JP2019005106A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of suitably operating second control means.SOLUTION: A game machine (for example, a Pachinko game machine and the like) for performing a game includes: first control means (for example, a first performance control board and the like); and second control means (for example, a VDP of a display control part, and the like) capable of communicating with the first control means. The first control means continuously supplies a specific signal (for example, a reset signal and the like) to the second control means for a predetermined period (for example, 60 seconds and the like) continuously when a period (for example a period during which a start-up signal cannot be received, and the like) during which predetermined communication cannot be performed with the second control means exceeds a specific period (for example, 10 seconds and the like).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

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

  For example, Patent Literature 1 includes a game including first control means (here, sub-integrated board 1740) and second control means (here, liquid crystal control board 1750) that can communicate with the first control means. A machine is disclosed.

JP 2014-138774 A

  In Patent Document 1, the second control means may not be able to operate suitably.

  An object of this invention is to provide the game machine which can operate a 2nd control means suitably.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention provides:
A gaming machine that performs a game (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like)
First control means (for example, the first effect control board 12),
Second control means capable of communicating with the first control means (for example, VDP of the display control unit 31),
The first control unit performs the second control when a period during which predetermined communication with the second control unit cannot be performed (for example, a period during which a rising signal cannot be received) exceeds a specific period (for example, 10 seconds). A specific signal (for example, a reset signal) is continuously supplied to the means over a predetermined period (for example, 60 seconds).
It is characterized by that.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The first control unit supplies the specific signal to the second control unit a plurality of times at predetermined intervals (for example, a reset signal having a time width of 1 ms or less is supplied a plurality of times at 1 ms intervals).
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(3) In the above gaming machine (1) or (2),
When the second control means runs out of heat, a period during which the predetermined communication cannot be performed exceeds the specific period.
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(4) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (3),
The specific signal is a reset signal;
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(5) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (4),
The apparatus further includes a cooling unit (for example, a cooling fan 40) that cools the second control unit during the predetermined period.
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(6) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (5),
A cooling means (for example, a cooling fan 40) for cooling the second control means;
The cooling means cools the second control means more strongly in the predetermined period than in a period other than the predetermined period (for example, FIG. 41, etc.)
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(7) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (6),
Variable display means for executing variable display (for example, the image display device 5);
Adjustment means (for example, the first effect control board 12 or the like) capable of adjusting the effect setting according to an adjustment operation (for example, volume adjustment or the like) by the player at least during execution of variable display;
Adjustment image display means (for example, the first effect control board 12) that displays an adjustment image (for example, the volume image VL) corresponding to the adjustment by the adjustment means for a predetermined period,
The adjusted image display means makes the adjusted image unrecognizable or difficult to view in a period in which the variable display result is derived and displayed in the variable display in the predetermined period (for example, FIG. 40).
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce a decrease in recognizability of the variable display result.

(8) In any of the gaming machines (1) to (7) above,
The first control means transmits a command (for example, a first effect control command),
The second control means receives the command transmitted by the first control means, performs control according to the received command,
The first control means can transmit the command to be transmitted with predetermined information (for example, a checksum) for confirming the consistency of the command to be transmitted,
The second control means can determine the consistency of a command accompanied by the predetermined information based on the predetermined information (for example, the process of step S74).
The first control means transmits the predetermined information along with only a part of specific commands (for example, refer to the specific command in FIG. 4) among the plurality of types of commands that can be transmitted.
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, the processing burden on the first control means and the second control means can be reduced.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in one embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the example of the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine of FIG. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the command and signal transmitted / received by the main board | substrate, the 1st effect control board, and the 2nd effect control board. It is a figure which shows an example of the main 1st production control commands. It is a figure showing an example of composition of the 2nd production control command. It is a figure which shows the example of the various signals transmitted from the 2nd production control board to the 1st production control board. It is a figure which shows the example of operation | movement monitoring (supply timing of a reset signal) of the 2nd production control board by a 1st production control board. It is a figure which shows the aspect of a long reset or a short reset. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start winning determination process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a special figure holding | maintenance memory | storage part. It is the flowchart etc. which show an example of a random value determination process at the time of winning. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a special figure display result determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a jackpot classification determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the variation pattern determination table for big hits. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the variation pattern determination table for loss. It is a flowchart which shows the process example in the process during big hit release. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot end process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 1st production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of processes, such as a 1st production control command analysis. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 2nd production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of processes, such as a 2nd production control command analysis. It is explanatory drawing explaining an example of the processing content performed by processes (step S787), such as a 1st production control command analysis. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the command buffer at the time of a start winning prize. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prefetch notice setting process. It is a figure which shows the example of execution decision of the prefetch chance. It is a figure showing an example of execution decision of the 1st reservation change production and the 2nd reservation change production. It is a figure which shows the example of a cancellation decision of a 1st pending | holding change effect. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display process. It is a figure which shows an example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows an example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows an example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows an example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a hold display effect. It is an example of the production screen at the time of volume change. It is an example of intensity | strength change of a cooling fan. It is the aspect of the long reset which concerns on a modification.

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

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

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

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

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

  On the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game, a plurality of types of decorative symbols (such as symbols indicating numerals) that are different from the special symbols can be changed. Display is performed. As an example, on the screen of the image display device 5, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are synchronized with the first special game or the second special game. , Variable display of decorative symbols (for example, vertical scroll display or update display) is performed.

  Display areas 5Ha and 5Hb are also arranged on the screen of the image display device 5 (see FIG. 1). In the display area 5Ha, a first reserved display image (here, a circle image) corresponding to the first special figure game (variable display of decorative symbols) whose execution is suspended is displayed right-justified. In the display area 5Hb, a second reserved display image (here, a circle image) corresponding to the second special figure game (variable display of decorative symbols) for which execution is suspended is displayed left-justified.

  Note that the number of special figure games held is also referred to as a special figure holding memory number. In particular, the number of holds of the first special figure game is referred to as a first special figure hold memory number. The number of holds of the second special figure game is referred to as the second special figure hold memory number. The number of first reserved display images indicates the first special figure reserved memory number, and the number of second reserved display images indicates the second special figure reserved memory number. The first hold display image and the second hold display image may be collectively referred to as a hold display image.

  When the held first special figure game is executed (digested), the first held display image displayed in the display area 5Ha is shifted to the right, and the rightmost first reserved display image (digested first image) is displayed. The image corresponding to one special figure game) is deleted. When the held second special figure game is executed (digested), the second reserved display image displayed in the display area 5Hb shifts to the left, and the leftmost second reserved display image (the digested first 2) The image corresponding to the special figure game is deleted.

  In addition, a first hold indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B are provided for displaying the special figure hold memory number in an identifiable manner. Each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B includes a plurality of LEDs, and displays the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number depending on the number of LEDs lit. To do.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. )) Is provided. Below the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes, for example, a main board 11, a first effect control board 12, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a relay board 15, and a second effect control board 30 as shown in FIG. Etc. are installed. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and a power supply board are disposed on the back of the game board or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, and functions to control the progress of the game (execution of special game, normal game, etc.) in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (first effect toward the first effect control board 12). A control command (including a function of transmitting a control command (FIG. 4, etc., which will be described in detail later)). The main board 11 includes a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like.

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

  As an example, the CPU 103 executes a program stored in the ROM 101 to realize the function of the main board 11 (control of the progress of the game). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 101 (variation patterns (such as FIG. 17; details will be described later), data indicating various tables) are used, and the RAM 102 is used as the main memory.

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

  The I / O 105 includes, for example, an input port to which a detection signal (described later) supplied from the switch circuit 110 is input, and various signals (a first effect control command, a solenoid drive signal described later, and various display devices) by processing by the CPU 103. 4A, 4B, 20 or signals for driving the hold indicators 25A to 25C) are output to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100.

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

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

  The first effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15.

  The first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 both execute and control the effects, but are independent of each other and are sub-side control boards independent of the main board 11. . The first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 cooperate to produce an effect based on the first effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the first effect control board 12 via the relay board 15. Has the function to execute. As described later, in this embodiment, the second effect control board 30 (particularly, a display control unit 31 described later) controls the effect control. The first effect control board 30 controls the speakers 8L and 8R and the game effect lamp 9 based on commands from the second effect control board 30. The display of the effect screen on the image display device 5 is controlled by the second effect control board 30.

  On the first effect control board 12, an effect control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, and an I / O 125 are mounted. The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, the RAM 122, and the I / O 125 may be configured as a one-chip microcomputer.

  As an example, the effect control CPU 120 executes a program stored in the ROM 121 to perform processing for realizing the above-described functions and the like of the first effect control board 12. At this time, various data stored in the ROM 121 (for example, pattern data for controlling the speakers 8L and 8R and the game effect lamp 9) is used, and the RAM 122 is used as a main memory.

  The I / O 125 includes, for example, an input port to which various signals (a first effect control command, various signals from the second effect control board 30 (see FIG. 6, will be described later in detail)) and an effect control CPU 120 are input. Various signals (second effect control command (refer to FIG. 5, will be described in detail later), electrical signal to be described later, audio signal to be described later, cooling fan drive signal to be described later, reset signal (see FIG. 8 and the like). ) And the like) are output to the outside of the first effect control board 12.

  A display control unit 31 is mounted on the second effect control board 30. The display control unit 31 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), and the like.

  The display control unit 31 (here, VDP) performs processing for realizing the above functions and the like of the second effect control board 30. In this embodiment, the display control unit 31 determines the execution mode of various effects (including the presence / absence of execution of various effects) (for example, the process is performed based on the second effect control command). Or a process for performing an effect in the determined execution mode (a process for controlling an effect operation by an electrical component for effect (image display device 5), a command for controlling the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9 is the first command. Including processing to transmit to the effect control board 12).

  When controlling the effect operation by the image display device 5, the display control unit 31 (here, VDP) generates a video signal of the effect image to be displayed on the image display device 5 based on the image data stored in the CGROM. Are output to the image display device 5, and the effect image is displayed on the image display device 5. The effect image may have, for example, a plurality of layer structures (for example, a background image is displayed on the first layer, a reserved storage display is displayed on the second layer, and a decorative pattern is displayed on the third layer. In this case, image data is prepared for each layer, and the effect data is displayed based on the image data for each layer. A video signal (a video signal representing a combination of images of each image data) may be generated and output.

  The CGROM included in the display control unit 31 includes a plurality of determination tables and determination tables prepared for determining the execution mode of the effect and controlling the effect operation, in addition to the image data for generating the video signal of the effect image. The table data that constitutes, the pattern data that constitutes various effect control patterns (details will be described later), and the like are stored. Note that data other than image data such as table data and pattern data may be stored in a storage unit (provided as part of the display control unit 31) other than CGROM. The VRAM is used for developing normal image data, but may be used as a main memory for temporarily storing data other than image data. Alternatively, a main memory (such as a RAM) that temporarily stores data other than image data may be prepared as a part of the display control unit 31 separately from the VRAM.

  The effect control pattern is a collection of data for executing various effects such as variable display of decorative symbols and reach effects, for example, effect control execution data (display control) associated with a determination value such as a process timer determination value. Data, voice control data, lighting data, etc.) and process data including an end code, etc., which are configured by combining the pattern data and set as a usage pattern described later. In addition, pattern data that directly becomes an effect control pattern is also stored, and the pattern data may be set as an effect control pattern that becomes a use pattern as it is. The voice control data and the lighting control data may be data specifying a command (voice command or lamp command described later, see FIG. 6) to be transmitted to the first effect control board 12, for example. The display control data is data specifying image data of an image to be displayed (the display control unit 31 generates and outputs a video signal using the image data specified by the display control data).

  The display control unit 31 further includes, for example, a random number circuit and the like, and numerical values indicating various random number values used for controlling the rendering operation (for the process of determining the execution mode of the rendering) by the random number circuit. Data is counted updatable. The random number used for controlling such a production operation is also called a production random number. The effect random number may be updated by hardware such as a random number circuit as in the case of the game random number used on the main board 11, or the software may be executed by the VDP executing a predetermined computer program. It may be updated.

  The display control unit 31 exchanges signals (second effect control command, reset signal, various signals in FIG. 6 and the like) with the first effect control board 12 according to the progress of the process, and displays an image signal described later as an image. An I / O for outputting to the device 5 is also provided. Since the reset signal is input from the first effect control board 12 to the VDP of the display control unit 31 as will be described later, the reset signal is not directly passed from the first effect control board 12 to the VDP. It may be entered.

  At least a part of the display control unit 31 may be configured as a one-chip processor. For example, the display control unit 31 may be formed by VDP including at least one of CGROM and VRAM.

  The sound control board 13 has a function of outputting sound (sound designated by the sound signal) from the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound signal from the effect control board 12.

  The lamp control board 14 has a function of turning on / off the game effect lamp 9 (turning on / off according to the drive content indicated by the electrical decoration signal) based on the electrical decoration signal from the effect control board 12.

  The image display device 5 includes a display panel including a liquid crystal panel, an EL panel, and a driver circuit that drives the display panel. The video signal supplied from the display control unit 123 to the image display device 5 is input to the driver circuit. The driver circuit displays an image represented by the video signal on the display panel. As a result, various effect images and the like are displayed on the image display device 5.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 further includes a cooling fan 40. The cooling FAN 40 blows air to a portion of the second effect control board 30 that generates heat, such as the display control unit 31 (particularly, VDP). The cooling FAN 40 operates when a cooling fan drive signal output from the first effect control board 12 (I / O 125) is supplied as necessary, and cools the target portion by blowing air.

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

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

  The variable display results that are stopped and displayed in the ordinary game include a symbol per symbol (for example, a common symbol such as “7”) and a common symbol losing symbol (for example, a common symbol such as “−”). . When the symbol per symbol is stopped (derived), the variable display result is “per symbol”. The case where the usual figure losing symbol is stopped (derived) is when the variable display result is “general figure losing”.

  In the case of “per normal”, an opening control (the second start winning opening is opened) is performed in which the movable blade piece of the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is tilted for a predetermined period.

  When the game ball flowing down the game area enters the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, the first special game is started. Further, when the game ball enters the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the second special game is started. When the special figure game cannot be started (when the start condition is not satisfied), such as when another special figure game is already being executed or the game is controlled to the big hit game state described later, each of the four special figure games is four. Execution of the special figure game is suspended with the above as an upper limit. The reserved special figure game is executed when a start condition capable of starting the special figure game is satisfied (for example, no other special figure game is currently being executed and is not in the big hit game state). When the game ball enters the first start winning opening when the first special figure reserved memory number reaches the upper limit value, the first special figure reserved memory number does not increase and the entry is invalidated ( There may be a prize ball). When the game ball enters the second start winning opening when the second special figure reserved memory number reaches the upper limit value, the second special figure reserved memory number does not increase and the entry is invalidated ( There may be a prize ball). The entry (winning) of a game ball that increases the number of first special figure reserved memories into the first starting winning opening is also referred to as a first starting winning. The entry (winning) of the game ball that increases the second special figure reserved memory number into the second starting winning opening is also referred to as a second starting winning. These winnings are collectively referred to simply as starting winnings.

  The variable display results that are stopped and displayed in the special figure game include jackpot symbols (eg, special symbols such as “2”, “4”, “5”, “7”), and lost symbols (eg, “-”). Special figure). When the jackpot symbol is stopped (displayed), the variable display result is “big jackpot”. The lost symbol is stopped (derived) when the variable display result is “lost”.

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

  In the big hit gaming state, the special winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in an open state. In the open state, a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) and a predetermined number (for example, 9) of the number of game balls that have entered the grand prize opening (the number of game balls for which a winning is detected by the count switch 23). It continues until the timing until it reaches or the earlier timing. Such an open state is called a round game (also simply called “round”). In the big hit game state, the round game is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, “15 times”) is reached (in the period other than the round game, the big prize opening is closed). Thereby, a lot of prize balls are paid out in the big hit gaming state.

  Big hit types such as “non-probability variation A”, “non-probability variation B”, “probability variation A”, and “probability variation B” are set in “big hit”. When the big hit type is “non-probability variation A”, “2” is derived, “4” when “non-probability variation B”, “5” when “probability variation A”, and “7” when “probability variation B”. The In this embodiment, the mode of the big hit gaming state (the number of round games, the predetermined period, etc.) does not change according to the big hit type, but the mode may be changed according to the big hit type.

  Note that when the jackpot type is “non-probability variation A”, “non-probability variation B”, “probability variation A”, or “probability variation B”, the “big probability”, There are also “probability A big hit” and “probability B big hit”. In addition, the jackpot gaming state based on “non-probability variation A big hit”, “non-probability variation B big hit”, “probability variation B big hit”, “probability variation B big hit”, respectively, “Game state”, “Probability change A big hit game state”, “Probability change B big hit game state”.

  After the big hit gaming state is ended, the probability that the variable display result is “big hit” (big hit probability) may be controlled to a probability change state where the probability is higher than the normal state. The probability change state continues until a predetermined probability change end condition such as the start of the next big hit gaming state is satisfied.

  In addition, after the big hit gaming state is ended, the average variable display time (variable display period) may be controlled to be short when the normal state is shorter. The short-time state is one of the short-time end conditions of the predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 50 times or 100 times) that the special game is executed and the next big hit game state is started. Continue until is established first. In addition, the remaining number of executions of the special figure game until the time-shutdown condition is satisfied may be referred to as a time-shortest number of times.

  In this embodiment, the gaming state after the non-probability change A big hit gaming state or the non-probability change B big hit gaming state is a short-time state, but does not become a probable change state. The gaming state after the probability variation A big hit gaming state or the probability variation B big hit gaming state is finished is a short time state and a probability varying state. The initial value of the remaining time in the short-time state after the non-probabilistic A big hit gaming state and the probabilistic A big hit gaming state is 50 times, and the short-time state after the non-probable B big hit gaming state and the probable B big hit gaming state The initial value of the number of remaining hours is 100. In addition, it can be said that the short-time state and the probability variation state are advantageous game states for the player.

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

  The normal state is an advantageous state such as a big hit gaming state, a gaming state other than a state advantageous for a player such as a short-time state, a probability variation state, etc. The pachinko gaming machine 1 such as the probability of “winning” and the probability that the variable display result in the special game is “big hit” is the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when a system reset is performed) The state is controlled in the same manner as when a predetermined return process is not executed after the input.

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

  In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the image display device 5, this corresponds to the start of the first special game or the second special game. Then, variable display of decorative symbols (this is also a kind of effect) is started. When the variable display result (also referred to as a confirmed special symbol) is stopped and displayed in the first special figure game or the second special figure game, the fixed decorative pattern (3) which becomes the display result (variable display result) of the variable symbol variable display A combination of two decorative symbols) is also stopped (derived).

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

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed in response to the reach mode during the variable display. Normal reach, super reach A (development from normal reach), and super reach B (development from normal reach) are prepared as reach productions. In this embodiment, the jackpot expectation is higher in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach.

  The big hit expectation is, for example, the ratio at which the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, and is also the ratio at which the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol is “big hit”.

  In addition, as will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, so-called determination based on determination at the time of starting winning (determination regarding variable display of a reserved special game or decorative design, hereinafter also referred to as pre-reading determination). A pre-reading notice is executed. The prefetch notice is a notice of the jackpot expectation of a special figure game (hereinafter also referred to as a target) that is a target of the prefetch determination. In this embodiment, pre-reading chance notices (also simply referred to as pre-reading chance eyes), a first hold change effect, and a second hold change effect are prepared as prefetch notices.

  The pre-reading chance eye preview is a predetermined chance item (variable) as a variable display result of variable display of decorative symbols executed before the target (or multiple variable displays when multiple variable displays are executed). This is an effect of deriving and displaying a non-reach chance when the reach is not achieved in the display or a reach chance when the reach is established in the variable display (see FIG. 35).

  The first pending change effect temporarily stops a predetermined combination of decorative symbols including a special symbol in the variable display of decorative symbols executed before the target (finally, the symbol is stopped and displayed as the final stop symbol). In addition, this is an effect of changing the display mode (here, the display color, usually white) of the hold display image corresponding to the target special game (see FIG. 36).

  The temporary stop is also referred to as a temporary stop display. For example, during the variable display from the start of the variable display of the decorative design to the display of the fixed decorative design that is the variable display result, the speed of change of the decorative design Is “0”, and the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed, for example, a display state in which slight shaking or expansion / contraction is caused (that is, a state where one variable display is not completed). In such a display state, although the display result in the variable display is not displayed deterministically, the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative pattern due to the scroll display or the update display is not progressing. The temporary stop display may include displaying the decorative symbols completely stopped for a time shorter than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) without causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction. On the other hand, stop display (derived display) of the variable display result means that the variable display is ended by completely or finally stopping the identification information such as the decorative symbol.

  The second hold change effect is an effect of changing the display mode (here, the display color) of the hold display image corresponding to the target special game without displaying the special symbol.

  In addition, during the variable display of the decorative design, various effects are performed in addition to the above effects. In addition, the variable display of the decorative design is a kind of production.

  When the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is “big hit”, on the screen of the image display device 5, a definite decorative symbol that is a predetermined jackpot combination is derived and displayed as a variable symbol display result of the decorative symbol. As an example, the same decorative design (for example, any of “4” to “7”) is provided on a predetermined effective line in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative design display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. It is only necessary that the fixed decorative symbols that become the jackpot combination are derived and displayed by stopping and displaying all together. Note that the decorative symbols to be stopped may be different depending on the type of jackpot (for example, “5” for “probability variation A”, “7” for “probability variation B”, “non-probability variation A”. "4" for "," 6 "for non-probability B, etc.).

  In this embodiment, an effect corresponding to the big hit gaming state is performed even during the big hit gaming state.

  When the special symbol variable display result is “losing”, the decorative symbol variable display mode is not the reach mode, and the decorative symbol composing a predetermined non-reach combination is stopped as the variable symbol display result. By being displayed, a definite decorative symbol that is a non-reach combination may be derived and displayed. In addition, when the special symbol variable display result is “losing”, as a decorative symbol variable display result, after the decorative symbol variable display mode becomes the reach mode, a predetermined reach combination that is not a jackpot combination (“reach loss” When the decorative symbols constituting the “combination” are stopped and displayed, a fixed decorative symbol that is a reach-losing combination may be derived and displayed.

(Explanation of operations of the first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30)
As shown in FIG. 3, the main board 11 transmits a first effect control command to the first effect control board 12 as the game progresses. The first effect control command is, for example, a command as shown in FIG. 4 (details will be described later), and is a command for designating or notifying the progress of the game. The first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 execute effects in accordance with the progress of the game based on the first effect control command transmitted from the main board 11. As a result, the progress of the game controlled by the main board 11 and the various effects executed by the first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 are synchronized.

  Here, the first effect control command will be described. FIG. 4 shows main first effect control commands. The following “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The first effect control command is relayed by the relay board 15. Each of the first effect control commands has, for example, a 2-byte configuration, the first byte (upper bit) indicates MODE (command type (classification)), and the second byte (lower bit) indicates EXT (details of the command). Content). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1” and the first bit of the EXT data may be set to “0” in advance. In other words, the possible values differ between the upper and lower bits.

  Command 8000 (H) is a first variation start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the first special figure game, that is, the start of variable display (fluctuation) of the first special figure. The command 8001 (H) is a second change start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the second special figure game, that is, the start of the variable display (fluctuation) of the second special figure. The first variation start designation command and the second variation start designation command may be collectively referred to as a variation start designation command. Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special figure or variable display of the second special figure may be included in a later-described variation pattern designation command. The command is transmitted at the start of the special figure game.

  The command 81XX (H) is a variable display of special symbols (special game), a variable pattern of variable display of special symbols (execution time of special display or variable display of special symbols (special symbol variable time), or variable of decorative symbols. This is a variation pattern designation command for designating (notifying) a display pattern. In the “XX” of the command, a numerical value corresponding to each variation pattern (see FIG. 15, details will be described later) is set (for example, “00” for the variation pattern PA1-1). Further, the variation pattern designation command may be a command for designating the variation start of the decorative symbol. The command is transmitted when the special figure game is started.

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

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

  Command 95XX (H) is a gaming state designation command for designating the current gaming state. A numerical value corresponding to the gaming state is set in “XX” in the command (for example, “00” in the normal state, “01” in the high-accuracy base state, etc.). The gaming state designation command is transmitted at a timing when the gaming state can be changed (at the end of jackpot, when a variable display result is derived, etc.), at the start of a special figure game, or the like. Note that the background of the effect screen displayed on the image display device 5 may be changed according to the gaming state. In this case, the gaming state designation command may be a background designation command for designating the background.

  The command A000 (H) is a hit start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the big hit gaming state (also the start of fanfare). The fanfare is an effect executed at the start of the big hit gaming state, such as an effect for notifying that the big hit gaming state has been reached. This command is transmitted at the start of the jackpot gaming state.

  Command A3XX (H) is a hit end designation command for designating (notifying) the end of the big hit gaming state (which is also the start of ending). Ending is an effect executed at the end of the jackpot gaming state, such as an effect for notifying that the jackpot gaming state is ended. “XX” in the command is set to a value for specifying the number of time reductions (initial value of the remaining number of time reductions) according to the jackpot type (for example, “non-probability variation A” or “probability variation A”) “00” is set for (time reduction number = 50 times), and “01” is set for “non-probability variation B” or “probability variation B” (time reduction number = 100 times). The “XX” may be a numerical value of the number of time reductions. This command is sent at the end of the last round game.

  Command B100 (H) is a first start winning designation command for designating (notifying) that a first start winning has occurred due to the entry of a game medium into the first starting winning opening. Command B200 (H) is a second start winning designation command for designating (notifying) that a second start winning has occurred due to the entry of a game medium into the second start winning opening. The first start prize designation command and the second start prize designation command may be collectively referred to as a start prize designation command. The start winning designation command is transmitted when a start winning is generated (at the start winning).

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

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

  The command C4XX (H) is a first winning determination result designation command for designating (notifying) the determination result of the pre-reading determination (details will be described later) at the occurrence of the first start winning or the absence of pre-reading determination (no determination). is there. The command C5XX (H) is a second prize determination result designation command for designating (notifying) the determination result of the pre-reading determination (details will be described later) at the time of occurrence of the second start winning or the absence of pre-reading determination (no determination) is there. These commands may be collectively referred to as winning determination result designation commands. Note that the prefetch determination is a determination performed in a winning random number determination process in step S211 described later. The determination result of the prefetch determination (also referred to as a winning determination result) is set to “XX” in the winning determination result designation command (details will be described later). The command is transmitted when a start prize is generated (at the start prize). Whether or not to perform a pre-reading notice is determined on the second effect control board 30 side according to the contents of the winning determination result designation command (details will be described later).

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

  When receiving the first effect control command, the first effect control board 12 generates a second effect control command based on the received first effect control command, and uses the generated second effect control command as the second effect control. It transmits to the board | substrate 30 (refer FIG. 3).

  Here, the second effect control command has a header and a footer as shown in FIG. A first effect control command is set in the header. The footer is set with data indicating the remaining number of time reductions (the number of executions of the special figure game that can be executed before the time reduction state ends). The number of remaining times is counted by the first effect control board 12. For example, a counter provided in the RAM 122 may be updated each time variable display is executed, thereby counting the remaining time. When not in the time saving state, the data is data indicating “0 times” (“0000 (H)”). In this embodiment, both the header and the footer have a 2-byte configuration (the second presentation control command has a total of 4 bytes).

  The first effect control board 12 transmits the second effect control command as described above to the second effect control board 30, but the first effect control command (set in the header) included in the transmitted second effect control command. When the first effect control command is a specific command, a checksum is calculated for the second effect control command, and the calculated checksum is transmitted along with the second effect control command. In this embodiment, the specific commands are a variation pattern designation command, a hit start designation command, a hit end designation command, and a customer waiting demonstration designation command (see FIG. 4). If the header of the second effect control command to be transmitted is one of the four commands, the first effect control board 12 calculates and accompanies the checksum (which confirms command consistency). For example, the checksum is obtained by adding each bit of data constituting the second effect control command and setting the leading bit to “0” (for example, adding 7F (H) to set the leading bit to “0”. (Ignore digit overflow.)

  In addition, the first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 also exchange signals (see FIG. 3). The second effect control board 30 transmits various signals shown in FIG. The first effect control board 12 transmits a reset signal.

  Various signals transmitted from the second effect control board 30 to the first effect control board 12 include a command reception signal, a voice command, a lamp command, a normal operation signal, a rising signal, and the like (FIG. 6). In this embodiment, each of these signals is transmitted as an information signal indicating 4-byte data in the same manner as the second effect control command.

  The command reception signal is a signal that is transmitted to the first effect control board 12 when the second effect control board 30 receives the second effect control command accompanied by the checksum. For example, when the second effect control command is accompanied by a checksum, the second effect control board 30 calculates the checksum for the second effect control command in the same manner as the first effect control board 12 and calculates this time. The checksum that has been added is compared with the checksum associated with the second performance control command. As a result of the comparison, if both are the same, the second effect control board 30 transmits a command reception signal (match) indicating that the second effect control commands are matched, so that they are matched. As a result of the comparison, if the two are different, the second effect control board 30 transmits a command reception signal (non-match) indicating non-match because the second effect control command is non-match.

  The voice command is a command for causing the first presentation control board 12 to perform processing for voice output from the speakers 8L and 8R at the time of production execution, and is a command that designates a mode of voice output. The second effect control board 30 transmits the command to the first effect control board 12 when the effect is executed. When receiving the command, the first effect control board 12 supplies a sound signal corresponding to the content of the command to the sound control board 13. The sound control board 13 causes the speakers 8L and 8R to perform sound output according to the sound signal. As a result, voice output in a mode specified by the voice command is realized.

  The lamp command is a command for causing the first effect control board 12 to perform processing for turning on / off the game effect lamp 9 at the time of performing the effect, and the lighting mode of the game effect lamp 9 (including turning off). The specified command. The second effect control board 30 transmits the command to the first effect control board 12 when the effect is executed. When the first effect control board 12 receives the command, the first effect control board 12 supplies an electric decoration signal corresponding to the content of the command to the lamp control board 14. The lamp control board 14 turns on / off the game effect lamp 9 and the like based on the electrical decoration signal. This realizes turning on / off of the game effect lamp 9 in a mode specified by the lamp command.

  The normal operation signal is a signal transmitted periodically (here, every second) from the VDP of the display control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 to the first effect control board 12. If the normal operation signal is periodically transmitted, the VDP of the display control unit 31 is operating normally.

  The rising signal is a normal operation (such as an operation for performing an effect) after the VDP of the display control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 is activated (including activation by turning on the power and restarting by supplying a reset signal). Can be performed (when the initial setting is completed in the VDP of the display control unit 31 and the operation for performing the rendering is enabled), the VDP transmits to the first rendering control board 12. Signal.

  In addition, in the main board 11 (CPU 103), the first effect control board (first effect control CPU 120), and the second effect control board (VDP of the display control unit 31), it is possible to perform normal operations after activation. , These may be expressed as “getting up”.

  The reset signal (see FIG. 3) transmitted from the first effect control board 12 is supplied to the VDP of the display control unit 31. The first effect control board 12 monitors the operation of the VDP of the display control unit 31, and when it can be determined that the operation is defective (in this case, when the rising signal or the normal operation signal is not normally transmitted), the VDP (See FIGS. 7 and 8).

  The reset signal is input to a reset terminal included in the VDP of the display control unit 31. For example, the predetermined terminal of the production control CPU 120 and the reset terminal are electrically connected via the I / O 125 or the I / O of the display control unit 31 or directly, and the production control CPU 120 is reset. A reset signal is supplied by controlling the voltage (potential) of the terminal. In this embodiment, the voltage level of the reset terminal is normally maintained at High. The reset signal is a Low signal that sets the voltage level of the reset terminal to Low (that is, here, reset is active low).

  The reset signal is for forcibly resetting the VDP of the display control unit 31 in terms of hardware. When the reset signal is supplied (when the voltage level of the reset terminal becomes low or when the low level is maintained for a predetermined period or more), the VDP of the display control unit 31 is initialized (temporarily stored data is erased). The VDP is started (restarted) after the reset signal supply ends (after the rise when the voltage level of the reset terminal returns to High) (for example, the processing according to the program is started from the beginning). .

  Here, reset signal supply timing and the like will be described with reference to FIGS. When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered on, the first effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120), the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the display control unit 31), and the like are activated. The rise of the VDP of the display control unit 31 is slow, and the VDP rises about 7 seconds later than the first effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120). The first presentation control board 12 after rising performs reception monitoring of the rising signal (step S11).

  When the first effect control board 12 can receive a rising signal from the VDP for 10 seconds (after-mentioned waiting time to be described later) after rising (when the rising signal can be output by rising the VDP). Performs normal operation signal reception monitoring (step S12). The 10 seconds is set with a margin for the 7 seconds. The 10 seconds may be measured by a timer or the like provided in the RAM 122.

  When the first effect control board 12 periodically receives the normal operation signal from the VDP after the start of step S12, it is determined that there is no abnormality and continues the reception monitoring of step S12. On the other hand, when the first effect control board 12 cannot receive the normal operation signal for 5 seconds (the 5 seconds are set with a margin for the normal transmission interval of 1 second of the normal operation signal). If an abnormality has occurred, a short reset is performed in which a reset signal is transmitted once to the VDP of the display control unit 31 (step S13). What is necessary is just to measure the said 5 second with the timer etc. which are provided in RAM122.

  In the short reset, as shown in FIG. 8, a reset signal having a time width of 1 ms is transmitted once. The 1 ms reset signal may be realized by an appropriate method. For example, it may be generated based on a clock signal supplied from a predetermined clock circuit. For example, the supply of a 1 ms reset signal is realized by controlling the reset terminal to be at a low level from a certain rising timing to the next rising timing in a clock signal that rises to a high level every 1 ms. The VDP of the display control unit 31 starts (restarts) after the reset signal supply ends (after the rise when the voltage level of the reset terminal returns to High) (for example, processing according to a program (including initial setting etc.) Good.) Start from the beginning). Therefore, the VDP is kept in a reset state (also not operating) for 1 ms during which the reset signal is supplied. After the short reset (reset release), the second effect control board 30 starts up again (restarts), so the first effect control board 12 performs the process of step S11 to monitor the reception of the rising signal. The above 1 ms is set as a time sufficient to reset the VDP of the display control unit 31.

  In step S11, if the first effect control board 12 cannot receive the rising signal for 10 seconds after the rising (when the VDP cannot be raised), the second effect control board 30 is abnormal. As a result, a long reset is performed by transmitting a reset signal 60000 times to the VDP of the display control unit 31 (step S14). The number of transmissions of the reset signal is counted by, for example, a counter provided in the RAM 122.

  In the long reset, a reset signal having a time width of 1 ms is continuously transmitted 60000 times at intervals of 1 ms (falling edge of the reset signal is 1 ms) (see FIG. 8). Therefore, as a result, the reset terminal is kept low for 60000 ms (60 seconds). As described above, the VDP of the display control unit 31 starts (restarts) after the reset signal supply ends (after the reset state is released and after the rising of the voltage level of the reset terminal returns to High). For 60 seconds, the VDP does not operate (the reset state is maintained for 60 seconds). After the long reset (reset release), the VDP restarts (restarts), so the first effect control board 12 executes the process of step S11 to monitor the reception of the rising signal.

  The long reset is performed, for example, when the rise of the VDP of the display control unit 31 is delayed in the first step S11 after the power is turned on, or when the VDP of the display control unit 31 still cannot operate after the short reset (step S11). Executed. In such a case (particularly after a short reset), it is assumed that the VDP cannot be processed due to thermal runaway due to an increase in processing load. Accordingly, a cooling period of the VDP is provided by a long reset, that is, by maintaining the reset state for 60 seconds and not operating the VDP until the reset is released. As a result, it can be expected that the VDP will rise normally from now on. In addition, the cooling fan 40 is driven during the long reset (during the period during which the reset state is maintained), and the cooling of the VDP is accelerated by blowing air. The above 60 seconds is set as a time sufficient for returning the VDP to a normal operation.

  Note that, for example, even when the first effect control board 12 transmits the second effect control command including the specific command but the command reception signal is not transmitted, the first effect control board 12 can also receive the command from the first effect control board 12. A reset signal may be transmitted to the VDP of the display control unit 31 (basically, a short reset is performed).

(Main operations of pachinko machines)
Hereinafter, the main operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to flowcharts and the like, but in each operation (each process), a process not described below may be performed.

(Main operations of the main board 11)
When power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 1, the CPU 103 performs predetermined processing such as initial setting on the main board 11, and then executes game control timer interrupt processing. The game control timer interrupt process is executed each time a timer interrupt is generated by an interrupt request signal from a CTC (counter / timer circuit) supplied every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). In the game control timer interrupt process, the CPU 103 executes a switch process, a game random number update process, a special symbol process, a normal symbol process process, a command control process, etc., and the game control timer interrupt process is repeatedly executed for each timer interrupt. As a result, game control and the like are realized.

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

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

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

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

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

(Special symbol process)
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101). After executing the start winning determination process, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes in steps S110 to S117 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the RAM 102.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the start winning determination process (step S101).

  When the start winning determination process is started, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the first start port switch 22A is ON (refer to the determination result of the switch process. Hereinafter, the ON determination of various switches). The same applies to (Step S201). If the first start port switch 22A is on (step S201; Yes), it is determined whether or not the first special figure reservation storage number is a predetermined upper limit value (eg, “4”) (step S202). . For example, the CPU 103 uses the first reserved memory number count value which is the stored value of the first reserved memory number counter (counter for counting the first special figure reserved memory number) provided in the RAM 102 to determine the first special figure reserved memory number. Can be specified (hereinafter, the same applies to the first special figure reserved storage number). When the first special figure reserved memory number is not the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; No), the start port buffer value which is the stored value of the start port buffer provided in the RAM 102 is generated as the first start winning. , “1” is set (step S203).

  When the first start port switch 22A is OFF in step S201 (step S201; No), or when the first special figure reservation storage number reaches the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; Yes), the first It is determined whether or not the 2 start port switch 22B is on (step S204). At this time, if the second start port switch 22B is on (step S204; Yes), it is determined whether or not the second special figure reservation storage number is a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”) ( Step S205). For example, the CPU 103 uses the second reserved memory number count value that is the stored value of the second reserved memory number counter (counter that counts the second special figure reserved memory number) provided in the RAM 102 to determine the second special figure reserved memory number. Can be specified (hereinafter, the same applies to the second special figure reserved storage number). When the second special figure reservation storage number is not the upper limit value in step S205 (step S205; No), the start port buffer value is set to “2” as the occurrence of the second start winning (step S206).

  After executing one of the processes in steps S203 and S206, the pending storage number count value corresponding to the start port buffer value is updated to be incremented by 1 (step S207). For example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the first reserved memory number count value is incremented by 1, while when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the second reserved memory number count value is incremented by one. Thus, when the game ball passes (enters) through the first start winning opening and the first start condition corresponding to the first special figure game is satisfied (when the first start winning is generated), the first special figure is held. The number of memories is updated to increase by 1, and when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening and the second start condition corresponding to the second special game is satisfied (the second start winning has occurred) ) Is updated so that the number of second special figure reservation storage increases by one. At this time, the total reserved memory number count value, which is the stored value of the total reserved memory number counter provided in the RAM 102, is updated to add 1 (step S208).

  After executing the process of step S208, the CPU 103 extracts a predetermined game random number corresponding to the occurrence of the start winning (step S209). As an example, in the process of step S209, a special figure display result (from the numerical data updated by a random counter provided in the random number circuit 104 or the RAM 102 (the value is updated by the game random number update process)) ( Random value MR1 (any value from “1” to “65535”) for determination or random value MR2 for determining the big hit type (any value from “1” to “100”) Numerical data indicating the random number MR3 (any one of “1” to “100”) for determining the variation pattern is extracted. Numerical data indicating each random value extracted in this way is stored as reserved data by being set at the head of the empty entry in the special figure storage unit (provided in the RAM 102) corresponding to the start port buffer value ( Step S210).

  In the process of step S210, for example, when the start port buffer value is “1”, the hold data is set in the first special figure hold storage unit of FIG. 11A, while the start port buffer value is “2”. Is held, the hold data is set in the second special figure hold storage unit of FIG. In this way, the hold data representing the held special figure game is stored in the special figure hold storage unit.

  As shown in FIG. 11A, the first special figure holding storage unit associates with the holding numbers “1” to “4” in the winning order (game ball detection order) to the first start winning opening, for example. The numerical data of the random number values MR1 to MR3 is stored as pending data until the stored number reaches a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”). The hold data stored in the first special figure holding storage unit in this way indicates the first special figure game whose execution is put on hold.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (B), for example, the second special figure holding storage unit associates the holding numbers “1” to “4” with the winning order (game ball detection order) to the second start winning opening. The numerical data of the random number values MR1 to MR3 is stored as pending data until the stored number reaches a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”). The hold data stored in the second special figure holding storage unit in this way indicates the second special figure game whose execution is put on hold.

  In this embodiment, in this way, a special game (notably information relating to the special game) that has not yet been started (execution is suspended) is stored as a reserved memory.

  Returning to FIG. 10, following the process of step S210, a winning random number determination process is executed (step S211). FIG. 10A is a flowchart illustrating an example of a winning random number determination process.

  In the winning random number determination process, if the starting port buffer value is “1”, the CPU 103 first performs transmission setting of the first starting winning designation command and then transmits the first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command. If the setting is made and the start port buffer value is “2”, the transmission setting of the second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command is performed after the transmission setting of the second starting prize designation command is performed (step S401).

  Next, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the current state is a big hit gaming state (step S402). Whether or not the current state is a big hit gaming state can be specified by, for example, a value of a special figure process flag described later. Here, if it is “4” to “7”, it is in the big hit gaming state. When the value of the special figure process flag is other than “4” to “7” and the game state is not in the big hit gaming state (step S402; No), it is determined whether or not the current state is the short time state (step S403). Whether or not the current state is the time reduction state may be specified by the state of the time reduction flag (a flag provided in the RAM 102 and turned on during the time reduction state) (hereinafter the same).

  When the time reduction flag is on and the current time is in the time reduction state (step S403; Yes), when the value of the special figure process flag is “4” to “7” and the current state is the big hit gaming state (step S402; Yes), It is determined whether the starting port buffer value is “2” (step S404).

  When the start port buffer value is “2” (step S404; Yes), or when the time-short state is not being reached (step S403; No), the CPU 103 extracts the random number MR1 extracted in step S209 (the special figure is suspended in the present step S210). Based on the random number value MR1 newly stored in the storage unit, the display result of the special game put on hold this time (a special symbol variable display result, hereinafter also referred to as a special figure display result) is “big hit”. It is determined whether or not there is (step S405). In this determination, the first special figure display result determination table or the second special figure display result determination that is referred to when determining the special figure display result at the time of starting the special figure game (when the start condition of the special figure game is satisfied). A table (see FIG. 14) is referenced.

  In each of the first special figure display result determination table and the second special figure display result determination table, for example, as shown in FIG. 14, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value MR1 becomes a determination result “big hit”. Or “losing”. When the gaming state is a non-probability change state that is not a probability change state, the first special figure display result determination table is referred to, and when the game state is a probability change state, the second special figure display result determination table is referred to. Whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state may be specified based on a probability variation flag provided in the RAM 102 and turned on when the probability variation state is established (the same applies hereinafter).

  In step S405, the CPU 103 is assigned to “big hit” in the first special figure display result determination table (when the probability variation flag is off) or the second special figure display result determination table (when the probability variation flag is on). The determined value range is set as the jackpot determination range. If it is the probability variation state, “8000” to “9899” is set as the jackpot determination range, and if it is the non-probability variation state, “8000” to “8189” is set as the jackpot determination range. Then, it is determined whether the current random number value MR1 is within the jackpot determination range set above (here, such determination is pre-read determination).

  When it is determined that the current random number value MR1 is within the big hit range determination and the special figure display result of the special figure game held this time is “big hit” (step S405; Yes), the big hit determination is determined as a winning determination result. The transmission setting of the designated winning time determination result designation command is performed (step S407). At this time, transmission setting of a winning determination result specifying command including EXT data (here, “02”) indicating the big hit determination is performed. If the starting port buffer value is “1”, the first winning determination result specifying command is transmitted and set. If the starting port buffer value is “2”, the second winning determination result specifying command is transmitted and set ( The same applies to transmission settings in other steps).

  It is determined that the random number value MR1 is not within the jackpot determination range, and the special figure display result of the special figure game held this time is “losing” (step S405; No), and the winning determination that specifies the loss determination as the winning determination result Transmission setting of the time determination result designation command is performed (step S408). At this time, transmission setting of a winning determination result designation command including EXT data (here, “01”) indicating the big hit determination is performed.

  When the start port buffer value is “1” (step S404; No), in order to limit the execution of the pre-reading notice, transmission setting of a winning determination result designation command for designating no determination as a winning determination result is performed (step S404). S412). This restricts the execution of the pre-reading notice on the first effect control board 12 side. At this time, transmission setting of a winning determination result specifying command including EXT data (here, “00”) indicating no determination is performed.

  By limiting the execution of the pre-reading notice for the first starting prize in the short-time state and the first starting prize in the jackpot game state (by making the judgment result no judgment), the pre-reading effect at an inappropriate timing Can be prevented.

  After steps S407, S408, and S412, the winning random number determination process ends.

  One set of each command (start winning designation command, special figure reserved memory number addition designation command, winning determination result designation command) set in the process is used as a start winning command and subsequent command control (The transmission order is the above-mentioned transmission setting order, and is the order of the start winning designation command → the special figure reserved memory number addition designation command → the winning determination result designation command). A set of the first start prize designation command, the first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command, and the first prize determination result designation command is referred to as a first start prize command, a second start prize designation command, and a second special prize command. A set of the reserved storage number addition designation command and the second prize determination result designation command is referred to as a second start prize command.

  Returning to FIG. 10, the CPU 103 determines whether the start port buffer value is “1” or “2” (step S214). At this time, if the start port buffer value is “2” (step S214; “2”), the start port buffer is cleared and its stored value (start port buffer value) is initialized to “0” ( Step S215), the start winning determination process is terminated. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “1” (step S214; “1”), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value is initialized to “0” (step S216). The process proceeds to step S204.

  The special symbol normal process of step S110 shown in FIG. 9 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol normal process.

  In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the second special symbol holding storage number is “0” (step S231). When the second special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” (step S231; No), the randomness stored in the head area (the storage area corresponding to the reservation number “1”) of the second special figure storage part Numerical data of numerical values MR1 to MR3 are read (step S232). Thereby, the game random number extracted corresponding to the occurrence of the second start winning is read. The numerical data read at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for fluctuation in the RAM 102 and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S232, for example, by subtracting and updating the second reserved memory number count value by 1, etc., the second special figure reserved memory number is updated by 1 and the second special figure reserved memory is also updated. The stored contents in the unit are shifted (step S233). For example, the second special figure hold storage unit stores the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) one entry at a time. shift. In step S233, the total number of reserved memories is updated by one. Then, the variable special figure designation buffer value, which is the stored value of the special fluctuation figure designation buffer provided in the RAM 102, is updated to “2” (step S234).

  When the second special figure reserved memory number is “0” in step S231 (step S231; Yes), it is determined whether or not the first special figure reserved memory number is “0” (step S235). When the first special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” (step S235; No), the randomness stored in the head area (the storage area corresponding to the reservation number “1”) of the first special figure reservation storage unit The numerical data of the numerical values MR1 to MR3 are read (step S236). Thereby, the game random number extracted corresponding to the occurrence of the first start winning is read. The numerical data read at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for fluctuation in the RAM 102 and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the process of step S236, for example, by updating the first reserved memory number count value by subtracting 1 and updating the first special figure reserved memory number, the first special figure reserved memory is updated. The stored contents in the unit are shifted (step S237). For example, the first special figure reservation storage unit stores the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) one entry at a time. shift. Also, in the process of step S237, the total pending storage number is updated to be subtracted by one. Then, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to “1” (step S238).

  In this embodiment, the second special figure game is executed with priority over the first special figure game by the above processing.

  After executing one of the processes in steps S234 and S238, the special symbol display result, which is the special symbol variable display result (variable display result of the special graphic game), is determined as either “big hit” or “lost”. (Step S239). As an example, in the process of step S239, a first special figure display result determination table (see FIG. 14A) or a second special figure display result determination table prepared in advance in the ROM 101 is referred to. (Refer to FIG. 14 (A). Reference is made in the probability variation state). As shown in FIG. 14, in each special figure display result determination table, the numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is a special feature of “big hit” or “losing” as the determination result. It only needs to be assigned to the diagram display result. The CPU 103 may determine the special figure display result by referring to the special figure display result determination table based on the random number MR1 for determining the special figure display result read out to the fluctuation random number buffer (matches the random number value). The decision result assigned to the decision value to be used is this decision result (the same applies hereinafter). As shown in FIG. 14, the CPU 103 determines the special figure display result as “big hit” at a higher determination ratio in the case of the probability variation state than in the case of the probability variation state. Whether or not the state is the probability variation state may be specified by the state of the probability variation flag provided in the RAM 102.

  CPU103 determines whether the special figure display result determined by the process of step S239 is "big hit" (step S240). When the special figure display result is determined to be “big hit” (step S240; Yes), the big hit flag provided in the RAM 102 is set to the on state (step S241).

  Thereafter, the jackpot type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S242). As an example, in the process of step S242, a jackpot type determination table (see FIG. 15) prepared in advance in the ROM 101 is used. In the jackpot type determination table, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type is “non-probability variation A”, “non-probability variation B”, “probability variation A”, “probability variation B”. As long as it is assigned to one of the jackpot types. The CPU 103 may determine the jackpot type by referring to the jackpot type determination table based on the random number MR2 for determining the jackpot type read into the random number buffer for variation.

  Thereafter, the jackpot type is stored. The CPU 103 stores the jackpot type by storing data indicating the determination result of the jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer provided in the RAM 102 (step S243).

  When the special figure display result is not “big hit” in step S240 (step S240; No), after executing the process of step S243, the variable display result (special figure display result) of the special figure game to be executed this time A determined special symbol is determined (step S244). As an example, when the big hit flag is off, a special symbol predetermined as a lost symbol is determined as a confirmed special symbol. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is on, one of the special symbols predetermined as a plurality of types of big hit symbols is determined as the confirmed special symbol in accordance with the big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer.

  After executing the process of step S244, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “1” (step S245), and then the special symbol normal process is terminated.

  If the number of reserved memories of the first special figure game is “0” in step S235 (step S235; Yes), the demonstration display setting is performed (step S246), and the special symbol normal process is terminated. In the demonstration display setting, for example, a customer waiting demonstration designation command for designating the start of demonstration display (demonstration screen display) by displaying a predetermined effect image on the image display device 5 is sent from the main board 11 to the first effect control board 12. It is determined whether or not transmission has been completed. At this time, if the transmission has been completed, the demonstration display setting is ended as it is. On the other hand, if it has not been transmitted, after setting the transmission of the customer waiting demonstration designation command, the demonstration display setting is terminated.

  The variation pattern setting process in step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variation pattern setting process.

  In the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 16, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the big hit flag is on (step S261). If the big hit flag is on (step S261; Yes), the fluctuation pattern at the big hit is determined (step S262). On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off (step S261; No), the fluctuation pattern at the time of losing is determined (step S263). The variation pattern is for designating the execution time (special diagram variation time) of the variable display of the special symbol game or the decorative symbol and the variable display pattern of the decorative symbol.

  FIG. 17 shows the variation pattern used in this embodiment. In this embodiment, there are PA1-1, PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4 as fluctuation patterns at the time of loss. Moreover, there are PB3-2 to PB3-4 as a variation pattern at the time of big hit. PA1-1 and PA2-1 specify non-reach. PA2-1 is a pattern for time reduction (with shortening) in which the special figure variation time (execution period of the special figure game) is shorter than normal (PA1-1). PA3-2 and PB3-2 designate execution of normal reach (no development), PA3-3 and PB3-3 designate execution of reach production that develops from normal reach to super reach A, and PA3-4 and PB3. -4 designates execution of reach production that develops from normal reach to super reach B.

  In the process of step S262, for example, the big hit variation pattern is determined using the big hit variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 101. In the big hit variation pattern determination table, for example, in order to realize the determination ratio of FIG. PB3-2 to PB3-4) may be assigned. The CPU 103 refers to the big hit variation pattern determination table on the basis of the numerical data indicating the random number MR3 for variation pattern read to the random number buffer for variation, thereby determining the variation pattern (PB3-2 to PB3- 4) may be determined.

  Further, in the process of step S263, for example, the variation pattern at the time of the loss is determined using the first loss variation pattern determination table or the second loss variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 101. The first loss variation pattern determination table is used when not in the time-short state, and the second loss variation pattern determination table is used when in the time-short state. Whether or not the time is short is specified by a time short flag provided in the RAM 102. In the first loss variation pattern determination table, a numerical value (determination value) compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is a variation at the time of loss as a determination result so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. What is necessary is just to be assigned to the pattern (PA1-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4). In the second loss variation pattern determination table, the numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is a variation at the time of loss as a determination result so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. It is only necessary to be assigned to the patterns (PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4). The CPU 103 refers to the first or second loss variation pattern determination table based on the numerical data indicating the variation pattern determination random value MR3 read into the variation random number buffer, thereby causing the variation pattern (PA1- 1, any one of PA3-2 to PA3-4, or any one of PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4) may be determined.

  Referring to FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, the determination ratio of the variation pattern is higher in the order of PA1-1 or PA2-1> PA3-2> PA3-3> PA3-4 when lost. The big hit is higher in the order of PB3-4> PB3-3> PB3-2. For this reason, the big hit expectation degree is high in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach (no development). Further, PA2-1 (see FIG. 17) having a short special figure variation time is selected in the short-time state, so that in the short-time state, the average special-figure variation time is shorter than that in the non-time-short state.

  After executing one of the processes of steps S262 and S263, a special figure fluctuation time (see FIG. 17) corresponding to the fluctuation pattern determined this time is set (step S266). For example, a timer initial value corresponding to the special figure variation time is set in a predetermined timer of the RAM 102 (hereinafter, the elapsed time from the start of the special figure game execution is measured by updating the timer value at each timer interruption or the like. Will be.)

  Subsequent to the process of step S266, the special symbol change is started so as to start one of the first special figure game and the second special figure game for which the start condition is satisfied (step S267). ). As an example, if the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “1”, a drive signal for executing the first special symbol game is transmitted to the first special symbol display device 4A. On the other hand, if the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “2”, a drive signal for executing the second special symbol game is transmitted to the second special symbol display device 4B.

  After the processing of step S267 is executed, transmission setting of a change start time command (various commands specifying the determination result and the like) is performed as a command at the start of execution of the special figure game (step S271). For example, when the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value is “1”, the CPU 103 sets transmission of a first fluctuation start designation command, a fluctuation pattern designation command, a display result designation command, and a first special figure pending memory number subtraction designation command. I do. On the other hand, when the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value is “2”, the CPU 103 transmits the second fluctuation start designation command, fluctuation pattern designation command, display result designation command, and second special figure pending memory number subtraction designation command. I do.

  After executing the process of step S266, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2” (step S267), and the variation pattern setting process is terminated.

  The special symbol variation process of step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. For example, the CPU 103 determines whether the elapsed time since the start of the special figure game (measured by the predetermined timer or the like) has reached the special figure variation time set above (the predetermined timer value is 0). If it is not reached, a drive signal for executing the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game is supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. The process is terminated after the process of changing the special symbol is performed. On the other hand, when the special symbol variation time is reached, the timing for deriving the variable display result is reached, so a predetermined drive signal is supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B and determined as described above. This variable display result (may be specified by the big hit flag or the big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer) ("-" for "losing", "2" for "non-probable change A") ”4” for “non-probability change B”, “5” for “probability change A”, “7” for “probability change B”, etc. And the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “3”. By executing step S112 repeatedly every time a timer interrupt occurs, the execution of the special game is realized.

  The special symbol stop process in step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”. For example, when the variable display result of this time is “big hit” (when the big hit flag is on, etc.), the CPU 103 resets the time reduction flag and the probability variation flag to off. After that, transmission setting of the hit start designation command is performed, the special figure process flag is updated to “4”, and this processing is terminated. In the case of a time reduction state such as “losing” (when the big hit flag is off, etc.), it is determined whether a predetermined number of variable displays that can be executed in the time reduction state has been executed (for example, a time reduction counter (time reduction) provided in the RAM 102). (The counter for counting the remaining number) is decremented by 1 and it is determined whether the value after the decrement is “0”), or when variable display is performed a predetermined number of times (the count value is “0”). ”), The time reduction flag is reset to OFF, the value of the special figure process flag is set to“ 0 ”, and the process is terminated. Even in the case of “losing” and not being in a short time state, when the predetermined number of variable displays has not been executed, the process is terminated by setting the value of the special figure process flag to “0”.

  The big hit release pre-processing in step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. For example, an elapsed time (which may be measured by a timer or the like provided in the RAM 102, the same as for other elapsed times) after the transmission setting of the hit start designation command is set in advance as a fanfare waiting time ( It is determined whether or not the waiting time from the start of fanfare to the end in the big hit gaming state has been reached. When the fanfare waiting time is reached, the special prize process flag is updated to “5” by performing a process (opening of a solenoid drive signal) for opening the big prize opening in order to start a round game. By repeating step S114 every time a timer interrupt occurs, waiting until the start timing of the round game (waiting until the end of the fanfare), opening of the big prize opening, and the like are realized.

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

  Here, the process executed in the last round game will be described with reference to FIG. First, an ending waiting time (a waiting time from the start to the end of the ending in the big hit gaming state, which is a predetermined time) is set (step S601). For example, a timer initial value corresponding to the ending waiting time is set in a predetermined timer in the RAM 102 (hereinafter, the elapsed time from the end of the last round game is measured by updating the timer value at each timer interrupt or the like. (Step S601). Also, a value corresponding to the big hit type (big hit type buffer setting value) stored in the big hit type buffer ("00", "probable change B" or "non-probable change B" when "probability change A" or "non-probability change A"). In this case, a setting is made to transmit a hit end designation command in which “01” is set in the EXT data (step S602), and a process of updating the special figure process flag to “7” (step S603) is also performed. On the first effect control board 12 side, if the EXT data (XX) of the hit end designating command is “00”, the initial number of time reductions (the number of executions of the special-purpose game that can be executed before the time reduction state ends) is initial. A value of 50 is specified. If the EXT data (XX) of the winning end designation command is “01”, 100 is specified as the initial value of the remaining time.

  Returning to FIG. 9, the big hit release post-processing in step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. For example, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the end of the round game (after closing the big prize opening) has reached a predetermined closing time (round game interval period). In this case, the closed state is maintained, and the present process ends. When the predetermined closing time is reached, in order to start the round game, a process for opening the special winning opening is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”, and this process is terminated.

  Each round game is realized by repeatedly executing S115 and S116 every time a timer interrupt occurs after the big winning opening is opened in step S114.

  The jackpot end process in step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7” (see FIG. 21). In the jackpot ending process, whether the elapsed time from the end of the last round game (measured by the predetermined timer or the like) has reached the ending waiting time set above (the predetermined timer value becomes 0). It is determined whether the ending waiting time has ended (step S611). When the ending waiting time has not ended (step S611; No), since the ending has not ended, the jackpot end processing is ended as it is.

  When the ending waiting time is finished (when the timer value of the predetermined timer is “0”) (step S611; Yes), the ending is finished. Next, the current jackpot type is changed reliably (“probability change A”). Or “probability variation B”) (step S612). The jackpot type may be specified by the jackpot type buffer setting value stored in the jackpot type buffer. When the big hit type is “probability change A” or “probability change B” (step S612; Yes), the probability change flag is set to the on state (step S613). After step S613 or when the current big hit type is not a certain change (step S612; No), the time reduction number corresponding to the big hit type is set as an initial value (initial value of the short time remaining number) in the time reduction number counter and the time reduction The flag is turned on (step S615). If the big hit type is “probability variation A” or “non-probability variation A”, “50” is set as the count initial value in the hourly number counter. If the big hit type is “probability variation B” or “non-probability variation B”, “100” is set as the initial count value in the hourly number counter. When the value of the time reduction counter becomes “0”, all the special-purpose games that can be executed in the time reduction state have been executed, so the time reduction state ends.

  By the processing as described above, the gaming state after the big hit gaming state when the big hit type is “probability variation A” or “probability variation B” becomes the high probability high base state. In addition, the remaining number of times (the number of executions of the special figure game that can be executed until the time-short state is finished) is set to “50” when “probability variation A”, and “100 times” when “probability variation B”. It is set (see FIG. 15). In addition, the gaming state after the big hit gaming state when the big hit type is “non-probability change A” or “non-probability change B” is a low probability high base state. Also, the remaining number of time reductions is set to “50 times” when “non-probability variation A”, and “100 times” when “non-probability variation B” (see FIG. 15). As described above, the initial number at the start of the time reduction of the number of remaining time reductions is set by the number corresponding to the jackpot type.

  After step S615, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0” (step S616), and this process ends.

  In the above series of processing, when the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”, one variable display or the like has ended, so the game control process timer, the jackpot type buffer setting value, Various data such as the state of various flags (those that you do not want to carry over to the next variable display) may be reset as appropriate.

(Main operations of the first effect control board 12)
When power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 1, the first effect control board 12 starts up the effect control CPU 120 and rises, for example, and then executes a predetermined effect control main process (FIG. 22). When the effect control main process is started, the effect control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined initialization process, clears the RAM 122, sets various initial values, and sets the CTC (counter mounted on the first effect control board 12). / Timer circuit) register setting, etc. (step S701). Thereafter, a timer initial value corresponding to a predetermined rising waiting time is set in the rising waiting time timer (provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122) (step S702). The rise waiting time is a time (above 10 seconds) corresponding to a period from when the VDP of the display control unit 31 is activated until normal operation can be performed (that is, the time until the VDP rises). is there. The rise wait time is measured by the rise wait time timer.

  After step S703, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a timer interrupt flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 is on (step S703). The timer interrupt flag is set to an on state every time a predetermined time elapses in a timer interrupt process that is executed separately from the effect control main process, for example, based on register settings of the CTC. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off, the process waits. For this reason, the processing described later is executed every time a timer interrupt occurs.

  On the first effect control board 12 side, a first effect control command from the main board 11 and a signal from the second effect control board 30 (FIG. 6) apart from the timer interruption that occurs every time a predetermined time elapses. Of various signals) is appropriately performed. The received first effect control command and the signal (data indicated by the signal) are stored in a first effect control command reception buffer or a signal reception buffer provided in the RAM 122, for example. The first effect control command or signal (data indicated by the signal) stored in each buffer is received confirmation (after Steps S706, S710, S716, which will be described later) or the stored first effect control command or signal. When a predetermined process (steps S723, S725, S760, S762, etc.) is performed by the effect control CPU 120 based on (the data indicated by the signal), the effect control CPU 120 deletes it from each buffer at an appropriate timing. Shall be.

  If the timer interrupt flag is on (step S703; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off (step S704), and whether the normal operation confirmation timer is operating (for example, the timer value is If it is not 0, it is determined that it is operating (step S705). The normal operation confirmation timer is provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, and is a timer for measuring a reception waiting time of a normal operation signal periodically transmitted from the second effect control board 30.

  If the timer value of the normal operation confirmation timer is 0 and the timer is not in operation (step S705; No), it is determined whether the rising signal (signal transmitted at the rising time) from the second effect control board 30 is received. Determination is made (step S706). For example, the reception is determined based on whether or not the rising signal data (4-byte data set as the rising signal) is stored in the signal reception buffer. When the rising signal data is not stored in the signal receiving buffer and the rising signal is not received (step S706; No), the timer value of the rising waiting time timer is reduced by 1 (step S707) and reduced. It is determined whether the subsequent timer value is “0” (step S708).

  If the timer value after decrementing by 1 is “0” (step S708; Yes), the rise waiting time (10 seconds) has elapsed without receiving the rise signal, so the second effect control. Assuming that the substrate 30 (VDP of the display control unit 31) has not started up normally, a long reset process (see “Long Reset” in FIG. 8) for sending a reset signal to the VDP 60000 times is executed to stop the operation of the VDP. At the same time, the cooling fan 40 is driven (a cooling fan drive signal is supplied) to cool the VDP (step S709). Thus, the long reset of FIG. 8 is realized, and the VDP is cooled during the long reset period. As an example of step S709, the production control CPU 120 increments the count value of the counter provided in the RAM 122 (initial value is 0) by one each time a reset signal is transmitted, and the count value reaches 60000. When the reset signal has been supplied 60000 times, the long reset or driving of the cooling fan may be terminated. By such a long reset or the like, even if a thermal runaway or the like has occurred in the VDP, the VDP can be returned to a normal state. After step S709, the second effect control board 30 is restarted, and the process is executed again from step S702. In step S709, the effect control CPU 120 supplies a predetermined audio signal or an illumination signal to the audio control board 13 or the lamp control board 14 and outputs a sound for notifying the abnormality from the speakers 8L and 8R. The game effect lamp 9 may be turned on in an abnormality notification mode.

  When the rising signal is received (when the rising signal data is stored in the signal receiving buffer) (step S707; Yes), the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the display control unit 31) has started up normally. Therefore, this time, a timer initial value is set in the normal operation confirmation timer (step S714). Note that the timer value of the rise waiting time timer is reset to 0 before executing step S714. The timer initial value of the normal operation confirmation timer may be a value corresponding to a period (here, 5 seconds or the like) corresponding to a normal operation signal transmission interval (here, 1 second).

  If the normal operation confirmation timer is operating (such as when the timer value is not 0) (step S705; Yes), it is determined whether a normal operation signal has been received (step S710). For example, the reception is determined based on whether or not normal operation signal data (4-byte data set as the normal operation signal) is stored in the signal reception buffer. When the normal operation signal is received because the data is stored (step S710; Yes), the second effect control board 30 is operating normally and waits for the reception of the next normal operation signal. In addition, the process of step S714 is executed.

  When the normal operation signal is not received because there is no storage of the normal operation signal (step S710; No), the timer value of the normal operation confirmation timer is reduced by 1 (step S711), and the timer value after the subtraction is 0. (Step S712). If it is determined that it is 0 (step S712; Yes), it is considered that an abnormality has occurred in the VDP of the display control unit 31, and therefore a short reset process ("short" in FIG. 8) that sends a reset signal to the VDP once. Reset ”) is executed to reset the VDP (step S713). Thereby, the short reset of FIG. 8 is implement | achieved. After step S713, the second effect control board 30 is restarted, so the process is executed again from step S702. In step S713, in addition to the above short reset, in order to stop the effect being executed, for example, the first effect control command or signal (in the first effect control command reception buffer or the signal reception buffer) is stored. When the various signals in FIG. 6 are deleted or the effect is set to be executed (step S723), the effect (for example, sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, lighting of the game effect lamp 9, etc.) is executed. Reset (for example, delete the pattern data set as a use pattern in step S723 from the RAM 122), reset the timer values of various timers, or reset the count values of various counters. In step S713, the production control CPU 120 supplies a predetermined audio signal or electrical decoration signal to the audio control board 13 or the lamp control board 14 to output an audio for notifying the abnormality from the speakers 8L and 8R, or to play a game. For example, a process of lighting the effect lamp 9 in an abnormality notification mode or the like may be performed (in this way, abnormality notification may be performed).

  If the timer value after step S714 or after subtraction is not 0 (step S712; No), the effect control CPU 120 determines whether the reception confirmation timer is operating (for example, if the timer value is not 0). Is determined to be in operation) (step S716). The reception confirmation timer is provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, and when a second effect control command including a specific command is transmitted to the second effect control board 30, a command reception signal returned from the second effect control board 30 is received. This is a timer for measuring the reception waiting time. If the timer value is 0 and the reception confirmation timer is not operating (step S715; No), the second effect control command including the specific command is not transmitted to the second effect control board 30, and therefore the process of step S721 is performed. skip.

  If the timer value is not 0 and the reception confirmation timer is operating (step S715; Yes), it is determined whether a command reception signal is received (step S716). For example, the reception is determined based on whether or not the data of the command reception signal (4-byte data set as the command reception signal) is stored in the signal reception buffer. If the command reception signal is received because the data is stored (step S716; Yes), a response to the transmission of the second effect control command including the specific command is returned from the second effect control board 30. Therefore, the reception confirmation timer is reset (step S717). If the current command received signal is a command received signal indicating inconsistency (non-matching), the same short reset process as in step S713 (the above abnormality notification may be appropriately performed. The same applies to the short reset process). Then, the process of step S702 may be executed again. Further, when the commands are inconsistent, only the command stored in the first effect control command reception buffer may be deleted.

  If the command reception signal is not received because the command reception signal data is not stored in the signal reception buffer (step S716; No), the timer value of the reception confirmation timer is decremented by 1 (step S718). After that, it is determined whether the timer value is 0 (step S719). If it is determined that the timer value is 0 (step S719; Yes), the response to the transmission of the second effect control command including the specific command is the second. Since it is considered that an abnormality has occurred in the second effect control board 30 without returning from the effect control board 30, a short reset process similar to step S713 is performed (step S720), and then the process of step S702 is executed. .

  After step S717, if the timer value of the reception confirmation timer is not 0 (step S719; No), processing such as first effect control command analysis for analyzing the first effect control command is performed (step S721). In the first effect control command, for example, the process of FIG. 23 is performed.

  In processing such as first effect control command analysis, the first effect control command reception buffer is checked to determine whether or not there is an unanalyzed received command (first effect control command) (step S751). As described above, the command stored in the first effect control command reception buffer is deleted from each buffer when predetermined processing (in this case, steps S760 and S762) is performed. The first effect control command currently stored in the control command reception buffer becomes an unanalyzed received command. Note that the received commands are stored in the order of reception.

  If no command is stored in the first effect control command reception buffer, it is determined that there is no command to be analyzed (step S751; No), and this process is terminated. When a command is stored (step S751; Yes), the earliest command received earliest among the stored commands (unanalyzed commands) is analyzed (step S752). The effect control CPU 120 checks the data content of the earliest command and identifies the command that is the first effect control command, thereby analyzing the command. For example, the MODE data whose first bit is “1” is specified, and the command of the first effect control command is specified by the data content of the specified MODE data.

  After step S752, it is confirmed whether the analyzed received command is a hit end designation command (step S753). If it is a hit end designation command (step S753; Yes), the number of variable displays that can be executed in the current short time state according to the value specified by “XX” of the EXT data of the command (if “00”) 50 times, “100 times if“ 01 ”) is set as an initial value in the remaining time counter (step S754). The short time remaining number counter is for counting the short time remaining number (the number of executions of the special figure game that can be executed until the time short state is finished) on the first effect control board 12 side, and is provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122. It is done. The count value of the remaining time counter is equal to the count value of the shorter time counter on the main control board 11 side.

  If it is not a hit end designation command (step S753; No), it is determined whether the analyzed received command is a fluctuation pattern designation command (step S755). If it is a fluctuation pattern designation command (step S755; Yes), the time is shortened. The count value of the remaining number counter is decremented by 1 (step S756). The change pattern designation command is transmitted at the start of the special figure game. At this time, by subtracting the count value by 1, the count value of the short time remaining number counter accurately reflects the short time remaining number of times. (Note that the short remaining time in this embodiment is the number of times the variable display executed this time is not counted as one).

  Note that when the count value of the remaining time counter is already “0” (that is, when it is in a non-short-time state), the count value remains “0”. Thus, the presence / absence of the time-short state is known by the time-short remaining number counter. Note that it may be determined whether or not the current state is the time-saving state, and steps S755 and S756 may be executed when the current state is the time-shortening state. Whether the time is short or not, for example, every time a gaming state designation command is transmitted, the production side short time flag (a flag that is turned on when the time is short, is stored in the RAM 122 according to the gaming state designated by the command). It is also possible to specify the status according to the state of the flag.

  After steps S754 and S756, or when the analyzed received command is not a variation pattern designation command (step S755; No), the effect control CPU 120 uses the received command (first effect control command) as a header, and a time-saving remaining number counter. A second effect control command (see FIG. 5) is generated using the data indicating the count value (that is, the numerical data indicating the remaining time in 2 bytes) as the footer (step S757). When not in the time-short state, the time-short remaining count value is “0”, so “0000 (H)” is set as the footer. When the received command analyzed this time is the first effect control command other than the variation pattern designation command, the footer is set to “0000 (H)” (data indicating the remaining number of time reductions = 0) regardless of the remaining time. Also good. In the time-short state, as will be described later, the number of remaining times is displayed by the control of the second effect control board 30, but the second effect control board 30 has received the second effect control command including the variation pattern designation command. This is because the display of the remaining number of time reductions is sometimes updated (details will be described later).

  After step S757, the analyzed received command (first production control command included in the generated second production control command) is a specific command (variation pattern designation command, hit start designation command, hit end designation command, customer waiting demonstration designation command). Is determined (step S758).

  When it is a specific command (step S758; Yes), a checksum is calculated based on the numerical value of the second effect control command generated this time in step S757 (step S759), and the second effect control command is used as the second effect control board. 30 and a checksum associated with the command (step S760). Thereafter, an initial value is set in the reception confirmation timer (step S761). The initial value is set in advance, and corresponds to a period required from when the second effect control command including the specific command is transmitted until the command reception signal is normally received from the second effect control board 30 as a response. Such as value.

  If it is not a specific command (step S758; No), the second effect control command generated this time in step S757 is transmitted to the second effect control board 30 (step S762).

  After step S761 or S762, the process of step S751 is executed. As described above, when executing steps S760 and S762, the first effect control command to be analyzed this time stored in the first effect control command reception buffer is deleted. By doing so, it is possible to perform processing such as analysis for all the commands stored in the first effect control command reception buffer.

  Returning to FIG. 22, after the first effect control command analysis process (step S721), it is determined whether a voice command or a lamp command is received (step S722). For example, the reception is determined based on whether or not voice command or ramp command data (4-byte data set as the voice command or ramp command) is stored in the signal reception buffer. When the voice command or the lamp command is received because the data is stored or the like (step S716; Yes), the performance execution setting is performed in the mode specified by the voice command or the lamp command (step S723). For example, pattern data (stored in the ROM 121) corresponding to a voice command or a lamp command is set as a usage pattern (read out to the RAM 122, etc.). The pattern data includes, for example, process data including audio signal data and electrical signal data associated with determination values such as process timer determination values. Further, for example, an initial value corresponding to a voice command or a ramp command is set in a process timer provided in the RAM 122. When both the voice command and the lamp command are received, the effect execution setting is performed for both the effect on the speakers 8L and 8R and the effect on the game effect lamp 9.

  If no voice command or lamp command is received after step S723 (step S722; No), it is determined whether or not there is an execution setting of at least one of the effects at the speakers 8L and 8R and the effects at the game effect lamp 9. (Step S724), for example, when there is an execution setting when pattern data is set as a usage pattern, the production operation control is performed for the effect set to be executed (Step S725). For example, the timer value of the process timer is decremented by 1, and the audio signal and / or the illumination signal indicated by the data (data included in the usage pattern) corresponding to the process timer determination value that matches the reduced timer value is represented by / Or to the lamp control board 14. Thereby, sound output from the speakers 8L, 8R, lighting by the game effect lamp 9, and the like are executed. By executing the process in step S725 for each timer interruption, the speaker 8L, 8R can execute an effect by sound output in accordance with the sound command, and the effect of the lighting mode according to the lamp command can be achieved. It can be executed with.

  After step S725, if there is no execution setting (step S724; No), the process of step S704 is executed.

  By performing such a series of processes for each timer interruption, the first effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120) confirms the rising of the second effect control board 30 (confirmed by the rising signal) and the second effect. Generation and transmission of control commands and accompanying transmission of sum check (addition of number of short time remaining), confirmation of reception of second production control command (confirmed by command reception signal), normal operation of second production control board 30 It is possible to confirm whether or not (confirm by a normal operation signal), execute an effect using the speakers 8L and 8R and the game effect lamp 9, reset the second effect control board 30 (transmit a reset signal), and the like.

(Main operations of second effect control board 30 (VDP of display control unit 31))
In the second effect control board 30, when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on or a reset signal is supplied, the VDP executes the second effect control main process of FIG.

  The VDP of the display control unit 31 first executes a predetermined initial setting process, clears the VRAM, sets various initial values, and sets a register of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) included in the display control unit 31 or VDP. Etc. are performed (step S71). As a result, when the process ends, the VDP of the display control unit 31 is in a state in which a normal process for effect execution can be executed (that is, a state in which the effect has been raised). (Step S71). As described above, the VDP of the display control unit 31 may take a longer time to start up (initial setting, etc.) than the CPU 103 of the main board 11 or the CPU 120 for effect control of the first effect control board 12. The signal can notify the first effect control board 12 that it has started up (note that after the start-up, a demo display is performed, whereby the player starts the game).

  After step S72, the VDP of the display control unit 31 sets a predetermined timer initial value for the operation check timer (step S73). The operation confirmation timer is provided in the VRAM of the display control unit 31 and is used for measuring a period until the next transmission timing of the normal operation signal. The timer initial value is a normal operation signal transmission interval (here. In this case, the value corresponds to 1 second).

  After step S73, the VDP of the display control unit 31 determines whether or not a timer interrupt flag provided in a predetermined area such as a VRAM is on (step S74). The timer interrupt flag is set to an on state every time a predetermined time elapses based on, for example, a CTC register setting in a timer interrupt process executed separately from the second effect control main process. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off, the process waits. For this reason, the processing described later is executed every time a timer interrupt occurs.

  On the second effect control board 30 side, a process for capturing (receiving) a second effect control command from the first effect control board 12 separately from the timer interruption that occurs every time a predetermined time elapses. Is appropriately performed. The received second effect control command is stored, for example, in a second effect control command reception buffer provided in the VRAM or the like in the order of reception (if the checksum is attached, the checksum is also stored in the second effect control command). Stored corresponding to). It should be noted that the command stored in the second effect control command reception buffer is deleted by the display control unit 31 at an appropriate timing when used in processing such as second effect control command analysis described later.

  If the timer interrupt flag is on (step S74; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off (step S75), and processing such as second effect control command analysis (FIG. 25) is executed (FIG. 25). Step S76).

  In the second effect control command analysis process or the like, the VDP of the display control unit 31 checks the second effect control command reception buffer (step S771). Thereafter, when data is not stored in the second effect control command reception buffer (step S771; No), this process is terminated. When the data is stored (step S771; Yes), it is determined whether the data is data arranged as a second effect control command that is a received command (step S773).

  As described above, the header of the second effect control command is the first effect control command, and the first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data that is the upper byte data of the first effect control command is always “1”. It becomes. On the other hand, the first bit (binary number) of EXT data, which is lower byte data of the first effect control command, is “0”. In addition, the footer of the second effect control command designates the remaining number of time reductions and takes a value up to 100 in decimal. Therefore, the top of each data of the upper 1 byte and the lower 1 byte of the footer. The bit is also “0”. Further, in the sum check, the first bit is “0” as described above. For this reason, it can be seen that the 1-byte data whose first bit is “1” is the header of the second effect control command (MODE data of the first effect control command). In addition, when the first effect control command included in the second effect control command is the specific command (any one of the variation pattern designation command, the hit start designation command, the hit end designation command, and the customer waiting demonstration designation command) ( The header of the second effect control command (which can be specified by the MODE data of the first effect control command) and a checksum are attached.

  That is, when the first effect control command included in the second effect control command is not a specific command, three 1-byte data (hereinafter referred to as subsequent 1-byte data) having the first bit “0” continues (lower header). And the footer are composed of subsequent 1-byte data.) When the first effect control command included in the second effect control command is a specific command, the subsequent 1-byte data continues with four (the header lower part and the footer are composed of the first 3 bytes of the subsequent 1-byte data. , The checksum is composed of the last 1 byte).

  On the other hand, when the subsequent 1-byte data is 2 or less or 5 or more (for example, when there is only 1 subsequent 1-byte data following the MODE data and the subsequent data is not stored in the buffer, If the subsequent 1-byte data is one and the subsequent data is other MODE data), the data constituting the second effect control command is not complete.

  In step S773, the VDP of the display control unit 31 determines whether all of the data in the second effect control command reception buffer is data that is arranged as one or more second effect control commands (all the second effect control commands in the buffer). 2) When the second effect control command includes a specific command, for example, when the second effect control command includes four specific byte commands, the second effect control command is other than the specific command. When the first effect control command is included, if there are not three subsequent 1-byte data) (step S773; No), the command (data) in the second effect control command reception buffer is all received because of abnormal reception. It deletes (step S774) and this process is complete | finished.

  In step S774, if there is an effect that is being executed, the execution of the effect may be stopped (for example, an effect control pattern set as a later-described use pattern is reset, and an effect process flag is reset to 0) Etc.) The VDP of the display control unit 31 may supply a predetermined video signal to the image display device 5 to display a screen indicating that an abnormality has occurred.

  In step S773, it may be determined whether the data constituting the second effect control command is available by determining whether the subsequent 1-byte data following the MODE data is three or four.

  When all the data in the second effect control command reception buffer is data that is gathered as one or more second effect control commands (for example, when the second effect control command includes a specific command, there are four subsequent 1-byte data. In the case where the second effect control command includes the first effect control command other than the specific command, there are three subsequent 1-byte data) (step S771; Yes), one or more second effect controls It is determined whether there is a command accompanied by a checksum (step S781). For example, it may be determined whether the subsequent 1-byte data has four commands. Or what is necessary is just to determine whether the said 2nd production control command contains a specific command by the MODE data of a 1st production control command.

  When the checksum is attached (step S781; Yes), the data of each bit constituting the second effect control command is added, and 7F is added to the added value to set the first bit to 0. Then calculate the checksum. The consistency of the command is determined based on whether the calculated checksum is the same as the accompanying checksum (step S782). After that, when it is determined as inconsistent (step S783; No), processing such as deleting all received commands is performed (step S784, which is the same as step S774), and the first effect control board 12 is processed. A command reception signal (non-matching) is transmitted to (step S785), and this processing is terminated. When the command is matched (step S783; No), a command reception signal (match) is transmitted (step S786).

  After step S786, if there is no received command (second effect control command) accompanied by a checksum (step S781; No), processing corresponding to the content of the received command (MODE data), that is, which first received command is The process shown in FIG. 26 is performed according to whether the second effect control command includes the effect control command (step S78). In step S786, when there are a plurality of second effect control commands, the processing shown in FIG. 26 is performed for all the second effect control commands.

  FIG. 26 shows the relationship between the first effect control command (first effect control command name) included in the second effect control command and the processing content corresponding to the second effect control command. Each command reception flag, each command storage area, and command buffer in FIG. 26 is provided in a VRAM of the display control unit 31 or the like. In addition, “set” for each command reception flag means to turn on the flag. The state of each command reception flag and the command (second effect control command) stored in each command storage area may be reset or deleted at an appropriate timing (checking the flag state or command) It may be reset or erased at a timing that is not necessary.)

  When a second effect control command including a game state designation command is received, a high-accuracy flag (a flag that is turned on at the time of high-accuracy and set in a predetermined area such as a VRAM is set according to the game state designated by the game state designation command. ) And a high base flag (a flag that is turned on at the time of high base and provided in a VRAM or the like). When the gaming state designation command designates the probability changing state, the high probability flag is turned on (if it is already on, the state is maintained). When the gaming state designation command designates the short time state, the high base flag is turned on (if the state is already on, the state is maintained).

  As shown in FIG. 27A, a hold display number (first hold display number) serving as a buffer number is set in the first start winning command buffer. When receiving each second effect control command including a first start winning designation command, a first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command, and a first winning determination result designation command, the first start winning designation command, A set corresponding to the first hold display numbers “1” to “4” is set by setting one command for the first start winning prize including the one special figure reserved memory number addition designation command and the first prize determination result designation command. Store in order from the beginning of the free area in the area.

  As shown in FIG. 27 (B), a hold display number (second hold display number) serving as a buffer number is set in the second start winning command buffer. When receiving each second effect control command including the second start winning designation command, the second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command, and the second winning determination result designation command, the first start winning designation command, A storage area corresponding to the second hold display numbers “1” to “4” as a set of the second start winning command including the one special figure reserved memory number addition specifying command and the second winning determination result specifying command Are stored in order from the beginning of the empty area.

  The first start winning command is transmitted as a part of the second effect control command from the main board 11 via the first effect control board 12 in response to occurrence of the hold of the first special figure game. When one special figure game is put on hold (when the first start prize is generated), one set of received commands (first start prize command) stored in the first start prize command buffer is increased by one. Become. The second start winning time command is transmitted as a part of the second effect control command from the main board 11 via the first effect control board 12 in response to occurrence of the hold of the second special figure game. In response to the occurrence of the suspension of the 2 special figure game, one set of received commands (second start winning command) stored in the second starting winning command buffer is increased by one.

  Further, as will be described in detail later, when the first special figure game is executed, the first start winning command stored corresponding to the first hold display numbers “2” to “4” is assigned to the first number. 1 hold display numbers “1” to “3” (see step S321 described later). Similarly, when the second special figure game is executed, the second hold display number of the second start winning prize command stored corresponding to the second hold display number “2” to “4” is the higher number. The shift is performed from “1” to “3” (see step S321 described later).

  As described above, the first start winning command and the hold data stored in correspondence with the same number in the hold display number in the first start winning command buffer and the hold number in the first special figure holding storage unit. (And the first special game corresponding to the hold data) and the number of first start winning commands stored in the first start winning command buffer is the number of the first special game. It will be the same as the number of 1 special figure hold memory. Also, the second start winning command and the hold data (and the hold data) stored in correspondence with the same number in the hold display number in the second start winning command buffer and the hold number in the second special figure hold storage unit. And the number of the second start winning command stored in the second start winning command buffer is the second special figure holding memory of the second special game. It becomes the same as the number.

  Further, each hold display number in the first start winning command buffer and the second start winning command buffer also corresponds to each display position of the hold display image.

  Specifically, each hold display number in the first start winning command buffer corresponds to each display position of the first hold display image provided in the area 5Ha of the display area 5H, and the hold display number “1” is Corresponding to the leftmost display position in the area 5Ha, the hold display number “2” corresponds to the second display position from the left in the area 5Ha, and the hold display number “3” is the third display position from the left in the area 5Ha. The hold display number “4” corresponds to the fourth (rightmost) display position from the left in the region 5Ha.

  Specifically, each hold display number in the second start winning command buffer corresponds to each display position of the second hold display image provided in the area 5Hb of the display area 5H, and the hold display number “1” is Corresponding to the leftmost display position in the area 5Hb, the hold display number “2” corresponds to the second display position from the left in the area 5Hb, and the hold display number “3” is the third display position from the left in the area 5Hb. The hold display number “4” corresponds to the fourth (rightmost) display position from the left in the area 5Hb.

  In addition, each of the first start winning command buffer and the second start winning command buffer includes first hold change effect information which is information indicating that the first hold change effect is executed corresponding to each hold display number. And a storage area for storing prefetch chance information, which is information indicating execution of the prefetch chance.

  Here, the first hold change effect information indicates that the first hold change effect that targets the special game corresponding to the hold display number corresponding to the information is executed, and the type of the first hold change effect. (Details will be described later).

  Here, the prefetch chance information indicates that the prefetch chance target targeting the special game corresponding to the hold display number corresponding to the information is executed, and the type of the prefetch chance eye (details will be described later). ).

  As will be described in detail later, when the variable display is executed, the first hold change effect information and the prefetch chance information are checked, and whether or not the first hold change effect and the prefetch chance eye in the variable display are executed and the effect to be executed are checked. The type is specified.

  In the start winning command buffer of FIG. 27, “0000 (H)” indicates that no command is stored, and “-” in the first hold change effect information column indicates first hold change effect information. Is not stored (the first hold change effect targeting the special figure game corresponding to the hold display number corresponding to the information is not executed). “−” In the pre-reading chance information column indicates that pre-reading chance information is not stored (the pre-reading chance target targeting the special game corresponding to the hold display number corresponding to the information is not executed). Show.

  Further, when the second effect control command including the first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command is received, a process of newly displaying the first reserved display image in the area 5Ha of the display area 5H is performed. When the second effect control command including the second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command is received, a process of newly displaying the second reserved display image in the area 5Ha of the display area 5H is performed. As a result, the first hold display image is incremented by one in response to the first special figure game being newly held based on the occurrence of the first start winning. Also, the second hold display image is incremented by one in response to the second special figure game being newly held based on the occurrence of the second start winning. The hold display image may be updated by a prefetch advance notice setting process described later.

  Further, when receiving the second effect control command including the customer waiting demonstration designation command, the image display device 5 is controlled (sequentially transmitting the video signal), and the image display device 5 is caused to perform the demonstration display. The demonstration display is performed until variable display is started. Further, the display control unit 31 may transmit a lamp command or a voice command for executing an effect by outputting sound from the speakers 8L and 8R, lighting the game effect lamp 9, or the like to the first effect control board 12.

  Returning to FIG. 24, after performing the second effect control command analysis process (step S76), the effect control process is executed (step S77). The effect control process will be described later. Then, the effect random number update process is executed (step S78). In the effect random number update process, numerical data indicating effect random numbers counted by an effect random counter such as VRAM is updated by software as various random values used for effect control. Thereafter, the timer value of the operation confirmation timer is decremented by 1 (step S79), and it is determined whether the timer value after decrement is 0 (step S80). If it is 0 (step S80; Yes), A normal operation signal is transmitted (step S81), and then an initial value (same as the initial value of step S73) is set in the operation check timer (step S82), and the process of step S74 is executed again (after subtraction) The same applies when the timer value is not 0 (step S80; No)). A normal operation signal is periodically transmitted to the first effect control board 12 through steps S79 to S82 and the like.

  Next, the production control process will be described. FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 28, the VDP of the display control unit 31 first executes the prefetch notice setting process (step S161) and then the value of the effect process flag provided in a predetermined area such as VRAM (initially , “0”), and selects and executes one of the following processes in steps S170 to S175.

  First, the prefetch notice setting process will be described. FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the prefetch notice setting process.

  In the pre-reading notice setting process, the VDP of the display control unit 31 first determines whether or not a new start winning command has been received this time (whether it has been received as the header of the second effect control command. The same applies to the effect control command) (step S671). When a plurality of sets of start winning commands are stored in the start winning command buffer, the following processing may be performed for the start winning commands of each set.

  If no new start winning command is received (step S671; No), the pre-reading notice setting process is terminated because the pre-reading notice is not executed.

  When a new start winning command is received (step S671; Yes), it is determined whether the hold display number corresponding to the newly received start winning command is “1” (step S672). If the hold display number corresponding to the received start winning command is not “1” (in the case of “2” to “4”) (step S672; No), is the execution prohibition condition for the pre-reading notice established? Is determined (step S673). The execution prohibition condition is a condition for prohibiting the execution of the pre-reading notice. Here, the winning determination result specifying command included in the newly received start winning command specifies “no determination”. When there is a determination of “big hit determination” in the variable display executed before the target (the contents of the command buffer at the start winning prize are checked and the hold display number corresponding to the newly received start winning command is before Each winning prize determination result designation command of the hold display number of each, or each winning prize judgment result designation stored in the second start prize command buffer when the newly received start prize command is the first start prize command This is a condition that is satisfied when there is a command that specifies a determination result at the time of winning a “big hit determination” in the command).

  When the execution prohibition condition of the pre-reading notice is not satisfied (step S673; No), it is determined whether the first hold change effect is scheduled to be executed (step S674A). For example, when the stored contents of the first start winning command buffer and the second starting win command buffer are checked and the first hold change effect information is stored in any of the command buffers, the first hold change effect is displayed. It is determined that it is scheduled to be executed (step S674A; Yes).

  When the first hold change effect information is not stored in any of the first start winning command buffer and the second start winning command buffer, and the first hold change effect is not scheduled to be executed (step S674A; No), prefetching It is determined whether or not the chance eye is scheduled to be executed (step S674B). For example, the stored contents of the first start winning command buffer and the second starting winning command buffer are checked, and when the prefetch chance information is stored in any of the command buffers, the prefetch chance is scheduled to be executed. (Step S674B; Yes).

  If the pre-read chance information is not stored in either the first start winning command buffer or the second start winning command buffer and the pre-read chance is not scheduled to be executed (step S674B; No), the pre-read chance is executed. Whether or not there is is determined (step S675).

  In step S675, the VDP of the display control unit 31 is first updated by a random number circuit or an effect random counter or the like (a counter provided in a VRAM or the like, in which a random number value is updated by an effect random number update process). Numerical data indicating a random number SR1 for determining whether or not to execute the eye is extracted. Subsequently, based on the random number SR1, the presence / absence of execution of a prefetch chance is determined with reference to a prefetch chance execution execution table stored and prepared in advance in CGROM or the like.

  In the look-ahead chance execution determination table, for example, the numerical value (determination value) compared with the random value SR1 varies depending on the winning determination result specified by the winning determination result specifying command (the determination ratio of FIG. 30 is realized). In such a numerical range), it is only necessary to be assigned to “no execution”, “prefetch chance eye A”, and “prefetch chance eye B” as the determination results.

  In this embodiment, two types of prefetch chance eyes are prepared, one of which is “prefetch chance eye A” and the other is “prefetch chance eye B”. The “prefetch chance eye A” and the “prefetch chance eye B” have different target big hit expectations and different chances of stopping (as shown in FIG. 19, the prefetch chance eye A has an even number of predetermined chance eyes. The odd-numbered predetermined chance stops at the look-ahead chance B.) In addition, when the chance eye is stopped, the decorative design may be made to emit light. In this case, the “prefetch chance eye A” and the “prefetch chance eye B” are distinguished from each other by different light emission colors. You may make it do.

  The VDP of the display control unit 31 uses a prefetch chance if the decision result assigned to the decision value that matches the random value SR1 extracted this time according to the winning determination result is “no execution” in the prefetch chance execution decision table. If it is determined that the eye is not to be executed, it is determined that the prefetch chance eye A is executed if it is “prefetch chance eye A”, and the prefetch chance eye B is executed if it is “prefetch chance eye B” (the determination result is VRAM It may be stored in a predetermined area, etc. The same applies to other decisions).

  As can be seen from the determination ratio of FIG. 30, when the winning determination result is “big hit determination”, it is easier to determine “prefetch chance item B”, “prefetch chance item A”, and “no execution”. The reverse is true for “losing judgment”. For this reason, the big hit expectation is the highest when the “prefetch chance eye B” is executed, and is the lowest when the prefetch chance eye is not executed. In this way, the prefetch chance eye notifies that the target jackpot expectation is high, and the prefetch chance eye B predicts that the prefetch chance eye A is higher than the prefetch chance eye A.

  After step S675, whether or not to execute the first hold change effect is determined (step S676). In step S676, the VDP of the display control unit 31 first extracts numerical data indicating the random value SR2 for determining whether or not to execute the first hold change effect updated by a random number circuit or an effect random counter or the like. Subsequently, based on the random value SR2, the presence or absence of execution of the first hold change effect is determined with reference to a first hold change effect execution determination table stored and prepared in advance in CGROM or the like.

  In the first pending change effect execution determination table, for example, the numerical value (determination value) compared with the random value SR2 varies according to the winning determination result specified by the winning determination result specifying command (the determination ratio in FIG. 31). As long as it is assigned to “No execution”, “Hold → Blue”, and “Hold → Red”.

  In this embodiment, two types of first hold change effects are prepared, one of which is an effect that changes the color of the stored image from white (normal color) to blue (“hold → blue” effect). Yes, hereinafter referred to as the first hold change effect (blue)), and the other is an effect of changing the color of the hold stored image from white to red ("hold → red" effect, hereinafter, the first hold change effect). Production (also referred to as red).) Special symbols are common to both.

  If the determination result assigned to the determination value matching the random value SR2 extracted this time in accordance with the determination result at the time of winning is “no execution” in the first hold change effect execution determination table, the display control unit 31 is the first. It is decided not to execute the hold change effect, and if “hold → blue”, it is determined to execute the first hold change effect (blue), and if “hold → red”, the first hold change effect (red) is executed. Then decide.

  As can be seen from the determination ratio in FIG. 29, when the winning determination result is “hit determination”, it is easier to determine “hold → red”, “hold → blue”, and “no execution”. The opposite is true for "determination". For this reason, the jackpot expectation is highest when the “first hold change effect (red)” is executed (that is, when the hold display image turns red), and the “first hold change effect (blue)”. Is executed next (that is, when the hold display image turns blue), and is lowest when the first hold change effect is not executed. As described above, the first hold change effect changes the display color of the hold display image to notify that the target (the variable display corresponding to the hold display image) has a high jackpot expectation, and holds the hold display image. It is foretold that the expectation level for jackpot is higher when the color changes to red than when the hold display image changes to blue.

  After step S676, the VDP of the display control unit 31 determines whether or not it is determined to execute the prefetch chance item B and the first hold change effect by steps S675 and S676 (step S677) and determines to execute both. If yes (step S677; Yes), the presence / absence of cancellation of the first hold change effect is determined (step S678).

  In step S678, the VDP of the display control unit 31 first extracts numerical data indicating a random value SR3 for determining whether or not to cancel the first pending change effect updated by a random number circuit or an effect random counter or the like. Subsequently, based on the random value SR3, the presence / absence of cancellation of the first hold change effect is determined with reference to the cancellation determination table prepared and stored in advance in CGROM or the like.

  In the cancellation presence / absence determination table, for example, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value SR3 is assigned to “execution cancellation” and “no cancellation” that are determination results in a numerical range that realizes the determination ratio of FIG. It only has to be.

  The VDP of the display control unit 31 determines to cancel the execution of the first hold change effect if the determination result assigned to the determination value that matches the random value SR3 extracted this time is “execution cancellation” in the cancellation determination table. If it is “no cancel”, it is determined not to cancel the execution of the first hold change effect.

  As shown in FIG. 32, when it is determined to execute the first hold change effect and the prefetch chance, the execution of the first hold change effect is canceled at a high rate.

  If it is determined that neither the pre-reading chance item B nor the first hold change effect is to be executed (step S677; No), after step S678, the above determination result is used as the first start winning command buffer or the second start. In the winning command buffer, a record corresponding to the hold display number of the new start winning command is recorded (step S679).

  For example, when it is determined that the prefetch chance eye A is to be executed, information indicating that the prefetch chance eye A is executed (for example, “prefetch chance eye A”) is recorded as the prefetch chance eye information. For example, when it is determined to execute the prefetch chance eye B, information indicating that the prefetch chance eye B is executed (for example, “prefetch chance eye B”) is recorded as the prefetch chance eye information.

  When it is determined that the prefetch chance eye is not executed, the prefetch chance eye information is not recorded, but information indicating that the prefetch chance eye is not executed (also information indicating that the prefetch chance eye information is not stored). .) May be stored in the storage area for the prefetch chance information.

  When it is determined that the first hold change effect (blue) is to be executed, information indicating that the first hold change effect (blue) is to be executed (for example, “hold → blue”) is changed to the first hold change. Recorded as performance information. For example, when it is determined to execute the first hold change effect (red), information indicating that the first hold change effect (red) is executed (for example, “hold → red”) is changed to the first hold change. Recorded as performance information. However, when the execution of the first hold change effect is canceled in step S678, the first hold change effect information is not recorded.

  When it is determined that the first hold change effect is not executed or when there is the cancellation, the first hold change effect information is not recorded, but information indicating that the first hold change effect is not executed (the first 1 holding change effect information may also be stored in the storage area of the first hold change effect information.

  If the prefetch chance is scheduled to be executed (step S674B; Yes), whether or not the second hold change effect is executed is determined (step S681).

  In step S681, the VDP of the display control unit 31 first extracts numerical data indicating the random value SR4 for determining whether or not to execute the second hold change effect updated by a random number circuit or an effect random counter or the like. Subsequently, on the basis of the random value SR4, whether or not the second hold change effect is executed is determined with reference to a second hold change effect execution determination table (FIG. 31) prepared and stored in advance in CGROM or the like. .

  In the second hold change effect execution determination table, for example, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value SR4 becomes a determination result in a different range depending on the winning determination result specified by the winning determination result specifying command. It may be assigned to “no execution”, “hold → blue”, and “hold → red”.

  In this embodiment, two types of second on-hold change effects are prepared, one of which is an effect of changing the color of the on-hold stored image from white to blue ("hold-> blue" effect. The other is a hold change effect (blue)), and the other is an effect that changes the color of the hold stored image from white to red ("hold → red" effect, hereinafter also referred to as a second hold change effect (red). .)

  If the determination result assigned according to the determination result at the time of winning is “not executed”, the VDP of the display control unit 31 is assigned to the determination value that matches the random value SR4 extracted this time in the second hold change effect execution determination table. It is decided not to execute the second hold change effect, and if “hold → blue”, it is decided to execute the second hold change effect (blue), and if “hold → red”, the second hold change effect (red). To execute.

  As can be seen from the determination ratio of FIG. 31, when the winning determination result is “big hit”, it is easy to determine “hold → red”, “hold → blue”, and “no execution” in this order. In the case of the reverse. For this reason, the jackpot expectation is highest when the “second hold change effect (red)” is executed (that is, when the hold display image turns red), and the “second hold change effect (blue)”. Is executed next (that is, when the hold display image is red), and is lowest when the second hold change effect is not executed. In this way, the second hold change effect notifies that the target (the variable display corresponding to the hold display image) has a high jackpot expectation by changing the display color of the hold display image, and the hold display image. It is foretold that the expectation level for jackpot is higher when the color changes to red than when the hold display image changes to blue.

  After step S681, it is determined whether or not the execution of the second hold change effect has been decided (step S682). If it is decided to execute the second hold change effect (step S682; Yes), the determined type is determined. The second hold change effect is executed (step S683). For example, by transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123, the target hold display image (the hold corresponding to the hold display number corresponding to the newly received start winning command) The second reserved change effect is executed by changing the color of the (display image). When the second hold change effect (blue) is executed, the target hold display image is changed to blue, and when the second hold change effect (red) is executed, the target hold display image is changed to red.

  Thus, the second hold change effect is executed immediately after the display of the hold display image (appears to appear to have started display of the hold display image in the color after the second hold change effect is executed). On the other hand, the first hold change effect is not executed immediately after the hold display image is displayed, but is executed by variable display started after that (details will be described later). The color after changing the color of the hold display image in the first hold change effect is the same as the color after changing the color of the hold display image in the second hold change effect. The same is true for the first on-hold change effect and the second on-hold change effect in that the presence / absence of execution of the special symbol and the execution timing are different and the on-hold display image is changed.

  After step S679, after step S683, when the hold display number is “1” (step 672; Yes), or when the pre-reading notice execution prohibition condition is satisfied (step 673; Yes), the first hold change effect is executed. When there is a plan (step S674A; Yes), when no new start winning command is received (step S671; No), when it is determined not to execute the second hold change effect (step S682; No), The prefetch notice setting process is terminated.

  As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, look-ahead chance B> first hold change effect (red) and second hold change effect (red)> first hold change effect (blue) and second hold change effect (blue) > Expectation of jackpot is higher in the order of look-ahead chance A. In addition, when it is determined that the prefetch chance item B and the first hold change effect are executed, the execution of the first hold change effect is likely to be canceled as shown in FIG. For this reason, it is difficult for the pre-reading chance eyes B and the first reserved change effect to be executed for the same target. The first hold change effect is executed with a variable display that is started next, as will be described later. In addition, the prefetch chance is executed in each variable display from the next variable display to be started to the variable display executed before the target, as will be described later. When it is determined to execute the first hold change effect and the look-ahead chance item A with a low expectation degree of jackpot, in the next variable display (first variable display) to be started, a special symbol is displayed at the chance of the pre-read chance. The display is replaced (except for special symbols, a decorative symbol constituting the chance eye corresponding to the type of the prefetch chance eye is derived and displayed), and the color of the target hold display image is changed. 1 Hold change effect is executed with priority.

  Next, the processing in steps S170 to S175 (FIG. 28) will be described.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”.

  In this variable display start waiting process, the VDP of the display control unit 31 is received from the main board 11 as a change start designation command (whether it is received as the header of the second effect control command. The same applies to other commands as appropriate. ) Is received. Note that this determination may be made based on, for example, whether or not the first or second variation start designation command reception flag controlled in the second effect control command analysis or the like is in an on state. The same applies to the case where the presence / absence of reception of other commands is confirmed. For example, the presence / absence of reception of the command may be confirmed based on the state of the reception flag corresponding to the command to be confirmed.

  When the change start designation command is received, the variable display start waiting process is performed after the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1” in order to start the variable display of the decorative symbols in synchronization with the start of the special figure game. Ends. If the variable start designation command has not been received, the variable display start waiting process is terminated as it is.

  The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of variable display start setting processing.

  In the variable display start setting process, the VDP of the display control unit 31 first shifts the stored contents of the first start winning command buffer or the second starting winning command buffer and checks the stored contents after the shift (step S321). In the shift of the stored contents, when the first variation start designation command is received, the first start stored in correspondence with the first hold display numbers “2” to “4” in the first start winning command buffer The command at the time of winning, the look-ahead chance information, and the first hold change effect information are shifted to the first hold display numbers “1” to “3” of higher rank numbers (corresponding to the first hold display number “1” before the shift). The stored contents are deleted). When the second variation start designation command is received, the second start winning command stored in correspondence with the second hold display numbers “2” to “4” in the second start winning command buffer, prefetch chance The eye information and the second hold change effect information are shifted to the second hold display numbers “1” to “3” having higher numbers respectively (the stored contents corresponding to the second hold display number “1” before the shift are deleted). )

  After step S321, it is determined whether the pre-read chance information is stored in the first start winning command buffer or the second starting winning command buffer after the shift (step S323). When the prefetch chance information is stored (step S323; Yes), the current variation pattern (specified by the variation pattern designation command stored in the variation pattern designation command storage area), and the type of the prefetch chance item at this time A chance according to (predetermined chance eye information) is determined as a final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) (step S324). For example, when the variation pattern is a reach variation pattern, the reach chance value of “4 2 4” (in the case of “look-ahead chance eye A”) or “5 3 5” (in the case of “the look-ahead chance eye B”) Determine as the final stop symbol. For example, when the fluctuation pattern is a non-reach fluctuation pattern, the non-reach chance of “4 4 2” (in the case of “look-ahead chance A”) or “5 5 3” (in the case of “look-ahead chance B”) The eye is determined as the final stop symbol. After step S324, step S330 described later is executed.

  On the other hand, if the prefetch chance information is not stored (step S323; No), it is determined whether the first hold change effect information is stored in the first start winning command buffer or the second starting winning command buffer after the shift. Determination is made (step S325).

  When the first pending change effect information is stored (step S325; Yes), the combination of the decorative pattern including the special symbol, which is a combination according to the current variation pattern, is determined as the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol). (Step S326). For example, when the fluctuation pattern is a reach fluctuation pattern, “6 hold 6” or “7 hold 7” is determined as the final stop symbol (which is determined randomly using a random value and a table) do it.). For example, when the fluctuation pattern is a non-reach fluctuation pattern, “6 hold 4” or “7 hold 5” is determined as the final stop symbol (which is determined randomly using a random value and a table). Just decide.) “Hold” is a special symbol used in the first hold change effect indicating that the hold changes. As described above, here, symbols other than the special symbols among the decorative symbols constituting the final stop symbol are configured not to form chance chances. That is, the chance break is not determined as the final stop symbol. After step S326, the process of step S331 is performed.

  The chance break is a combination of expecting a chance eye before the final stop symbol stop (before the last decorative symbol stop). In this embodiment, “left” → “right” → “middle” Since the decorative symbols stop in order, the “left” decorative symbol (decorative symbol displayed in the decorative symbol display area 5L) and the “right” decorative symbol (decorative symbol display area 5R) of the final stopped symbols are displayed. (Decoration pattern) refers to a combination that matches the chance of the look-ahead chance.

  If the first hold change effect information is not stored (step S325; No), the current variation pattern and the current display result (the display result specified by the display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area) The combination of the decorative symbols corresponding to is determined as the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) (step S327). For example, when the current display result is “big hit”, any one of “4 4 4”, “5 5 5”, “6 6 6”, and “7 7 7” is determined as the final stop symbol. When the current display result is “losing”, if the current fluctuation pattern is a reach fluctuation pattern, one of a plurality of reach-losing combinations prepared in advance is determined as the final stop symbol (which reach-losing combination is selected). Can be determined randomly using a random value and a table.) If the current variation pattern is a non-reach variation pattern, one of a plurality of non-reach combinations prepared in advance is finally stopped. It is determined as a symbol (which non-reach combination may be determined randomly using a random value and a table). Here, the reach failure combination and the non-reach combination that can be determined as the final stop symbols include the chance break (the chance eyes themselves are excluded). As a result, when the “left” stop symbol and the “right” stop symbol are stopped, if the stop symbol constitutes a part of the chance eye, the chance eye is established (step S324). (When it is executed) and when it is not established (when step S327 is executed) can be present (the chance eye can be prevented from being determined at the timing when the symbol stops at “left” and “right”) ( Especially for non-reach))).

  When the final stop symbol is determined at random, it may be determined such that the big hit expectation is higher when the odd number of decorative symbols are stopped than when the even number of decorative symbols are stopped.

  In step S330, it is determined whether or not the first hold change effect information is stored in the first start winning command buffer or the second start winning command buffer after the shift.

  When the first hold change effect information is stored (step S330; Yes), and after step S326, it is determined to execute the first hold change effect of the type indicated by the first hold change effect information ( Step S331). In step S331, among the final stop symbols determined in step S324 or S326, the stop symbol at the “middle” position is replaced with a special symbol (if the symbol has already become a special symbol by the process of step S326, no replacement is required). If the first hold change effect information indicates that the first hold change effect information (blue) is to be executed, the hold display image (target of the target) corresponding to the hold display number corresponding to the first hold change effect information. When it is determined that the first hold change effect that changes the hold display image) to blue is executed, and the first hold change effect information indicates that the first hold change effect (red) is executed, the first hold change effect is displayed. It is determined to execute the first hold change effect for changing the hold display image (target hold display image) corresponding to the hold display number corresponding to the information to red. Thereafter, the first hold change effect information is deleted (step S332). Thus, the first hold change effect is executed only by the variable display that is executed first after the execution of the effect is determined.

  After step S332, after step S327, if the first pending change effect information is not stored (step S330; No), the effect control pattern according to the current variation pattern, the determination result, etc. Is set as a usage pattern used for variable display (step S333). Specifically, in the form specified by the current variation pattern and in the form of deriving and displaying the final stop symbol determined above (the final stop symbol after replacement when there is a replacement for a special symbol) as the final ornament symbol An effect control pattern for performing variable display of symbols is set as the current usage pattern. If it is determined that the first hold change effect is to be executed, an effect control pattern for executing the determined type of first hold change effect is set as the current use pattern.

  After step S333, the VDP of the display control unit 31 sets, for example, a timer value corresponding to the special figure fluctuation time corresponding to the current fluctuation pattern to an initial value in an effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area such as a VRAM. Is set as (step S334).

  Then, the variation of the decorative pattern in the image display device 5 is started (step S327). At this time, for example, the image display device 5 is controlled based on the display control data included in the effect control pattern set as the use pattern in step S333 (transmission of a video signal, etc., and the same applies to the following control). The variation of the decorative symbols is started in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the display area of the apparatus 5.

  Thereafter, update setting of the display of the hold display image is performed (step S336). For example, when the first special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command is received (when received as the header of the second effect control command), the image display device 5 is controlled to the left of the display area 5H. The leftmost first reserved display image in the area 5Ha is deleted, and each of the other first reserved display images is shifted to the display position adjacent to the left (when there is one first reserved display image, the first reserved display image Only erasure is performed.) For example, when the second special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command is received (when received as the header of the second effect control command), the image display device 5 is controlled to the right of the display area 5H. The leftmost second reserved display image in the area 5Hb is erased, and each of the other second reserved display images is shifted to the display position adjacent to the left (when there is one second reserved display image, the second reserved display image is displayed). Only erasure is performed.)

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the high base flag is in an on state (step S337). When the high base flag is in an on state (step S337; Yes), the remaining time is displayed (FIG. 38). Is stored in the second presentation control command (second presentation control command having a variation pattern designation command as a header), and the remaining number of times (the remaining number of executions of variable display that can be executed during the shorter state) is specified. Control to update and display on the image display device 5 is performed (step S338).

  Step S338: When the high base flag is in the off state (step S337; No), the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2” (step S339), and the variable display start setting process is terminated.

  The variable display in-process in step S172 of FIG. 28 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. FIG. 34 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variable display processing.

  In the variable display in-process, the VDP of the display control unit 31 first determines whether or not the variable display time (special drawing fluctuation time) corresponding to the current fluctuation pattern has elapsed based on the timer value of the effect control process timer, for example. Is determined (step S551). As an example, in the process of step S551, the timer value of the effect control process timer is decremented by 1, and the data included in the effect control pattern associated with the process timer determination value that is the same value as the timer value decremented by 1 is the end code. It is determined whether or not the special figure fluctuation time has elapsed.

  If it is not the end code, that is, if the special figure fluctuation time has not elapsed (step S551; No), it is determined whether the current is the first hold change effect execution period (step S552). The period may be defined by an effect control pattern or the like (for example, the period is specified by comparing the timer value of the process timer with the effect control pattern. The same applies to other periods hereinafter). When the present is the first hold change effect execution period (step S552; Yes), for example, the VDP of the display control unit 31 executes the first hold change effect included in the currently set effect control pattern. Production control execution data (display control data, audio control data, lighting data, etc.) based on the production control execution data associated with the process timer determination value that is the same as the timer value of the production control process timer , Effect operation control for executing the first on-hold change effect (basically, control for displaying the effect image by controlling the image display device 5; however, sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp A lamp command or a voice command may be transmitted to the first effect control board 12 in order to execute an effect such as causing 9 or the like to turn on / off. Below, do the same.) For performance motion control. By executing step S552 repeatedly for each timer interruption, execution of the first hold change effect is realized.

  In the first hold change effect, the display color of the target hold display image is changed after temporarily stopping the final stop symbol including the special symbol (for example, stopping while slightly swinging) (FIG. 34). ). The final stop symbol that has been temporarily stopped then stops completely, and the variable display ends (step S572 described later). In this way, in the first reserved change effect, the special symbol stops early due to the temporary stop even when the first reserved change effect is not executed, so the period during which the reserved display symbol is changed before the final stop symbol is derived. Can be secured. When the first hold change effect is executed, the stop timing (temporary stop timing) of decorative symbols other than special symbols (decorative symbols that are variably displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R) is It may be the same as when the first hold change effect is not executed. Also, the special symbol stop timing may be the same as when the first hold change effect is not executed (in this case, the stop timing is the final stop symbol stop timing in step S572, which will be described later).

  After step S553, if the current is not the first hold change effect execution period (step S552; No), the VDP of the display control unit 31 determines whether the current is the reach effect execution period (step S554). The execution period may be defined by an effect control pattern or the like. When it is the execution period (step S554; Yes), the display control unit 31 includes, for example, effect control execution data (display control data, audio) included in the currently set effect control pattern for executing the reach effect. Control operation, lighting data, etc.) is performed based on the effect control execution data associated with the process timer determination value that is the same as the timer value of the effect control process timer. (Step S555). By executing step S555 repeatedly for each timer interruption, execution of reach effect is realized.

  After step S555, or when it is not the reach effect execution period (step S554; No), the VDP of the display control unit 31 controls other effect operation control according to the currently set effect control pattern (for example, decorative pattern For example, effect operation control for executing variable display is performed (step S556). After step S556, the variable display in-process is terminated.

  When the data corresponding to the timer value decremented by 1 in the process of step S551 is an end code, and the special figure variation time has elapsed from the start of the variable display of decorative symbols (also a special figure game) (step S551; Yes) ), It is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation designation command has been received (whether or not it has been received as a header of the second effect control command) (whether or not the corresponding reception flag is on, etc.) (step S571). At this time, if the command is not received (step S571; No), the variable display in-process is terminated and waits. If the predetermined time has passed without receiving the symbol confirmation designation command after the special symbol variation time has elapsed, a predetermined error processing is performed in response to the failure to receive the symbol confirmation designation command normally. May be executed.

  If a symbol confirmation designation command is received in step S561 (step S571; Yes), for example, the image display device 5 is controlled to derive and display a final stop symbol that is a variable display result in variable display of decorative symbols. (Step S572). The final stop symbol is the final stop symbol determined in step S171 (including the special symbol when the special symbol replacement process is performed). When the final stop symbol is the chance of the prefetch chance, the prefetch chance is executed by stopping the chance. When the first hold change effect is being executed, the final stop symbol that is temporarily stopped (decorative symbols including a combination of special symbols) is completely stopped and the stop symbol is determined (for example, the swing is stopped to completely Stop). The control content of the derivation display only needs to be defined by, for example, the production control pattern. For example, the final stop symbol data is stored in a VRAM or the like, and the final stop symbol is derived and displayed based on the stored data. May be. After step S572, a timer value corresponding to the hit start designation command reception waiting time is set in the effect control process timer or the like (step S573). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” which is a value corresponding to the waiting process per special figure (step S574), and the variable display process is ended.

  In step S572, the special symbol may be stopped for the first time. In this case, the hold display image may be changed after the variable display ends.

  By repeatedly executing step S172 for each timer interruption, execution of various effects such as a variable display of decorative symbols, a first hold change effect, and a reach effect is realized.

  The special figure waiting process in step S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”.

  In the waiting process per special figure, the VDP of the display control unit 31 determines whether or not a hit start designation command has been received (whether or not it has been received as a header of the second effect control command). If it is determined that the hit start designation command has been received, execution setting for the big hit effect (the effect executed during the big hit game state) is performed. The big hit effect is an effect from the start of the fanfare to before the ending among the effects executed during the big hit gaming state. In the execution setting of the big hit effect, for example, the production control pattern for executing the big hit effect is set as the use pattern, and the timer initial value corresponding to the execution time of the effect control pattern set as the use pattern is set as the effect control process. Set to timer. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “4”, and the waiting process per special figure is ended.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the hit start designation command has not yet been received, it is determined whether the hit start designation command reception waiting time has elapsed. For example, 1 is subtracted from the timer value of the effect control process timer, and it is determined whether the timer value obtained by subtracting 1 is “0”, thereby determining the elapse of the waiting time. If the timer value after subtraction of 1 is not “0”, the hit waiting designation command reception waiting time has not elapsed, so this processing is terminated.

  If the timer value after subtracting 1 is “0”, it means that the waiting time for receiving the hit start designation command has elapsed, so it is determined that the special figure display result in the special figure game is “losing” The value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” which is the initial value, and this process is terminated.

  The hitting process in step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”.

  In the hit process, the VDP of the display control unit 31 is the same as the timer value after decrementing the timer value of the effect control process timer by 1 and subtracting 1 from the data included in the effect control pattern set as the usage pattern. The effect operation control is performed based on the effect control execution data (display control data, sound control data, lighting data, etc.) associated with the process timer determination value.

  In the hit processing, it is further determined whether a hit end designation command has been received (whether it has been received as a header of the second effect control command). If no hit end designation command has been received, all round games are completed. Therefore, the hit process is terminated without updating the value of the production process flag. Further, when the winning end designation command is received, all the round games are ended, and therefore the value of the effect process flag is “5” corresponding to step S175 in order to start execution of the ending effect. The process is updated to "" and the hit processing is terminated.

  At the time of the update, an effect control pattern for executing the ending is set as a use pattern, and a timer initial value corresponding to the execution time of the effect control pattern selected as the use pattern is set in the effect control process timer. The ending effect control pattern may be set in advance.

  By repeatedly executing step S174 (especially the above-described effect operation control) for each timer interruption, the execution of the big hit effect set to be executed in step S173 is realized.

  The ending process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”.

  In the ending process, the VDP of the display control unit 31 determines whether the ending execution period has elapsed. For example, the timer value of the production control process timer is decremented by 1, and it is determined whether or not the data included in the production control pattern that is associated with the process timer judgment value that is the same value as the 1 subtracted timer value is an end code. To determine whether the ending period has elapsed.

  When the data included in the effect control pattern is not an end code and the ending execution period has not elapsed, the timer value after decrementing 1 in the data included in the effect control pattern set as the use pattern Based on the production control execution data (display control data, audio control data, lighting data, etc.) associated with the process timer determination value that is the same value as the above, the ending production operation control is performed, and this processing is terminated. When the data included in the effect control pattern is an end code and the ending execution period has elapsed, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” which is an initial value, and this process ends.

  By repeatedly executing step S175 for each timer interruption, it is possible to execute the ending effect set to be executed in the hit process.

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

(Production screen etc.)
An example of the effect screen realized by the series of processes will be described.

  First, the prefetch chance eye will be described with reference to FIG. After execution of the prefetch chance is determined (after the target is suspended), when the next variable display is started (FIG. 35A, the suspended display image T is the target), the prefetch chance is performed thereafter. The eyes are executed. If the next variable display is non-reach, the non-reach chance (5 5 3) is derived and displayed as the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) (FIG. 35B). Thereafter, the next variation (next variable display) is started (FIG. 35C). If reach is established in the variable display, the reach chance (5 3 5) is derived and displayed as the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) (FIG. 35D). Thereafter, target fluctuation (variable display) is started (FIG. 35E). As described above, the chance eye is derived and displayed in each variable display before the target, whereby the prefetch chance eye is executed (in FIG. 35, the prefetch chance eye B is executed).

  Next, the first reserved change effect will be described with reference to FIG. In the next variable display (FIG. 36 (A)) after the execution of the first hold change effect is decided (after the target hold occurs), the final stop symbol including the special symbol is temporarily stopped before receiving the symbol confirmation designation command. (FIG. 36B). At this time, it is assumed that the symbols are not completely stopped by swinging or the like. Thereafter, the display color of the hold display image T as the target changes to red or blue (FIG. 36C), and then the final stop symbol including the special symbol is completely stopped and fixed as the stop symbol (FIG. 36 ( D)).

  Next, with reference to FIG. 37, the relationship between the first reserved change effect and the prefetch chance eyes B will be described. In this embodiment, when it is determined to execute the first hold change effect and the prefetch chance B for the same target, the execution of the first hold change effect is canceled with high probability (step S678 and the like). On the other hand, the final stop symbol of the variable display of the decorative symbol at the time of execution of the first hold change effect does not break the chance unless it is executed together with the prefetch chance item B (steps S331, S326, etc.). As described above, in most cases, the first reserved change effect is not executed together with the look-ahead chance item B. Therefore, the ratio at which the final stop symbol at the time of execution of the first reserved change effect is a chance item is not lost. Lower than percentage. In this way, in this embodiment, the look-ahead chance is given in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R (the “middle” decorative symbol display area where the special symbol stops is different from 5C). When the decorative pattern constituting the chance eye of eye B is stopped and displayed (when there is a possibility that the chance eye of prefetch chance eye B is generated) (FIG. 35A), the chance eye of prefetch chance eye B is finally stopped. The possibility of being derived and displayed as a symbol (possibility that the chance item of the look-ahead chance B is established) is derived and displayed as a final stop symbol as a combination of chance breaks including special symbols without the chance item being established. It is higher than the possibility (FIGS. 35B and 35C). From another point of view, when a special symbol is displayed, the decorative symbols (here, “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R that constitute the chance eye of the pre-reading chance eye B are displayed. It can be said that the possibility that the decorative pattern (displayed) is stopped is low.

  As shown in FIG. 38, in this embodiment, the remaining number of times is displayed in the time-short state, and the displayed number decreases every time variable display is executed.

(Other example 1)
Note that when the prefetch chance item B is executed, the first hold change effect may not be executed. In this case, for example, when the VDP of the display control unit 31 determines to execute the prefetch chance item B in the process of step S675 of FIG. 29, the process of step S676 and the like are not performed and the prefetch chance item is not performed. Alternatively, when it is determined to execute the prefetch chance eye A, processing such as step S676 is performed. In such a case, steps S677 and S678 may be omitted. In such a case, the chances of the prefetch chance eye B in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R (the “middle” decorative symbol display area where the special symbol stops is different from 5C). When the decorative symbol constituting the symbol is stopped and displayed, the combination of chance breaks including the special symbol is prohibited from being derived and displayed as the final stopped symbol. When the special symbol is displayed, the decorative symbols (decorative symbols displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R) that make up the chance symbol of the pre-reading chance item B are not stopped. It can be said that.

(Other example 2)
Further, when the first hold change effect is executed, the prefetch chance eye may not be executed. In this case, the VDP of the display control unit 31 first determines whether or not to execute the first hold change effect. Thereafter, whether or not to execute the prefetch chance is determined when the first hold change effect is not executed. Thus, in this example, when the special symbol is displayed, the decorative symbols constituting the chance eye of the prefetch chance eye B are not stopped. Ornaments that constitute the chances of the pre-reading chance in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R (the “middle” decorative symbol display area where the special symbol stops is different from 5C). It can also be said that when the symbol is stopped and displayed, the combination of chance breaks including the special symbol is prohibited from being derived and displayed as the final stop symbol.

(Effects of the above embodiment 1)
In the above-described embodiment and the like, when the decorative symbols constituting the chance symbol of the prefetch chance are stopped in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R (the chance eye can be derived and displayed) When there is a possibility, the execution (stop of special symbol) of the first reserved change effect is limited (including the reduction of the execution rate as described above, and the prohibition of setting the execution rate to “0”). The same applies to (Fig. 37). Further, when the decorative symbols constituting the chance eye of the pre-reading chance item B are stopped in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R (the chance item may be derived and displayed). At that time, the execution of the first reserved change effect (stop of the special symbol) is restricted (FIG. 37, etc.). When the special symbol is stopped, the decorative symbols constituting the chance eye of the pre-reading chance eye B other than the special symbol stop position (“middle” decorative symbol display area 5C) are “left” and “right” decorative symbols. Stopping in the symbol display areas 5L and 5R is restricted (FIG. 37, etc.). For this reason, when there is a possibility that the look-ahead chance (especially the look-ahead chance B) is executed, the first hold change effect having a lower jackpot expectation than the look-ahead chance B is executed, and the player is discouraged. Can be suppressed (including prevention and mitigation).

  In addition, when the prefetch chance eye is executed, the execution of the first hold change effect targeting another hold memory is restricted, so that the special symbol is stopped by another opportunity and the prefetch chance eye is not executed. It is possible to prevent the player from being discouraged.

(Effects of the above embodiment 2)
In the above-described embodiment and the like, only when a specific command is transmitted from the first effect control board 12 to the second effect control board 30 as a header of the second effect control command, the checksum is transmitted. For this reason, it is not necessary to calculate the checksum for every command, so the processing load is reduced. In addition, the information on the remaining short time managed by the first effect control command 12 is included in the second effect control command together with the first effect control command and transmitted to the second effect control board 30 together. In general, when information of the same data amount is transmitted, the processing load is less when it is transmitted once than when it is transmitted a plurality of times. In this embodiment, since the information on the remaining number of time reductions is transmitted together with the first effect control command, the processing load can be reduced as compared with the case where the information on the remaining number of time reductions and the first effect control command are individually transmitted.

  In this embodiment, when the VDP of the display control unit 31 rises, a rise signal is sent from the VDP to the first effect control board 12 to notify the rise. The image processing system VDP may start up slowly, but as described above, the first effect control board 12 is notified of the start-up, so that the first effect control board 12 can grasp the rise and before the VDP starts up. The inconvenience that the first effect control board 12 starts normal operation can be solved. Moreover, since the range which the numerical data of a high-order and a low-order can take for the 1st production control command differs, the high-order and low-order of the said command can be grasped | ascertained clearly. Further, since the VDP of the display control unit 31 periodically transmits a normal operation signal to the first effect control board 12, it is possible to monitor whether the VDP is operating normally on the first effect control board 12 side. When the VDP of the display control unit 31 receives the second effect control command with the checksum, the VDP checks the consistency of the command based on the checksum, and receives a command reception signal (matching ) Or (non-matching) is transmitted to the first effect control board 12 and the first effect control board 12 cannot receive the command reception signal after transmitting the second effect control command with the checksum. A reset signal is supplied to the 31 VDP. By doing in this way, the 1st effect control board 12 side can specify whether the transmitted command is abnormal or the 2nd effect control board 30 (VDP) is abnormal. Then, on the first effect control board 12 side, different processing (whether the abnormality or the abnormality is a command abnormality depends on whether the transmission command is abnormal or the second effect control board 30 (VDP) is abnormal). It may also be a process for notifying whether the VDP of the control board 30 is abnormal or the like.

(Effects of the above embodiment 3)
In the above-described embodiment, the VDP of the display control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 can be reset in an abnormal state or the like by a short reset. For this reason, it can return from abnormality appropriately. Further, since a long reset is performed when a rising signal is not transmitted when the power is turned on, the VDP can be reset even if the VDP is abnormal when the power is turned on. For this reason, it can return from abnormality appropriately. In addition, when the VDP is at a high temperature, the VDP may not be restored to the normal state even if a short reset is performed once. Thus, even if the short reset is performed, when the VDP is still abnormal (when the rising signal cannot be received for 10 seconds after the reset), the long reset is performed. Thereby, during this period, it is possible to prevent the VDP from performing a burdensome process (that is, the VDP can be suitably operated), and it is possible to effectively promote the return from the abnormality of the VDP. . For example, when the VDP reaches a high temperature, the operation of the VDP can be stopped until the VDP cools down, whereby execution of a process with a heavy load can be prohibited, and cooling of the VDP can be promoted. This embodiment is particularly effective when the VDP becomes high temperature and thermal runaway occurs. It should be noted that a long reset may be performed when a normal operation signal cannot be received for a VDP that has started up normally, but in this embodiment, when a normal operation signal cannot be received, a short reset is performed once and thereafter A long reset is performed when the rising signal cannot be received. Thereby, for example, when a normal operation signal is not normally input due to noise or the like, it is possible to prevent a long reset from being performed at a timing that is not inherently abnormal, and a long reset can be performed at an appropriate timing.

  Also, in this embodiment, the VDP operation is stopped for a certain period (long term) by performing a long reset by a reset signal used when resetting the VDP (usually used by any processor). Therefore, the operation of the VDP can be stopped by simple processing (recovery from thermal runaway or the like can be performed by simple processing).

  Further, since the cooling fan 40 is operated during the long reset, the cooling of the VDP can be promoted.

(Configuration etc. taking at least a part of the above embodiment as an example)
Next, although the structure etc. which take at least one part of the said embodiment etc. as an example are demonstrated, the following structure may be abbreviate | omitted partly suitably and only one part is employ | adopted and the pachinko gaming machine 1 is comprised May be.

(Configuration 1)
When a variable display (for example, a variable display of decorative symbols) is executed and a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, when a decisive decorative symbol of a jackpot combination is derived and displayed), a specific state (for example, advantageous for the player) A gaming machine (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like) that is controlled to a big hit gaming state, etc.
Specific display means (for example, the display control unit 31 for displaying the hold display image) for displaying a specific display (for example, a hold display image) corresponding to the variable display;
Change effect execution means (for example, step) for executing a change effect (for example, a first hold change effect) for changing the display mode of the specific display after stopping special identification information (for example, a special symbol) in variable display Display control unit 31 for executing S172),
Preliminary effect execution means (for example, step S172) is executed to stop the variable display in a specific manner (for example, chance eyes) and to execute a notification effect (for example, prefetch chance eyes) for notifying the expected degree of establishment of the predetermined condition. Display control unit 31 and the like)
Change control execution limiting means for limiting execution of the change effect (for example, steps S677, S678, and other example 2 processes, etc.) in a state where variable display may stop due to the specific mode. Part 31),
A gaming machine comprising

  Note that the specific display may be an active display (for example, a display representing a variable display being executed) displayed corresponding to the variable display being executed. For example, a display area for displaying the active display may be provided on the display screen of the image display device 5 so that the hold display image to be executed is moved to the display area and displayed as the active display. That is, the active display may be one in which the hold display image is moved (at this time, the display mode may be taken over). Note that the active display may be terminated while the corresponding variable display is being performed, may be displayed until the end of the variable display, or may be disappeared and displayed again.

  The display mode of the specific display may be the shape, size, flashing / non-flashing, presence / absence of characters and symbols, etc. in addition to the display color.

  The stop of the special identification information (special symbol) includes a temporary stop as well as a complete stop (derived display). For example, when the specific display is active display, the special identification information may be temporarily stopped (for example, temporary stop in the pseudo continuous fluctuation) in the change effect to change the display mode of the active display (in this case, For example, in addition to the pre-reading determination result, at the start of the change, a change effect based on the change pattern and the variable display result (in this case, the change effect is, for example, the big hit expectation degree of the variable display being executed (expected expectation of establishment of the predetermined condition), etc. The presence / absence of execution and the type thereof (the type of change effect to be executed, the display mode of the specific display, etc.) may be determined. Even when the specific display is an on-hold display image, the special identification information may be temporarily stopped to change the display mode of the active display. Such a thing should just be prescribed | regulated by the production | presentation control pattern etc. The special identification information (the above special symbol) does not change from usual, but may appear for the first time at the time of stoppage (including a predetermined period before stoppage) in the variable display (the special symbol in the above embodiment). The same applies to. Identification information (including special identification information) that is temporarily stopped or completely stopped by variable display (variable display of identification information) may vary from the beginning of variable display, or may appear in the middle. May be.

  Note that the pseudo-continuous fluctuation is a temporary stop for variable display of decorative symbols (the symbol that is temporarily stopped does not have to be a symbol that was changing during variable display, but a symbol dedicated to temporary stop is used) It is an effect that resumes the variable display. The pseudo-ream may be specified by a variation pattern, or the presence or absence of execution may be determined on the first effect control board 12 side. Note that the pseudo-ream generally has a higher degree of big hit expectation as the number of temporary stops increases.

  In the above, the special identification information is the special symbol “K”, but may be other identification information (character, graphic, etc.). However, it is desirable that the identification information is different from other identification information that is variably displayed (special decorative design) (for example, it is possible to make the player recognize that the display mode of the specific display is changed) Etc.). A plurality of types of special identification information such as special symbols may be prepared. In this case, depending on the type of special identification information (for example, which of the plurality of types of special symbols is used for stopping) The type of special identification information (variation effect type) may be determined so as to vary the degree of establishment expectation (for example, it may be adjusted by a determined value of a table, etc. The same applies in other cases). Even if the special identification information is stopped, there may be a so-called gassing effect pattern that does not change the display mode of the specific display.

  The specific mode in the notice effect may be a chance, and the stop of the specific mode includes a complete stop (derived display) and a temporary stop. In the case of a temporary stop, the notice effect may be a pseudo-ream (an effect that temporarily stops the identification information once and restarts the variable display) or the like. In the pseudo-intermittent temporary stop, the expected success rate of the predetermined condition (such as the jackpot expectation level) in the variable display during execution may be notified in advance (in this case, based on the fluctuation pattern, etc.) Whether or not to execute a temporary stop for the second chance may be determined), and the expected degree of satisfaction of the predetermined condition (such as the big hit expectation degree) in the variable display of the pending target may be notified in advance. The variable display in the notice effect is stopped in a specific mode, for example, the changing identification information is stopped in a specific combination, and is stopped in a combination including special special identification information different from the special identification information. Including.

  The degree of establishment expectation is the ratio of the specific state. Note that the specific state may be a gaming state such as a probability variation state or a short time state, and the expected establishment degree in this case is a probability variation expectation degree or a short time expectation degree. As described above, the degree of establishment expectation may be represented by the degree of expectation that variable display such as execution of super reach will be in a specific mode (expectation that depends on the degree of expectation of establishment of a predetermined condition, etc.).

  Of the special symbol stop in the change effect and the stop in the specific manner in the notice effect, one may be a temporary stop, the other may be a complete stop (derived display), or both may be a temporary stop or a complete stop. In the case of a change effect that completely stops the special identification information, the display mode of the specific display may be changed after the variable display ends. In addition, in the case of a change effect that temporarily stops the special identification information, the display mode of the specific display may be changed before the end of the variable display (before the complete stop), and the display mode of the specific display is changed after the end of the variable display (completely The display mode of the specific display may be changed gradually over a certain period of time before and after the end of variable display (before and after complete stop), or after a predetermined image such as a character is displayed. Or you may.

  Note that the variable display may be to change the identification information and the like at one place in addition to changing the identification information and the like at a plurality of places.

  In the above description, two kinds of notice effects and change effects are prepared, but at least one of them may be one kind or three kinds or more.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the prefetch determination is a determination as to whether or not the variable display result of the target is “big hit”, but it may be a determination as to whether or not super reach is executed. Often (for example, in the winning random number determination process, the determination may be made based on the random value MR3 with reference to the tables of FIGS. 18 and 19), and each of the look-ahead notices is super-reach. The possibility (expectation) may be notified in advance. The pre-reading notice (especially the above-mentioned notice effect etc.) notifies the possibility of the super-reach etc. being executed (the possibility that the variable display will be in a predetermined form), etc. The degree of expectation to be controlled) (such as the expectation degree of jackpot) may be notified in advance. There is a possibility that super reach or the like may be executed even if the expected degree of satisfaction of the predetermined condition of variable display during execution of the notice effect or the change effect is predicted (eg, the big hit expectation degree) (It is good to decide whether or not to perform the notice effect or change effect based on the variation pattern, etc.) It may be a notice. The pre-reading determination result may be any information that predicts or suggests the degree of expectation that the variable display of the target will be in a specific mode (including jackpot and super reach execution).

  As described above, the change effect execution restriction means is realized by restricting the execution of the change effect by giving priority to the execution of the notice effect, and after determining the presence or absence of the change effect, etc. This is realized by limiting the execution, and is realized by preventing a part of the specific mode from stopping when the change effect is executed (the same applies hereinafter).

  The state in which the variable display may stop in a specific mode (stop by the specific mode) may be a state in which the variable display is a mode that constitutes a part of the specific mode. In particular, when the variable display is to variably display the identification information at a plurality of locations, the state where the variable display may stop in a specific manner is, for example, a part of the plurality of locations (a location where the special identification information does not stop) Etc.) as long as the identification information constituting part of the specific mode is stopped. The state in which the variable display may stop in a specific mode (stop by a specific mode) is a state in which the two decorative symbols constituting the chance eye are stopped (specific mode (chance eye)) in the above embodiment. For example, one decorative symbol constituting the chance eye may be stopped (in this case, a special symbol is included in step S326, for example). (For example, when determining a combination of stop symbols (may be temporary stop symbols), one decorative symbol constituting a chance eye is not determined as a stop symbol).

  According to the pachinko gaming machine 1 configured as described above, although the variable display may stop in a specific manner (although there is a possibility that the notice effect is executed), the special identification information stops, The player's discouragement that there is no possibility can be suppressed (including mitigation. The same applies to suppression). This can be said particularly when the specific mode is that of the notice effect in which the expected degree of establishment of the predetermined condition is higher than the change effect.

  The special symbol (special identification information) does not have to stop all other identification information (including temporary stop) and stop at the end. For example, the special symbol may be stopped as the second stop symbol (stop symbol in the “right” decorative symbol display area 5R). In this case, it is desirable to understand that a part of the chance eye (specific mode) is constituted by the first stop symbol (stop symbol of the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L). For example, when there are only “3 2 1” (for example, the chance eye of the look-ahead chance B) and “1 2 3” (for example, the chance eye of the look-ahead chance A), for example, It can be seen that there is a possibility that a chance eye will be established by stopping “1” or “3”. The state in which the variable display may stop in the specific mode may be, for example, a state at a timing before the special symbol can stop. Further, in the change effect, regardless of the stop of the identification information at a position other than the stop position of the special identification information, the display mode of the specific display is changed by the stop of the special identification information (may be a temporary stop). Alternatively, the display mode of the specific display may be changed based on the fact that all the identification information including the special identification information is stopped (may be temporarily stopped). In addition, the change effect may change the display mode of the specific display when the special symbol (special identification information) stops at a plurality of locations. At this time, the jackpot expectation may be varied depending on the number and combination of special symbols (a combination of display locations and / or a combination of special symbol types).

  In the above-described embodiment and the like, according to the above configuration, the change effect execution means causes the plurality of types of change effects (for example, the first hold change effect (blue), the first hold, and the like to satisfy the predetermined condition). Change effect (red) etc. can be executed, and the change effect execution restricting means establishes the predetermined condition lower than an expected degree of establishment of the predetermined condition notified by the notice effect that may be executed. Execution of the change effect of the expectation degree is also restricted (for example, the display control unit 31 that executes the processing of Steps S677, S678, and S326, and other examples 1).

  According to this configuration, there is a possibility that a notice effect with a high expectation of establishment of the predetermined condition may be executed depending on a state in which the variable display may stop in a specific mode (which may be stopped by the specific mode). In spite of this, the disappointment of the player that the possibility disappears can be suppressed by stopping the special identification information. It should be noted that execution of the change effect with the expected degree of establishment of the predetermined condition that is higher than the expected degree of establishment of the predetermined condition that is predicted by the notice effect that may be executed is not restricted. Alternatively, the degree of restriction may be smaller than in the above case. As a result, it is possible to secure a chance to execute a change effect with a high degree of expectation of establishment and to improve the game entertainment. The execution of the change effect of the expected degree of establishment of the predetermined condition that is higher than the expected degree of establishment of the predetermined condition that is predicted by the notice effect that may be executed is not limited to the execution. Good.

  In the above-described embodiment and the like, according to the above-described configuration, when the special identification information stops in variable display, stop restriction means for restricting that the identification information constituting the specific aspect stops in a place where the special identification information does not stop ( Steps S677, S678, and Step S326, and the display control unit 31 that executes the processes of other examples 1 and 2 are configured.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment and the like, stop restriction means for restricting that the special identification information is stopped when the identification information constituting the specific aspect is stopped in the variable display by the above configuration (steps S677, S678 and S326). In addition, the display control unit 31 or the like that executes the processes of the other examples 1 and 2 is configured.

  As an example of the above-described configuration, the final stop symbol (in particular, the final stop symbol of the loss) may be determined at random at the beginning of step S171 according to the variation pattern. In this case, the final stop symbol may be determined so as not to see the chance except when it is determined to execute the prefetch chance. In addition, when the determined final stop symbol is a chance break, the execution of the first hold change effect may be canceled at a constant rate or without fail. Similarly, for example, the final stop symbol determined in step S326 may be a chance break, and when the chance break occurs, the execution of the first hold change effect is performed at a certain rate or without fail. You may make it cancel. Even if the execution of the first hold change effect is canceled, only the stop of the special symbol may be canceled and the display mode of the hold display image may be changed (change timing may be an appropriate timing such as variable display start). ).

  According to these structures, a player's discouragement can be suppressed for the same reason as the said structure. In particular, when there is a possibility that a notice effect with a high degree of expectation of establishment of a predetermined condition may be executed as in the above configuration, the discouragement of the player can be suppressed by adopting either of the above two configurations.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment and the like, according to the above configuration, the notice effect is an effect for notifying the establishment expectation degree of the predetermined condition in the variable display that has not yet started. The interest of the game can be improved.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment and the like, according to the above configuration, the specific display corresponds to a variable display that has not yet started, and the notice effect is the expected degree of establishment of the predetermined condition in the variable display that has not yet started. The change effect execution restricting means, when the notice effect is executed, the change for the specific display corresponding to the variable display other than the variable display that is the target of the notice effect. The execution of the effect is limited (for example, the display control unit 31 that executes step S674B).

  According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from being discouraged because the special identification information is stopped due to another opportunity and the notice effect is not executed. In the above embodiment, when the notice effect is executed, the second change effect (second hold change effect) for changing the display mode of the specific display without stopping the special identification information is executed for the other target. Therefore, an opportunity to change the display mode of the specific display can be secured.

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

(Configuration 2)
(1) A gaming machine that performs a game (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1),
First control means (for example, the first effect control board 12),
Second control means capable of communicating with the first control means (for example, VDP of the display control unit 31),
The first control unit performs the second control when a period during which predetermined communication with the second control unit cannot be performed (for example, a period during which a rising signal cannot be received) exceeds a specific period (for example, 10 seconds). Supplying a specific signal (for example, a reset signal) to the means continuously over a predetermined period (for example, 60 seconds) (for example, a long reset),
A gaming machine characterized by that.

  In the above embodiment, VDP is adopted as the second control means, but the second control means is a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GCL (Graphics Controller LSI), or more generally a DSP (Digital Signal). It may be a microprocessor for image processing called “Processor”. The second control means may be of any type, and may be one having a built-in program or executing a program stored in a predetermined storage device. Further, in order to execute a process for determining the execution mode of the effect, the CPU, ROM (programs executed by the CPU, data used by the CPU, and the like are stored as part of the second control means or the configuration of other means. Or at least one of RAM (which becomes the main memory of the CPU) and the like may be prepared separately from the VDP or the like. The second control means may be composed of a one-chip processor such as VDP including GCROM.

  The CGROM of the display control unit 31 may be a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, or a nonvolatile memory such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory. Any recording medium may be used. These storage means may be part of the second control means.

  The predetermined communication may be bidirectional communication (signal transmission / reception, etc.) in addition to transmission of a signal (information) from one to the other as in the above embodiment. For example, the first control means supplies a request signal for requesting transmission of a predetermined signal to the second control means, and the second control means responds to the request signal to the first control means with the predetermined signal (normally Signals output during operation and the like may be transmitted, and transmission / reception of these signals may be performed as predetermined communication (when predetermined communication cannot be performed, for example, the predetermined signal is not transmitted).

  The predetermined communication is reception of a rising signal in the embodiment, but may be reception of a normal operation signal. That is, the long reset may be executed when a normal operation signal cannot be received. Alternatively, the rising signal may be omitted, and the operation of the second control means (VDP of the display control unit 31) may be confirmed using only the normal operation signal (for example, effective when the rising of the second control means is early). In this case, when a plurality of normal operation signals cannot be received (when a normal operation signal cannot be received for a certain period of time occurs a predetermined number (multiple times), or when a short reset is executed a predetermined number of times (multiple times), etc. ), A long reset may be executed. By performing a long reset when a plurality of normal operation signals cannot be received, the possibility of erroneously executing a long reset due to noise or the like can be reduced.

  For example, the predetermined communication may be performed when the second control unit is operating normally, and may be performed when it cannot be performed. The specific period may also be an arbitrary period.

  The specific signal may be another signal other than the reset signal. The specific signal may be a signal that can stop the operation of the second control means by continuously supplying the specific signal. Note that the specific signal may not be low active but may be a high active signal. For example, by setting the reset terminal of the DSP to Low for 60 seconds (for example, measuring 60 seconds with a timer and keeping the voltage level of the reset terminal Low for 60 seconds), a specific signal is continuously generated over a predetermined period. It may be realized to supply. To supply a specific signal continuously over a predetermined period means that a specific signal is continuously supplied a plurality of times without an interval (see the long reset in FIG. 8), that the reset terminal is kept at a low level for a predetermined period. As a result, when a specific signal having a predetermined time width is continuously supplied without an interval, a specific signal is continuously supplied a plurality of times with an interval (see FIG. 42 described later). Reference).

  The specific signal stops the operation of the second control unit in other scenes (including a stop state in which the second control unit does not operate at the time of restarting, such as a case where the second control unit does not operate due to a reset), or causes the second control unit to perform a specific operation. In the predetermined case as described above, by continuously supplying as described above, the operation of the second control unit is stopped for a certain period of time, or the second control unit is made to perform a specific operation constant. It is good to repeat it over a period. By supplying the specific signal continuously over a predetermined period, it is possible to cause the second control means to perform a suitable operation required at that time.

  According to the said structure, a 2nd control means can be operated suitably (it can be made to reset suitably from a thermal runaway etc.).

  In the above embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is exemplified as the gaming machine, but a slot machine may be adopted as the gaming machine, for example. Further, the first control means and the second control means may be different substrates, different portions (for example, different chips) on the same substrate, or the like. For example, the production control CPU 120 and the display control unit 31 may be provided on the same substrate. The first control means may be the main board 11 and the second control means may be the first effect control board.

(2) The first control unit supplies the specific signal to the second control unit a plurality of times at a predetermined interval (for example, a reset signal having a time width of 1 ms or less is supplied a plurality of times at an interval of 1 ms. Such).

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated. In addition to the long reset as shown in FIG. 8, such a configuration may be realized by a reset that intermittently repeatedly transmits a reset signal as shown in FIG. 42 (stopping operations such as VDP). Or an interval at which VDP or the like performs only predetermined processing (such as processing with less burden) and then resets it afterwards.

(3) When the second control means runs out of heat, a period during which the predetermined communication cannot be performed exceeds the specific period.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(4) The specific signal is a reset signal.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

  The apparatus further includes cooling means (for example, a cooling fan 40) for cooling the second control means during the predetermined period.

(5) According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated. In particular, the second control means can be suitably cooled. The cooling means may be cooled by a refrigerant such as water. In addition, the cooling fan 40 and the like may operate during a period other than the long reset period (the predetermined period). For example, the cooling fan 40 may operate while the pachinko gaming machine 1 is operating.

(6) A cooling means (for example, a cooling fan 40) for cooling the second control means is further provided.
The cooling unit may cool the second control unit more strongly in the predetermined period than in a period other than the predetermined period (for example, FIG. 41).

  For example, the first effect control means (effect control CPU 120) can adjust the intensity (rotation speed, etc.) of the cooling fan in a plurality of stages (such as “strong” and “weak”), In some cases, the intensity of the cooling fan may be maximized (FIG. 41, etc.).

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(7) Variable display means (for example, the image display device 5) for executing variable display;
Adjustment means (for example, the first effect control board 12 or the like) capable of adjusting the effect setting according to an adjustment operation (for example, volume adjustment or the like) by the player at least during execution of variable display;
Adjustment image display means (for example, the first effect control board 12) that displays an adjustment image (for example, the volume image VL) corresponding to the adjustment by the adjustment means for a predetermined period,
The adjusted image display means makes the adjusted image unrecognizable or difficult to view in a period in which the variable display result is derived and displayed in the variable display in the predetermined period (for example, FIG. 40).
You may do it.

  In this way, the player may be able to adjust the effect setting. As the effect setting, for example, there is a volume of effect sound, brightness of a display screen, and the like. For example, a detection unit (operation button, infrared sensor, camera for detecting the operation, etc.) for detecting the player's motion is provided, and the setting of the effect is adjusted based on the detected motion. For example, a signal indicating the operation detected by the detection unit is transmitted to the first effect control board 12 or the second effect control board 30, and the first effect control board 12 or the second effect control board 30 transmits the signal that has been transmitted. The production setting is changed (adjusted) in accordance with the operation specified by (for example, when a volume adjustment signal is supplied to the second production control board 30, information specifying the volume is included in the voice command). . Moreover, the 1st effect control board 12 or the 2nd effect control board 30 performs an effect by the present effect setting (when there is a change, the effect setting after a change).

  When there is a change in the effect setting, the second effect control board 30 may display the changed effect setting on the screen of the image display device 5 for a predetermined period (a signal by volume adjustment or the like is the first signal). When input to the effect control board 12, the volume is notified from the first effect control board 12 to the second effect control board 30). For example, the change of the effect setting may be accepted during the execution of the variable display. In this case, the effect setting image corresponding to the changed effect setting is displayed for a predetermined period during the execution of the variable display. However, when the variable display result is derived and displayed within the predetermined period, the effect setting image is rendered invisible or difficult to view. Thereby, the visibility of the variable display result can be ensured.

  Specifically, when an operation for changing the volume (may be changed in luminance) is performed, the display control unit 31 displays the volume image VL corresponding to the changed volume on the screen of the image display device 5 (the changed volume). (Volume image VL) indicating (when the luminance is changed, an image showing the luminance of the degree of change is displayed) and is deleted after a predetermined period of time (FIGS. 40A to 40C). However, when the variable display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol is derived within a predetermined period (such as when the symbol confirmation designation command is received as the second effect control command), the displayed volume image VL is variable. When the display result is derived, it is deleted (FIGS. 40D to 40E). For example, the volume image VL is deleted before step S572. Note that the volume image VL may be displayed in a semi-transparent display or a reduced display to make it difficult to view. Thereby, the visibility of the variable display result can be ensured. In particular, when the volume image VL is displayed at a position superimposed on the variable display result, if the volume image VL remains displayed, the volume image VL is positioned on the stopped decorative pattern and the stopped decorative pattern (variable) The visibility of the display result is impaired. However, the visibility can be ensured by hiding the volume image VL, making it semi-transparent or reducing the volume.

  Note that the sound volume image VL or the like may be deleted even during the original display period when the temporary stop mode is set by the pseudo-ream or the like.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce a decrease in recognizability of the variable display result.

(8) The first control means transmits a command (for example, a first effect control command, etc.)
The second control means receives the command transmitted by the first control means, performs control according to the received command,
The first control means can transmit the command to be transmitted with predetermined information (for example, a checksum) for confirming the consistency of the command to be transmitted,
The second control means can determine the consistency of a command accompanied by the predetermined information based on the predetermined information (for example, the process of step S74).
The first control means transmits the predetermined information along with only a part of specific commands (for example, refer to the specific command in FIG. 4) among the plurality of types of commands that can be transmitted.
You may do it.

  According to this configuration, for example, the processing load on the first control unit and the second control unit can be reduced as compared with the case where predetermined information is added to all commands.

  With the first control means as the main board 11 and the second control means as the first effect control board, only when a specific command of the first effect control commands is transmitted, a checksum is attached and transmitted. Good.

  The predetermined information is a checksum in the above embodiment, but another error detection code or the like may be adopted. Any checksum calculation method can be used. However, as in the above-described embodiment, different from the data of the first bit of the predetermined part of the command (which may be the upper byte of the header of the first presentation control command or the entire command), By calculating the predetermined information, it is preferable to easily distinguish the predetermined portion of the command from the predetermined information. In addition, as another example of transmitting the predetermined information along with the predetermined information, the predetermined information and the specific command may be transmitted as one command. Any method for calculating predetermined information such as a checksum can be used.

  It is desirable that the specific command is a command having a high importance in the progress of the game, which needs to confirm consistency particularly in the progress of the game. For example, as a specific command, a power failure recovery command (a command transmitted from the main board 11 to the first effect control board 12 at the time of power failure recovery), a power-on command (sent from the main board 11 to the first effect control board 12 at the time of power failure recovery) Command), a special winning opening opening or closing designation command (a command for notifying that the special winning opening has been opened or closed), and the like. The specific command is preferably a command transmitted in connection with the progress of the game transmitted when the special winning opening is opened or closed, or when the variable display is started. The specific command includes, for example, at least a command (for example, a high importance) command used in the progress of the game (for example, a command used in the progress of the game among a plurality of types of commands that can be transmitted). One or more types of commands (a part of the plurality of types of commands) may be used.By attaching a checksum or the like to such a specific command, the game progresses while misrecognizing the command. (Including the execution of wrong performances), and the prevention of the game's interest can be prevented.In addition, while performing the performance while checking the consistency of the command by checksum etc. The game progresses normally by attaching it only to some types of commands that can be sent checksums, etc. Effect is while guaranteeing that the like) is executed correctly, it is possible to reduce the processing load by calculation or the like, such as a checksum.

  The first control means performs a first calculation (for example, checksum calculation) based on the specific command, transmits the result of the first calculation as the predetermined information, and the second control means When the specific command is received, a second calculation (for example, checksum calculation) is performed based on the received specific command, and the result of the second calculation and the predetermined command associated with the specific command are performed. The consistency of the specific command is determined by comparing with the information (for example, step S784).

  According to this configuration, command consistency can be ensured.

  In addition, what to do when commands are not consistent is arbitrary. In the above embodiment, the second control means deletes all currently received commands when the commands are not consistent (in this case, for example, the presentation is not executed for a while until a new command is received). In addition to or instead of this, the execution of the production is prohibited until a predetermined period elapses (for example, until a new variable pattern designation command is transmitted and a new variable display is started). Alternatively, only inconsistent commands may be deleted. When the effect based on the command is not executed, the second effect control board 30 may display on the image display device 5 that the effect cannot be executed (such as “Please wait for a while”).

  Each of the plurality of types of commands includes upper bits (for example, upper byte data) and lower bits (for example, upper byte data) (for example, FIG. 5), and numerical values that the upper bits can take. The range and the numerical range that the lower bits can take are different (for example, FIG. 4, the numerical range is different between the upper MODE data and the lower EXT data).

  According to this configuration, the second control means can clearly grasp the upper bits and lower bits of the command.

  Especially when the command can be divided into groups of a plurality of bits (8 bits in the above embodiment) as in the above embodiment, the first bit group of the command (in the above embodiment, the header By making the first bit of (byte) different from the first bit of other groups, it is possible to easily distinguish the group of other bits from the first bit group. By distinguishing the first bit of the predetermined information from the first bit of the group of the first bit of the command, it is possible to distinguish the predetermined information from the predetermined information. This can be said for all information such as signals and commands exchanged between the substrates.

  When receiving the specific command, the second control means determines the consistency of the received specific command based on the predetermined information accompanying the specific command (for example, step S784), and the specific command is consistent. If the specific command does not match, the first information (for example, command received signal (matching), etc.) is transmitted to the first control means. (Non-matching, etc.) is transmitted to the first control means, and the first control means resets the second control means when neither the first information nor the second information is received. The reset signal to be transmitted is transmitted to the second control means (for example, FIG. 6, steps S719, S702, etc.).

  According to this configuration, an appropriate response can be taken when the second control means is abnormal.

  In addition, the process which a 1st control means performs when receiving 2nd information may be arbitrary. As described in the above embodiment, in addition to the deletion of commands and abnormality notification, the presentation may not be executed for a certain period.

  The second control means transmits to the first control means a predetermined signal (for example, a rising signal or the like) indicating that the operation is possible when the game machine is operable after the power is turned on (for example, FIG. 6, step S72, etc.).

  According to this configuration, the first control unit can grasp that the second control unit is operable.

  It should be noted that “the second control means is operable” may be a state in which the initial setting or the like is completed and an effect can be executed. The second control means transmits a predetermined signal when it becomes “operable”. When the first control means starts the production control after receiving the predetermined signal, the second control means operates. Even if it takes time to reach a possible state, the production control can be performed appropriately.

  The second control unit transmits an operation confirmation signal (for example, a normal operation signal) indicating normal operation to the first control unit at predetermined intervals (for example, FIG. 6, step S81, etc.). ).

  According to this configuration, the first control means can confirm that the second control means is operating normally.

  Game control means (for example, main board 11 etc.) which controls the progress of the game and transmits a command according to the progress of the game is further provided, and the first control means has a command (for example, a command received from the game control means) A command (for example, a second effect control command, etc.) is added to the information (for example, data indicating the remaining number of time reductions) managed by the first control means to the first effect control command set in the header). To the second control means (FIG. 5, step S757, etc.).

  The information managed by the first control unit may be any information (such as a command stored by the first control unit). For example, the first control means can also determine the presence / absence of execution of the effect and the mode thereof, and the information such as the determined execution / non-execution of the effect as the “information managed by the first control means” is used as the first control means. To the second control means. For example, the second control unit may perform production control (including determination of whether or not to execute a predetermined production) based on information from the first control unit.

  Further, the information managed by the first control means may be data indicating the probability variation remaining count (the second effect control board 30 may display the probability variation remaining count). For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is an ST machine (for example, the probability variation state is one of certain probability variation end conditions of a predetermined number of special game runs and a next big hit gaming state being started. The first effect control board 12 uses the remaining number of executions of the special figure game until the probability variation end condition is satisfied as the probability variation remaining number. You may count by the same method. For example, in the first effect control board 12, the probability change remaining according to the jackpot type specified by the hit end designation command (a value corresponding to the jackpot type may be set in the EXT data) or the display result designation command. The initial value of the number of times may be set in a counter or the like. In such a case, the upper byte of the footer of the second effect control command may be data indicating the probability variation remaining number, and the lower byte of the footer may be data indicating the remaining time (in the second effect control board 30). , The remaining number of times of probability change and the number of remaining hours may be displayed.) The probability variation remaining time and the remaining time reduction number may be fixed regardless of the jackpot type (may be different depending on the time variation and the probability variation). In this case, the first effect control board 12 sets a fixed value at the end of the big hit. What is necessary is just to set as an initial value of the number of remaining probability changes and the number of remaining time reductions.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the processing load on the first control unit and the second control unit, rather than transmitting information managed by the first control unit separately from the command.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may not have all the technical features shown in the above-described embodiment and the like, and the one described in the above-described embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. The structure of the part may be provided. Below, the modification of the said embodiment is shown. You may combine at least one part about each of the following modification.

(Modification 1)
The VDP may be naturally cooled without providing the cooling fan 40 or operating the cooling fan even during a long reset.

(Modification 2)
An appropriate time width of the reset signal can be adopted. Alternatively, the VDP of the display control unit 31 may be reset first by supplying a reset signal (short reset) immediately after turning on the power to the pachinko gaming machine 1. During the long reset, the first effect control board 12 may execute a necessary process as appropriate in parallel with the long reset process.

(Modification 3)
In the above embodiment, the effect executed on the first effect control board 12 side is executed based on the command from the second effect control board 30 side, but the first effect control board 12 for a predetermined effect. It may be possible to determine whether or not to perform the performance or to perform the production. In the above embodiment, the first effect control board 12 performs control of sound output from the speakers 8L, 8R, lighting of the game effect lamp 9, and the like, and effects using these (particularly, no image display is performed). As for (effect), the first effect control board 12 may determine whether or not to execute an effect, execute the effect, and the like. As described above, with respect to the effect using the electrical component that can be controlled by the first effect control board 12, execution of the effect or the like may be determined by the first effect control board 12. In addition, a command for executing an effect is supplied to the second effect control board 30 on the first effect control board 12 side, and the second effect control board 30 controls the effect image under the control of the first effect control board 12. May be displayed.

(Modification 4)
The first effect control command may be transmitted from the main board 11 to the second effect control board 30 without going through the first effect control board 12. However, the direction through the first effect control board 12 can transmit information to be transmitted from the first effect control board 12 together with the first effect control command, for example, as in the above embodiment, By attaching a checksum or the like on the control board 12, it is possible to cope with an erroneous transmission of a command. When the main board 11 and the first effect control board 12 are used, and the second effect control board 30 is a new product, the main board 11 and the first effect control board 12 are used. This makes it possible to use the previously used specifications for the command transmission path from the main board 11 and facilitate the introduction of the second effect control board 30.

(Modification 5)
The main board 11, the first effect control board 12, and the second effect control board 30 may be in serial communication with each other or in parallel communication. A dedicated communication port may be prepared for the reset signal. The second effect control board 30 transmits an audio command and a lamp command for designating an audio output pattern and a lighting pattern for a series of effects to the first effect control board 12 at the start of the effect, and the sound by the first effect control board 12 The effect may be executed by performing the output or lighting of the game effect lamp 9 and the image display by the second effect control board 30 in parallel. In addition, the second effect control board 30 may transmit a voice command or a lamp command designating the mode at every timing of outputting a sound and every timing at which the game effect lamp 9 is turned on.

(Modification 6)
The pachinko gaming machine may be provided with operation means capable of adjusting the sound volume from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting brightness of the game effect lamp 9, the screen brightness of the image display device 5, and the like. In this case, the operation signal of the operation means is supplied to the first effect control board 12, and the first effect control board 12 includes the information specifying the brightness of the screen in the second effect control command. It may be transmitted to the effect control board 30 (or may be transmitted as another command). The second effect control board 30 displays the screen with the brightness specified by the information. It should be noted that at least two of the sound volume, lighting brightness, and screen brightness are included in one command (for example, set separately for a header and a footer) and the second effect control board 12 to the second. You may make it transmit to the production control board 30. FIG. Moreover, you may provide operation means for effects, such as a push button. In this case, the operation signal of the operation means for the effect is supplied to the first effect control board 12, and the first effect control board 12 is included in the second effect control command corresponding to the operation, and the second effect control board. 30 may be transmitted (or may be transmitted as a separate command). The second effect control board 30 executes an effect corresponding to the operation (command). Further, when the first effect control board 12 does not receive a command from the main board 11 until the predetermined period after the power is turned on, the first effect control board 12 performs a predetermined check such as a ROM check or a checksum. As such, the fact may be transmitted as a command from the first effect control board 12 to the second effect control board 30 (in this case, the second effect control board 30 indicates that a ROM check or the like is being performed). You may make it display.) Note that commands and signals exchanged between the first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 may be such that the higher-level information is fixed so that the type of command or information can be easily recognized on the receiving side. . In addition, the first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 may be provided with an LED for confirming the operation. When the power is turned on, the LED is turned on in a predetermined manner (flashing, etc.). (Including) may notify that it is operating normally. In addition, when a command or various signals are received, the LED or the like is turned on in a predetermined manner (including blinking) to visually notify humans of normal operation (such as command transmission / reception). May be.

(Modification 7)
For example, when the second effect control board 30 receives another second effect control command between the header and footer of a certain second effect control command (MODE data (data with the first bit being “1”)). When the data constituting the second presentation control command cannot be received in the original arrangement order, it is all received at the next 1-byte data (data having the first bit of “0”). It is advisable to delete these commands from the buffer or the like so that they are not processed based on these commands. This prevents inconveniences such as executing an incorrect performance. Note that commands that have received data in a normal order may not be deleted, but only commands for data that have been received in an abnormal order may be deleted.

(Modification 8)
In addition, when the short reset process in step S713 or S720 is executed a predetermined number of times (an arbitrary number of times of two or more) within a predetermined period, a notification that the second control means is abnormal may be given. For example, in the first effect control board 12, the second effect control board 30 is abnormal when the process of step S720 is executed a predetermined number of times (any number of times equal to or greater than two) without interposing the process of step S717. (Informing by sound output from the speakers 8L, 8R and / or lighting state of the game effect lamp 9 or the like) may be performed. For example, a counter that counts every time step S720 is executed, and a predetermined counter that resets the count value when step S717 is executed is provided, and notification is given when the counter reaches a predetermined value. Further, in the first effect control board 12, when the short reset process is executed, the elapsed time from the execution timing of the short reset process is measured using a predetermined timer, and the elapsed time to be measured reaches the predetermined period. Thereafter, the number of executions of the short reset process is counted, and when the number of executions reaches a predetermined number, a notification that the second effect control board 30 is abnormal (audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R) (For example, an alarm sound output) and / or a notification by lighting the game effect lamp 9 (flashing, etc.) may be performed (at this time, the elapsed time is measured each time each short reset process is executed). Alternatively, the number of executions of the short reset process may be counted for each elapsed time.

  In addition to the above configuration, for example, the first effect control board 12 receives a normal operation signal without receiving a command reception signal when, for example, an abnormality of the second effect control board 30 is detected a predetermined number of times within a predetermined period. Notification of abnormality (notification by voice output or the like) may be performed. Further, after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the abnormality notification may be performed when the abnormality detection reaches a predetermined number of times.

  Further, the abnormality notification mode in each short reset process may be different from the notification mode when the number of short reset processes reaches a predetermined number. Furthermore, the abnormality notification may be performed only when the number of short reset processes reaches a predetermined number without performing the abnormality notification in each short reset process.

(Modification 9)
In the above-described embodiment and the like, according to the above-described configuration, change effect determining means (for example, the display control unit 31 that executes step S161) that determines whether or not to execute the change effect, and whether or not the notice effect is to be executed. A notice effect determining means (for example, the display control unit 31 that executes step S161) for determining whether or not the change effect execution restricting means is executed by the notice effect determining means by the notice effect determining means. May be prohibited from being determined by the change effect determining means to execute the change effect (for example, the first hold change when it is determined to execute the prefetch chance) For example, it is not decided to perform the production). According to this configuration, the process for stopping the special identification information can be facilitated.

(Modification 10)
Further, when the specific display is newly displayed, a display effect executing means (for example, a display control unit 31 for executing the hold display effect) capable of executing a display effect (for example, a hold display effect) associated with the display of the specific display. The display effect executing means executes the display effect accompanying the display of the new specific display when the new specific display is displayed during the execution of the display effect. (See, for example, FIG. 39).

  As the display effect, there is a hold display effect shown in FIG. The hold display effect is an effect of gradually displaying the hold display image. For example, when displaying the hold display image, the display control unit 31 executes a hold display effect that displays the hold display image so that the hold display image gradually appears (for example, the second effect control command analysis). A predetermined control command is sent to the display control unit 123 so as to start execution of the on-hold display effect when performing control to display the on-hold display image in equal processing, or predetermined control to the display control unit 123 at every timer interruption. Send a command and execute the hold display effect.) Then, during the execution of the hold display effect, when there is a new start prize and a new hold display image is to be displayed, the hold display effect being executed is stopped and the hold display image is displayed, and The hold display effect is executed for the new hold display image (for example, when the control for displaying the new hold display image is performed in the second effect control command analysis or the like, the hold display effect being executed is stopped and finally executed. A predetermined control command is sent to the display control unit 123 so as to display the hold display image of the form and start a hold display effect for the new hold display image, or a predetermined control command is sent to the display control unit 123. The execution of the hold display effect is stopped and the hold display image in the final form is displayed, and a new hold display image is predetermined in the display control unit 31 for each timer interruption. By sending a control command to execute the pending display performance.). According to this structure, it can suppress that an effect becomes unnatural.

  As described above, the display effect execution means stores a new hold memory (variable display that has not yet been started (for example, hold data for executing variable display) as the hold memory during execution of the display effect. .) Is stored, the display effect being executed is interrupted, and the display effect associated with the display of the new specific display corresponding to the hold storage is executed, so that the status of the hold display (specific display) can be determined. It can be made easier.

(Modification 11)
The variable display (simply variable display) of the identification information (special drawing, decorative design, general drawing, etc.) includes that the identification information blinks. For example, in special drawings and ordinary drawings, a pattern in which all segments are turned off and one pattern in which at least some segments are turned on (for example, a lost pattern) are alternately included in the variable display of identification information ( In this case, the one pattern (for example, a lost symbol) appears to blink). In addition, variable display may be performed by blinking decorative symbols and ordinary symbols. Further, the identification information variably displayed in the variable display and the identification information as the variable display result may be different. For example, the display of one horizontal bar (“−”) blinks as a variable display of a special figure or an ordinary figure, and the other display (“7” if “big hit”, Deriving and displaying “1” or the like if “lost” is included in the variable display of the identification information. For example, a decorative pattern other than the scrolled decorative pattern may be a confirmed decorative pattern. In addition, a mode in which identification information that was not displayed in the initial predetermined period in one variable display is displayed after the predetermined period is included in the variable display of the identification information (the special symbol is a temporary stop of the final stop symbol) It may be a decorative pattern that appears for the first time at times.) The gaming machine only needs to perform variable display, for example.

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

(Modification 13)
In the above embodiment, whether or not to change the gaming state after the big hit gaming state to the “probable change state” by determining the big hit type at the start of the fluctuation is determined. Only the round game mode) is determined, and the game state after the jackpot game state is “probable change state” based on the fact that the game ball has passed a specific area (for example, a specific area in the jackpot) during the jackpot game state. You may make it.

(Modification 14)
In the above embodiment, when a start winning is generated and a new hold is generated, the hold display image is displayed in the second effect control command analysis or the like, but in the pre-reading advance notice setting process in step S161. A hold display image may be displayed (if a plurality of holds are generated during the prefetch notice setting process, a hold display image is displayed for each hold). In this case, when it is determined in step S161 to execute the second hold display change effect, the target hold display image may be a color other than white from the start of display (that is, the hold display image is displayed in red or blue). You may want to start.)

(Modification 15)
The hold display image is normally white and changes from white to red or blue by the first hold change effect or the second hold change effect, but when it is determined to execute the prefetch chance eye or the first hold change effect, The display mode of the target hold display symbol may be changed to a special mode (for example, blinking) different from normal so that the player can easily be notified that the hold display image is the target. When a new hold display image is displayed in step S161 as described above, the hold display image may be set to the special mode from the start of display of the target hold display image (in the special mode). The display of the hold display image may be started.)

(Modification 16)
In step S161, the determination result of step S675 or step S676 is held in a VRAM or the like. In step S679, it is determined whether or not there is a cancellation, and the determination result that becomes the first hold change effect information is stored in the command buffer for starting winning (this time It may be stored in the storage area corresponding to the target hold display number). For example, if it is determined in step S678 that there is a cancellation, the determination result stored in the VRAM or the like (determined to execute the first hold change effect) (Determination result at the time) may be rewritten with information indicating that the deletion or the first hold change effect is not executed, and the determination result held in step S679 may be recorded as it is without determining whether or not there is cancellation ( When the decision result when deciding to execute the first hold change effect is deleted, the information is Will not be recorded.).

(Modification 17)
The pre-reading chance pattern may be the same as the stop pattern before the last decorative pattern (decorative pattern at the position where the special symbol stops), regardless of the type of the pre-reading chance pattern. This can improve the interest of the game. In such a case, the discouragement of the player can be prevented by restricting the execution of the change effect as described above regardless of the type of the prefetch chance (expected degree of big hit).

(Modification 18)
In the above embodiment, in order to notify the first effect control board 12 of the variation pattern indicating the variation mode such as the variation time, the type of reach production, the presence / absence of pseudo-continuous, etc., one variation pattern when starting the variation. Although an example in which a command is transmitted has been shown, a variation pattern may be notified to the first effect control board 12 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the gaming control microcomputer 100 uses the first command to indicate whether there is a pseudo-continuity, whether there is a slip effect, etc. before reaching reach (so-called if not reach). A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop) is transmitted, and the second command has reached the reach such as the type of reach and presence / absence of re-lottery effect (if the reach does not reach, the so-called first You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation | variation time and fluctuation | variation aspect after 2 stop). In this case, the first effect control board 12 may perform the effect control in the change display based on the change time derived from the combination of the two commands. The game control microcomputer 100 notifies the change time by each of the two commands, and the first effect control board 12 selects the specific change mode executed at each timing. It may be. When sending two commands, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt. After sending the first command, a certain period of time has passed (for example, the next timer interrupt). The second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

(Modification 19)
In addition, the image display operation in the image display device for executing the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the sound output operation in the speaker, and the lighting operation in the game effect lamp and the decoration LED Various production operations including the above can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and is scored based on the occurrence of winnings by enclosing gaming media It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Gaming machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special symbol display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Ordinary winning ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 11 ... Main board 12 ... First effect control board 13 ... Audio control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal symbol display 21 ... Gate switch 22A, 22B ... Start switch 23 ... Count switch 30 ... Second effect control board 31 ... Display control unit 100 ... Game control microcomputers 101, 121 ... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104 ... Random number circuits 105, 125 ... I / O
120 ... CPU for effect control

Claims (1)

A gaming machine for playing games,
First control means;
Second control means capable of communicating with the first control means,
The first control unit continuously supplies a specific signal to the second control unit over a predetermined period when a period during which the predetermined communication with the second control unit cannot be performed exceeds a specific period.
A gaming machine characterized by that.