JP2019150380A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of executing an operation reception performance for receiving an operation of operation means, capable of improving an amusement in the operation reception performance.SOLUTION: A pachinko game machine PY1 comprises: a performance button 40k for receiving an operation of a player; and an image display device 50 for displaying an operation means image which is an image whose motif is a performance button 40k, on a screen. The pachinko game machine PY1 sets an operation effective period in which, the operation to the performance button 40k is effective, in execution of a variable display of the special pattern, and in the operation effective period, at a prescribed determined timing, changes the display mode of the operation means image displayed on the image display device 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

  Conventionally, gaming machines represented by pachinko gaming machines are provided with presentation means such as an image display device and a speaker, and operation means such as buttons and levers. In the pachinko gaming machine, a plurality of types of operation reception effects for receiving the operation of the operation means are prepared, and the degree of expectation for winning the jackpot varies depending on the contents of the operation reception effects. For example, there are operation reception effects with a high occurrence frequency but a low expectation level, and operation reception effects with a low occurrence frequency but a high expectation level, and by selecting the execution of these operation reception effects based on the jackpot lottery result , Changing the player's expectations.

  As a document disclosing the technique regarding the frequency of occurrence of the operation reception effect described above, for example, there is Patent Document 1. In Patent Literature 1, there is a button display effect as an effect suggesting a button operation. In the button display effect, there are two types of buttons, a small button display effect with a high occurrence frequency and a large button display effect with a low occurrence frequency. A gaming machine capable of executing display effects is disclosed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2009-232828

  However, there are already many pachinko gaming machines that can execute an operation reception effect as conventional models. Therefore, in order to differentiate from the conventional model, further improvement of interest is required for the operation reception effect, and there is room for improvement.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art. That is, the subject is to provide a technique that is capable of executing an operation reception effect that receives an operation of an operation means, and that improves the interest of the operation reception effect.

In order to solve the above problems, a gaming machine disclosed in this specification is:
Lottery means to make a jackpot lottery,
A special symbol indicating a lottery result by the lottery means, and a special symbol display means for stopping and displaying the special symbol after a variable time has elapsed since the start of the fluctuation display;
An operation means for accepting a player's operation;
A setting means for setting an operation valid period during which an operation on the operation means is valid during the execution of the variation display of the special symbol;
Image display means for displaying on the screen an operation means image which is an image having the operation means as a motif;
With
The image display means includes
Changing the display mode of the operation means image at a predetermined timing determined in advance in the operation effective period;
It is characterized by that.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it is a game machine which can perform the operation reception effect which receives operation of an operation means, Comprising: The technique which improves the interest property about an operation reception effect is implement | achieved.

1 is a perspective view of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment. It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the game board of the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the indicators in the frame A of the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the game control board of a pachinko gaming machine, and peripheral devices. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the presentation control board and peripheral device of a pachinko game machine. It is a jackpot type determination table. It is a table which shows the open mode of a big prize opening. (A) is a jackpot determination table, (B) is a reach determination table, (C) is an ordinary symbol determination table, and (D) is an ordinary symbol variation pattern selection table. It is a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is an open pattern determination table of electric Chu. It is a start winning command specific table. It is a figure which shows the flow of the fluctuation production including a button production. It is a figure which shows the flow of the button production in which a button image changes. It is a selection table of a scenario of button production. It is a figure which shows the 1st application example of the button production in which a button image changes. It is a figure which shows the 2nd application example of the button production in which a button image changes. It is a figure which shows the application example of the prior promotion suggestion effect before displaying a button image. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game side starting process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game side timer interruption process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the sensor detection process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the normal operation process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special operation process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special symbol standby process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special figure 2 jackpot determination process (Special figure 1 big hit determination process) in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special symbol change process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special symbol confirmation process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game state management process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game state reset process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the jackpot game process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the round process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the jackpot end process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game state setting process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the production side starting process in a production control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the production side 1ms timer interruption process in a production control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the production side 10 ms timer interruption process in a production control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the received command analysis process in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the change production start process in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the switch process in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the button effective period process in an effect control board.

1. Structure of gaming machine A pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the vertical direction and the horizontal direction of each part of a pachinko gaming machine as an example of a gaming machine will be described in accordance with the vertical direction and the horizontal direction as viewed from the player facing the pachinko gaming machine. In addition, the front direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine will be described as a direction approaching the player facing the pachinko gaming machine, and the backward direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine will be described as a direction away from the player facing the pachinko gaming machine.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to the embodiment includes a gaming machine frame 2 that constitutes an outline of the pachinko gaming machine PY1. The gaming machine frame 2 includes an outer frame 22 and a front door (front frame) 23. The outer frame 22 is a vertical rectangular frame that forms the outline of the pachinko gaming machine PY1. The front door 23 is disposed on the front side of the outer frame 22 and has a vertical rectangular shape that protects the game board 1. The front door 23 is a part directly facing the player and is decorated in various ways.

  The center of the front door 23 is open, and a transparent transparent plate 23t is attached to the opening. The transparent plate 23t is a glass plate in this embodiment, but may be a transparent synthetic resin plate. The front door 23 includes an upper decoration unit 200, a left decoration unit 210, a right decoration unit 220, and an operation mechanism unit 230.

  The operation mechanism unit 230 is disposed below the opening in the front door 23. The operation mechanism unit 230 includes a handle 72k for launching a game ball with a launch intensity corresponding to the rotation angle at the lower right. In addition, the operation mechanism unit 230 is provided with an upper plate 34 for storing game balls (rented balls and prize balls), and can be operated by a player at the time of production performed as the game progresses. An effect button 40k and a select button 42k are provided. A lower plate 35 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the upper plate 34 is provided below the operation mechanism unit 230.

  The left decoration unit 210 is disposed on the left side of the opening in the front door 23. The left decoration unit 210 includes a left frame lamp 53L. The right decoration unit 220 is arranged on the right side of the opening in the front door 23. The right decoration unit 220 includes a right frame lamp 53R. The left frame lamp 53L and the right frame lamp 53R are collectively referred to as “frame lamp 53”.

  The upper decoration unit 200 is disposed above the opening portion of the front door 23 and protrudes forward from the left decoration unit 210, the right decoration unit 220, and the operation mechanism unit 230. Further, the upper decoration unit 200 includes a central upper unit 400 disposed in the center in the left-right direction, a left speaker 52L disposed on the left side of the central upper unit 400, and a right speaker 52R disposed on the right side of the central upper unit 400. And have. The left speaker 52L and the right speaker 52R are collectively referred to as “speaker 52”. Furthermore, a decorative movable body 58k that can rotate is provided in the center of the upper decorative unit 200.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 includes a gaming board 1 as shown in FIG. The gaming board 1 is attached to the inside of the gaming machine frame 2 and is accommodated in the gaming machine frame 2. The game board 1 is formed with a game area 6 where game balls launched by the operation of the handle 72k flow down are surrounded by the outer rail 62 or the inner rail 63. In the game area 6, a plurality of game nails for guiding a game ball are projected.

  An image display device 50 including a liquid crystal panel is provided near the center of the game area 6. Further, a center decorative body 61 is disposed near the center of the game area 6 and in front of the image display device 50. A stage 61 s capable of guiding the game ball rolling on the upper surface to the first starting port 11 is formed at the lower portion of the center decorative body 61. Further, on the left side of the center decorative body 61, a warp portion 61w is provided that allows a game ball to flow in from the entrance and flow out from the exit to the stage 61s.

  Below the image display device 50 in the game area 6 is provided a first start winning device 11D having a first start port 11 where the ease of entering a game ball does not always change. The first start opening 11 is also referred to as a first start winning opening or a fixed entrance opening. The winning of the game ball to the first start port 11 is an opportunity for the lottery of the first special symbol (a jackpot lottery, that is, determination of acquisition of a jackpot random number or the like).

  A second start winning device (so-called electric chew) 12 </ b> D having a second start port 12 is provided below the first start port 11. The second start opening 12 is also referred to as a second start winning opening or a variable entry opening. The winning of the game ball to the second starting port 12 is an opportunity for the lottery of the second special symbol (a jackpot lottery, that is, determination of acquisition of a jackpot random number or the like). In the following description, the first start port 11 and the second start port 12 may be collectively referred to as “start port”.

  The electric chew 12D includes an electric chew opening / closing member (movable member) 12k that can move forward and backward, and opens and closes the second start port 12 by the operation of the electric chew opening / closing member 12k. The second starting port 12 can enter the game ball only when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the advanced position (that is, when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the open state). That is, when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the retracted position (that is, when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the closed state), the game ball cannot enter. It should be noted that the second start port 12 only needs to have a variable ease of entry of the game ball, and when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the closed state, it becomes more difficult for the game ball to enter than in the open state. If it is a thing, when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the closed state, it may not be completely impossible to enter the ball.

  In addition, a large winning device (attacker, AT) 14D having a large winning port 14 is provided to the right of the first starting port 11 in the game area 6. The special winning device 14D includes an AT opening / closing member 14k that changes between an open state and a closed state, and opens / closes the special winning opening 14 by the operation of the AT opening / closing member 14k. Only when the AT opening / closing member 14k is in the open position (that is, in the open state), the big winning opening 14 can enter the game ball.

  A gate 13 through which a game ball can pass is provided to the right of the center decorative body 61 in the game area 6. The passing of the game ball to the gate 13 triggers a normal symbol lottery (that is, acquisition and determination of a normal symbol random number (per random number)) for determining whether or not to open the electric chew 12D.

  Furthermore, the game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning ports 10. Further, at the bottom of the game area 6, there is provided an out port 19 through which game balls that have been driven into the game area 6 but have not won any winning holes are discharged out of the game area 6.

  As described above, the game area 6 in which various winning holes are arranged includes a left game area 6L on the left side and a right game area 6R on the right side from the center in the left-right direction. The method of hitting a game ball so that the game ball flows down in the left game area 6L is called left-handed. On the other hand, a method of hitting a game ball so that the game ball flows down in the right game area 6R is referred to as a right hit. In the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment, the flow path through which the game ball can flow down when playing left-handed is called the first flow path R1, and the flow through which the game ball can flow down when playing right-handed The path is referred to as a second flow path R2.

  On the first flow path R1, a first start port 11, an electric chew 12D, a general winning port 10, and an out port 19 are provided. The player aims to win the first starting port 11 and the general winning port 10 by driving a game ball so as to flow down the first flow path R1.

  On the other hand, on the second flow path R2, a gate 13, a large prize winning device 14D, an electric chew 12D, a general prize winning port 10, and an out port 19 are provided. The first start port 11 is arranged at the approximate center of the game area 6, but a game nail or the like is arranged so that the game ball does not face the first start port 11 in the case of right-handed. Therefore, the player hits the game ball so as to flow down the second flow path R2, thereby passing to the gate 13, winning the second starting port 12 related to the electric Chu 12D, or entering the big winning port 14. Aim for winning.

  In addition, a display device 8 is disposed in the lower right portion of the game board 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the display 8 includes a first special symbol display 81 a that variably displays the first special symbol (special diagram 1), and a second that variably displays the second special symbol (special diagram 2). A special figure display 81b and a general figure display 82 for variably displaying a normal symbol (normal figure) are included. Further, the display unit 8 includes a first special figure hold indicator 83a and a second special figure display for displaying the number of stored operations (first special figure hold, special figure hold) of the first special figure display 81a. The second special figure hold indicator 83b for displaying the number of stored operation hold (second special figure hold, special figure 2 hold) of the device 81b, and the general view for displaying the number of stored operation hold of the general display 82 A hold indicator 84 is included.

  The variable display of the first special symbol is performed in response to the winning of a game ball at the first start port 11. The variable display of the second special symbol is performed in response to the winning of a game ball at the second start port 12. In the following description, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are collectively referred to as “special symbol”. Further, the first special figure display 81a and the second special figure display 81b are collectively referred to as “special figure display 81”. Further, the first special figure hold indicator 83a and the second special figure hold indicator 83b are collectively referred to as “special figure hold indicator 83”.

  The special symbol display 81 notifies the result of the lottery (special symbol lottery, jackpot lottery) based on winning at the start opening by variably displaying the special symbol (identification information) and then displaying it in a stopped state. The special symbol that is stopped and displayed (the special symbol that is derived and displayed as the display result of the stop symbol and variable display) is one special symbol that is selected from a plurality of types of special symbols by the special symbol lottery. If the stop symbol is a special symbol of the jackpot stop mode determined in advance (the jackpot symbol), the pachinko gaming machine PY1 opens the jackpot game 14 with the opening pattern corresponding to the type of the jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed. Play (special game). In addition, the opening pattern of the big winning opening in the jackpot game will be described later.

  The first special figure indicator 81a and the second special figure indicator 81b are each composed of, for example, eight LEDs arranged side by side, and display a special symbol corresponding to the result of the jackpot lottery depending on the lighting mode. . For example, if you win a jackpot (one of multiple types of jackpots), 1, 2, 5 from the left, such as “○ ●●● ○○ ●●” (○: lit, ●: unlit) The jackpot symbol in which the sixth LED is lit is displayed. In the case of a loss, a lost symbol in which only the rightmost LED is lit, such as “●●●●●●● ○”, is displayed. You may employ | adopt the aspect which light-extinguishes all LED as a loss pattern. In addition, before the special symbol is stopped and displayed, the special symbol variation display (variable display) is performed over a predetermined variation time. The variation display mode is, for example, such that light repeatedly flows from left to right. In this mode, the LED is turned on. The variation display mode may be anything such as all LEDs blinking at once as long as each LED is not stopped (displayed in a specific mode).

  When there is a winning game ball at the starting port, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 acquires various random numbers such as a jackpot random number for the winning, and temporarily stores values of the various random numbers (determination information). The storage area for storing these various random numbers is referred to as a special figure reservation storage unit 105. Specifically, if the winning is to the first starting port 11, the first special figure hold (holding of special figure 1) is stored in the first special figure holding storage unit 105 a and the second starting port 12 is won. For example, it is stored in the second special figure holding storage unit 105b as the second special figure hold (holding of the special figure 2). There is an upper limit to the number of special figure reservations that can be stored in each special figure reservation storage unit 105. The upper limit number (also referred to as the upper limit) in this embodiment is “4” for the first special figure reservation storage unit 105a, The special figure storage unit 105b is also “4”.

  The special figure hold stored in the special figure hold storage unit 105 is digested when the variable display of the special symbol based on the special figure hold becomes possible. Digesting a special figure hold means that a jackpot random number corresponding to the special figure hold is determined, and a special symbol variable display for indicating the determination result is executed. Accordingly, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1, when the variable display of the special symbol based on the winning of the game ball at the first starting port 11 or the second starting port 12 cannot be performed immediately after the winning, that is, the special based on another jackpot random number Even if there is a prize during the execution of variable display of symbols or special games (big hit games or small win games), the right to win a big hit lottery with respect to the predetermined number can be reserved It can be done.

  The number of special figure hold is displayed on the special figure hold indicator 83. Specifically, the first special figure hold indicator 83a is composed of four LEDs, and the second special figure hold indicator 83b is also composed of four LEDs. Each special figure hold indicator 83 displays the number of special figure hold by turning on the LEDs by the number of special figure hold.

  The variable display of the normal symbol is performed when the game ball passes to the gate 13 as an opportunity. The general symbol display 82 notifies the result of the normal symbol lottery based on the passing of the game ball to the gate 13 by variably displaying the normal symbol (variation display) and then displaying the stop symbol. A normal symbol that is stopped and displayed (a normal symbol that is derived and displayed as a variable display result) is one normal symbol selected from a plurality of types of normal symbols by a normal symbol lottery. When the stopped normal symbol is a predetermined specific symbol (a normal symbol of a predetermined stop mode, that is, a normal winning symbol), it is released according to the type of the normal winning symbol stopped and the current gaming state. An auxiliary game is performed in which the second start port 12 is opened (the electric chew 12D is activated) in a pattern. The opening pattern of the second start port 12 will be described later.

  The general symbol display 82 is composed of, for example, two LEDs, and displays a normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery according to the lighting mode. For example, when the lottery result is a win, a normal winning symbol is displayed. There are multiple types of normal winning symbols in this embodiment. For example, when winning (one of multiple types of winning symbols) is won, the first and second LEDs from the left, such as “○ ●” (○: lit, ●: off) The winning symbol is displayed. In addition, when the lottery result is a loss, a normal lose pattern in which both LEDs are turned off is displayed as “●●”. Before the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the normal symbol variation display (variable display) is performed for a predetermined variation time. The variation display mode is, for example, a mode in which both LEDs are lit alternately. The variation display mode may be anything such as all LEDs blinking at once as long as each LED is not stopped (displayed in a specific mode).

  When there is a game ball passing to the gate 13, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 acquires normal symbol random numbers and the like for the passage, and temporarily stores the values of these various random numbers (determination information) as ordinary figure hold. . The storage area for storing these various random numbers is assumed to be a general-purpose storage unit 106. There is an upper limit to the number of pending map holds that can be stored in the pending map storage unit 106, and the upper limit number (also referred to as the upper limit) in this embodiment is “4”.

  The general map reservation stored in the general map storage unit 106 is digested when the variable display of the normal symbol based on the general map storage becomes possible. Digestion of a general map hold means that a normal random number corresponding to the general map hold is determined and variable symbols are displayed in order to show the determination result. Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1, when the variable display of the normal symbol based on the passage of the game ball to the gate 13 cannot be performed immediately after the passage, that is, during the execution of the variable display of the normal symbol based on another normal random number or Even when a game ball passes to the gate 13 during the execution of the auxiliary game, the right to the normal winning lottery for the passage can be reserved up to a predetermined number.

  The number of the general map hold is displayed on the general map hold display 84. The general-purpose holding display 84 is composed of four LEDs. The general-purpose hold indicator 84 displays the number of general-purpose holds by turning on the LEDs as many times as the general-purpose hold.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 changes the decorative symbols (effect symbols) EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in synchronization with the variable symbol display (variable display) on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. There is an effect symbol display area for display. The effect symbol display area includes, for example, three symbol display areas of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. A left effect symbol EZ1 is displayed in the left symbol display area, a middle effect symbol EZ2 is displayed in the middle symbol display area, and a right effect symbol EZ3 is displayed in the right symbol display area. Each of the effect symbols is made up of a plurality of symbols representing numbers “1” to “9”, for example. The image display device 50 displays the result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol (that is, the result of the big hit lottery) in an easy-to-understand manner by combining the left, middle and right effect symbols. In the following description, the left effect symbol EZ1, the middle effect symbol EZ2, and the right effect symbol EZ3 are collectively referred to as an “effect symbol EZ”.

  For example, in the case of winning the jackpot, the effect design EZ is stopped and displayed with a doublet such as “777”. Further, if it is out of place, the effect symbol EZ is stopped and displayed with a variation such as “263”. This makes it easy for the player to grasp the progress of the game. That is, the player generally grasps the result of the jackpot lottery by the image display device 50, not by the first special figure display 81a or the second special figure display 81b. The position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed. Moreover, as an aspect of the variable display of the effect symbol EZ, for example, there is an aspect of scrolling in the vertical direction. In addition, it is possible to arbitrarily change which combination of effect symbols EZ to stop display according to each lottery result.

  The image display device 50 displays an effect symbol variation effect (also referred to as a variation effect) using the effect symbol EZ as described above, a jackpot effect performed in parallel with the jackpot game, a demonstration effect for waiting for a customer, and the like. Displayed on the part 50a. In the effect design variation effect, effect images other than effect symbols such as background images and character images are displayed in addition to effect symbols such as numbers.

  In addition, the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 has a hold icon display area for displaying a hold icon HA according to the number of special figure holds stored. By displaying the hold icon HA, it is possible to easily show the number of stored special figure hold to the player.

2. Next, an electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described with reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. The pachinko gaming machine PY1 includes a game control board 100, an effect control board 120, and a payout control board 170. The game control board 100 mainly performs control related to game profits such as various lotteries such as jackpots and transition of game state. The effect control board 120 performs control related to effects executed mainly as the game progresses, such as display on the image display device 50, lighting of various lamps, and sound output. The payout control board 170 performs control related to payout of game balls.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 includes a power supply board 190. The power supply board 190 controls power supply to the game control board 100, the effect control board 120, the image control board 140, and the payout control board 170, and supplies necessary power to other devices via these boards. To do.

  A backup power supply circuit 192 is provided on the power supply board 190. The backup power supply circuit 192 is necessary for holding information to the game control board 100 when power is not supplied from the outside to the pachinko gaming machine PY1, that is, when the main power is off or a power failure occurs. To supply power. Therefore, the information stored in the game control board 100 is temporarily held while power can be supplied from the backup power supply circuit 192 even when no power is supplied to the pachinko gaming machine PY1 from the outside. A dedicated backup power supply circuit for each control board may be provided. A power switch 191 is connected to the power board 190. By operating the power switch 191, the main power is turned on and off.

  On the game control board 100, as shown in FIG. 5, a game control one-chip microcomputer for controlling the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to a program is mounted. Hereinafter, the game control one-chip microcomputer is referred to as a game control microcomputer 101. The game control microcomputer 101 includes a game ROM (Read Only Memory) 103 storing a program for controlling the progress of the game, a game RAM (Random Access Memory) 104 used as a work memory, and a game ROM 103. And a game CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102 for executing the program stored therein. The game control microcomputer 101 transmits / receives data to / from another board or the like via a game I / O (Input / Output) port 118. The game I / O port 118 may be built in the game control microcomputer 101. The game ROM 103 may be externally attached.

  The game RAM 104 is provided with a special figure hold storage unit 105 that stores various random numbers related to special figure hold and a general figure hold storage unit 106 that stores various random numbers related to general figure hold. In addition, the special figure reservation storage unit 105 stores a first special figure reservation storage unit 105a that stores various random numbers related to the special figure reservation of the special figure 1 and a second special figure storage unit that stores various random numbers related to the special figure reservation of the special figure 2. A figure storage unit 105b is provided.

  Various sensors and solenoids are electrically connected to the game control board 100 via a relay board 172. Therefore, a signal from each sensor is input to the game control board 100, and a signal is output from the game control board 100 to each solenoid. Specifically, the sensors include a first start opening sensor 11a, a second start opening sensor 12a, a gate sensor 13a, a big winning opening sensor 14a, and a general winning opening sensor 10a.

  The first start port sensor 11 a is provided immediately below the first start port 11 and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of the game ball, that is, the output value when the game ball passes through the first start port 11. Output a changing signal. The second start port sensor 12a is provided immediately below the second start port 12 and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of the game ball. That is, when the game ball passes the second start port 12, the output value is Output a changing signal. The gate sensor 13a is provided in a passing area immediately below the gate 13, and outputs a signal for detecting the passing of the game ball, that is, outputs a signal whose output value changes when the game ball passes through the gate 13. To do.

  The big prize opening sensor 14a is provided immediately below the big prize opening 14, and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of the game ball, that is, a signal whose output value changes when the game ball passes through the big prize port 14. Is output. The general winning opening sensor 10 a is provided immediately below each general winning opening 10 and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of a game ball, that is, the output value changes when the game ball passes through each general winning opening 10. Output a signal.

  The solenoids include an electric chew solenoid 12s and an AT solenoid 14s. The electric chew solenoid 12s drives the electric chew opening / closing member 12k of the electric chew 12D. The AT solenoid 14s drives the AT opening / closing member 14k of the big winning device 14D.

  Further, the game control board 100 includes a first special figure display 81a, a second special figure display 81b, a general figure display 82, a first special figure hold display 83a, a second special figure hold display 83b, and A general-purpose hold indicator 84 is electrically connected. That is, display control of these display devices 8 is performed by the game control microcomputer 101.

  In addition, the game control board 100 transmits various commands to the payout control board 170 and receives various signals from the payout control board 170 for payout monitoring. Specifically, the payout control board 170 is electrically connected to the payout device 73 and the card unit CU. The card unit CU is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine PY1, and is a device that enables lending a ball based on information such as an inserted prepaid card. Further, a launching device 72 is electrically connected to the payout control board 170 via a launch control board 175.

  The payout control board 170 drives the payout motor 73m of the payout device 73 based on a signal from the game control microcomputer 101 and a signal from the card unit CU electrically connected to the pachinko gaming machine PY1. 73 causes the award ball to be paid out, or causes the payout device 73 to pay out the rented ball. The prize balls or rental balls to be paid out are controlled by a signal from the payout sensor 73a for counting.

  In the pachinko gaming machine PY1, the number of prize balls to be paid out by winning at the first start port 11 is 3, and the number of prize balls to be paid out by winning at the second start port 12 is 2. Further, the number of prize balls to be paid out by winning a prize at the big prize opening 14 is 13, and the number of prize balls to be paid out by winning a prize to the general prize opening 10 is 3. The number of prize balls is an example and may be selected as appropriate.

  In addition to the handle 72k, the firing device 72 includes a firing solenoid 72s, a touch switch 72a, and a firing volume 72b. When the player operates the handle 72k of the launch device 72, a signal indicating that the touch switch 72a has touched the handle 72k is output to the launch control board 175, and the amount of rotation of the handle 72k from the launch volume 72b. A signal corresponding to is output to the launch control board 175. The launch control board 175 drives the launch solenoid 72s, and based on the various signals input from the launch device 72, the launch device is configured so that the game ball is fired with appropriate strength or the game ball is not fired. 72 is controlled.

  In addition, a RAM clear switch 119 is connected to the game control board 100. The RAM clear switch 119 is attached to the game control board 100 and disposed on the rear surface of the pachinko gaming machine PY1. That is, the RAM clear switch 119 is normally in a position where it cannot be viewed by the player on the front side of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 and cannot be operated by the player. Therefore, the RAM clear switch 119 is normally operated by hall staff. When the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is activated in a state where the RAM clear switch 119 is pressed, the gaming RAM 104 is initialized. As a result, information stored in the gaming RAM 104 is lost.

  In addition, the game control board 100 transmits various commands to the effect control board 120. The communication between the game control board 100 and the effect control board 120 is a unidirectional communication in which only a command can be transmitted from the game control board 100 to the effect control board 120. That is, a unidirectional control circuit using, for example, a diode is interposed as a communication direction regulating means between the game control board 100 and the effect control board 120.

  Further, an external output terminal plate 173 is connected to the game control board 100. The external output terminal plate 173 outputs various signals based on the signals received from the game control microcomputer 101 to an external device arranged outside the pachinko gaming machine PY1, such as the data display DH and the hall computer HC. Specifically, the external output terminal plate 173 is provided with a plurality of channels (CN) for external output. And the connector corresponding to each channel (CN) and the connector on the data display DH side are connected by a cable. Each connector outputs one signal to the outside. In the external output terminal plate 173, for example, a jackpot count signal indicating that the jackpot is won, a signal indicating the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine PY1, a frame opening signal indicating that the gaming machine frame 2 is opened, a predetermined number of A signal indicating that a winning ball has been made and a security signal indicating that there has been an unexpected winning are output from different channels.

  On the effect control board 120, as shown in FIG. 6, a one-chip microcomputer for effect control for controlling the effect of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to a program is mounted. Hereinafter, the effect control one-chip microcomputer is referred to as the effect control microcomputer 121. The effect control microcomputer 121 executes an effect ROM 123 storing a program for controlling the effect as the game progresses, an effect RAM 124 used as a work memory, and a program stored in the effect ROM 123. An effect CPU 122 is included. The effect control microcomputer 121 transmits or receives data to / from another board or the like via the effect I / O port 138. The effect I / O port 138 may be incorporated in the effect control microcomputer 121. Further, the effect ROM 123 may be externally attached.

  The effect RAM 124 is provided with a start winning command hold storage unit 125 that stores a start winning command including hold lottery information. The holding lottery information includes information based on each random number stored in the special figure holding storage unit 105 of the game control board 100. The start winning command hold storage unit 125 further stores a first start winning command hold storage unit 125a for storing a first start winning command based on the first special figure hold, and a second start winning command based on the second special figure hold. And a second start winning command holding storage unit 125b. In addition, the effect RAM 124 may be provided with a storage unit that stores a command including information on the usual map hold.

  Specifically, each of the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a and the second start winning command hold storage unit 125b is provided with a storage area corresponding to the upper limit number of special figure holds. In the pachinko gaming machine PY1, in accordance with the upper limit number of special figure hold, the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a is provided with four storage areas, and the second start winning command hold storage unit 125b also has four storage areas. Is provided. Further, each storage area is provided with a plurality of small areas. Specifically, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1, the start winning command specified based on the winning of the starting opening, the data indicating the display mode of the hold icon HA, and the reception counter value counted up each time the starting winning command is received. Are stored in each small area. The reception counter is used for managing the winning order.

  In addition, the effect control board 120 is electrically connected to the image control board 140, the accessory lamp control board 162, and the sound control circuit 161. The effect control microcomputer 121 of the effect control board 120 causes the image CPU 142 of the image control board 140 to perform display control of the image display device 50 based on the command received from the game control board 100. The image RAM 144 of the image control board 140 is a memory in which image data is expanded. In the image ROM 143 of the image control board 140, still image data and moving image data displayed on the image display device 50, more specifically, characters, items, figures, characters, numbers, symbols, background images, effect designs EZ, Image data such as a hold icon HA is stored. The image CPU 142 of the image control board 140 reads image data from the image ROM 143 based on a command from the effect control microcomputer 121. Then, the read image data is displayed on the image display device 50.

  Further, the production control microcomputer 121 performs voice control for causing the speaker 52 to output voice, music, sound effects, and the like via the voice control circuit 161 based on the command received from the game control board 100. Specifically, sound data such as sound output from the speaker 52 is stored in the effect ROM 123 of the effect control board 120. Note that the audio control circuit 161 may store acoustic data. Alternatively, the image control board 140 and the speaker 52 or the voice control circuit 161 may be electrically connected to cause the image control board 140 to perform voice control. In this case, the image control board 140 may store acoustic data.

  Further, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs lighting control of each lamp such as the frame lamp 53 and the panel lamp 54 via the accessory lamp control board 162 based on the command received from the game control board 100. Specifically, the production control microcomputer 121 uses the data stored in the production ROM 123 to create light emission pattern data that determines the light emission mode of each lamp, and the light emission pattern data is stored in the accessory lamp control board 162. Send. The accessory lamp control board 162 that has received the light emission pattern data performs light emission control of each lamp in accordance with the light emission pattern data.

  Further, the effect control microcomputer 121 operates the decorative movable body 58k electrically connected to the accessory lamp control board 162 via the movable body relay board 163 based on the command received from the game control board 100. . Specifically, the production control microcomputer 121 uses the data stored in the production ROM 123 to create operation pattern data that determines the operation mode of the decorative movable body 58k, and uses the operation pattern data as the accessory lamp control board. 162. The accessory lamp control board 162 that has received the operation pattern data controls the operation of the decorative movable body 58k according to the operation pattern data.

  Note that a CPU may be mounted on the accessory lamp control board 162. In that case, the CPU may execute lighting control of each lamp such as the frame lamp 53 and the panel lamp 54 and operation control of the decorative movable body 58k. Further, in that case, a ROM may be mounted on the accessory lamp control board 162, and data used for creating light emission pattern data and data used for creating operation pattern data may be stored in the ROM.

  The effect control board 120 is electrically connected with an effect button detection sensor 40a, an effect button vibration motor 40m, an effect button lamp 40La, and a select button detection sensor 42a. The effect button detection sensor 40a is a detection sensor corresponding to the effect button 40k. Therefore, when the effect button 40k is pressed, a signal related to the effect button 40k is output from the effect button detection sensor 40a to the effect control board 120. Based on the signal output from the effect button detection sensor 40a, the effect control board 120 can determine whether or not the effect button 40k has been pressed.

  The select button 42k is composed of four direction buttons, up, down, left, and right, and the select button detection sensor 42a is a detection sensor corresponding to each of the four direction buttons, an upward button detection sensor 42Ua and a downward button detection sensor. 42 Da, right button detection sensor 42 Ra, and left button detection sensor 42 La. Therefore, the effect control board 120 can distinguish which direction button is pressed.

  The effect button vibration motor 40m is a motor built in the effect button 40k to vibrate the effect button 40k. The effect button lamp 40La is a lamp built in the effect button 40k in order to light the effect button 40k. The select button detection sensor 42a is a detection sensor corresponding to the select button 42k. Based on the signal output from the select button detection sensor 42a, the effect control board 120 can determine whether or not the select button 42k has been pressed, similarly to the effect button 40k.

3. Next, the jackpot in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described. The pachinko gaming machine PY1 acquires at least four random numbers: a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number when a game ball wins at the starting port (the first starting port 11 or the second starting port 12). .

  In the pachinko gaming machine PY1, the jackpot lottery is performed by determining the acquired jackpot random number. The results of the jackpot lottery (special symbol lottery) include “big hit” and “off”. The jackpot type random number is a random number for determining the jackpot type when the result of the jackpot lottery is “big jackpot”. The jackpot random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 65535. The jackpot type random number takes a value in the range of 0-99.

  The reach random number is a random number that determines whether or not a reach is generated in the effect design variation effect indicating the result when the result of the jackpot lottery is “out of place”. Reach is a state where there is only one effect symbol that is variably displayed among a plurality of effect symbols (decorative symbols), and depending on which symbol the effect symbol that is variably displayed is stopped and displayed. It is a state (for example, a state of “7 ↓ 7”) that is a combination of effect symbols indicating a big win. It should be noted that the effect symbols that are stopped and displayed in the reach state may be displayed so as to be slightly shaken in the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 or may be displayed so as to repeat enlargement and reduction. This reach random number takes a value in the range of 0-255.

  The variation pattern random number is a random number for determining a variation pattern including the variation time of the special symbol. The fluctuation pattern random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 99. By determining the variation pattern, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 selects an effect pattern suitable for the variation time including whether to perform the SP reach effect or the normal reach effect. Note that SP reach (super reach) is an effect that suggests that the expectation of jackpot is higher than that of normal reach, and the effect time is longer than that of normal reach. The SP reach in this embodiment is normally developed through a reach.

  Further, when a game ball passes through the gate 13, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 acquires at least a normal random number. The normal winning random number is a random number for a lottery (normal symbol lottery, ordinary symbol lottery) as to whether or not to perform an auxiliary game for operating the electric Chu 12D. The normal random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 65535.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment stops and displays the “hit symbol” on the special figure display 81 when the result of the big hit lottery is “hit”. On the other hand, when the result of the big hit lottery is “missing”, the special symbol display 81 stops and displays “missing symbol”. When a big win is won, a “special game” is executed in which the big winning opening 14 is opened with an opening pattern corresponding to the type of special symbol (type of jackpot) displayed in a stopped state. A special game that is executed by winning a jackpot is also referred to as a “jackpot game”. Note that “small hit” may be provided as a result of the big hit lottery, and in that case, the “small hit symbol” is stopped and displayed on the special figure display 81. Furthermore, when winning a small hit, a special game for small hits (small hit game) is executed.

  In this embodiment, the jackpot game is a multi-round game, an opening before the first round game is started (also expressed as OP), and an ending after the final round game is completed (also expressed as ED). ). Each round game starts with the end of OP or the end of the previous round game, and ends with the start of the next round game or the start of ED. The closing time of the big prize opening between round games (inter-round interval) is included in the open round game before the closing.

  In the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment, there are a plurality of types of jackpots. The type of jackpot is as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, there are roughly two types of jackpots. Probability jackpot (8R probability variation jackpot symbol and 16 probability variation jackpot symbol) and normal jackpot (8R normal jackpot symbol and 16R normal jackpot symbol). The probable jackpot is a jackpot in which the gaming state after the jackpot game shifts to a high probability state. On the other hand, the normal jackpot is a jackpot in which the gaming state during the jackpot game does not shift to a high probability state, that is, a jackpot that remains in a low probability state. In other words, the probabilistic jackpot is a jackpot that is more advantageous to the player than the normal jackpot. Details of the gaming state will be described later. The jackpot type is allocated to the promising jackpot at a rate of 65% when the jackpot is won, and is normally allocated to the jackpot at the remaining 35%.

  Each jackpot symbol has the same number of rounds (R), which is the number of round games, but the opening time of the big winning opening 14 in each round is different. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, any jackpot is 16R, but if it is an 8R probability variable jackpot symbol and an 8R normal jackpot symbol, 1 to 8R is a long open time of 25 seconds at maximum. 9 to 16R are extremely short opening times of up to 0.1 seconds. Therefore, in 9 to 16R, the possibility of winning is extremely low, and is substantially 8R. On the other hand, in the case of the 16R probability variation jackpot symbol and the 16R normal jackpot symbol, since all of 1 to 16R have a long open time of 25 seconds, there is a high possibility of winning in all rounds.

  In addition, after the jackpot game, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is in a state in which so-called electric support control (control to support winning to the second starting port 12 by the electric Chu 12D) is executed, but the type of winning jackpot symbol Accordingly, the number of lotteries (the number of time reductions) after the big hit game, which is a condition for ending the electric support control, is different. Specifically, if it is a promising jackpot, the number of time reductions is until the next jackpot is won, and if it is a normal jackpot, the number of time reductions is 100 times. For this reason, even in this short time difference, it can be said that the probabilistic jackpot is a jackpot that is more advantageous to the player than the normal jackpot. In addition, regardless of the type of jackpot symbol, the termination condition of the electric support control is also satisfied when the jackpot is won before the number of time reductions reaches 100. Details of the electric support control will be described later.

4). Description of the gaming state Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment will be described. The special map display 81 and the general map display 82 of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 each have a probability variation function and a variation time shortening function. The state in which the probability variation function of the special figure indicator 81 is activated is referred to as “high probability state”, and the state in which it is not activated is referred to as “normal probability state (non-high probability state)”. In the high probability state, the jackpot probability is higher than in the normal probability state.

  Specifically, in the high probability state, as shown in FIG. 9A, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 has a jackpot determination table in which the value of the jackpot random number determined to be a jackpot is larger than the jackpot determination table used in the normal probability state. Use the jackpot lottery. That is, when the probability variation function of the special symbol display 81 is activated, the probability that the display result (that is, the stop symbol) of the special symbol variable display by the special symbol indicator 81 becomes a jackpot symbol, compared to when the special symbol indicator 81 is not activated. Becomes higher.

  Further, a state in which the fluctuation time shortening function of the special figure indicator 81 is in operation is referred to as “time-short state”, and a state in which it is not in operation is referred to as “non-time-short state”. In the short-time state, the variation time of the special symbol (the time from the start of variation display to the time when the display result is derived and displayed) is shorter than in the non-short-time state. That is, as shown in FIG. 10, the variation pattern is determined using a variation pattern table that is determined so that a variation pattern having a short variation time is selected more than in a non-time-short state. Further, as shown in FIG. 9B, when the jackpot lottery result is out of place, the reach in the short time state is less likely to be selected than in the non-short time state. This is in order to increase the digestion speed of the special figure reservation by making it easier to select the reachless loss with a short variation time in the short time state. In addition, when the number of reserved balls in the special symbol is “3” or “4”, a variation pattern with a short variation time is selected compared to when the number of reserved balls in the special symbol is “0” to “2”. It has come to be. That is, in the time-short state, as will be described later, the electric chew 12D is easily opened, and the suspension of the special figure 2 is easily stored. Therefore, it is easy to select a variation pattern with a short variation time. As a result, in the short-time state, the special-patch holding pace is accelerated, and an effective winning (a winning that can be stored as a special-pending hold) at the starting port is likely to occur. Therefore, the game can proceed smoothly.

  The probability variation function and variation time shortening function of the special figure indicator 81 may be activated at the same time, or only one of them may be activated. Furthermore, the probability variation function and the variation time shortening function of the general-purpose display 82 are operated in synchronization with the variation time shortening function of the special-purpose display 81. That is, the probability variation function and the variation time shortening function of the general-purpose display device 82 operate in the short-time state and do not operate in the non-short-time state. Therefore, in the short time state, the winning probability in the normal symbol lottery is higher than in the non-short time state. That is, as shown in FIG. 9C, a hit determination (ordinary symbol) is performed using a normal symbol per-decision table in which the number of normal hit random numbers determined to be hit is larger than the normal symbol per-decision table used in a non-time-saving state. Determination). In other words, when the probability variation function of the general-purpose display 82 is activated, the probability that the display result of the variable display of the normal symbol displayed by the general-purpose display 82 is a normal winning symbol is higher than when the probability variation function is not activated. .

  In the short time state, the normal symbol fluctuation time is shorter than in the non-short time state. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9D, the normal symbol fluctuation time is 10 seconds in the non-short-time state, but 1 second in the short-time state. Furthermore, in the time reduction state, as shown in FIG. 11, the opening time of the electric chews 12D in the auxiliary game is longer than that in the non-time reduction state. That is, the open time extension function of the electric Chu 12D is activated. In addition, in the time-saving state, the number of times the electric Chu 12D is opened in the auxiliary game is larger than that in the non-time-saving state. That is, the function for increasing the number of times the electric Chu 12D is opened is activated.

  In the situation where the probability changing function and the changing time shortening function of the general-purpose display 82 and the opening time extending function and the opening frequency increasing function of the electric Chu 12D are operating, these functions are not operated. Thus, the electric chute 12D is frequently opened, and the game balls are frequently won at the second starting port 12. As a result, the base, which is the ratio of the number of prize balls to the number of shot balls, becomes high. Therefore, a state in which these functions are activated is referred to as a “high base state”, and a state in which these functions are not activated is referred to as a “low base state”. In the high base state, it is possible to aim for a big hit without greatly reducing the hand-held game balls. The high base state is a state in which so-called electric support control (control to support winning to the second starting port 12 by the electric Chu 12D) is being executed. Therefore, the high base state is also referred to as an electric support control state or a ball entry support state. On the other hand, the low base state is also referred to as a non-electric support control state or a non-intrusion support state.

  In the high base state, not all the functions described above may operate. That is, the operation of one or more of the probability variation function of the general-purpose display 82, the variation time shortening function of the general-purpose display 82, the opening time extending function of the electric Chu 12D, and the opening frequency increasing function of the electric Chu 12D. Therefore, it is only necessary that the electric chew 12D be opened more easily than when the function is not activated. Further, the high base state may be independently controlled without accompanying the time reduction state.

  When the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is played for the first time, the gaming state after power-on is a normal probability state, a non-time-short state, and a low base state. This gaming state is particularly referred to as a “low probability low base state”. The low probability low base state may be referred to as a “normal game state”. A state in which a special game (a jackpot game) is being executed is referred to as a “special game state (a jackpot game state)”. Furthermore, the state controlled to at least one of the high probability state and the high base state is referred to as a “privilege gaming state”.

  In a high base state such as a high-accuracy high-base state or a low-accuracy high-base state, it is possible to advance the game more advantageously if the game ball is advanced to the right game area 6R by hitting right. This is because the electric chew control makes it easier for the electric chew 12D to be opened compared to the low base state, and it is easier to win the second starting port 12 than to win the first starting port 11. . Therefore, the player makes a right turn to win the game ball to the second starting port 12 while passing the game ball to the gate 13 which is a trigger for the normal symbol lottery. As a result, it is possible to obtain a large number of start prizes (win prizes at the start opening) rather than left-handed. In this pachinko gaming machine PY1, a right-handed game is played even during a big hit game.

  On the other hand, in the low base state, the game can proceed more advantageously if the game ball is advanced to the left game area 6L by left-handed. Since the electric support control is not executed, the electric chew 12D is less likely to be opened than in the high base state, and it is easier to win the first start port 11 than to win the second start port 12. Because it is. Therefore, a left turn is made to win a game ball in the first starting port 11. As a result, it is possible to obtain a larger number of start prizes than right-handed.

5. Start winning command The pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the present embodiment can execute a so-called prefetch effect. Look-ahead refers to a special symbol change (variable display of special symbols) based on a start prize using a start prize command specified based on numerical information (random numbers such as jackpot random numbers) acquired by the start prize. This is a process of determining whether or not the jackpot is successful for the start-up prize before the start, and the prefetching effect is an effect that suggests the degree of expectation of the jackpot based on the prefetching result. Specifically, the notice effect and the effect of changing the display mode of the hold icon HA are included.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the start winning command generated in the present embodiment includes information on whether or not the game is a big hit. The start winning command of this embodiment includes jackpot type information, starting port information indicating which of the first starting port 11 and the second starting port 12 has been won, non-short-time state and short-time state. The game state information indicating which game state is won, and information on the presence / absence of reach when the game is lost are included. The start winning command only needs to include at least whether or not it is a big hit or not, and what information is included in the starting winning command can be appropriately changed. For example, information on whether or not the state is a high probability state and information on the variation time may be included.

  The start winning command is generated by the game control microcomputer 101 and input to the effect control microcomputer 121. The prefetching and the prefetching effect are performed by the effect control microcomputer 121 to which the start winning command is input.

6). Next, a button effect using the effect button 40k will be described. The button effect is one of the effects included in the variable effect, and is used as a trigger for the winning branch of the jackpot or the development branch to the SP reach. Whether or not the button effect is executed is determined by the effect pattern selected by the effect control microcomputer 121 and executed by the effect control board 120 and the image control board 140.

  The button effect is executed in the middle of the change effect, and provides a timing for receiving an operation (input) of the effect button 40k. At the timing of receiving the operation of the effect button 40k, the effect button valid period is set in the effect control microcomputer 121. Operation of the production button 40k outside the production button valid period becomes invalid.

  FIG. 13 shows the flow of the fluctuating effect when the effect pattern for performing the button effect of this embodiment is selected for the winning branch that is the timing for notifying the winning of the jackpot. In this case, when the variation effect is started, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays the left effect symbol EZ1, the middle effect symbol EZ2, and the right effect symbol EZ3, respectively, as shown in FIG. 13 (A). 50a is displayed, and further, the variation display of these effect symbols EZ is started. “↓” in FIG. 13 indicates that the effect symbol EZ is being variably displayed. The pachinko gaming machine PY1 lights up the frame lamp 53 or the panel lamp 54 according to a predetermined lighting pattern during execution of the variation effect. Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 outputs predetermined music and sound effects from the speaker 52 during execution of the variation effect.

  Thereafter, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 sets the production symbol EZ to the reach mode at the first timing before the big hit winning branch. Specifically, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13B, the left effect symbol EZ1 and the right effect symbol EZ3 are temporarily stopped and displayed with the same effect symbol, and the middle effect symbol EZ2 remains variably displayed. Note that “7” in FIG. 13 indicates that the effect symbol EZ is not completely stopped but is temporarily displayed.

  Thereafter, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 starts the button effect at the second timing after the first timing and before the big hit winning branch. In the button effect of this embodiment, first, as shown in FIG. 13C, a button image BG that is an image with the effect button 40k as a motif is displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. Specifically, the button image BG has three types of display modes of a first button image BG1, a second button image BG2, and a third button image BG3, which are individually displayed on one screen. Furthermore, an effect of moving the display location while each button image BG rotates like a roulette is started. In other words, a roulette effect is started to tell which display mode of the button image BG is selected. At this roulette stage, the stage button valid period has not yet been set. The roulette effect is an example of a pre-selected effect that suggests that one of a plurality of display modes is automatically selected for the button image BG before the operation of the effect button 40k is received.

  In this embodiment, the first button image BG1 is an image in which the effect button 40k is planarly drawn, the second button image BG2 is an image in which the effect button 40k is three-dimensionally drawn, and the third button image BG3 is It is assumed that the button 40k is drawn in a three-dimensional manner, and further an image depicting a state where the effect button lamp 40La is lit. The difference in the display mode of the button image BG indicates the difference in expectation level of the jackpot, and the display is performed so that the expectation level increases in the order of the first button image BG1, the second button image BG2, and the third button image BG3. A mode selection ratio is set. With this roulette effect, the player can be informed of the operation of the effect button 40k, and the player can be made aware that there are at least three types of display modes in the button image BG.

  After the roulette effect, as shown in FIG. 13D, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 leaves one of the three button images BG (display mode) and erases the remaining two to display one button image. Indicates that has been selected. Further, a message image MG that is an image that suggests an operation to the effect button 40k by a message and a remaining time suggestion image JG that is an image that suggests the remaining time of the effect button effective period are displayed together with the button image BG. FIG. 13D shows a state in which the first button image BG1 is selected from the three button images BG. Note that the button image BG shows the expected degree of jackpot, suggesting that when the first button image BG1 is selected, the expectation is low, and when the third button image BG3 is selected. It is suggested that the degree of expectation is high.

  The pachinko gaming machine PY1 sets the effect button valid period in accordance with the stage where the three button images BG are switched to one button image BG, that is, when one display mode is selected. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 13E, the remaining time suggestion image JG is updated as time passes. When the effect button effective period is set, the remaining time suggestion image JG fills the image area with the first color, and reduces the first color area and increases the second color area as time passes. Then, when the remaining time runs out, the image area is filled with the second color. Thereby, the player can visually recognize the remaining time of the effect button effective period at the ratio of the first color in the image area of the remaining time suggestion image JG.

  When the effect button 40k is operated until the remaining time of the effect button effective period disappears after the setting of the effect button effective period, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays the button image BG, the message image MG, and the remaining time suggestion image JG. Erasing from the display unit 50a of the image display device 50, as shown in FIG. 13 (F), the combination of effect symbols EZ indicating the winning result of the big hit is temporarily stopped and displayed. The effect button valid period is canceled together with the operation of the effect button 40k. Thereafter, the temporary stop display is maintained until the variation effect ends. Then, after the end of the effect button valid period, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 stops and displays the effect symbol EZ in accordance with the end of the variable display (a special symbol stop display) as shown in FIG. 13 (G).

  FIG. 13 shows the flow of the non-change effect in which the display mode of the button image BG does not change after the display mode of the button image BG is selected by the roulette effect, but the pachinko gaming machine PY1 As one of the scenarios, a change effect in which the display mode of the button image BG changes in the middle is prepared.

  In the case of a change effect, as shown in FIG. 14E, one of the button images BG is selected and displayed at the end of the roulette effect, as in the case of a non-change effect that does not change the button image BG. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 14 (E1), the display mode of the button image BG is changed at a predetermined timing before the effect button valid period ends. The timing to change and the display mode after the change are determined in advance by the production scenario. FIG. 14 shows a state in which the first button image BG1 is changed to the third button image BG3. Thus, when changing the display mode of the button image BG, it changes so that the expectation degree of jackpot may increase. That is, the button image BG is promoted. Thereafter, when the effect button valid period ends or the effect button 40k is operated, as shown in FIG. 14 (F), a combination of effect symbols EZ indicating the jackpot winning result is temporarily stopped and displayed.

  14 shows the flow when the effect button 40k is not operated while the effect button valid period is set, and when the effect button 40k is operated, As shown in FIG. 14 (F), the combination of effect symbols EZ indicating the big hit result is temporarily stopped and displayed regardless of the display mode of the button image BG. That is, if the effect button 40k is operated before the timing of changing the display mode of the button image BG, the button image BG after promotion is not displayed, and the player cannot see how the button image BG changes. . Instead, the player can quickly know the outcome of the jackpot.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 lights the effect button lamp 40La in accordance with the period during which the third button image BG3 is displayed. As a result, the display mode of the button image BG matches the rendering mode of the rendering button 40k. The effect button 40k changes from the effect mode turned off to the effect mode turned on, so that a greater sense of expectation can be given to the player by a synergistic effect with the change in the display mode of the button image BG. Furthermore, during the period when the third button image BG3 is displayed, the effect button vibration motor 40m may be driven to vibrate the effect button 40k. As the effect button 40k changes from the effect mode that is not oscillating to the effect mode that is oscillating, a greater sense of expectation can be given to the player as in the case where the effect button lamp 40La is turned on.

  That is, in the button effect of this embodiment, the button image BG may be promoted if the user does not operate the effect button 40k during the effect button effective period. Therefore, even if a button image BG with low expectation level for jackpot is selected after the roulette effect, since the promotion of the button image BG can be expected, the player's expectation can be maintained thereafter. In addition, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation by a new effect that the display mode of the button image BG automatically changes during the effect button effective period. In particular, since the button effect is an effect intended to operate the effect button 40k, the button image BG changes even when the effect button 40k is not operated, thereby giving a stronger impression to the player. be able to. Also, depending on the player, the operation of the effect button 40k may be troublesome and the operation of the effect button 40k may not be intentionally performed, but there is no operation from the player during the effect button effective period. Even in the state, by automatically changing the button image BG, the player can feel a change in performance, and a big hit expectation is given.

  Further, in the button effect of this embodiment, the roulette effect is executed before the effect button effective period is set. Therefore, when the first button image BG1 is first selected, the player has a low expectation for the jackpot. As a result, the expectation for the jackpot is lost. However, by changing to the second button image BG2 to the third button image BG3 thereafter, the expectation can be changed more greatly.

  FIG. 15 shows the types of button effect scenarios. The button effect scenario includes a scenario in which the display mode of the button image BG does not change (non-change effect), a scenario in which the button image BG changes once in the middle (change effect), and the button image BG changes twice in the middle. Scenario (change effect). Since the button image BG has three display modes, there are three types of scenarios in which the display mode of the button image BG does not change. Further, since the change of the button image BG is limited to the case where the expectation is promoted, the scenario in which the button image BG changes once in the middle is the case of the first button image BG1 to the second button image BG2 and the first. There are three types, the case of the button image BG1 to the third button image BG3 and the case of the second button image BG2 to the third button image BG3. That is, in the combination of the first display mode after the roulette effect and the final display mode before the end of the effect button valid period, there are as many scenarios as there are combinations in which the jackpot expectation is not demoted. Further, the scenario in which the button image BG changes twice in the middle is limited to a case where the first button image BG1, the second button image BG2, and the third button image BG3 change in this order. A scenario in which the button image BG changes twice in the middle is prepared as a premier effect that suggests a big hit.

  A selection table and a random number are used to select a scenario for button production, and there are two types of selection tables, one for winning a jackpot and one for losing. A jackpot expectation is assigned to each scenario, and the selection ratio of each scenario differs for each selection table according to the expectation. In the case of the non-change effect, the level of expectation of the display mode of the button image BG matches the level of expectation of the scenario. That is, the higher the degree of expectation of the display mode of the button image BG, the higher the degree of expectation of the scenario. In the case of a change effect, the level of expectation of the scenario is determined by the display mode of the button image BG after the change. That is, the higher the degree of expectation of the display mode of the button image BG after the change, the higher the degree of expectation of the scenario. If the display mode of the button image BG after the change is the same, the strength of the expected degree of the scenario is determined by the display mode of the button image BG before the change. If the display mode of the button image BG in the non-change effect is the same as the display mode of the button image BG after the change effect, the expected degree of the scenario of the change effect is higher. Thereby, since the change of the button image BG occurs, it is possible to give a greater sense of expectation to the player.

  In addition, for each scenario in which the button image BG is changed, the change timing is also defined. “60%” in “Scenario contents” in FIG. 15 means that the button image BG is changed when the remaining time of the effect button effective period is 60%. (40%) in the “scenario contents” in FIG. 15 means that the button image BG is changed when the remaining time of the effect button effective period is 40%. The degree of expectation varies depending on the timing of this change. That is, the direction in which the remaining time of the effect button effective period is changed at the timing of 40% (the one with the later change timing) is changed by the person who changes the remaining time of the effect button in the effective period at the timing of 60% (the change timing is earlier). The expectation of jackpot is higher than As a result, the possibility of seeing an effect with a high expectation is higher when the user waits until the end of the effect button valid period, and motivation to wait for the operation of the effect button 40k can be increased.

  In the change effect of the button effect of this embodiment, the timing of changing the button image BG may be any time as long as it is within the effect button effective period, but in order to notice the change of the button image BG, the display mode of the first button image BG If it is changed at an early timing of the start of the effect button effective period, there is a possibility that the change of the button image BG cannot be recognized. Therefore, for example, it may be changed at the timing when the effect button effective period is 30% or more (the remaining time is 70% or more). In addition, by delaying the timing of the change, the player's sense of expectation can be maintained for a longer time than when changing early. On the other hand, even if it is changed at the timing immediately before the end of the effect button effective period, the button image BG is erased at the same time as the end of the effect button effective period, and thus the change in the button image BG may be overlooked. There is. Therefore, for example, it may be changed at a timing before the effect button effective period has passed 70% or more (timing before the remaining 30%).

  In this embodiment, the display mode of the button image BG is changed. However, in addition to the button image BG, the display mode of the message image MG and the remaining time suggestion image JG may be changed. For example, as shown in FIG. 16E, when the first button image BG1 is displayed, the first message image MG1 and the first remaining time suggestion image JG1 are displayed. Thereafter, when the screen changes to the second button image BG2, as shown in FIG. 16E2, the second message image MG2 having a message content different from that of the first message image MG1, and the first remaining time suggestion image JG1 Displays the second remaining time suggestion image JG2 having a different display color. By changing the message image MG and the remaining time suggestion image JG, a greater sense of expectation can be given to the player by a synergistic effect with the change of the button image BG. Further, when the button changes to the third button image BG3, as shown in FIG. 16E3, the first message image MG1 and the second message image MG2 are different from the first message image MG3 and the first message image MG3. A third remaining time suggestion image JG3 having a display color different from that of the remaining time suggestion image JG1 and the second remaining time suggestion image JG2 is displayed. Thus, by changing the display mode of various images, it is easy to convey the change of the display mode to the player. Note that it is only necessary to change at least one of the message image MG and the remaining time suggestion image JG, and there may be an effect of changing only one of them.

  In addition, when changing the display mode of the button image BG in the button effect of the present embodiment, an effect may be performed that changes the display mode. For example, as shown in FIG. 17E, after the first button image BG1 is displayed and before the display mode is changed, the first button image BG1 is slightly swung as shown in FIG. 17E0. Or, the oscillated swinging image BG1S is displayed. By slightly swinging or vibrating the first button image BG1, the change in the button image BG1 can be given to give the player a premonition of the change in the button image BG, and the expectation of jackpot increases. While the swing image BG1S is displayed, the effect button vibration motor 40m may be driven to actually vibrate the effect button 40k. Further, the effect of changing the button image BG may be executed not only when the button image BG1 is changed, but also when the button image BG is not changed.

  Further, the effect performed before receiving the operation of the effect button 40k is not limited to the pre-selected effect such as the roulette effect shown in FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, first button image BG1 is first displayed (FIG. 18 (C1)), then changed to second button image BG2 (FIG. 18 (C2)), and then the third button image BG1 is displayed. A prior promotion suggestion effect that continuously promotes the button image BG, such as changing to the button image BG3 (FIG. 18C3), may be performed. In this case, after the promotion effect is performed only once, the effect button effective period may be set, or after the promotion effect is repeated a plurality of times, the effect button effective period may be set. Further, the change may be one change (for example, only the first button image BG1 to the second button image BG2) instead of the two changes shown in FIG. Further, a plurality of pattern changes (for example, the first button image BG1 to the second button image BG2 and the first button image BG1 to the third button image BG3) may be repeated. By showing an effect that the display mode is promoted in advance before setting the effect button valid period, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation of a change in the display mode.

  In this embodiment, the button effect is used for the big hit winning branch. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the button effect may be used for the SP reach development branch. Moreover, you may use for the branch to the next step in the case of a pseudo-continuous production.

  In the present embodiment, as the display mode of the button image BG, an image drawn planarly like the first button image BG1, and an image drawn stereoscopically like the second button image BG2 and the third button image BG3. However, the display mode is not limited to this. For example, a live-action image of the effect button 40k, a monochrome image of the effect button 40k, an image in which the effect button 40k is decorated (an image having the effect button 40k as a motif, and the actual effect button 40k has a shape, pattern, color, etc. May be different images).

  Further, in this embodiment, there are three types of display modes of the button image BG, but there may be two types, or four or more types. As another display mode, for example, the color of the button image BG may be changed (for example, if the degree of expectation is blue <red, the blue button image is changed to the red button image). In this case, the color of the effect button 40k may be aligned by the effect button lamp 40La according to the change in the color of the button image BG. Thereby, the player can easily recognize the change, and the player's expectation can be enhanced. As another display mode, the button image BG may be swung. Also in this case, it is preferable to drive the effect button vibration motor 40m and vibrate the effect button 40k in accordance with the swing of the button image BG. In addition, for example, the size of the image area of the button image BG may be changed.

7). Operation of Game Control Microcomputer 101 Next, the operation of the game control microcomputer 101 on the game control board 100 of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described. A specific process executed by the game control microcomputer 101 includes a game side activation process. Note that the counter, timer, flag, status, buffer, and the like that appear in the description of the operation of the game control microcomputer 101 are provided in the game RAM 104.

[Game side activation process]
The game side activation process executed by the game control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the main power supply of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is turned on from off, the game control microcomputer 101 is turned on, that is, the power switch 191 is turned on, and external power supply via the power supply board 190 is started. In response to this, the game side activation process program is read from the game ROM 103 and executed.

  In the game side activation process, the game control microcomputer 101 first performs an initial operation (S001). Specifically, in S001, the game control microcomputer 101 permits access to the game RAM 104. Further, when the RAM clear switch 119 is pressed or when the main power is not normally turned off, the gaming RAM 104 is initialized. As a result, various flags and statuses become initial values, and various information stored in the gaming RAM 104 is lost. Also, a RAM initialization command for initializing the effect RAM 124 on the effect control board 120 is set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104. In addition, in S001, for example, stack setting, constant setting, interrupt time setting, game CPU 102 setting, SIO, PIO, CTC (circuit for interrupt time management) and the like are set. The initial operation of S001 is executed only once after the power is turned on, and is not executed thereafter.

  After S001, the game control microcomputer 101 prohibits interruption (S002). Next, the game control microcomputer 101 updates various random number values (S003). Specifically, in S003, the game control microcomputer 101 updates the values of various random numbers such as a jackpot random number, a jackpot random number, a reach random number, a variation pattern random number, and a normal hit random number. As a random number update method, for example, a predetermined number of values are added in one update. The predetermined number may be common to all random numbers, or may be different for each random number. The random number value returns to 0 when the upper limit value is reached. The initial value of the random number may be 0 or a value other than 0. The initial value of the random number may be common to all random numbers or may be different for each random number. . Each random number may be generated using a known random number generation circuit including a counter IC or the like. In that case, S003 may be omitted. Further, the random number generation circuit may be built in the game control microcomputer 101.

  After S003, the game control microcomputer 101 permits an interrupt (S004). Thereafter, S002 to S004 are repeated. While the interruption is permitted, the game side timer interruption process (S005) can be executed. The game-side timer interrupt process is executed based on an interrupt pulse that is repeatedly input to the game CPU 102 at a cycle of 4 ms, for example. Then, when the game side timer interrupt process is executed, the processes of S002 to S004 are repeated after the game side timer interrupt process is finished and before the next game side timer interrupt process is started. . If an interrupt pulse is input to the gaming CPU 102 in the interrupt disabled state, the game side timer interrupt processing is not started immediately, but is started after waiting for the interrupt enabled state.

[Game timer interrupt processing]
Next, the game-side timer interrupt process in S005 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The game-side timer interrupt process is executed by the game control microcomputer 101 every time an interrupt pulse with a period of 4 ms is input.

  In the game-side timer interrupt process, the game control microcomputer 101 first sends a command set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 to the effect control board 120, the payout control board 170, etc. other than the game control board 100 in the pachinko gaming machine PY1. (S101). Commands are appropriately set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 by various processes to be described later.

  After S101, the game control microcomputer 101 stores input information (S102). Specifically, in S102, the game control microcomputer 101 outputs from various sensors such as the first start opening sensor 11a, the second start opening sensor 12a, the gate sensor 13a, the big winning opening sensor 14a, and the general winning opening sensor 10a. Read the processed signal. Based on these signals, the presence / absence of a winning is determined, and a payout command for instructing the payout of a winning ball according to the type of winning opening is set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104.

  After S102, the game control microcomputer 101 updates various random number values (S103). The process of S103 is the same as that of S003. That is, the game control microcomputer 101 updates various random number values both during the execution period of the game timer interrupt process and during other periods. Note that the random number value may be updated only in one of the periods.

  After S103, the game control microcomputer 101 executes sensor detection processing for detecting the passage of a game ball to a predetermined area such as a start port based on signals output from various sensors (S111). Details of S111 will be described later.

  After S111, the game control microcomputer 101 executes a normal operation process that is an operation related to a normal symbol (S121). Specifically, in S121, when the game control microcomputer 101 satisfies the normal winning lottery condition, it is determined whether or not the normal winning is made using the normal winning random number stored in the ordinary figure holding storage unit 106. Determine. Then, the general symbol stop symbol data corresponding to the determination result and the variation pattern corresponding to the gaming state are determined, and the normal symbol display 82 displays the normal symbol. Further, when the player wins a normal game, an open pattern of the electric chews 12D corresponding to the gaming state is determined, and the electric chews 12D are operated. Details of the normal operation process will be described later.

  After S121, the game control microcomputer 101 executes a special operation process that is an operation related to a special symbol (S131). Specifically, in S131, the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the jackpot is won using the jackpot random number stored in the special figure holding storage unit 105 when the jackpot lottery condition is satisfied. . Then, a special symbol corresponding to the determination result and a variation pattern corresponding to the gaming state are determined, and the special symbol display 81 displays the special symbol. If the jackpot is won, the jackpot game is executed. Note that S121 and S131 may be in reverse order. Details of the special operation process will be described later.

  After S131, the game control microcomputer 101 outputs drive data for controlling various solenoids (S151). For example, the AT solenoid 14s is controlled to drive the AT opening / closing member 14k to open / close the special winning opening 14. After S151, the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the special figure hold indicator 83 and the general figure hold indicator are based on the hold numbers of the general figure hold number, the first special figure hold number, and the second special figure hold number. The display of 84 is updated (S161).

  After S161, the game control microcomputer 101 outputs various signals via the external output terminal board 173 based on the command set in the external output buffer of the game RAM 104 (S171). For example, when the jackpot is won in the jackpot lottery, the game control microcomputer 101 outputs a jackpot signal to the external device.

  After S171, the game control microcomputer 101 executes a power-off monitoring process for normally turning off the main power (S181). Specifically, in S181, for example, when the game control microcomputer 101 detects that the power switch 191 is turned off, the game control microcomputer 101 stores information indicating that the main power is normally turned off in the game RAM 104. Then, access to the game RAM 104 is restricted.

  After S181, the game control microcomputer 101 executes other processing (S191). Other processing includes, for example, renewal of an operating timer, processing for paying out a winning ball in accordance with a winning game ball, and fraud detection and notification. After S191, the game-side timer interrupt process is terminated.

  Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 101 repeats the processing of S002 to S004 of the game side activation process until the next interrupt pulse is input to the game CPU 102. When the interrupt pulse is input, the game timer interrupt again Execute the process. In S101 of the game side timer interrupt process executed again, the command set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 in the previous game side timer interrupt process is output.

[Sensor detection processing]
Next, the sensor detection process in S111 of FIG. 20 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the sensor detection process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the gate 13 based on the signal output from the gate sensor 13a (S201). When the game ball has passed through the gate 13 (YES in S201), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the number of the usual figure hold is less than 4 (S202).

  If the number of the usual figure hold is less than four (YES in S202), the game control microcomputer 101 adds 1 to the number of the usual figure hold (S203), and further obtains the value of the random number per ordinary. The value of the normal random number is stored in the usual figure storage unit 106 (S204).

  After S204, or when the number of usual figure holds is not less than 4 (NO in S202), or when the game ball does not pass through the gate 13 (NO in S201), the gaming control microcomputer 101 Based on the signal output from the start port sensor 11a, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed through the first start port 11 (S211). When the game ball has passed through the first start port 11 (YES in S211), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the number of first special figure hold is less than 4 (S212).

  If the number of the first special figure hold is less than four (YES in S212), the game control microcomputer 101 adds 1 to the first special figure hold number (S213), and further hits a jackpot random number, jackpot type random number, Each random number value related to the jackpot of the reach random number and the fluctuation pattern random number is acquired, and the acquired random number value is stored in the first special figure reservation storage unit 105a (S214).

  After S214, the game control microcomputer 101 identifies the first start prize command based on the random number values acquired in S214, and sets the first start prize command in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 (S215). ). The first start winning command is used for a look-ahead effect in addition to the effect at the time of the change. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, the first start winning command includes information on whether or not the game is a big hit.

  Note that the first start winning command set in the output buffer is transmitted to the effect control board 120 in S101 of the game timer interrupt process. That is, a command including information related to the random number is output to the effect control board 120 even before the special symbol variation display corresponding to the random number acquired in S214 is started. In response to the input of the command, the effect control microcomputer 121 of the effect control board 120 executes a process corresponding to the command.

  After S215, or when the number of first special figure hold is 4 or more (NO in S212), or when the game ball does not pass through the first starting port 11 (NO in S211), the game control microcomputer 101 Determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the second start port 12 based on the signal output from the second start port sensor 12a (S221). When the game ball has passed through the second starting port 12 (YES in S221), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the number of second special figure hold is less than four (S222).

  If the number of the second special figure hold is less than four (YES in S222), the game control microcomputer 101 adds 1 to the second special figure hold number (S223), and further, similarly to S214, the jackpot is related. The value of each random number is acquired, and the acquired value of each random number is stored in the second special figure storage unit 105b (S224).

  After S224, the game control microcomputer 101 identifies the second start winning command based on the random number values acquired in S224, and sets the second starting winning command in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 (S225). ). As a result, as in S215, a command including information related to the random number is output to the effect control board 120 before the special symbol variation display corresponding to the random number acquired in S224 is started.

  After S225, or when the number of second special figure reservations is 4 or more (NO in S222), or when the game ball does not pass through the second starting port 12 (NO in S221), the big prize opening sensor 14a After performing the process corresponding to, and the process corresponding to the general winning opening sensor 10a, the game control microcomputer 101 ends the sensor detection process.

[Normal operation processing]
Next, the normal operation process of S121 of FIG. 20 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the normal operation process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the electric chew 12D is operating (S401). If the electric Chu 12D is not in operation (NO in S401), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the normal symbol stop display is in progress (S402). If the normal symbol stop display is not in progress (NO in S402), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the normal symbol variation display is in progress (S403). If the normal symbol variation display is not in progress (NO in S403), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the number of reserved balls in the normal symbol is “0” (S404). If the number of reserved balls of the normal symbol is “0” (YES in S404), the normal operation process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the number of reserved balls of the normal symbol is not “0” (NO in S404), the game control microcomputer 101 makes a normal hit determination (S405). Specifically, in S405, the value of the normal symbol random number stored in the general symbol hold storage unit 106 is read out, and it is determined whether or not it is hit based on the normal symbol hit determination table shown in FIG. Then, the game control microcomputer 101 determines a general symbol stop symbol corresponding to the result of the hit determination (S406). Specifically, in S <b> 406, the general symbol stop symbol data corresponding to the result of the hit determination is set in a predetermined storage area of the game RAM 104. That is, if “lost”, data corresponding to “ordinary lose symbol” is set, and if “win”, data corresponding to “normal hit symbol” is set.

  After S406, the game control microcomputer 101 determines the fluctuation time of the normal symbol (S407). Specifically, in S407, with reference to the normal symbol variation pattern selection table shown in FIG. 9D, if the gaming state is a short-time state, the normal symbol variation pattern with a variation time of 1 second is selected, If the gaming state is a non-time-short state, a normal symbol variation pattern having a normal symbol variation time of 10 seconds is selected.

  After S407, the game control microcomputer 101 subtracts 1 from the number of normal symbol reserved balls (S408). Then, the storage location (storage area) of each general map hold in the general map storage unit 106 is shifted by one to the side read from the current position, and the memory corresponding to the fourth hold in the general map storage unit 106 is stored. The area (the storage area farthest from the read side) is cleared (S409). In this way, the usual figure hold is digested in the order in which it was put on hold. Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 101 starts normal symbol variation display using the ordinary symbol variation pattern selected in S407 (S410). Accordingly, a normal symbol change start command is set to notify the effect control board 120 of the start of normal symbol change.

  If the variation of the normal symbol is being displayed (YES in S403), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the variation time of the normal symbol has elapsed (S411), and if it has not elapsed (NO in S411). ), Normal operation processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it has elapsed (YES in S411), the game control microcomputer 101 stops the normal symbol variation display with the display result (ordinary winning symbol or normal deviation symbol) according to the determination result of the normal symbol random number. (S412). Then, the normal symbol variation stop command for notifying the effect control board 120 of the normal symbol variation stop is set (S413), the normal symbol stop time is set (S414), and the normal operation process is ended.

  If the normal symbol stop display is in progress (YES in S402), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the normal symbol stop time set in S414 has passed (S415). (NO in S415), the normal operation process is terminated. On the other hand, if it has elapsed (YES in S415), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the normal winning symbol stop symbol data is set (S416), and it should be the normal winning symbol data. If so (that is, if it is not hit (NO in S416)), the normal operation process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is data of a normal winning symbol (that is, if it is a winning symbol (YES in S416)), the game control microcomputer 101 sets an opening pattern of the electric chew 12D (S417). Specifically, in S417, if the time-short state is in effect, the open pattern in the time-short state is set as the open pattern of the electric Chu 12D. On the other hand, if it is in the non-time-short state, the open pattern in the non-time-short state is set as the open pattern of the electric Chu 12D. Then, the game control microcomputer 101 operates the electric chew 12D according to the set opening pattern (S418).

  If the electric chew 12D is in operation (YES in S401), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether the operation time of the electric chew 12D has elapsed (S419), and if not has elapsed (S419). NO), the normal operation process is terminated. On the other hand, if it has elapsed (YES in S419), the game control microcomputer 101 ends the operation of the electric chew 12D (S420) and ends the normal operation process.

[Special action processing]
Next, the special operation process in S131 of FIG. 20 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the special operation process, the process related to the special figure display device 81 and the special prize device 14D is divided into four stages, and “special operation status” is assigned to each of these stages. The initial value of the special operation status is “1”.

  In the special operation process, the game control microcomputer 101 first reads the value of the special operation status (S1002), and executes one of the processes corresponding to this value (any one of S1003 to S1006).

  Specifically, when the value of the special operation status is “1”, a special symbol standby process (S1003) is performed. If the value of the special operation status is “2”, the special symbol changing process (S1004) is performed. If the value of the special operation status is “3”, a special symbol confirmation process (S1005) is performed. On the other hand, if the value of the special action status is “4”, the jackpot game process (S1006) is performed. Each of these processes (S1003 to S1006) will be described later.

[Special symbol standby processing]
Next, the special symbol standby process in S1003 of FIG. 23 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the special symbol stand-by process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the number of reserved balls (that is, the number of special figure 2 reserved balls) in the second start port 12 is “0” (S1401). When the special figure 2 reserved ball number is “0” (YES in S1401), that is, when there is no random number stored due to winning in the second starting port 12, the game control microcomputer 101 It is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls at one start port 11 (that is, the number of reserved balls in Special Figure 1) is “0” (S1411).

  If the special figure 1 reserved ball number is also “0” (YES in S 1411), that is, if there is no memory of random numbers acquired due to winning in the first starting port 11, the game control microcomputer 101 has already It is determined whether or not the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 is a standby screen (a demo screen for waiting for customers) (S1421), and if it is a standby screen (YES in S1421), the special symbol standby process is terminated, If the standby screen is not displayed (NO in S1421), after waiting for a predetermined standby time, a customer standby command for displaying the standby screen is set (S1422), and the special symbol standby processing is terminated.

  Special figure 2 If the number of reserved balls is not "0" (NO in S1401), that is, there is one or more random number storages (holding information of special figure 2) acquired due to winning at the second starting port 12 In this case, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a special figure 2 jackpot determination process (S1402). Details of the special figure 2 jackpot determination process will be described later.

  After S1402, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the variation pattern of the special figure 2 based on the determination result of the special figure 2 in S1402 (S1403). Specifically, referring to the fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, a fluctuation pattern is selected based on a fluctuation pattern random number. If the variation pattern is determined, the variation time is also determined.

  After S1403, the game control microcomputer 101 subtracts one special figure 2 reserved ball number (S1404). Then, the storage location (storage area) of various random numbers in the second special figure hold storage unit 105b is shifted by one to the side read from the current position, and the first hold in the second special figure hold storage unit 105b. The storage area corresponding to is cleared (S1405).

  After S1405, the game control microcomputer 101 causes the second special figure indicator 81b to start the fluctuation display of the special figure 2 (S1406), and sets the fluctuation start command of the special figure 2 in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 ( S1407). Note that the fluctuation start command (also referred to as the special figure 2 fluctuation start command) set in the special figure 2 fluctuation start process includes information and fluctuations in the special figure stop symbol data set in the special figure 2 jackpot determination process (S1402). Information on the pattern (information including information on the variation time) and information on the lottery lottery (whether or not the jackpot or the type of jackpot) are included. Further, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to “2” (S1408).

  In addition, when the figure 2 reserved ball number is “0” but the figure 1 reserved ball number is not “0” (YES in S1401 and NO in S1411), that is, there is no hold information of the special figure 2, If there is one or more random number group storages (holding information in FIG. 1) acquired due to winning at the 1 start opening 11, the game control microcomputer 101 performs special figure 1 jackpot determination processing (S1412). I do. Details of the special figure 1 jackpot determination process will be described later.

  After S1412, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the variation pattern of the special figure 1 based on the determination result of the special figure 1 in S1412 (S1413). Specifically, referring to the fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, a fluctuation pattern is selected based on a fluctuation pattern random number. If the variation pattern is determined, the variation time is also determined.

  After S1413, the game control microcomputer 101 subtracts one special figure 1 reserved ball number (S1414). Then, the storage location (storage area) of various random numbers in the first special figure reservation storage unit 105a is shifted by one to the side to be read from the current position, and the fourth reservation in the first special figure reservation storage unit 105a. The storage area corresponding to (the storage area farthest from the read side) is cleared (S1415). In this way, the first special figure hold is digested in the order in which it was put on hold.

  After S1415, the game control microcomputer 101 starts the fluctuation display of the special figure 1 by the first special figure display 81a (S1416), and sets the fluctuation start command of the special figure 1 in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 ( S1417). Note that the fluctuation start command (also referred to as the special figure 1 fluctuation start command) set in the special figure 1 fluctuation start process includes information and fluctuations in the special figure stop symbol data set in the special figure 1 big hit determination process (S1412). Information on the pattern (information including information on the variation time) and information on the lottery lottery (whether or not the jackpot or the type of jackpot) are included. Further, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to “2” (S1408). After S1408, the special symbol standby process is terminated.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the special symbol variation display based on the first special figure hold is performed only when the second special figure hold is “0”. That is, the digestion of the second special figure hold is executed in preference to the digestion of the first special figure hold. Note that the special figure hold may be digested in the order of storage without giving priority to the digestion of the second special figure hold. In addition, in this embodiment, one of the first special figure reservation and the second special figure reservation cannot be digested during digestion, but the other can be digested even during one digestion. Also good.

[Special figure 2 jackpot determination process (Special figure 1 jackpot determination process)]
Next, the special figure 2 jackpot determination process of S1402 in FIG. 24 and the special figure 1 jackpot determination process of S1412 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The special figure 2 jackpot determination process and the special figure 1 jackpot determination process have the same process flow, so both processes will be described together.

  In the special figure 2 jackpot determination process or the special figure 1 jackpot determination process, the game control microcomputer 101 first reads a jackpot random number from the game RAM 104 as a determination value (S1501). Specifically, in the special figure 2 jackpot determination process, it is stored in the first storage area of the second special figure reservation storage unit 105b of the game RAM 104 (that is, the storage area corresponding to the first of the second special figure reservation). Read the jackpot random number. In the special figure 1 jackpot determination process, the big hit random number stored in the first storage area of the first special figure hold storage unit 105a of the game RAM 104 (that is, the storage area corresponding to the first special figure hold). Is read.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a jackpot determination table (see FIG. 9A) (S1502). And it is determined whether it is a big hit (S1504). Specifically, if the gaming control microcomputer 101 is a normal probability state (non-high probability state), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not it is a big hit based on the non-high probability state table in the jackpot determination table. If there is, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is based on a table for a high probability state in the jackpot determination table.

  If the result of the jackpot determination is “big hit” (YES in S1504), the game control microcomputer 101 reads the jackpot type random number and determines the type of the jackpot symbol based on the jackpot type determination table shown in FIG. (S1506). After S1506, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the jackpot flag to ON (S1507), and sets special figure stop symbol data corresponding to the type of jackpot symbol in the special symbol buffer provided in the game RAM 104 ( S1508), the process is finished. On the other hand, if the result of the jackpot determination is “losing” (NO in S1504), the special figure stop symbol data corresponding to the lost symbol is set in the special symbol buffer (S1508), and the process is terminated.

[Special symbol change processing]
Next, the special symbol variation processing in S1004 of FIG. 23 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the special symbol variation processing, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the variation time of the special symbol (variation time determined according to the variation pattern) has elapsed (S1701). If the variation time has not elapsed (NO in S1701), the special symbol variation processing is immediately terminated. Thereby, the variable display of the special symbol is continued.

  On the other hand, if the variation time has elapsed (YES in S1701), the game control microcomputer 101 sets a variation stop command (S1702) and sets the special operation status to “3” (S1703). Then, the variation display of the special symbol is stopped at the symbol (big hit symbol or off symbol) corresponding to the set special symbol stop symbol data (S1704), and the special symbol variation processing is ended.

[Special symbol confirmation processing]
Next, the special symbol confirmation processing in S1005 of FIG. 23 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the special symbol determination process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the special symbol stop time (stop time determined according to the variation pattern selected in S1403 or S1413) has elapsed (S1801). If the stop time has not elapsed (NO in S1801), the process is immediately terminated. Thereby, the stop display of the special symbol is continued. On the other hand, if the stop time has elapsed (YES in S1801), the game control microcomputer 101 performs a game state management process (S1802). Details of the game state management process will be described later.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the jackpot flag is ON (S1803). If the jackpot flag is ON (YES in S1803), the game control microcomputer 101 performs a game state reset process (S1804). Details of the game state reset processing will be described later. Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to “4” (S1805). In order to start the jackpot game, the jackpot opening is set (S1806), and the jackpot opening command is set (S1807). In the opening setting, the opening time of the jackpot game is set to a predetermined timer.

  After S1807, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the value of the release counter to a value corresponding to the number of rounds of the big hit game (S1808), and ends this process. The release counter is a counter indicating the remaining number of round games in the jackpot game. This counter is also referred to as a remaining round number counter.

  If the jackpot flag is not ON (NO in S1803), since the jackpot game is not started, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to “1” (S1809), and ends this process.

[Game state management processing]
Next, the gaming state management process in S1802 of FIG. 27 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the game state management process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the time reduction flag is ON (S2005). If the time reduction flag is ON (YES in S2005), the game control microcomputer 101 subtracts one value from the time reduction counter that counts the number of executions of the special symbol variable display executed during the time reduction state by the subtraction method ( S2006), it is determined whether or not the value of the time reduction counter is “0” (S2007). If the value of the time reduction counter is “0” (YES in S2007), the time reduction flag is turned OFF (S2008). In the case of this pachinko machine PY1, the value of the hour counter is set to “10000” if the winning jackpot is won at the time of shifting to the shortening state, and the value of the hour counter is set to “10000” if the player wins the normal jackpot. 100 ".

  After S2008, or if the determination result in S2005 or S2007 is NO, this process ends.

[Game state reset processing]
Next, the gaming state reset process in S1804 of FIG. 27 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the game state reset process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the probability change flag is ON (S2101). If the probability variation flag is ON (YES in S2101), the game control microcomputer 101 turns the probability variation flag OFF (S2102). After S2102, or if the probability change flag is not ON (NO in S2101), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the time reduction flag is ON (S2103). If the time reduction flag is ON (YES in S2103), the game control microcomputer 101 turns the time reduction flag OFF (S2104). That is, during the execution of the jackpot game, the non-high probability state and the non-time-short state are controlled. After S2104 or if the time flag is not ON (NO in S2103), the process is terminated.

  In this embodiment, since the low base state is always in the non-time-short state, the low base state is also controlled during the execution of the big hit game. Note that the low base state in this embodiment is a low base state in the sense that there is no winning support due to frequent opening of the electric Chu 12D, and it does not take into account the base up based on the operation of the big winning device. Absent.

[Big hit game processing]
Next, the jackpot game process in S1006 of FIG. 23 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the jackpot game process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the opening time of the jackpot game has passed (S2301). If the opening time has not elapsed (NO in S2301), the process immediately ends. If the opening time has elapsed (YES in S2301), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the jackpot game ending has started (S2302).

  If ending has not been started (NO in S2302), the game control microcomputer 101 executes round processing (S2303). On the other hand, if the ending has started (YES in S2302), the game control microcomputer 101 executes a jackpot end process (S2304). Details of the round process and the jackpot end process will be described later. After S2303 to S2304, this process is finished.

[Round processing]
Next, the round processing in S2303 in FIG. 30 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  In the round process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the special winning opening 14 is open (S2501). If the big prize opening 14 is not being opened (NO in S2501), it is determined whether or not it is time to open the big prize opening 14 (S2502).

  If it is time to open the special winning opening 14 (YES in S2502), the game control microcomputer 101 opens the special winning opening 14 according to the selected opening pattern (S2503), and further includes information on the number of rounds. A round designation command is set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 (S2504). After S2504, or if the time for opening the special winning opening 14 has not been reached (NO in S2502), this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the special winning opening 14 is being opened (YES in S2501), the game control microcomputer 101 determines the maximum number of winnings (9 in this embodiment) to the special winning opening 14 in the unit opening game. ) Is determined (S2521). If the specified number of winnings has not been reached (NO in S2521), it is determined whether it is time to close the open large winning opening 14 (that is, whether a predetermined opening time has elapsed since opening the large winning opening 14). (S2522). If the opening time of the special winning opening 14 has not elapsed (NO in S2522), this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the prescribed number of winnings has been reached (YES in S2521), or when the opening time of the big winning opening 14 has passed (YES in S2522), that is, whichever of the two big winning opening opening end conditions If the condition is satisfied, the game control microcomputer 101 closes the open special winning opening 14 (S2523). Then, the value of the open counter is decremented by 1 (S2524).

  After S2524, the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the value of the release counter is 0 (S2525). If the value of the opening counter is not 0 (S2525: NO), this process is terminated as it is to start the next opening. If the value of the release counter is 0 (YES in S2525), the jackpot ending is set to end the jackpot game (S2526), and the jackpot ending command is set (S2527). In the ending setting, the ending time of the jackpot game is set to a predetermined timer. After S2527, this process ends.

[Large end processing]
Next, the jackpot end process in S2304 of FIG. 30 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the jackpot ending process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the ending time of the jackpot game has passed (S3001). If the ending time has not passed (NO in S3001), this process is immediately performed. Finish. On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (YES in S3001), the game control microcomputer 101 turns off the jackpot flag (S3002) and sets the special operation status to “1” (S3003). As a result, in the next game timer interrupt process, the special symbol standby process (S1003) is executed again as the special operation process. Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a game state setting process (S3004) and ends the process.

[Game state setting process]
Next, the gaming state setting process in S3004 of FIG. 32 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the game state setting process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the type of jackpot that triggered the execution of the jackpot game is a probabilistic jackpot (S3101). If it is not a promising big hit, that is, if it is a normal big hit (NO in S3101), the game control microcomputer 101 turns on the time reduction flag (S3102) and sets “100” in the time reduction counter (S3103). As a result, the gaming state after the current jackpot game becomes a non-high probability state, a short time state, and a high base state (that is, a low probability high base state). This low-accuracy base state ends when the special symbol variable display is performed 100 times or the next jackpot is won.

  On the other hand, if the probability variation is a big hit (YES in S3101), the game control microcomputer 101 turns on the probability variation flag (S3104) and sets “10000” in the probability variation counter (S3105). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 101 turns on the time reduction flag (S3107) and sets “10000” in the time reduction counter (S3108). As a result, the gaming state after the current jackpot game becomes a high probability state, a short time state, and a high base state (that is, a highly accurate high base state). This high-accuracy base state ends when either of the special symbol variable display is performed 10,000 times or the next jackpot is won. In addition, in this pachinko gaming machine PY1, in the high probability state, about 1/80 is won. Therefore, the player wins the next jackpot before performing 10,000 lotteries.

  After S3108 or S3103, the game control microcomputer 101 ends the game state setting process.

8). Operation of Effect Control Microcomputer 121 Next, the operation of the effect control microcomputer 121 on the effect control board 120 of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described. Specific processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 121 includes effect side activation processing. The counter, timer, flag, status, buffer, and the like that appear in the description of the operation of the effect control microcomputer 121 are provided in the effect RAM 124.

[Direction side start processing]
The production side activation process executed by the production control microcomputer 121 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the main power of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is turned on from off, the production control microcomputer 121 is turned on, that is, the power switch 191 is turned on, and external power supply via the power supply board 190 is started. In response to this, the program for the production side activation process is read from the production ROM 123 and executed.

  In the production side activation process, the production control microcomputer 121 first performs a CPU initialization process (S4001). In the CPU initialization process (S4001), stack setting, constant setting, CPU 92 setting, SIO, PIO, CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time) and the like are performed.

  Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the power-off signal is ON and the contents of the effect RAM 124 are normal (S4002). If not normal (NO in S4002), the effect control microcomputer 121 initializes the effect RAM 124 (S4003). On the other hand, if normal (YES in S4002), the effect control microcomputer 121 proceeds to S4004 without initializing the effect RAM 124. That is, if the power-off signal is not ON, or if the contents of the effect RAM 124 are not normal even if the power-off signal is ON (NO in S4002), the effect RAM 124 is initialized, but the power is cut off due to a power failure or the like. When the signal is turned on but the contents of the effect RAM 124 are maintained normally (YES in S4002), the effect RAM 124 is not initialized. If the effect RAM 124 is initialized, the values of various flags, statuses, counters, etc. are reset. S4001 to S4003 are executed only once after the power is turned on, and are not executed thereafter.

  In S4004, the production control microcomputer 121 prohibits interruption (S4004). Next, random number seed update processing is executed (S4005). In the random number seed update process, random number values necessary for determining various effects are updated. The effect determining random numbers include a random effect pattern determining random number for determining a variable effect pattern, a random number for determining various notice effects, a continuous effect random number for executing a continuous effect, and the like. The random number update method can be the same as the random number update process performed by the game control board 100 described above. The random number update method may be the same as or different from the game control microcomputer 101. Each random number may be generated using a known random number generation circuit including a counter IC or the like. In that case, S4005 may be omitted. Further, the random number generation circuit may be built in the effect control microcomputer 121.

  After S4005, the effect control microcomputer 121 executes command transmission processing (S4006). In the command transmission process, various commands stored in the output buffer in the effect RAM 124 of the effect control board 120 are transmitted to the image control board 140. The image control board 140 that has received the command uses the image display device 50 in accordance with the command to execute various effects (effect design variation effect and jackpot effect (opening effect, round effect, ending effect, etc.) associated with the jackpot game. In addition, with the execution of various effects by the image control board 140, the effect control board 120 outputs sound from the speaker 52 via the sound control circuit 161, and the panel lamp 54 and the like via the accessory lamp control board 162. The frame lamp 53 is caused to emit light, or the decorative movable body 58k is driven, and the effect control microcomputer 121 subsequently permits an interruption (S4007), and thereafter loops S4004 to S4007. Production side 1ms timer interruption process (S4009) and production side 10ms timer interruption Execution of management (S4010) is made possible.

  The effect control microcomputer 121 also executes interrupt processing other than S4009 and S4010. For example, when the command sent from the main control board 80 is input to the effect I / O port 138 of the effect control microcomputer 121, the effect control microcomputer 121 stores the command in the effect RAM 124. Execute command interrupt processing. The game control command interrupt process is executed with priority over other interrupt processes (S4009, S4010).

[Direction side 1ms timer interrupt processing]
Next, the effect side 1 ms timer interruption process in S4009 of FIG. 34 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The production side 1 ms timer interruption process is executed by the production control microcomputer 121 every time an interruption pulse with a period of 1 ms is input.

  In the production side 1 ms timer interruption process, the production control microcomputer 121 first performs an input process (S4201). In the input process, the effect control microcomputer 121 creates switch data (edge data and level data) based on detection signals from the effect button detection sensor 40a and the select button detection sensor 42a.

  After S4201, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs lamp data output processing (S4202). In the lamp data output process, the lamp data generated by the lamp process and other processes in the effect side 10 ms timer interruption process described later is output to the accessory lamp control board 162 in order to cause the frame lamp 53 and the like to emit light at a timing suitable for the effect. . That is, the frame lamp 53 and the like are caused to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode according to the lamp data.

  After S4202, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs drive control processing (S4203). In the drive control process, drive data (data for driving the decorative movable body 58k) is created or output so as to drive the decorative movable body 58k at a timing that matches the effect. That is, the decorative movable body 58k is driven in a predetermined operation mode according to the drive data.

  After S4203, the production control microcomputer 121 performs other processing such as resetting the watchdog timer (S4204). After S4204, the production side 1 ms timer interruption process is completed.

[Direction side 10ms timer interrupt processing]
Next, the rendering side 10 ms timer interruption process in S4010 of FIG. 34 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The production side 10 ms timer interruption process is executed by the production control microcomputer 121 every time an interruption pulse having a period of 10 ms is input.

  In the production side 10 ms timer interruption process, the production control microcomputer 121 first performs a received command analysis process (S4301). Details of the received command analysis processing will be described later. Next, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs a switch state acquisition process in which the switch data created in the effect side 1 ms timer interrupt process is stored in the effect RAM 124 as switch data for the effect side 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4302). Subsequently, a switch process for setting the display contents of the display unit 50a based on the switch data stored in the switch state acquisition process is performed (S4303). Details of the switch processing will be described later.

  After S4303, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs a ramp process (S4304). In the lamp processing, the effect control microcomputer 121 creates lamp data (data for controlling the light emission of the frame lamp 53 and the like), manages the time of the light emission effect, and the like. Subsequently, voice control processing is performed (S4305). In the sound control process, sound data (data for controlling sound output from the speaker 52) is created, output to the sound control circuit 161, time management of sound effects, and the like. Thereby, the sound suitable for the effect to be executed is output from the speaker 52. After S4305, button valid period processing for setting valid periods of various buttons is executed (S4306). Details of the button valid period process will be described later. Then, the effect control microcomputer 121 executes other processing such as updating the effect determination random number (S4399), and ends this processing.

[Received command analysis processing]
Next, the received command analysis process in S4301 of FIG. 36 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the received command analysis process, the production control microcomputer 121 first determines whether or not a start prize command (first start prize command or second start prize command) has been received from the game control board 100 (S4411). Is received (YES in S4411), the start winning command is stored in the starting winning command hold storage unit 125, and the start winning process for performing the process relating to prefetching and the process relating to the hold icon HA is performed (S4412).

  After S4412 or if no start winning command has been received (NO in S4411), the effect control microcomputer 121 sends a change start command (a special figure 1 change start command or a special figure 2 change start command) from the game control board 100. Is received (S4413), and if a change start command is received (YES in S4413), a change effect start process for selecting and starting a change effect is performed (S4414). Details of the variation production start process will be described later.

  After S4414 or if no change start command has been received (NO in S4413), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not a change stop command has been received from the main control board 80 (S4415). Is received (YES in S4415), the variation effect end process is performed (S4416). In the variation effect end process, the variation effect being executed is terminated.

  After S4416 or if the change end command has not been received (NO in S4415), the production control microcomputer 121 performs processing based on received commands other than the above commands (for example, opening command) as other processing (S4419). And a round designation command, an ending command, a grand prize opening prize command, a normal symbol change start command, a normal symbol change stop command, a customer waiting command, etc.), and the received command analysis process is completed.

[Variation production start processing]
Next, the fluctuating effect start process in S4414 of FIG. 37 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the change effect start process, the effect control microcomputer 121 first analyzes a change start command (S5401). The change start command includes information on a change pattern including whether or not the jackpot is successful.

  After S5401, the effect control microcomputer 121 shifts the data stored in the start winning command hold storage unit 125 (the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a or the second start winning command hold storage unit 125b) ( S5403).

  In the shift process of S5403, the effect control microcomputer 121 shifts each data such as the start winning command stored in the first storage area to the fourth storage area to the previous storage area and the fourth storage area. To clear. For example, data stored in the fourth storage area of the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a is shifted to the third storage area of the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a, and the fourth storage area is cleared. . Further, the data stored in the first storage area of the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a is for the variation common to the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a and the second start winning command hold storage unit 125b. The data is shifted to the effect storage unit, and the data previously stored in the change effect storage unit is overwritten.

  After S5403, the effect control microcomputer 121 shifts the hold icon HA (S5404). For example, the first hold icon HA is the variable icon, the second hold icon HA is the first hold icon HA, and the third hold icon HA is the second hold icon HA. Further, according to the hold icon scenario, the mode of the hold icon HA is changed as necessary.

  After S5404, the effect control microcomputer 121 selects a combination of effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that are finally stopped and displayed in the variable effect (S5411). For example, in the case where the jackpot is won, a combination of effect symbols such as “777” is selected. If it is lost, a combination of effect symbols such as “123” is selected.

  After S5411, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs a variable effect pattern selection process (S5412). In the variation effect pattern selection process, a variation effect pattern determination random number is acquired, and the acquired random number value is determined using a variation effect table to select a variation effect pattern. The effect pattern is determined by selecting the variation effect pattern, and whether or not the button effect can be executed is determined. Further, if execution of the button effect is decided, a scenario for the button effect is also determined.

  After S5412, the effect control microcomputer 121 sets a change effect start command for starting the change effect in the change effect pattern selected in S5412 in the output buffer of the effect RAM 124 (S5413). When the variation effect start command set in S5413 is transmitted to the image control board 140 by the command transmission process (S4006), the image control board 140 determines that the image display device 50 is based on the received variation effect start command. Fluctuation effects are performed on the display unit 50a. After S5413, the effect control microcomputer 121 ends the change effect start process.

[Switch processing]
Next, the switch processing in S4303 of FIG. 36 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the switch process, the effect control microcomputer 121 first analyzes the switch data acquired in S4302 and determines whether or not the effect button 40k is pressed (S6001). When the effect button 40k is pressed (YES in S6001), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the effect button valid period is set, that is, whether or not it is the timing for receiving the press of the effect button 40k ( S6002).

  When the effect button valid period is set (YES in S6002), the effect control microcomputer 121 executes an effect button process for performing a process associated with the operation of the effect button 40k (S6003). The processing accompanying the operation of the effect button 40k includes, for example, display of a preview image by the image display device 50, display of a lottery result, displacement of the decorative movable body 58k, vibration of the effect button 40k by the effect button vibration motor 40m. Applicable. In addition, reception and determination of various settings such as volume settings are applicable. For example, when the button effect of this embodiment is being executed, the button image BG, the message image MG, and the remaining time suggestion image JG are erased, and a combination of the effect symbols EZ indicating the jackpot winning result is temporarily displayed. A command for the image display device 50 to the effect is set, and a sound effect associated with the operation of the effect button 40k is output from the speaker 52.

  After S6003, or when the effect button valid period is not set (NO in S6002), or when the effect button 40k is not pressed (NO in S6001), the effect control microcomputer 121 acquires the switch acquired in S4302 The data is analyzed to determine whether or not the select button 42k has been pressed (S6021). If the select button 42k has been pressed (YES in S6021), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the select button valid period has been set, that is, whether or not it is time to accept the press of the select button 42k ( S6022).

  When the select button valid period is set (YES in S6022), the effect control microcomputer 121 sets a select button reception command indicating that the operation of the select button 42k has been received, and a process associated with the operation of the select button 42k. A select button process is executed (S6023). The select button acceptance command includes information on which direction button of the select buttons 42k has been operated. The process accompanying the operation of the select button 42k corresponds to, for example, changing various setting contents displayed on the image display device 50.

  After S6023, or when the select button valid period is not set (NO in S6022), or when the select button 42k is not pressed (NO in S6021), the effect control microcomputer 121 ends the switch process.

  In the switch processing according to the present embodiment, the button operation (S6001, S6021) and the valid period (S6002, S6022) are determined in this order. However, the order is not limited to this, and the order may be reversed. That is, it may be determined first from the effective period.

[Button valid period processing]
Next, the button valid period processing in S4306 in FIG. 36 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  In the button effective period process, the effect control microcomputer 121 first determines whether or not the effect button effective period, which is the effective period of the effect button 40k, has been set (S6101).

  If the effect button effective period has been set (YES in S6101), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the condition button effective period end condition is satisfied (S6102). An example of the end condition is that the time set as the effect button effective period has elapsed. Or it corresponds to having canceled the standby state. If the end condition of the effect button effective period is satisfied (YES in S6102), the effect control microcomputer 121 cancels the setting of the effect button effective period (S6103). When canceling the setting of the effect button expiration date, an effect button expiration command is set to notify the image control board 140 of the cancellation.

  If the effect button effective period has not been set (NO in S6101), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the effect button effective period setting condition is satisfied (S6111). The setting condition corresponds to, for example, reaching a predetermined timing determined by a scenario of the production. Or it corresponds to having entered into a standby state. If the setting condition of the effect button effective period is satisfied (YES in S6111), the effect control microcomputer 121 sets the effect button effective period (S6112). At the start of the effect button effective period, an effective period start command is set to notify the image control board 140 of the start.

  After S6103 or when the end condition of the effect button effective period is not satisfied (NO in S6102), or after S6112, or when the setting condition of the effect button effective period is not satisfied (NO in S6111) The microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the select button valid period, which is the valid period of the select button 42k, has been set (S6121).

  If the select button valid period has been set (YES in S6121), the production control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the select button valid period end condition is satisfied (S6122). An example of the end condition is that the time set as the select button valid period has elapsed. Or it corresponds to having canceled the standby state. When the selection button effective period end condition is satisfied (YES in S6122), the effect control microcomputer 121 cancels the setting of the select button effective period (S6123). When canceling the setting of the selection button expiration date, a selection expiration date cancellation command is set to notify the image control board 140 of the cancellation.

  If the select button effective period has not been set (NO in S6121), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the select button effective period setting condition is satisfied (S6131). The setting condition corresponds to, for example, reaching a predetermined timing determined by a scenario of the production. Or it corresponds to having entered into a standby state. If the setting condition for the select button effective period is satisfied (YES in S6131), the effect control microcomputer 121 sets the select button effective period (S6132). When the select button effective period starts, a select button effective period start command is set to notify the image control board 140 of the start.

  After S6123 or when the selection button valid period end condition is not satisfied (NO in S6122), or after S6132 or when the selection button valid period setting condition is not satisfied (NO in S6131) The microcomputer 121 ends the button valid period process.

9. Effects of the Embodiment In the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the present embodiment, as a scenario for the button effect, a scenario in which the button image BG changes at a predetermined timing during the effect button effective period and a scenario in which the button image BG does not change are prepared. When there is a scenario in which the button image BG changes, the button image BG is automatically displayed in the button effect if the button button BG is not operated during the period in which the operation of the effect button 40k is accepted. There is a possibility of promotion. Therefore, even if a button image BG having a low jackpot expectation level is selected after the roulette effect, the player's expectation regarding the subsequent button effect can be maintained. In addition, it is possible to give a player a sense of expectation by a new effect that the display mode of the button image BG automatically changes during the reception thereof. In particular, since the button effect is an effect intended to operate the effect button 40k, the button image BG changes even when the effect button 40k is not operated, thereby giving a stronger impression to the player. be able to. Further, depending on the player, the button operation may be troublesome, and the button operation of the effect button 40k may not be intentionally performed. Even in such a case, the button image BG is automatically displayed. The player can feel a change in the performance by changing to, and a big hit expectation is given.

  In addition, this Embodiment is only a mere illustration and does not limit this invention at all. Therefore, the present invention can be variously improved and modified without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the numerical values (number of lotteries, setting values of various tables, upper limits of various holding numbers, etc.) described in the present embodiment are examples and may be appropriately selected.

  In the embodiment, one gate 13 and one special winning opening 14 are provided on the right side of the center decorative body 61. However, the number is not limited to one, and a plurality of them may be provided. Further, the gate 13 and the special winning opening 14 are not limited to the right side of the center decorative body 61 but may be provided on the left side of the center decorative body 61.

  In the embodiment, the gaming machine is controlled to a high probability state based on the type of jackpot (special symbol stop symbol type), but a specific area is provided in the game board 1 and a game to the specific area It may be a gaming machine (so-called V-like machine) that is controlled to a high probability state based on the passage of a ball. Further, in the embodiment, a big win is won by lottery of a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on a game ball entering the starting port (first starting port 11 or second starting port 12). The game machine is equipped with a so-called type 1 jackpot, but may be a game machine equipped with a so-called type 2 jackpot that wins a jackpot by passing a game ball to a specific area provided on the game board 1. .

  In the embodiment, the process related to the second special figure hold is prioritized over the process related to the first special figure hold, but the process related to the first special figure hold may be prioritized. Alternatively, priority may be given to the processing relating to the special figure hold stored earlier. Further, the process related to the first special figure hold and the process related to the second special figure hold may be performed in parallel. That is, special figure 1 and special figure 2 may be changed simultaneously. In this case, when the special symbol indicating the big hit or the small hit is stopped and displayed on either one, the variation display of the other special symbol is forcibly stopped and displayed on the lost symbol.

  Further, in the embodiment, the display unit that performs the variation effect is configured by the display screen of one display device (display unit 50a of the image display device 50), but is configured by each display unit of two or more display devices. May be. For example, in the configuration including the sub display device in addition to the image display device 50 as the main display device, the effect design EZ is changed on the display screen of the main display device, and the display screen of the sub display device is used. You may comprise so that the change effect of a small design may be performed. Moreover, you may comprise so that a usual drawing effect may be performed on the display screen of a sub display apparatus. Note that a touch panel including a touch sensor and a liquid crystal display device may be mounted on the gaming machine frame 2 and the liquid crystal display device in the touch panel may be used as a sub display device.

  Further, the rules (see FIG. 12) regarding the generation of the start winning command may be changed as appropriate. For example, the start winning command may include information on the number of special figure holds, information on the gaming state, information on variation patterns, and the like.

  In the embodiment, the game area 6 is divided into a left game area 6L on the left side and a right game area 6R on the right side with respect to the horizontal direction in the game area 6. The structure which distinguishes with respect to may be sufficient. In this case, only the flow-down due to the weight of the game ball is considered, but for example, it may be considered to move the game ball upward using a mechanism that moves the ball up and down. Moreover, the structure which does not distinguish a right-and-left area | region may be sufficient. In other words, the so-called gauge configuration is not limited to the arrangement of the embodiment.

  In the embodiment, four random numbers such as jackpot random numbers are acquired as random numbers (determination information) acquired based on winning at the start opening, but one random number is acquired and the random number is obtained. Based on whether or not the jackpot or jackpot, the type of jackpot or jackpot, the presence or absence of reach, and the type of variation pattern may be determined. That is, it is possible to arbitrarily set the number of random numbers acquired based on the start winning and what is determined in each random number.

  Further, in the embodiment, there is only one type of normal symbol lottery, but a type may be provided for normal symbol lottery. In this case, as a random number to be acquired based on the passage of the gate, it is only necessary to acquire a regular random number in addition to a regular random number per map. Alternatively, one random number may be acquired, and based on the random number, whether to win or not, and the type of normal winning symbol may be determined.

  The processing disclosed in the embodiment mainly includes the game CPU 102 of the game control microcomputer 101 of the game control board 100, the effect CPU 122 of the effect control microcomputer 121 of the effect control board 120, and the image control board 140. Although executed by the image CPU 142, for example, it may be executed by a single CPU or a plurality of CPUs using a single control board. Further, the processing disclosed in the embodiment may be executed by a plurality of CPUs in at least one of the game control microcomputer 101 and the effect control microcomputer 121. In addition to the game control microcomputer 101 and the effect control microcomputer 121, the process disclosed in the embodiment may be executed in combination with other hardware. In addition, among the processes disclosed in the embodiment, a part of the processes of the game control microcomputer 101 and the effect control microcomputer 121 may be executed by another microcomputer. In other words, the game control microcomputer 101, the effect control microcomputer 121, one microcomputer including these, and other hardware are combined, and these are all examples of means for executing various processes. Further, the process disclosed in the embodiment can be realized in various modes such as a recording medium or a method in which a program for executing the process is recorded.

  Note that a control method for realizing the functions of the gaming machine, a computer program, and a computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program are also novel and useful.

10. Inventions shown in the above-described embodiments In the above-described embodiments, inventions having the following configurations are shown. In the description of the means described below, the corresponding configuration names and expressions in the above-described embodiment, and reference numerals used in the drawings are added in parentheses for reference. However, the constituent elements of the invention are not limited to this supplementary note.

  The gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine PY1) according to the first aspect of the invention has lottery means (game control microcomputer 101, S1402, S1412) for performing a big win lottery, and a special symbol indicating a lottery result by the lottery means. And a special symbol display means (special symbol display device 81) for stopping and displaying the special symbol after the fluctuation time has elapsed from the start of the variable display, and an operating means (effect button 40k) for accepting the player's operation. , Setting means (production control microcomputer 121, S6112) for setting an operation effective period (production button effective period) in which an operation on the operation means is valid during execution of the special symbol variation display, and the operation effective period Is set, the operation means image (button image BG) which is an image having the operation means as a motif is displayed on the screen, and the operation valid period is over. Or an image display means (image display device 50) for erasing the operation means image from the screen when the operation means is operated before the operation valid period ends. Has a plurality of display modes (first button image BG1, second button image BG2, and third button image BG3) having different expectations for jackpots, and the image display means displays the operation means image in a predetermined display mode. After the display, the non-change effect (FIG. 13) that does not change the display mode until the operation unit image is erased and the operation unit image is displayed in the first display mode, and then the operation valid period ends. It is possible to execute a change effect (FIG. 14) that changes to the second display mode having a higher degree of expectation of jackpot than the first display mode at a predetermined timing. It is set to.

  There are already many pachinko gaming machines that can execute an effect of receiving an operation of the operating means as a conventional model. Therefore, in order to differentiate from the conventional model, it is required to improve the interest of the game by the effect of accepting the operation of the operation means. Therefore, according to the configuration of the first invention, a change effect and a non-change effect are prepared, and the possibility that the display mode of the operation means image automatically changes in the middle until the operation effective period ends is provided. Thereby, even if it is a case where it waits without operating an operation means, a player's expectation can be changed.

  Further, the first display mode of the operation means image is an image (first button image BG1) depicting the operation means in a plane, and the second display mode of the operation means image is the operation mode. It is good that it is an image (2nd button image BG2 and 3rd button image BG3) which drew the means in three dimensions. By making the display mode more realistic, it is possible to give a player a sense of expectation.

  Further, in the change effect, the image display means may perform an effect (FIG. 17 (E0)) that changes the display mode before the operation means image is changed to the second display mode. By giving a change in the display mode of the operation means image, it is possible to give the player a premonition of the change and increase the expectation of jackpot.

  The image display means displays a remaining time suggestion image (remaining time suggestion image JG) that is an image suggesting the remaining time of the operation effective period on the screen together with the operation means image. The display mode of the remaining time suggestion image may be changed at the predetermined timing. By changing the remaining time suggestion image, a greater sense of expectation can be given to the player by a synergistic effect with the change of the operation means image.

  Further, the image display means displays a message image (message image MG) that is an image including a message suggesting an operation to the operation means on the screen together with the operation means image. At this time, the message content of the message image may be changed. By changing the message content, a greater sense of expectation can be given to the player by a synergistic effect with the change in the operation means image.

  Further, the operation means has a plurality of effect forms (effect button lamp 40La on / off, effect button vibration motor 40m drive / non-drive) with different effect effects, and the operation means When the operation means image is displayed in the first display mode by the image display means, the first display mode is set, and the operation means image is displayed in the second display mode by the image display means. When displayed, it is good to set it as the 2nd production aspect with a higher production effect than the said 1st production aspect. By changing the presentation mode of the operation means, a greater expectation can be given to the player by a synergistic effect with the change of the operation means image.

  Further, the image display means indicates a pre-selection suggestion effect that suggests that the operation means image is displayed in any one of the plurality of display modes before the operation effective period is set (FIG. 13 ( C)) may be executed. By suggesting that one of a plurality of display modes is displayed before accepting the operation of the operating means, the player's sense of expectation for jackpot is lost when the first display mode is selected first. However, the feeling of expectation can be changed more greatly by changing to the second display mode thereafter.

  Further, the image display means displays the operation means image in the first display mode before the operation effective period is set, and thereafter, from the first display mode to the second display mode. It is preferable to execute a prior promotion suggestion effect (FIG. 18 (C1) to (C3)) to be changed to. By showing an effect that the display mode changes in advance before accepting the operation of the operation means, the player can wait in expectation of the change of the display mode even when the first display mode is selected first. it can.

1 Game board 40k Production button 40La Production button lamp 40m Production button vibration motor 50 Image display device EZ Production design BG Button image JG Remaining time suggestion image MG Message image PY1 Pachinko machine

Claims (1)

Lottery means to make a jackpot lottery,
A special symbol indicating a lottery result by the lottery means, and a special symbol display means for stopping and displaying the special symbol after a variable time has elapsed since the start of the fluctuation display;
An operation means for accepting a player's operation;
A setting means for setting an operation valid period during which an operation on the operation means is valid during the execution of the variation display of the special symbol;
Image display means for displaying on the screen an operation means image which is an image having the operation means as a motif;
With
The image display means includes
Changing the display mode of the operation means image at a predetermined timing determined in advance in the operation effective period;
A gaming machine characterized by that.