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a loss. In the example shown in the drawing, the result of the internal lottery relating to the first special symbol is selected as a result (non-winning), the fluctuation time relating to the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the fluctuation display ends at time t2. Has been done. Specifically, the time from time t1 to time t2 is set in the variation timer related to the first special symbol. The variation timer represents a time during which the variation display can be performed. The variation timer is subtracted from the variation timer by the time when the variation display is performed, and the variation display ends when the variation timer becomes zero.

  Next, at time t2, since the variation timer related to the first special symbol has become 0, the variation display regarding the first special symbol is terminated, and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the loss. In addition, since the result of the internal lottery regarding the 1st special symbol stopped and displayed is non-winning, a skip function does not operate | move with respect to a 2nd special symbol here. Therefore, the variable display regarding the second special symbol is continued. That is, the variation timer for the second special symbol (at the time of big hit) is not replaced.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, even when a game ball wins a start winning opening related to the other special symbol during the fluctuation display of one special symbol at the time of big hit (or even small hit), the other special symbol Of the internal lottery related to symbols, the big hit lottery is not executed. In other words, when one of the special symbols is being displayed during the big hit, the other special symbol is in a no lottery state.

[(B) in FIG. 35: Example of operation of temporary stop function for variation time measurement]
The state of each special symbol at time t0 indicates that the first special symbol is in a waiting state for change, and the second special symbol is in a variable display at the time of a small hit.

  Then, at time t1, an internal lottery regarding the first special symbol is executed in response to the game ball winning at the start winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, and the first special symbol is based on the result of the internal lottery. The display device 34 starts the variable display. Here, since the second special symbol is being displayed in the fluctuation at the time of the small hit, the big lottery or the small hit lottery is not executed in the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol. Accordingly, the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a loss. In the example shown in the figure, the disparity is selected as a result of the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol, the variation time regarding the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the variation display is set to end at time t2. Yes. Specifically, the time from time t1 to time t2 is set in the variation timer related to the first special symbol. The variation timer represents a time during which the variation display can be performed. The variation timer is subtracted from the variation timer by the time when the variation display is performed, and the variation display ends when the variation timer becomes zero.

  However, here, it is assumed that at the time tx, which is the time between the times t1 and t2, the fluctuation at the time of the small hit of the second special symbol is completed. If it does so, the small hit game regarding a 2nd special symbol will be performed after the time tx. Here, it is assumed that a small hit game is executed from time tx to time t2. Then, the fluctuation time measurement pause function is activated, and the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is paused. And the measurement of the remaining fluctuation time is restarted when the small hit game is ended at time t2.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, even if a game ball wins the starting winning opening relating to the other special symbol during the change display at the time of the small hit in one special symbol, of the internal lottery relating to the other special symbol The big hit lottery and the small hit lottery are not executed. Then, when the small hit game with one special symbol is started, the measurement of the variation time of the other special symbol is temporarily stopped, and then the measurement of the variation time of the other special symbol is resumed after the small hit game is finished. The Note that a big hit lottery may be performed during the small hit fluctuation.

[(C) in FIG. 35: Skip function operation example]
The state of each special symbol at time t0 indicates that the first special symbol is in a variation waiting state and the second special symbol is in a variable display at the time of detachment.

  Then, at time t1, an internal lottery regarding the first special symbol is executed in response to the game ball winning at the start winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, and the first special symbol is based on the result of the internal lottery. The display device 34 starts the variable display. Here, since the variation display at the time of the second special symbol being lost is being performed, the big win lottery is first executed in the internal lottery relating to the first special symbol, and the small hit lottery is performed when it does not correspond to the big win. That is, the first special symbol indicates that the big hit lottery can be executed. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a big hit, a small hit or a loss. In addition, when the small hit is not selected in the first special symbol lottery, the big hit or the loss corresponds. In the illustrated example, the jackpot is selected as a result of the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol, the variation time regarding the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the variation display is set to end at time t2. Yes. Specifically, the time from time t1 to time t2 is set in the variation timer related to the first special symbol. The variation timer represents a time during which the variation display can be performed. The variation timer is subtracted from the variation timer by the time when the variation display is performed, and the variation display ends when the variation timer becomes zero.

  Next, at time t2, since the variation timer related to the first special symbol becomes 0, the variation display regarding the first special symbol is finished, and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the big hit. Since the result of the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol that has been stopped is a big hit, and the variation display regarding the second special symbol is being executed, the skip function is activated. Then, by the operation of the skip function, the fluctuation display at the time of loss or small hitting regarding the second special symbol is terminated (forced termination means). Specifically, the variation timer for the second special symbol is replaced with 0. Therefore, the set fluctuation time is skipped. Unlike the operation example of FIG. 35 (B), the fluctuation display at the time of the deviation regarding the skipped second special symbol is not executed again.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when a game ball wins a start winning opening relating to the other special symbol while one of the special symbols is displayed during fluctuation display, in the internal lottery relating to the other special symbol, the big win lottery or small A winning lottery is executed. That is, when one of the special symbols is not being displayed in the fluctuation display at the time of big hit or small hit, it represents that the big special lottery or the small hit lottery is possible for the other special symbol. For example, as described above, when the game ball is won at the start winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol when the second special symbol is being displayed in the variation state or when the second special symbol is waiting for variation, Of the internal lottery related to special symbols, the big hit lottery is executed first, and then the small hit lottery is executed. In addition, during the display of fluctuation at the time of loss or small hit for one special symbol (second special symbol), the display of fluctuation for the big hit for the other special symbol (first special symbol) was started and ended after the fluctuation time had elapsed. In this case, the variable display of the one special symbol (second special symbol) is skipped, and the variable display can be forcibly terminated.

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 in FIG. 14 or step S4900 in FIG. 15). Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure. The contents of the special symbol stop display processing described below can also be made common in the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process. That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol game process, the control target is the second special symbol.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer for the special symbol to be controlled (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 S1000c in FIG. 14 or step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the next interrupt cycle to perform the special symbol stop display processing. Repeatedly.

  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: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set.

  Step S4603: When it is confirmed that the value (01H) of the small hit flag is set (step S4300: Yes), the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol is being variably displayed. To do. This confirmation process is performed in order to confirm whether or not it is necessary to activate the variation time measurement pause function for the other special symbol as the variation display at the time of the small hit of the target special symbol ends. Executed.

  If it is confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next determines that it is necessary to activate the variable time measurement pause function for the other special symbol, step S4604a. And step S4604b is performed. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (No), the other special symbol is not displayed in a variable manner, and the main control CPU 72 assumes that it is not necessary to activate the variable time measurement pause function. Next, step S4605 is executed.

  Step S4604a: The main control CPU 72 executes processing for operating the variation time measurement pause function for the other special symbol, that is, processing for saving variation information of the other special symbol. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 stores the current variation timer value (remaining variation time value) and stop symbol information in the RAM 76 in order to temporarily stop the variation time measurement of the first special symbol. Execute the save process.

  Step S4604b: The main control CPU 72 executes a process for turning on the variable time measurement pause flag stored in the RAM 76 (fluctuation time measurement pause means). Thereby, it will be in the situation where measurement of fluctuation time is being suspended.

  Step S4605: The main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process at the time of small hits as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “start a small hit (during a small hit game)” as an internal state flag for control for the special symbol to be controlled. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that a small hit game is being played for the special symbol to be controlled. 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.

  Step S4600: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks 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 for “special symbol to be controlled” to “big winning variable variable winning device management process”. The main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation in this processing. Specifically, the probability variation function is deactivated and the variation time shortening function is deactivated. Thereby, before the special game (big player) is started, the state is shifted to the low probability non-time shortening state.

  Step S4400: Then, 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. For example, when the type of jackpot symbol is “16 round probability variation symbol”, a value corresponding to “16 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status. In addition, when the type of the jackpot symbol is “9 round normal symbol” or “9 round probability variation symbol”, a value indicating “9 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the jackpot is being hit for the special symbol to be controlled. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S4500: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). For example, when the type of jackpot symbol is “16 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “16 rounds”. When the type of jackpot symbol is “9 round normal symbol” or “9 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “9 rounds”. 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 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, in the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set (No), it next executes step S4600.
If the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set and is simply a deviation (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.

  Then, when the process of step S4500, step S4602 or step S4606 is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process (FIG. 14 or FIG. 15).

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) 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, the second, as already described. Generate and output drive signals to be applied to the LEDs of the special 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 to do.

  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 probability variation state display lamp 38d and the time reduction state display lamp 38e, respectively, according to the value of the probability variation function activation flag or the variation time shortening function activation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability variation state display lamp 38d. The probability variation state display lamp 38d continues to be lit until the jackpot game related to the special symbol is started or until the probability variation function is turned off after the special symbol variation display has been performed a predetermined number of times. The display can be switched (off). On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the variable time shortening function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 lights up the LED corresponding to the short time state display lamp 38e regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Output a signal. Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the launch position designation lamp 38f in accordance with the special game management status. In this case, the main control CPU 72 determines the launch direction of the game ball according to the progress of the game (a value such as a special game management status or an internal state) (launch direction determining means). For example, when the gaming state is a left-handed gaming state (when it is a low probability non-time shortened state, when it is a low probability time shortened state, or when it is a big hit gaming state using the first variable winning device 30), the main control The CPU 72 determines that a game ball should be launched into the first game area (left-handed area). On the other hand, when the gaming state is a right-handed gaming state (when it is a high probability non-time shortening state, when it is a big hit gaming state or a small hit gaming state using the second variable winning device 31), the main control CPU 72 Determines that a game ball should be launched into the second game area (right-handed area). When the main control CPU 72 determines that the gaming state is a right-handed gaming state, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process for generating a launch position designation command. The firing position designation command includes information for identifying whether the gaming state is a left-handed gaming state or whether the gaming state is a right-handed gaming state. The generated launch position designation command is transmitted to the effect control device.

  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)”. If the value of the continuous operation count status specifies “9 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38 a representing “9 rounds (9R)”.

[Variable winning device management process for big hits]
Next, details of the big win variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 38 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the big win variable winning device management process. The jackpot variable winning device management process includes a jackpot gaming process selection process (step S5100), a jackpot big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a jackpot big winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), and a big hit big This is a configuration including a subroutine group of a winning opening closing process (step S5400) and a big hit end process (step S5500).

  Step S5100: In the big hit 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 big win 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 been started yet, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit time big winning opening opening pattern setting process as the next jump destination. (Step S5200) is selected. On the other hand, if the big hit special prize opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the big hit special prize opening / closing operation processing (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and the big hit special prize opening / closing operation is performed. If the operation process has been completed, the big hit special prize closing process (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the big hit big prize opening / closing operation process and the big hit big prize opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 performs the big hit end process ( Step S5500) is selected. Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process for big hits]
FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a big winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened / closed and the time of each opening at the time of a big hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a design-specific release pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning pattern opening pattern (number of times of opening for each round and the time of each opening), the interval time between rounds, and the number of counts in one round (maximum) according to the current winning symbol. Select the number of wins. The opening pattern of the big winning opening for each winning symbol and the interval time between rounds are as described in the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG.

  Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current jackpot game based on the winning symbol selected in the big jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). Specifically, if the large category “16-round probability variation symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to sixteen. If “9 round normal symbol” or “9 round probability variation symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to nine. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76, for example, as a corresponding value on the program (“8” for 9 times, “15” for 16 times).

  Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit opening timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern operation pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the opening time of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31. If a time of about 20.0 to 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the big hit opening timer, the opening time is sufficient to easily enter the big prize opening during one opening. Time (for example, a time when 10 or more game balls are fired by the firing control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if the value of the big-hit opening timer is set to 0.1 seconds, the opening time hardly occurs (it becomes difficult) even if it is not possible to enter the big winning opening during one opening. ) A short time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than a game ball firing interval by the firing control board set 174).

  Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit interval timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the waiting time between rounds of big hits.

  Step S5212: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big win time big winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the big win time variable winning device management processing (FIG. 38).

[Big prize opening and closing operation processing at big hit]
FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the big winning prize opening / closing operation process for the big hit. This process is for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of big hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5301: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the big prize winning interval timer is counting down. Specifically, it is possible to confirm whether or not the big prize opening interval timer is counting down by checking whether or not the big prize opening interval timer set in the following step S5314 is already operating. it can.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the big prize winning interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes Step S5314. On the other hand, if it is not possible to confirm that the big prize opening interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5302.

  Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the first big prize opening 30b or the second big prize opening 31b. Specifically, a drive signal to be applied to the first big prize opening solenoid 90 or the second big prize opening solenoid 97 is output based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. Thereby, the 1st variable winning device 30 or the 2nd variable winning device 31 operates, and it shifts from a closed state to an open state.

  Step S5303: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous big hit time big opening opening pattern setting process (step S5208 in FIG. 39) is executed.

  Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the big winning opening opening time has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5308. Execute.

  Step S5308: 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 or the second variable winning device 31 (the first large winning port 30b or the second large winning port 31b 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 first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 within the opening time.

  Step S5310: Next, 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 big win time variable winning device management process (FIG. 38). Next, when the big win variable winning device management process is executed, since the jump destination is set to the big win big prize opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 performs the procedure of the above steps S5301 to S5310. Run repeatedly.

  If it is determined in step S5306 that the special winning opening opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5310 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5312. Run.

  Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 closes the first big prize opening 30b or the second big prize opening 31b. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first big prize opening solenoid 90 or the second big prize opening solenoid 97 is stopped. Thereby, the 1st variable winning device 30 or the 2nd variable winning device 31 shifts from an open state to a closed state.

  Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an interval timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a countdown of the big winning opening interval timer set in the big hit big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 in FIG. 39).

  Step S5315: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the big winning opening interval time has ended. Specifically, it is checked whether or not the value of the big prize opening interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. The CPU 72 returns to the end address of the variable winning device management process (FIG. 38) for the big hit. Then, when the jackpot big winning opening / closing operation processing is executed in the next call, the process jumps from the top step S5301 and immediately executes step S5314. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the big prize winning interval timer after the countdown process has become 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes Step S5318.

  Step S5318: 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 S5320: 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 number of times set in the current round” is determined, for example, “the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened a plurality of times within one round of big hit” This is to cope with the open pattern. In the present embodiment, for example, such an open pattern is adopted in the sixth round in the case of corresponding to either “9 round normal symbol” or “9 round probability variation symbol”. Up to the round, the “number of times set in the current round” is set once for each round. Therefore, since the counter value reaches the set number of times by one opening and closing operation in the first to fifth rounds when it corresponds to either “9 round normal symbol” or “9 round probability variation symbol” (Yes), The main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

  On the other hand, the 6th round, which corresponds to either “9 round normal symbol” or “9 round probability variation symbol”, adopts a pattern that repeats multiple opening / closing operations within one round, so it is released once. At the end, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the big win variable winning device management process, since the jump destination is set to the big win big prize opening / closing operation process at this stage, the procedure from step S5301 to step S5320 is performed. Run repeatedly. As a result, the increment of the number-of-releases counter proceeds in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning big prize opening closing process, and returns to the big hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 38). Then, when the big win time variable winning device management process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next executes a big hit time big winning opening closing process.

[Closing the big prize at the big hit]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the big winning prize closing closing process. This big winning time big 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 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.

  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 number of execution rounds (1 to 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 hit big prize opening / closing operation process.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the big win variable winning device management process (FIG. 38).

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the big hit variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 in the big hit game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 38), the big jump time big winning opening / closing operation process is the next jump destination. Execute. Then, after the execution of the jackpot big winning opening opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the big hit big winning opening closing process again, and the above steps S5402 to S5408 are executed. Run repeatedly. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is continuously executed until the actual round number reaches the set execution round number (9 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 big hit end processing.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the big win variable winning device management process (FIG. 38). As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the jackpot variable winning device management process, the jackpot end process is selected this time.

[End processing at jackpot]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the big hit end processing. This big-hit end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of the big hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5501: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit end time timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an initial value for the jackpot end time timer, and then counts down the timer as time elapses (each time this module is called).

  Step S5502: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the big hit end time has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the big hit end time timer is not yet 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the big hit end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 ends this module and returns to the big win variable winning device management process (FIG. 38).

  Thereafter, when the value of the big hit time end timer becomes 0 with the passage of time, the main control CPU 72 determines that the big hit time end time has passed (Yes), and executes step S5503 and subsequent steps.

  Step S5503, Step S5504: 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 declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control processing. The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation number status.

  Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5508: When a value is set in the probability variation function operation flag (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of times of certain variation (for example, 10,000 times). The set value of the probability variation number is stored, for example, in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76, and becomes the above-described number cut counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the variation of the special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in subsequent games. In the present embodiment, since there is no substantial upper limit for the high probability state, the probability that the probability variation number is subtracted to 0 is low. If the value of the probability variation function activation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508.

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

  Step S5512: If a value is set in the variable time shortening function activation flag (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time reductions (for example, 100 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. If the value of the variable time shortening function activation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

  Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on various flags. 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. In addition, if the probability variation function activation flag is set, a state designation command indicating “high probability” is generated as the internal state, and if the variation time reduction function activation flag is set, the time is reduced as the internal state. A state designation command representing “medium” is generated. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

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

  Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14, step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol variation pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 38).

[Variable winning device management process for small hits]
Next, details of the small winning time variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the small winning hour variable winning device management process. The small winning time prize winning device management process includes a small winning game process selection process (step S6100), a small winning time big prize opening opening pattern setting process (step S6200), and a small hitting big prize opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300). The sub-group includes a subroutine group of a small winning big prize opening closing process (step S6400) and a small winning end process (step S6500).

  Step S6100: In the small hit game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects a jump destination of a process to be executed next (any one of steps S6200 to S6500). 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 small winning hour 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 second variable winning device 31 has not yet started, the main control CPU 72 selects the small winning big opening opening pattern setting process (step S6200) as the next jump destination. To do. On the other hand, if the small winning big winning opening opening pattern setting processing has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the small winning big winning opening opening / closing operation processing (step S6300) as the next jump destination, If the winning opening / closing operation processing has been completed, the small winning big winning opening closing process (step S6400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the small hitting big winning opening opening / closing operation process and the small hitting big winning opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 performs the small hitting end process (step) as the next jump destination. S6500) is selected. Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Big winning opening opening pattern setting process for small hits]
FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for the small winning big opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed at the time of a small hit and the time for each opening. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S6212: The main control CPU 72 sets a “small hit opening pattern”. In this embodiment, a “small hit opening pattern” corresponding to the winning symbol is set. For example, when the two-time release pattern is selected, a release pattern of “0.8 second release” is set for the first time and the second time. Since “small hit” has no concept of “round”, “open pattern” is also expressed as “first open” and “second open”.

  Step S6214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times of opening of the big prize opening to, for example, two based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S6212. The number of releases set here is stored in a buffer area of the RAM 76, for example.

  Step S6216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting release timer. The timer value set here is an opening time per operation when the second variable winning device 31 is operated.

  Step S6218: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting interval timer. The timer value set here is a waiting time for each time when the second variable prize-winning device 31 is opened and closed several times at the time of a small hit, but this timer value is displayed on the upper surface of the opening and closing member 31a. Is set to a time (for example, about 2 seconds) enough to line up without gaps.

  Step S6220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small winning big prize opening / closing operation processing and returns to the small winning variable winning device management process (FIG. 43). The main control CPU 72 then executes a small winning big prize opening / closing operation process (step S6300).

[Large winning opening and closing operation processing for small hits]
FIG. 45 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of a small winning big prize opening / closing operation process. This process is for controlling the opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a small hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S6301: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the interval timer is counting down. Specifically, it can be confirmed whether or not the interval timer is counting down by confirming whether or not the interval timer set in the following step S6314 is already operating.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes Step S6314. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6302.

  Step S6302: The main control CPU 72 opens the second big prize winning 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.

  Step S6304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous small hitting big opening opening pattern setting process (step S6216 in FIG. 44) is executed.

  Step S6306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6308. Execute.

  Step S6308: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the second variable winning device 31 (the second large winning opening 31b 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.

  Step S6310: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms 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 opening at the time of a small hit) as described above. If the count number has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the small winning time variable winning device management process (FIG. 43). Next, when the small winning hour variable winning device management process is executed, since the jump destination is set to the small winning big prize opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 performs the above steps S6301 to S6310. Repeat the procedure.

  If it is determined in step S6306 that the opening time has expired (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S6310 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S6312.

  Step S6312: The main control CPU 72 closes the second big prize winning 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.

  Step S6314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an interval timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the count-down of the interval timer set in the above-mentioned small hitting big prize opening opening pattern setting process (step S6218 in FIG. 44).

  Step S6315: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the interval time has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the interval timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 can change the small hit time. Return to the end address of the winning device management process (FIG. 43). Then, when the small winning big prize opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, the process jumps from the top step S6301 and immediately executes step S6314. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the interval timer after the countdown process has become 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6316.

  Step S6316: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small winning big prize opening closing process, and returns to the small winning variable winning device management process (FIG. 43). Next, when the small winning hour variable winning device management process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next executes a small hitting big prize opening closing process.

[Closed big prize opening closing process]
FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the small winning big prize opening closing process. The small winning big winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the second variable winning device 31 or terminating the operation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S6412: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter.

  Step S6414: 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 S6214 in FIG. 44). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6416.

Step S6416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big hit prize opening / closing operation process.
Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the small hitting time variable winning device management process (FIG. 43).

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs a small winning game big opening / closing operation process in the small jump game process selection process (step S6100 in FIG. 43). Execute. After executing the small winning big prize opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 again executes the small winning big prize opening closing process until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of opening times (two times). The opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 is repeatedly executed.

  When the actual number of times of opening at the time of the small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S6414: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6418.

  Step S6418, Step S6420: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets the release number counter (= 0), it sets the next jump destination to the small hit end processing.

  Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the small hitting time variable winning device management process (FIG. 43). As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the small hitting end process is selected this time.

[End processing for small hits]
FIG. 47 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the small hit end processing. This small hitting end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the second variable winning device 31 at the small hitting. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S6502: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting end time timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an initial value for the small hitting end time timer, and then counts down the timer as time elapses (each time this module is called).

  Step S6504: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the small hitting end time has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the small hitting end time timer is not yet 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the small hitting end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 ends the present module and returns to the small winning time variable winning device management process (FIG. 43).

  Thereafter, when the value of the small hitting end time timer becomes 0 with the passage of time, the main control CPU 72 determines that the small hitting end time has elapsed (Yes), and executes step S6506 and subsequent steps.

  Step S6506, Step S6508: The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H), and erases “in the small hit game” from the internal state flag to end the small hit game. 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 S6510: After the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the small winning big opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S6512: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14 and step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol variation pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the small winning time variable winning device management process.

[Game Flow (Part 1)]
FIG. 48 is a diagram for explaining a game flow that is developed when the “9 round normal symbol” or “9 round probability variation symbol” is met in the normal mode.

  When a game is started with the pachinko machine 1, the game is started from [F1] normal mode. [F1] In the “normal mode”, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is “low probability state”, and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is “low probability state”. As described above, since the [F1] normal mode is in the “low probability non-time shortened state”, the first special symbol starts to change and the game is started by causing the game ball to enter the upper start winning opening 26. Progress.

  [F1] In normal mode, when [F2] “9 round normal symbol” big win is won, [F3] 9 round big hit game (battle bonus) is executed, [F4] defeated in the battle of big role production [F5] Transition to the coast mode.

[F5] In the coast mode, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is “low probability state”, and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is “high probability state” (low probability time shortening state). [F5] In the coast mode, when the winning result is not obtained, [F6] When the special symbol fluctuates 100 times, [F1] shifts to the normal mode.
In the [F5] coast mode, the first special symbol mainly fluctuates, so the game flow is the same as in the normal mode.

  [F1] In normal mode, when [F7] “9 round probable variation” is won, [F3] 9 round jackpot game (battle bonus) is executed and [F8] wins the battle of the big role [F9] Move to the fireworks rush. [F9] In the fireworks rush, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is “high probability state”, and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is “low probability state” (high probability non-time shortened state).

  Although not shown in particular, [F1] When the “16 round probability variation symbol” big hit is hit in the normal mode, the 16 round big hit game is executed, and [F9] fireworks rush is entered.

[Game Flow (Part 2)]
FIG. 49 is a diagram for explaining a game flow developed when the fireworks rush corresponds to “16 round probability variation symbol”, “9 round probability variation symbol”, or “9 round normal symbol”.

  [F9] Fireworks Rush [G1] If you win the “16 Round Probability Variation” jackpot, [G2] 16 rounds jackpot game (special bonus) will be executed, and after the jackpot game ends, move to [F9] Fireworks Rush To do.

  [F9] Fireworks rush [G3] If you win the big hit of “9 rounds probable symbol” [G4] 9 rounds big win game (normal bonus) is executed, after the big hit game is over, move to [F9] Fireworks rush To do.

  [F9] In the fireworks rush, [G5] When winning the “9 round normal symbol” big hit, [G4] A 9 round big hit game (normal bonus) is executed, and after the big hit game ends, [F5] Transition to coast mode To do.

  Note that the above game flow shows an example of a typical game flow, and does not cover all of the game flow.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 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. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 executes a variable display effect using an effect symbol or the like.

  The effect designs include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). ). Each effect design is a design of a picture card with a character attached together with the numbers “1” to “9”, for example. Here, the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol all constitute a symbol row in which the numbers are arranged in descending order of “9” to “1”. Such a symbol sequence is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left region, middle region, and right region on the screen.

FIG.50 and FIG.51 is a continuous figure which shows the example of an effect in the fireworks rush of embodiment.
In the following figure, an example of the effect on the liquid crystal display screen and the state of the game ball in the vicinity of the right start winning opening 27, the deceleration passage 200, and the second variable winning device 31 are shown.

  In FIG. 50, (A): Small hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush is executed. The first special symbol is in a stopped state.

  In the fireworks rush, you play right-handed. The right-handed game ball may enter the right start winning opening 27 or may enter the deceleration path 200 without entering the right start winning opening 27. All the game balls that have passed through the deceleration path 200 go to the second variable winning device 31. Here, since the second variable winning device 31 is in the closed state, the game ball rolls on the opening / closing member 31a and goes downstream.

  (B) in FIG. 50: The small hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush has ended. When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, the effect design and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed in the small hit mode on the liquid crystal screen ("7"-"special effect symbol"-"5 "). The special effect design is an effect design that is stopped and displayed at the time of a small hit, and is an effect design in which an animal character is displayed large. In addition, when the first special symbol is changing at the time of stopping the small hit, the measurement of the variation time of the first special symbol can be interrupted or the first special symbol can be stopped in an off mode. .

  Further, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, the small hit game is started. When the small hit game is started, the second variable prize-winning device 31 is in an open state when the opening / closing member 31a is drawn back. For this reason, the game ball passes through the side of the opening / closing member 31 a and enters the second big winning opening 31 b, and the second count switch 85 detects the entered ball.

  In FIG. 51 (C): jackpot fluctuation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush is executed. The first special symbol is in a stopped state.

  The right-handed game ball may enter the right start winning opening 27 or may enter the deceleration path 200 without entering the right start winning opening 27. All the game balls that have passed through the deceleration path 200 go to the second variable winning device 31. Here, since the second variable winning device 31 is in the closed state, the game ball rolls on the opening / closing member 31a and goes downstream.

  (D) in FIG. 52: The big hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush has ended. When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a jackpot manner, the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed in a jackpot manner on the liquid crystal screen ("9"-"Big jack effect symbol"-"1" ). The jackpot effect symbol is an effect symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of the jackpot, and is an effect symbol in which an animal character carrying a V mark is displayed in large size. After this, a big hit game corresponding to the winning symbol is executed. If the first special symbol is changing when the big hit is stopped, the measurement of the variation time of the first special symbol can be interrupted, or the first special symbol can be stopped in an off-state.

  Further, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big hit mode, the big hit game is started. For example, when a big hit game corresponding to a 16-round probability variation symbol is started, the second variable prize-winning device 31 enters an open state by the retracting of the opening / closing member 31a. For this reason, the game ball passes through the side of the opening / closing member 31 a and enters the second big winning opening 31 b, and the second count switch 85 detects the entered ball.

FIG. 52 is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect in the fireworks rush of the comparative example.
In the following figure, an example of the effect on the liquid crystal display screen and the state of the game ball in the vicinity of the right start winning opening 27, the deceleration passage 200, and the second variable winning device 31 are shown.

  In the above-described embodiment, the arrangement relationship is “right start winning port 27 → deceleration passage 200 → second variable winning device 31” from upstream to downstream in the right-handed region, but in the comparative example, in the right-handed region, From upstream to downstream, the arrangement relationship is “deceleration passage 200 → right start winning port 27 → second variable winning device 31”.

  In addition, since the gaming machine of the comparative example is a gaming machine equipped with a probability variation area, the arrangement of the first variable winning device 30 and the internal structure of the second variable winning device 31 are those of the embodiment described above. It is a little different.

  In FIG. 52 (A): the small hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush is executed. The first special symbol is in a stopped state.

  In the fireworks rush, you play right-handed. The game ball that has been hit to the right first enters the deceleration passage 200. Then, the game ball that has passed through the deceleration path 200 may enter the right start winning port 27 or may go to the second variable winning device 31 without entering the right start winning port 27. Here, since the first variable winning device 30 is in the closed state, the game ball passes through the front of the first variable winning device 30 and travels downstream. Moreover, since the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31 is also a closed state, a game ball rolls on the opening-and-closing member 31a, and goes downstream.

  (B) in FIG. 52: The small hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush has ended. When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed in the small hit mode on the liquid crystal screen ("7"-"special effect symbol"-" 5 ").

  Further, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, the small hit game is started. When the small hit game is started, the second variable prize-winning device 31 enters an open state when the open / close member 31a is raised. For this reason, the game ball is guided by the opening / closing member 31 a and enters the second big winning opening 31 b, and the second count switch 85 detects the ball entry.

FIG. 53 is a diagram for explaining the arrangement of the right start winning port 27 and the like in the embodiment and the arrangement of the right start winning port 27 and the like in the comparative example.
In the embodiment and the comparative example, it is assumed that 100 game balls are hit right.
In the embodiment and the comparative example, when 100 game balls are hit to the right, 25 game balls are set to enter the right start winning opening 27.

Embodiment
As shown in FIG. 53A, in the configuration of the embodiment, when 100 game balls are hit to the right, 25 game balls enter the right start winning opening 27 and 75 game balls. Enters the deceleration path 200, and all of the 75 game balls released from the deceleration path 200 go to the second variable winning device 31.

  Thus, in the configuration of the embodiment, all of the 75 game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 are directed to the second variable winning device 31. For this reason, it is possible to give the player an impression that the game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 are directed to the second variable winning device 31 at a rate of approximately 100%.

[Comparative example]
As shown in FIG. 53 (B), in the configuration of the comparative example, when 100 game balls are hit to the right, 100 game balls enter the deceleration passage 200 and are released from the deceleration passage 200. Of these, 25 game balls enter the right start winning opening 27 and 75 game balls go to the second variable winning device 31.

  Thus, in the configuration of the comparative example, only 75 of the 100 game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 are directed to the second variable winning device 31. For this reason, the player is given an impression that the game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 are directed to the second variable winning device 31 only at a rate of 75%, which is lower than approximately 100%.

  When comparing the configuration of the example and the configuration of the comparative example, the number of game balls entering the right start winning opening 27 is 25, and the number of game balls heading toward the second variable winning device 31 Both are 75 pieces. For this reason, there is no difference in the winning rates to the right start winning opening 27 and the second variable winning device 31.

  However, in this embodiment, the number of game balls that enter the right start winning opening 27 and the number of game balls that go to the second variable prize-winning device 31 are set in the same manner as in the configuration of the comparative example, and a fixed winning rate is obtained. While maintaining the game, many game balls are directed toward the second variable winning device 31 (the game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 are in the open state if the second variable winning device 31 is in the open state). There is an effect that it is possible to give an impression that the second variable winning device 31 is awarded at a rate of 100%.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The various effects described above are all controlled through the following control process.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing 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 command reception process (step S400), working memory effect management process (step S401), effect symbol management process (step S402), display output process (step S404), lamp driving process (step S406), and acoustic driving. This includes a subroutine group of processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). 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 figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when the working memory number increases, an effect command when the working memory number decreases, a start opening winning sound control command, and a demonstration effect. Command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, state designation command, round number command, number cut counter value command, variation pattern destination determination command, stop display time end command, firing position designation command, etc. is there.

  Step S401: In the action memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 executes the memory display effect using the markers M1, M2, etc. while referring to the effect command when the action memory number is increased, the effect command when the action memory number is decreased, and the like. Control.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and stop display effect using the effect symbol and the fourth symbol based on the result of the internal lottery, the first variable winning device 30 or The content of the effect at the time of the opening / closing operation | movement of the 2nd variable winning apparatus 31 is controlled (effect execution means). 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.).

  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.

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 55 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. In addition, the variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination when the main control CPU 72 selects the big win variable winning device management process or the small hit variable variable winning device management process. The 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. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, variation pattern, etc.), or the effect pattern for the notice effect (the reach other than the pre-reading notice effect pattern). 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.

  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 execution of the variable display effect using the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and an effect corresponding to the result is displayed. The control information on the contents (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display processing, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the stop display effect using the effect symbols and moving images in a manner corresponding 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 operation process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit 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). For example, in the case of 16 rounds probable big hit, the effect control CPU 126 selects a big-playing effect pattern of 16 rounds probable big hit as the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and this is sent to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). Instruct. As a result, the image of the prominent effect is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the effect contents change as the round progresses.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, there are the following effects.
(1) According to the present embodiment, since the right start winning port 27 (first winning port) is arranged upstream of the deceleration passage 200, “from the upstream to the downstream in the right-handed region (game region)” The right start winning port 27 → the deceleration passage 200 → the second large winning port 31b (second winning port) ”can be arranged, and the right starting winning port 27 and the second large winning port 31b are equivalent to the deceleration passage 200. Can be kept away.

  As a result, the right start winning port 27 does not exist near the second big winning port 31b, and the game ball can enter the second big winning port 31b (the second big winning port 31b In spite of being open), it is possible to avoid a situation in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second big prize opening 31b, and it is possible to suppress the excitement of the game.

(2) According to the present embodiment, since the deceleration passage 200 that secures at least a part of the second time longer than the first time is provided, the game ball can stay in the deceleration passage 200 for a long time. Thus, it is possible to avoid aiming and shooting the game ball after the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hitting manner and the game ball is inserted into the second big winning opening 31b.

(3) According to the present embodiment, since the game ball can stay in the deceleration passage 200 for a long time, the game ball enters the right start winning opening 27 upstream of the deceleration passage 200, and the right strike area is Even if the total amount of game balls flowing down decreases, the length of the stay time in the deceleration passage 200 can give an illusion that the total amount of game balls has increased in appearance, Depending on the length, the fact that the game ball has entered the right start winning port 27 can be forgotten, and the game ball that has passed through the deceleration passage 200 is slowly moved to the second large winning port 31b at the speed after deceleration. As a result, it is possible to give the player a feeling that more game balls are entering the second grand prize winning port 31b.

(4) According to the present embodiment, the deceleration passage 200 is a passage that guides all the game balls that have entered the deceleration passage 200 without entering the right start winning opening 27 to the second big winning opening 31b. The game ball that has entered the deceleration passage 200 can be directed to the second grand prize opening 31b without omission, and the winning feeling for the second big prize opening 31b can be improved.

(5) In a model equipped with a so-called small hit rush (a state where small hits frequently occur when hitting right), the positional relationship of “deceleration passage 200 → right start winning port 27 → second big winning port 31b” There is a concern that the right start winning opening 27 will be won in the vicinity of the second big winning opening 31b and the interest of the game will be lost. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the right start winning port 27 is provided upstream of the deceleration passage 200, thereby establishing a positional relationship of “right start winning port 27 → deceleration passage 200 → second big winning port 31b”. As a result, it is possible to avoid a situation in which a game ball wins the right start winning opening 27 near the second large winning opening 31b even though the second large winning opening 31b is open at the time of a small hit. . According to the game rules, the opening time for small hits (less than 1.8 seconds) must be set shorter than the opening time for big hits (less than 30 seconds). In particular, it is particularly effective for a game where the number of balls can be increased by consecutive small hits in a high probability non-time shortened state.

  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 example in which the present invention is applied to a gaming machine having no probability variation area has been described. However, the present invention may be applied to a gaming machine having a probability variation area.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the present invention is applied to a so-called simultaneous rotating machine has been described. However, the present invention may be applied to a non-simultaneous rotating machine.

  In the above-described embodiment, the passage is described as an example of the deceleration passage 200. However, the passage may be an acceleration passage, and may be a passage that neither accelerates nor decelerates.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example has been described in which all the game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 are directed to the second grand prize winning port 31b. However, a predetermined avoidance route or an out port is provided to all the game balls. You may make it not go to the big winning opening 31b.

  The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Moreover, the structure of the pachinko machine 1, a board | substrate surface structure, a specific numerical value, etc. are a preferable illustration including the thing of illustration, These can be deform | transformed suitably.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Start gate 26 Upper start winning opening 27 Right starting winning opening 28 Variable starting winning apparatus 30 First variable winning apparatus 31 Second variable winning apparatus 33 Normal symbol display apparatus 33a Normal symbol operation memory Lamp 34 First special symbol display device 35 Second special symbol display device 34a First 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

Claims (2)

A game area where game balls flow down,
A first winning opening that is arranged in the gaming area and into which a gaming ball can enter;
A passage that is arranged downstream of the first prize opening in the game area and through which game balls that have not entered the first prize opening pass;
A gaming machine that is disposed downstream of the passage in the gaming area and has a second winning port through which a gaming ball can enter when in a special gaming state. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The passage is
A path for decelerating the speed of a game ball, wherein at least one second time longer than the first time from when it is determined that the special gaming state is started until the special gaming state is finished It is a deceleration passage that secures the time of the part,
The second time is
A gaming machine characterized in that it is a time from when a game ball is launched by a ball launching device that launches a game ball to when the game ball reaches the second prize opening.