JP2019180916A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of increasing interest related to a performance using operation means.SOLUTION: A game machine of the present invention executes an expectation degree performance that suggests an execution expectation degree of a special game in response to an operation during a first effective period in which a first promotion performance that prompts an operation of the operation means is executed, and executes a non-expectation degree performance that does not suggest the execution expectation degree of a special game in response to an operation during a second effective period in which a second promotion performance that prompts an operation of the operation means is executed. An introduction performance that suggests execution of the first promotion performance can be executed when a first effective period occurs, and the introduction performance that suggests execution of the second promotion performance can be executed when a second effective period occurs. There are more types of the first promotion performances rather than the types of the second promotion performances.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 50

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  A conventional gaming machine is generally a gaming machine that determines whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to a player and can execute a special game according to the result of the determination.

  In such a gaming machine, there is provided an effect control means for controlling an effect related to the game, and a special game is played in response to the operation means being operated during an effective period in which a promotion effect for prompting the operation of the operation means is performed. There is a gaming machine that executes an expectation effect that suggests the expected execution degree (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2017-158774 A

  However, the gaming machine described in the above-mentioned patent document has a problem that the interest relating to the performance using the operation means is low.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the interest related to the effect using the operation means.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides an operation means operable by a player, a determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player, and an effect control means for controlling an effect related to the game. The effect control means executes a first promotion effect that prompts an operation of the operation means in a first effective period, and sets an execution expectation of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period. An unexpected expectation effect is performed, a second promotion effect is performed to urge the operation of the operation means in a second effective period, and the expected expectation is not suggested according to the operation during the second effective period When the first effective period occurs, the introduction effect suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed can be executed, and when the second effective period occurs, Second promotion effect is real Is the it is feasible to introduce effect suggests, the than the type of the second promotion effect, characterized in that towards the type of the first accelerator effect is large.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the interest related to the production using the operation means.

It is a front view of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of a part of the front side of the gaming machine. It is a perspective view of the back side of a gaming machine. It is a figure which shows an example of the block diagram of the whole gaming machine. It is a figure which shows an example of a jackpot determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of a special symbol determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of the special figure fluctuation pattern determination table for non-short-time game states. It is a figure which shows an example of the prior determination table for non-short-time game states. It is a figure which shows an example of the big prize opening | release state determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of a game state setting table. It is a figure which shows an example of the various storage areas of main RAM. It is a figure which shows the main process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the initial setting process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the input control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the 1st start port detection switch input process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special figure special electric control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol memory | storage determination process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the jackpot determination process in the main control board. It is a figure which shows the special figure fluctuation pattern determination process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the main process of an effect control part. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process of an effect control part. It is a figure which shows the command analysis process of an effect control part. It is a figure which shows the change effect pattern determination process of an effect control part. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation production pattern determination table for non-short-time game states. It is a figure which shows the expectation degree effect determination process of an effect control part. It is a figure which shows an example of the pre-reach notice determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of a serif notice pattern determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of a roulette pattern determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of the cut-in notice pattern determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of the decision production pattern decision table. It is a figure which shows the expectation degree effect control process of an effect control part. It is a figure which shows the non-expected degree production control process of an effect control part. It is a figure which shows the main process of an integrated control part. It is a figure which shows the command reception interruption process of a general control part, and the V blank interruption process of a general control part. It is a timing chart before and after execution of a serif notice effect. It is a figure which shows the production example of a serif notice effect. It is a timing chart before and after execution of the roulette notice effect. It is a figure which shows the production example of a roulette notice effect. It is a timing chart before and after execution of a cut-in notice effect. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect of a cut-in notice effect. It is a timing chart before and after execution of the winning decision effect (success effect). It is a figure which shows the production example of the winning decision production (success production). It is a timing chart before and after execution of the winning decision effect (failure effect). It is a timing chart before and after the process drop of an image control part (VDP). It is a timing chart before and after execution of the winning decision effect (success effect). It is a figure which shows the production example of the winning decision production (success production). It is a timing chart before and after the process drop of an image control part (VDP). It is a timing chart before and after execution of a menu display effect. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect of a menu display effect.

(First embodiment)
The first embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.

(Composition of gaming machine)
First, the configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine 1 in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a part of the front side of the gaming machine 1 in the embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view of the back surface side of the gaming machine 1 in FIG.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 2, a game board mounting frame 3 supported to be rotatable with respect to the outer frame 2, a glass frame 4 supported to be rotatable with respect to the game board mounting frame 3, A game board 5 is provided in which a game area 5a in which a game ball (game medium) as a game value flows down is formed.

  The outer frame 2 has a decorative plate 2b attached to the lower front surface of a rectangular base frame 2a whose central portion opens in the front-rear direction, and is attached to an island facility of a game store (for example, a nail or a stopper). ) Is fixed through.

  The game board mounting frame 3 is detachably connected to the outer frame 2 via the first hinge mechanism portion 6 on one end side in the horizontal direction, and is supported rotatably about the first hinge mechanism portion 6. Has been. Therefore, when the game board mounting frame 3 is rotated like a door with respect to the outer frame 2, the back side of the game board mounting frame 3 is exposed forward, so various devices provided on the back side of the game board mounting frame 3 Maintenance can be performed.

  The glass frame 4 is detachably connected to the game board mounting frame 3 via a second hinge mechanism portion 7 on one end side in the horizontal direction, and is supported rotatably about the second hinge mechanism portion 7 as a fulcrum. Yes. Therefore, when the glass frame 4 is rotated like a door with respect to the game board mounting frame 3, the game area 5a of the game board 5 and the front part of the game board mounting frame 3 can be opened and closed.

  An opening 8 (window) that opens in the front-rear direction is formed in a substantially central portion near the upper portion of the glass frame 4, and a transparent member 8a (a glass plate, an acrylic plate, or the like) is formed so as to close the opening 8 from the rear. Is attached, and the game area 5a can be visually recognized through the opening 8 and the transparent member 8a.

  It is paid out around the opening 8 of the glass frame 4 from a sound output device 9 made of a speaker, a frame lighting device 10 having a plurality of decorative LEDs, and a payout device 95 to be described later on the basis of establishment of a grant condition. An upper plate 11 for storing a plurality of game balls such as a game ball, a lower plate 12 for receiving and storing game balls that have not flowed into the upper plate 11 and have flowed into an overflow ball channel described later, and a game A firing operation device 13 capable of performing an operation for firing a sphere is provided.

  The audio output device 9 is provided at two positions on the upper part of the glass frame 4 with an interval between them, and produces BGM (background music), SE (sound effect), and the like to produce sound (music, voice). It is like that. Also, a plurality of frame illumination devices 10 are provided around the opening 8 and produce an effect by illumination by changing the light irradiation direction and emission color of each lamp (LED). Further, the frame lighting device 10 includes a notification LED 10a that is controlled to be turned on / flashed when a payout abnormality that prevents the game ball from being paid out from the opening of the glass frame 4 or the payout device 95 occurs.

  In the upper plate 11, the bottom surface of the game ball storage portion 11a is inclined downward toward the direction side (right direction) of the launch operation device 13, and a ball feed solenoid 11b is provided at the end of the downward inclination. . When the game balls stored in the storage part 11a of the upper plate 11 flow down and reach the ball feed solenoid 11b, the game balls are sent one by one toward the game board mounting frame 3 side by the operation of the ball feed solenoid 11b.

  Further, an effect button device 16 and a selection button device 18 (FIGS. 1 and 2) functioning as input devices for performing determination operations and selection operations related to various effects, which will be described later, are provided on the center front side portion of the upper plate 11. Are arranged side by side.

  The effect button device 16 includes an effect button 17 capable of performing a determination operation (operation input), an effect button detection switch 17a for detecting the operation of the effect button 17, and the effect button 17 in a normal state and a normal state. A button drive motor 17b for changing to a protruding state located above, a button vibration motor 17c (operation part) for changing the effect button 17 to a normal state and a vibration state that vibrates in a predetermined manner, and A button light-emitting LED 17d (light-emitting unit) for changing the effect button 17 between a light-off state and a light-on state in which light is emitted in a predetermined manner is provided, and a player can input predetermined information to the gaming machine 1. .

  The selection button device 18 includes a cross key 19 (up button 191A, left button 192A, down button 193A, right button 194A) capable of performing a selection operation and the like, and a cross for detecting the operation of the cross key 19. A key detection switch 19a (see FIG. 4) is provided so that a player can input predetermined information to the gaming machine 1.

  In addition, a lending operation unit 20 that can perform a lending operation for a game ball and a return operation for a storage medium such as a card storing a balance is provided on the right side of the upper plate 11. When the lending button 20a of the lending operation unit 20 is operated, the game balls are lent by subtracting the balance stored in the storage medium received by the ball lending machine (not shown) attached to the gaming machine 1; When the return button 20b of the lending operation unit 20 is operated, the storage medium is returned from the ball lending machine (not shown).

  Between the upper plate 11 and the lower plate 12, an overflow ball channel (not shown) for receiving game balls that do not fit in the upper plate 11 and guiding them to the lower plate 12 is formed. Further, a full detection switch 32a (see FIG. 4) for detecting that the game ball is full in the lower plate 12 is provided in the middle of the overflow ball flow path, and the full detection switch 32a detects that the lower plate 12 is full. While this is being done, the payout of game balls by the payout device 95 described later is stopped.

  The firing operation device 13 includes a base body 14 fixed to the glass frame 4, a firing handle 15 rotatably provided on the base body 14, and a touch sensor that detects that a player's hand touches the firing handle 15. 15a (see FIG. 4) and a firing volume 15b (see FIG. 4) made up of a variable resistor whose resistance value changes according to the rotation angle of the firing handle 15 are provided. When it is detected by the touch sensor 15a that the player's hand is touching the firing handle 15, the ball feed solenoid 11b is activated to send out the game balls one by one.

  The game board mounting frame 3 includes a game board mounting portion for mounting the game board 5, a launching device 26 (see FIG. 4) for launching a game ball toward the game area 5a, the game board mounting frame 3 and A lock mechanism 27 for locking the glass frame 4 in the closed state and an open detection switch 31a (see FIG. 4) for detecting the opening (opening / closing) of the glass frame 4 are provided.

  The game board mounting portion 25 is formed in a concave chamber shape having a front opening at a substantial center near the upper portion of the game board mounting frame 3 and can store the game board 5 from the front. An opening that opens in the front-rear direction is provided in the back of the concave chamber of the game board mounting portion 25, and various devices and the like provided on the back side of the game board 5 are located behind the game machine 1 through this opening. Come on.

  The launching device 26 is a launching member for launching a game ball, a launching solenoid 28b (see FIG. 4) for driving the launching member, and launching that tilts upward from the launching member toward the lower left corner of the game board. A rail and a stopper for stopping the game ball at a launch position which is an inclined lower end portion of the launch rail are provided. When the game ball delivered by the ball feed solenoid 11b (see FIG. 4) is received at the launch position, the game ball is launched toward the game area 5a by the operation of the launch member.

  The lock mechanism 27 is provided on the right side of the game board mounting portion 25 so that the front end portion of the cylinder in which the keyhole is formed is exposed to the front side of the glass frame 4. Then, when a dedicated key is inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder and rotated in one direction, the lock of the game board mounting frame 3 is released and the game board mounting frame 3 can be opened and closed, and when it is rotated in the other direction, the glass frame The lock of 4 is released and the glass frame 4 can be opened and closed.

  A curved inner rail 35 and an outer rail 36 are provided at positions near the outer edge of the game board 5, and a game area 5 a in which a game ball can flow down to a portion surrounded by the inner rail 35 and the outer rail 36. Is formed. Further, between the inner rail 35 and the outer rail 36, there is formed a launch ball guide path 38 for guiding the game ball launched by the launch device 26 to the upstream portion of the game area 5a. In addition, an out port 39 is formed in the most downstream part of the game area 5a to guide the game balls that have flowed down to the outside of the game area (the collection part of the game board mounting frame 3).

  Near the center of the game area 5a, a so-called center case is provided with a frame-like decorative frame 40 that restricts the entry of the game ball into the inside. The decorative frame 40 causes the game area 5a to be launched with a first launch force. The left game area is divided into a left game area where the played game balls flow down and a right game area where game balls launched with a second firing force stronger than the first launch force flow down. Are communicated below the decorative frame 40.

  A warp device 41 for introducing a game ball flowing down the left game area into the interior of the decoration frame 40 is provided on the left side of the decoration frame 40, and the interior of the decoration frame 40 by the warp device 41 is provided below the decoration frame 40. A stage portion 42 is provided for rolling the game ball introduced to the bottom of the decorative frame 40 and rolling it down.

  Below the decoration frame 40, three general winning openings 43 are provided at intervals so that game balls can always win (win), and below the decoration frame 40 on the right side there are games. There is provided one general winning port 43 through which a ball can always win (win). When the game balls that have won (entered) the general prize opening 43 are detected by the general prize opening detection switch 43a (see FIG. 4) (the grant condition is satisfied), a predetermined number (for example, five) of game balls are obtained. The payout device 95 (see FIG. 3) pays out to the upper plate 11 as a prize ball (giving game value).

  Below the stage portion 42, there is provided a first starting opening 45 (starting winning area of the first special symbol) through which a game ball can always win (win). When a game ball that has been played is detected by the first start port detection switch 45a (see FIG. 4) (giving conditions are met), a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 3) are paid out device 95 (see FIG. 3). Are paid out to the upper plate 11 as prize balls (giving game value). In addition, a right for performing a special game determination (a jackpot determination) as to whether or not to execute a special game (here, a jackpot game) is granted (special figure determination information described later is stored).

  Below the decorative frame 40 and diagonally to the right of the first start opening 45, it is impossible to win a game ball (enter a ball) based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (that is, winning in the hit determination described later) or There is provided a variable starter 46 capable of winning a game ball from a difficult closed state or converting it to an easy open state.

  The variable starter 46 has a top surface inclined downward in the left-right direction (left side in FIG. 1) to form a flow path for a game ball, and a movable member 48 that is movable in the front-rear direction and a position directly below the movable member 48. A second start opening 47 that opens upward (a start winning area of the second special symbol) and a second start opening detection switch 47a (FIG. 4) that detects a game ball that has won (entered) the second start opening 47. And the movable member 48 is moved toward the front (award-restricted position) to convert the second start port 47 to the closed state, and the movable member 48 is moved toward the rear (award-allowed position). A second start port opening / closing solenoid 48b (see FIG. 4) for converting the second start port 47 to an open state is provided.

  Then, a game ball wins a second start port 47 that is opened during an auxiliary game, which will be described later, and this game ball is detected by the second start port detection switch 47a (see FIG. 4) (giving conditions are satisfied). , A predetermined number of game balls (for example, two) are paid out to the upper plate 11 as prize balls (giving game value) from the payout device 95 (see FIG. 3). Also, a right to make a special game determination as to whether or not to execute a special game (here, a big hit game) is given (stores special figure determination information described later).

  The right game area on the right side of the decorative frame 40 is provided with a general figure gate 44 (normal figure start area) through which game balls can always pass. When the game ball that has passed through the normal gate 44 is detected by the gate detection switch 44a, no prize ball is given, but the right to make an auxiliary game determination (winning determination) as to whether or not to execute the auxiliary game is granted. Granted (general-purpose determination information described later is stored).

  Downstream of the usual gate 44, a game ball can be won from a closed state in which it is impossible or difficult to win based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (the winning of a special game determination is won). A first variable winning portion 49 that can be converted into a state is provided.

  The first variable winning portion 49 has a first ball winning opening and closing member 51 that is movable in the front-rear direction and has a flow path for a game ball when the upper surface is inclined downward in the left-right direction (left side in the figure). A first grand prize opening 50 (winning area) that opens upward just below the first grand prize opening opening / closing member 51 and a game ball that has won (entered) the first grand prize opening. By moving the mouth detection switch 50a and the first big prize opening / closing member 51 forward (winning regulation position), the first big prize opening 50 is converted into a closed state, and the first big prize opening opening / closing member 51 is also provided. The first big prize opening opening / closing solenoid 51b (see FIG. 4) is provided for converting the first big prize opening 50 into the open state by moving the rearward (backward allowable position).

  When the first big prize opening / closing member 51 moves from the prize regulation position to the winning possible position during the jackpot game, the first big prize opening 50 is converted to an open state, and the upper surface of the first big prize opening / closing member 51 is moved. The game ball that has flowed down or the game ball that has reached the first grand prize opening 50 wins the first big prize opening 50. When a game ball that has won the first grand prize opening 50 is detected by the first big prize opening detection switch 50a (giving conditions are met), a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 15 balls) are paid out. It is paid out to the upper plate 11 as a prize ball (giving game value) from the device 95 (see FIG. 3).

  Downstream of the first variable winning portion 49, it is possible or easy to win a game ball from a closed state in which it is impossible or difficult to win a game ball (winning) based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (the winning of a special game determination is won) A second variable winning portion 52 that can be converted into an open state is provided.

  The second variable winning portion 52 has a second large winning opening opening / closing member 54 that is movable in the front-rear direction and has a flow path for a game ball when the upper surface is inclined downward in the left-right direction (right side in the figure). A second grand prize opening 53 (winning area) that opens upward just below the second big prize opening opening / closing member 54 and a game ball that has won (entered) the second major prize opening. By moving the mouth detection switch 53a and the second big prize opening / closing member 54 toward the front (winning regulation position), the second big prize opening 53 is converted into the closed state, and the second big prize opening opening / closing member 54 is changed. Is moved rearward (winning allowance position) to provide a second large winning opening / closing solenoid 54b (see FIG. 4) for converting the second large winning opening 53 into an open state.

  When the second big prize opening / closing member 54 moves from the prize regulation position to the prize-permitting position during the jackpot game, the second big prize opening 53 is converted to the open state, and the upper surface of the second big prize opening / closing member 54 is The game balls that have flowed down and the game balls that have reached the second grand prize opening 53 win the second big prize opening 53. When the game balls that have won the second grand prize opening 53 are detected by the second big prize opening detection switch 53a, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 15 balls) are dispensed out 95 (see FIG. 3). To the upper plate 11 as a prize ball.

  Then, the game ball launched into the left game area flows down as it is along the outer edge of the decoration frame 40 or flows into the warp device 41 and then flows down through the stage portion 42 and is provided below the decoration frame 40. Either of the three general winning openings 43 and the first start opening 45 won or flow into the out opening 39. Therefore, winning in the general winning opening 43, the ordinary gate 44, the first variable winning section 49 (first large winning opening 50) and the second variable winning section 52 (second large winning opening 53) provided in the right game area ( Never pass).

  In addition, the game balls launched in the right game area are the general winning opening 43, the general gate 44, the variable starting section 46 (second starting opening 47), the first variable winning section 49 (first first winning opening 50), Either one of the second variable winning portions 52 (second large winning port 53) is won or flows into the out port 39. Therefore, no winning is made in the general winning opening 43 and the first starting opening 45 provided in the left game area.

  On the back side of the game board 5, the game balls that have won the general winning opening 43, the first starting opening 45, the second starting opening 47, the first large winning opening 50 and the second large winning opening 53, and the out opening 39 An out-ball flow path for receiving and collecting the out-balls composed of the inflowing game balls is provided, and an out-ball detection switch 57a (see FIG. 4) is provided at the most downstream portion of the out-ball flow path. The game ball that has flowed down the out ball flow path and is detected by the out ball detection switch 57a is discharged from the discharge port on the back side of the game machine 1 to the outside (island facility) of the game machine 1.

  Outside the gaming area 5a, a symbol display device comprising a first special symbol display 60, a second special symbol display 61 and a normal symbol display 62, a first special symbol hold indicator 63, and a second special symbol hold A hold display device comprising a display 64 and a normal symbol hold display 65, a round number display 66 for displaying the number of rounds when a jackpot game (special game) to be described later is executed, and a jackpot game (special game) to be described later ) A right-handed display 67 that prompts the player to launch a game ball toward the right game area during the middle or high probability game state is provided.

  The first special symbol display 60 displays the result of the special game determination performed based on the winning (winning) of the game ball to the first start opening 45 (notifies the result of the jackpot determination of the first special symbol). The second special symbol display 61 displays the result of the special game determination made based on the winning of the game ball (entering the ball) to the second starting port 47 (the jackpot determination of the second special symbol) The normal symbol display 62 displays the result of the auxiliary game determination performed based on the passage (incoming ball) of the game ball to the general gate 44 (the normal symbol of the normal symbol display 62). This is a variable display for notifying the result of the hit determination.

  Special game determination means that special game determination information (a jackpot determination random number value, a special symbol determination random number value, a reach determination determination) when a game ball wins (enters) the first start port 45 or the second start port 47 This corresponds to determining whether or not to execute a jackpot game based on the acquired special figure determination information.

  When the special game determination is made based on the winning of the game ball to the first start opening 45, the first special symbol display 60 displays the variation of the first special symbol and notifies the determination result after a predetermined time has elapsed. The first special symbol to be stopped is displayed. When a special game determination is made based on the winning of a game ball at the second starting port 47, the second special symbol display 61 displays a variation of the second special symbol and notifies the determination result after a predetermined time has elapsed. The second special symbol to be stopped is displayed.

  The first special symbol display device 60 and the second special symbol display device 61 are each composed of a plurality of LEDs, and the LED of the corresponding display device blinks at a predetermined interval or order in the variable display of each special symbol. When the special symbol is stopped and displayed, the LED is lit in a mode (a big hit mode, a small hit mode, or a lost mode) for notifying the result of the special game determination.

  In the present embodiment, “big hit” means a state in which it is decided to execute a big hit game (special game) in the special game determination. The “hit game” means that a round game in which the big prize opening (first big prize opening 50, second big prize opening 53) is converted from the closed state to the open state in a predetermined manner is repeated a predetermined number of times (interval). For example, it means a game state advantageous to a player who can easily win a prize ball by a player who performs two times, sixteen times, and the like.

  In addition, although the maximum number of times of opening and the maximum opening time of the big winning opening (the first big winning opening 50 and the second big winning opening 53) in each round game are determined in advance, before reaching the maximum opening number and the maximum opening time. Even so, when a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 9 balls) are won (entered) in the big winning opening, one round game is completed. In the present embodiment, any one of a plurality of types of jackpot games (special games) having different degrees of advantage for the player can be executed.

  Further, “small hit” refers to a state in which it is determined to execute a small hit game (special game) in the special game determination. “Small win game” means that a player who plays a game in which the big winning opening (second big winning opening 53) is converted from the closed state to the open state in a disadvantageous manner than the big winning game is likely to win a prize ball. A game state advantageous to the player.

  Note that the maximum opening time of the big winning opening in the small hit game is determined in advance, but even before the maximum opening time is reached, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) win the winning (entry) ) The small hit game ends. Unlike the big hit game, the gaming state is not changed based on (because of) the execution of the small hit game.

  Auxiliary game determination is based on the passage (entering) of a game ball to the general gate 44 (general determination information, such as a random number for winning determination, a random number for determining normal symbols, a random number for determining normal variation patterns, etc.) This corresponds to determining whether or not to execute the auxiliary game based on the acquired common-rule determination information. When the auxiliary game determination is made, the normal symbol display unit 62 displays a variation of the normal symbol, and a normal symbol stop display for notifying the determination result after a predetermined time has elapsed.

  The normal symbol display 62 is composed of a plurality of LEDs, and the LEDs blink at a predetermined interval or order in the normal symbol variation display. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the LED is lit in a mode (a hit mode or a lost mode) for notifying the result of the auxiliary game determination.

  In the present embodiment, “winning” refers to a state in which it is determined to perform an auxiliary game (winning game) in the auxiliary game determination. The “auxiliary game” refers to a game state in which the second start port 47 is opened in a predetermined manner.

  Note that the maximum number of times and the maximum opening time of the second start port 47 in the auxiliary game (winning game) are determined in advance, but even before the maximum number of times and the maximum opening time are reached, When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10) wins (enters), the auxiliary game (winning game) ends. That is, the “auxiliary game” is a game state in which the start condition for the variable display of the second special symbol is easily established. In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of auxiliary games (winning games) having different degrees of advantage for the player are provided.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 63 is composed of a plurality of LEDs, and the number of special figure determination information (first special figure hold) stored when a game ball wins (enters) the first start port 45. Is displayed or flashes in a manner indicating the number of first special figure reservations. Note that the maximum number of first special figure reservations is four, but it may be less or more than four.

  The second special symbol hold indicator 64 is constituted by a plurality of LEDs, and the number of special figure determination information (second special figure hold) stored when a game ball wins (enters) the second start port 47. It is for displaying the number of second special figure reservations, and lights or blinks in a manner indicating the number of second special figure reservations. Note that up to four second special figure holds can be stored, but it may be less or more than four, or the second special figure hold may not be stored. Good.

  The normal symbol hold indicator 65 is composed of a plurality of LEDs, and the number of the general symbol hold is the number of the general symbol determination information (the normal symbol hold) stored when the game ball wins (passes) the normal symbol gate 44. Is displayed, and is lit or blinks in a manner indicating the number of pending orders. Note that up to four general-purpose holds are stored, but the number may be less than or more than four, or the general-purpose hold may not be stored.

  The first special symbol display 60 and / or the second special symbol display 61 can also be configured by 7-segment LEDs. For example, when winning a special symbol jackpot lottery, “3” or “7” is stopped and “-” is stopped when it is lost. It is better to repeat turning off and “-”.

  A first image display device 70 (main liquid crystal) made up of a liquid crystal display is provided at the back of the effect space 40a defined inside the decorative frame 40. The first image display is provided below the effect space 40a. In front of the device 70, a second image display device 71 (sub liquid crystal) composed of a liquid crystal display having a size and display area smaller than that of the first image display device 70 is provided, and above the effect space 40a. A movable effect device 73 for executing an operation effect is provided, and a change notification LED 59 for notifying the execution state of the change display of special symbols is provided on the right side of the effect space 40a.

  The first image display device 70 and the second image display device 71 display various effects according to the progress of the game. As the effect display, the customer waiting demonstration effect that is performed during the non-execution of the special symbol variation display, the variation effect accompanied by the variation display of the effect symbol 70a performed during the execution of the special symbol variation display, and the execution of the jackpot game There is a jackpot production etc. performed inside.

  In addition, the second image display device 71 can perform a moving effect by moving by a liquid crystal movable device (not shown) configured by a solenoid, a motor, or the like while the first image display device 70 is performing a varying effect. It has become.

  Specifically, a vertical direction between a standby position (lower position) located near the end of the first image display device 70 and an effect position (upper position) located near the center of the first image display device 70. The movement effect is performed by moving (raising and lowering). The moving direction of the second image display device 71 (sub liquid crystal) may be the left-right direction or the front-back direction, or the moving effect may be performed by operating the effect button 17.

  On the display unit (effective display area) of the first image display device 70 (main liquid crystal display), a variable display area for displaying three effect symbols 70a (left symbol, middle symbol, right symbol) and execution of variable effects. A mode display area or the like indicating an effect mode according to the above is formed.

  The effect symbol 70a is composed of symbols indicating numbers from "1" to "9", for example, and the special symbol variable display executed by the first special symbol display 60 or the second special symbol display 61 is performed. The variable display is started in response to the start of the symbol, and the stop display is performed in response to the stop of the variable symbol variable display. In addition, you may use the symbol which shows the alphabet of "A" to "F" as the production | presentation symbol 70a.

  In the stop display of the effect symbol 70a, the effect symbol 70a is stopped for a predetermined time in a mode in which the result of the special game determination (big hit determination) is notified (losing mode, big hit mode, small hit mode). The big hit mode is a combination of the same production symbols 70a such as “777”, the small hit mode is a combination of the production symbols 70a having regularity such as “357”, and the loss mode is It is an aspect other than.

  The variation display mode of the effect symbol 70a is scrolling in the vertical direction, but it may be scrolling in the horizontal direction, or may be switching or rotating (spinning) on the spot. Good.

  Further, during the variation display (variation representation) of the effect symbol 70a, various effect images such as background images and characters, movies, and the like are displayed on the first image display device 70 and the second image display according to the result of the special game determination. By being displayed on the device 71, the player's expectation that the jackpot game (special game) is executed is enhanced.

  The first image display device 70 includes a first hold icon display area 70 </ b> C for displaying the number of first hold icons (first hold display) corresponding to the first special figure hold number (U <b> 1). The second hold icon display area 70D for displaying the number of second hold icons (second hold display) corresponding to the figure hold number (U2), and the execution of the variable effect executed by subtracting the special figure hold number The icon display area 70E and the like for displaying the icon (digestion hold display) indicating that it is inside are formed.

  The first hold icon display area 70C has a first display section 70C1 (first area), a second display section 70C2 (second area), and a third display section 70C3 (third area) from the side close to the icon display area 70E. The fourth display unit 70C4 (fourth area) is partitioned, and the first display unit 70C1 to the fourth display unit 70C4 have the number of first reservations corresponding to the first special figure reservation number (U1). An icon is displayed.

  Specifically, the first display unit 70C1 displays a first hold icon indicating the first hold storage in which the first special symbol variable display is executed first, and the second display unit 70C2 displays the second hold The first hold icon indicating the first hold storage in which the variable display of the first special symbol is executed is displayed on the third display unit 70C3, and the first special symbol variable display is executed third. The first hold icon indicating the hold memory is displayed, and the first hold icon indicating the first hold memory in which the variable display of the first special symbol is executed fourth is displayed on the fourth display unit 70C4.

  The second hold icon display area 70D includes, from the left side, a first display unit 70D1 (first area), a second display unit 70D2 (second area), a third display unit 70D3 (third area), and a fourth display unit 70D4 ( (Fourth area), and the number of second hold icons corresponding to the second special figure hold number (U2) is displayed on the first display unit 70D1 to the fourth display unit 70D4.

  Specifically, on the first display unit 70D1, a second hold icon indicating the second hold storage in which the variable display of the second special symbol is executed first is displayed, and the second display unit 70D2 displays the second hold icon. 2nd hold icon which shows the 2nd hold memory in which the change display of the 2nd special symbol is performed is displayed on the 3rd display part 70D3, and the 2nd change display of the 2nd special symbol is executed 3rd A second on-hold icon indicating the on-hold storage is displayed, and a second on-hold icon indicating the second on-hold storage in which the variable display of the second special symbol is executed fourth is displayed on the fourth display unit 70D4.

  The icon display area 70E is formed immediately above the pedestal image for clearly distinguishing from the first hold icon display area 70C and the second hold icon display area 70D, and rides on or floats on the pedestal image. The icon is displayed as follows.

  Specifically, the first hold icons displayed in the first hold icon display area 70C with the start of the variable display of the first special symbol (effect design 70a) are directed to the icon display area 70E one by one. The first hold icon that has been moved (shifted) and displayed on the first display unit 70C1 is moved (shifted) to the icon display area 70E to become the icon, and the variable display of the first special symbol (production symbol 70a). At the end of, the icon disappears (erases).

  In addition, the second hold icon displayed in the second hold icon display area 70D is moved (shifted) one by one toward the icon display area 70E with the start of the variable display of the second special symbol (effect design 70a). ) And the second hold icon displayed on the first display unit 70D1 moves (shifts) to the icon display area 70E to become the icon, and at the end of the variable display of the second special symbol (production symbol 70a) The icon disappears (erases). In addition, you may make the said icon disappear in the middle of the variable display of the special symbol (effect symbol 70a).

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the first image display device 70 displays the variation of the effect symbol 70a, but the second image display device 71 may perform the variation display of the effect symbol, or the first The variation display of the effect symbol 70 a may be performed by both the image display device 70 and the second image display device 71.

  The movable effect device 73 includes a movable first movable member 73a and a second movable member 73b, and the first movable member 73a and the second movable member 73b are displayed during the execution of the variable display of the effect symbol 70a executed by the first image display device 70. An operation effect can be executed by causing the second movable member 73b to perform a predetermined operation. The first movable member 73a and the second movable member 73b are provided with a panel lighting device 74 having a plurality of decorative LEDs, and can emit light in a predetermined manner during execution of an operation effect. .

  Specifically, the first movable member 73a is positioned near the end (upper) of the first image display device 70 at the standby position (first position) and closer to the center of the first image display device 70 (lower). It moves (increases and descends) between the effect position (second position). The second movable member 73b moves between a standby position (first position) that covers a part of the front of the first movable member 73a and an effect position that retreats from the front of the first movable member 73a. .

  The change notification LED 59 is configured by a full color LED, and is provided with a first change notification LED 59a corresponding to the first special symbol and a second change notification LED 59b corresponding to the second special symbol. The first change notification LED 59a starts a color change (a change display of the first special symbol) in response to the start of the change display of the first special symbol, and a color corresponding to the stop of the change display of the first special symbol. Is stopped (variation display of the first special symbol), thereby informing whether or not the first special symbol is variably displayed. The second change notification LED 59b starts a color change (a change display of the second special symbol) in response to the start of the change display of the second special symbol, and a color in response to the stop of the change display of the second special symbol. Is stopped (variation display of the second special symbol) to notify whether or not the second special symbol is variably displayed.

  In addition, the combination of the effect symbol 70a and the second special symbol which are stopped and displayed while notifying the result of the change display (special game determination) of the first special symbol by the combination of the effect symbol 70a which is stopped and the first special symbol. Thus, the result of the variation display (special game range) of the second special symbol may be notified. Further, the result of the change display (special game determination) of the first special symbol is notified only by the first special symbol that is stopped and displayed, and the change display (special game determination) of the second special symbol is displayed only by the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed. ) Result may be notified.

  The first special symbol or the second special symbol is not displayed by the first variation notification LED 59a or the second variation notification LED 59b, but the first special symbol or the second special symbol is displayed on the first image display device 70 or the second special symbol. The two-image display device 71 may perform variable display.

  On the back side of the game board mounting frame 3 and the game board 5, a game supplied from a payout device 95, an island facility, etc. for paying out game balls based on establishment of predetermined payout conditions (award balls, ball rental) A game ball storage unit 96 that stores and supplies the balls to the payout device 95, a main control device 110A that includes the main control board 110, a payout control device 120A that includes the payout control board 120, and an effect control board 130. An effect control device 130A, a power supply device 160A with a built-in power supply board 160, a game information output terminal board 90 for outputting game information to the outside of the gaming machine (information collecting device such as a hall computer), and the like are provided.

  There is also provided an open / close door type cover member 23 that opens and closes the left and right other sides in the left-right direction around a rotation axis set on one side left and right so as to cover the upper part of the main control device and the entire production control device from the rear. The production control device 130A includes a volume of production sound output from the audio output device 9 so as to be covered by the cover member 23, an image display device, and various illumination devices (frame illumination device 10, panel illumination device 74). A change-over switch 22 is provided for switching an adjustment mode related to the adjustment of the amount of light.

(Block diagram of the entire gaming machine)
Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described with reference to the entire block diagram of the gaming machine 1 in FIG. FIG. 4 is an overall block diagram of the gaming machine 1.

  The control configuration of the present embodiment includes a main control board 110 that comprehensively controls the progress (basic operation) of the game, and a payout control that controls payout of game balls based on receipt of payout control commands from the main control board 110. The board 120, the stage control board 130 for controlling the stage related to the game based on the reception of the stage control command from the main control board 110, and the power board for supplying power to the main control board 110, the payout control board 120 and the stage control board 130 160.

  The communication between the main control board 110 and the payout control board 120 is configured so that commands can be transmitted and received in both directions, and the communication between the main control board 110 and the effect control board 130 is effect control from the main control board 110. A command can be transmitted only in one direction to the substrate 130.

  The main control board 110 includes a main CPU 110a that performs arithmetic processing, a main ROM 110b that stores a game control program and the like, a main RAM 110c that serves as a work area during arithmetic processing, an input / output port, and the like. 110m.

  The input / output port of the main controller 110m includes a general winning opening detection switch 43a, a gate detection switch 44a, a first starting opening detection switch 45a, a second starting opening detection switch 47a, a second starting opening / closing solenoid 48b, a first large Winning port detection switch 50a, first large winning port opening / closing solenoid 51b, second large winning port detection switch 53a, second large winning port opening / closing solenoid 54b, magnetic detection sensor 55a, radio wave detection sensor 56a, out ball detection switch 57a, first 1 special symbol display 60, second special symbol display 61, normal symbol display 62, first special symbol hold indicator 63, second special symbol hold indicator 64, normal symbol hold indicator 65, round number indicator 66, right-handed display 67, game information output terminal board 90, RWM clear switch 111a, setting key switch 112a, information display 13, dispensing control board 120 and the performance control board 130 is connected.

  The main CPU 110a receives the operation clock from the crystal oscillator, reads the game control program stored in the main ROM 110b, and performs arithmetic processing related to the game while using the main RAM 110c as a work area. As a result, control processing according to detection signals from various input devices (detection switches, detection sensors, etc.), control processing for controlling various output devices (solenoids, indicators, etc.), and transmission / reception of various control commands Control processing, control processing for transmitting game information to the outside of the gaming machine (such as a hall computer) via the game information output terminal board 90, and the like are performed.

  The payout control board 120 includes a payout control unit 121 that controls the payout of the game ball by driving the payout device 95 and a launch control unit 122 that controls the launch of the game ball by driving the launching device 26.

  The payout control unit 121 includes a payout CPU 121a that performs arithmetic processing, a payout ROM 121b that stores a payout program, a payout RAM 121c that serves as a work area during the arithmetic processing, an input / output port, and the like.

  In order to pay out the game ball from the payout control unit 121, the open detection switch 31 a, the fullness detection switch 32 a, the payout ball detection switch 95 a for detecting the game ball paid out from the payout device 95, and the payout device 95. Connected to the payout motor 95b and the game ball storage unit 96 is a ball presence detection switch 96a for detecting that the game ball is stored.

  The payout CPU 121a receives an operation clock from the crystal oscillator, reads the payout control program stored in the payout ROM 121b, and performs arithmetic processing related to payout of the game ball while using the payout RAM 121c as a work area. Thereby, a control process for paying out a game ball from the payout device 95 according to a payout control command from the main control board 110, a control process for sending a command based on the result of the arithmetic process to the main control board 110, and the like. Do.

The launch control unit 122 includes a control circuit and input / output ports (not shown).
A ball feed solenoid 11b, a touch sensor 15a, a firing volume 15b, a firing solenoid 28b, and the like are connected to an input / output port of the firing control unit 122.

  When the firing control unit 122 detects that the player's hand is touching the firing handle 15 by a touch signal input from the touch sensor 15a, the ball feeding solenoid 11b and the firing solenoid 28b are allowed to be energized and fired. When it is detected by the detection signal from the volume 15b that the rotation angle of the firing handle 15 has changed, the ball feed solenoid 11b is driven and the firing solenoid is set so that the firing intensity is in accordance with the rotation angle of the firing handle 15. 28b is driven to fire game balls (99.9 pieces / min).

  The effect control board 130 includes an effect control unit 130m that comprehensively controls the progress of the effect based on the reception of the effect control command from the main control board 110, and an image display or the like based on the reception of the effect control command from the effect control unit 130m. A display control unit 140 that performs audio output control processing, and a lamp control unit 150 that performs control processing of various light emitting members (LEDs, etc.) and various drive sources (motors, etc.) based on reception of the production control commands from the production control unit 130m. It has.

  The effect control unit 130m includes a sub CPU 130a that performs arithmetic processing, a sub ROM 130b that stores an effect control program, a sub RAM 130c that serves as a work area during the arithmetic processing, and an input / output port.

  The effect button detection switch 17a and the cross key detection switch 19a are connected to the input / output port of the effect control unit 130m.

  The sub CPU 130a receives the operation clock from the crystal oscillator, reads out the effect control program stored in the sub ROM 130b, and performs calculation processing related to the effect while using the sub RAM 130c as a work area. Thereby, according to the control process for determining the effect mode of the variable effect, the control process for transmitting the effect control command based on the determination result to the display control unit 140, and the detection signals from various input devices (detection switches, etc.) Control processing, and control processing for controlling various output devices (such as lighting devices and motors).

  Upon receiving a command from the effect control unit 130m, the display control unit 140 performs control to display a predetermined image on the first image display device 70 and the second image display device 71, or causes the audio output device 9 to perform predetermined sound. And control to output sound.

  The display control unit 140 performs overall control of image display and audio output based on reception of the effect control command from the effect control unit 130m, and display control commands (display list) from the overall control unit 141. Receives an image control unit 145 (VDP) that controls the first image display device 70 and the second image display device 71 based on the reception, a CGROM 146 that stores image data and the like, and a voice control command from the overall control unit 141. An audio control unit 148 (audio LSI) for controlling the audio output device 9 based on the audio ROM 149 storing audio data and the like is provided.

  The overall control unit 141 includes an overall CPU 141a that performs arithmetic processing, an overall ROM 141b that stores an overall control program, an overall RAM 141c that serves as a work area during the arithmetic processing, an image control unit 145 (VDP), and an audio control unit 148 (audio). Input / output port to which an LSI) is connected.

  The overall CPU 141a receives an operation clock from the crystal oscillator, reads the overall control program stored in the overall ROM 141b, and performs a calculation process related to the effect while using the overall RAM 141c as a work area. Thereby, a control process for generating a display control command (display list) for instructing an effect image to be displayed on the first image display device 70 and the second image display device 71 and transmitting it to the display control unit 140, an audio output device Control processing for generating a voice control command for instructing a production sound to be output from the voice number 9 and transmitting it to the voice control unit 148 (voice LSI) is performed.

  The lamp control unit 150 includes a lamp CPU 150a that performs arithmetic processing, a lamp ROM 150b that stores a lamp control program, a lamp RAM 150c that serves as a work area during the arithmetic processing, the frame illumination device 10, a button drive motor 17b, and a button vibration motor. 17c, button light emitting LED 17d, and an input / output port.

  The input / output port of the lamp control unit 150 is connected to the frame illumination device 10, the button drive motor 17b, the button vibration motor 17c, the button light emitting LED 17d, the movable effect device 73, and the panel illumination device 74.

  The lamp CPU 150a receives the operation clock from the crystal oscillator, reads the lamp control program stored in the lamp ROM 150b, and performs a calculation process related to the effect while using the lamp RAM 150c as a work area. Thereby, the control processing of the frame illumination device 10, the button drive motor 17b, the button vibration motor 17c, the button light emitting LED 17d, the movable effect device 73, and the panel illumination device 74 is performed.

  The power supply board 160 generates a main power supply (operation power supply) necessary for the operation of the gaming machine from a power supply supplied from the outside of the gaming machine, and the main power supply is used for the gaming machine 1 (the main control board 110, the payout control board 120, It is supplied to an effect control board 130 and various electronic components (corresponding to power supply means). The power supply board 160 detects whether or not the supplied power supply voltage has dropped (a power failure has occurred) and outputs a voltage drop signal to the main control board 110 based on the power supply voltage drop (a power failure has occurred). A disconnection detection circuit 162 and a backup power supply circuit 163 for supplying backup power to the main control board 110 when the power is disconnected (power failure) are provided.

  In addition, the power supply board 160 is used to switch between an ON state for supplying main power to the gaming machine 1 (main control board 110, payout control board 120, effect control board 130, and various electronic components) and an OFF state for stopping. A power switch is provided so that it can be operated by a store clerk of the game store. When the power switch is turned on, supply of the main power is started and the operation of the gaming machine 1 is started. Even if the power switch is OFF, the supply of backup power to the main control board 110 is maintained.

  The power interruption detection circuit 162 monitors the power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1 and outputs a voltage drop detection signal to the main control board 110 when the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less. When the power supply voltage becomes larger than a predetermined value during output, the output of the voltage drop detection signal is stopped.

  The backup power supply circuit 163 includes a capacitor that stores electricity when the gaming machine is energized. When a power interruption (power failure) occurs, the backup power supply voltage stored in the capacitor is supplied to the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110. Supply. As a result, the stored contents of the main RAM 110c are retained even when the power is cut off (power failure), and the game control state is restored to the state before the power interruption (power failure) after recovery from the power failure (power failure). Can do.

  Although the backup power supply is not supplied to the payout control board 120 and the effect control unit 130m, the payout control board 120 and the sub RAM 130c are stored so that the stored contents are retained even when the power is cut off (power failure). Backup power may be supplied to the effect control unit 130m. Further, backup power may be supplied to only one of the payout control board 120 and the effect control unit 130m.

(Description of gaming state)
Next, the gaming state when the game progresses will be described. In the present embodiment, there are “low probability gaming state” and “high probability gaming state” as states relating to the special game determination (big hit determination), and “non-short-time gaming” as the state relating to the movable member 48 of the second starting port 47. State "and" short-time gaming state ". Therefore, in this embodiment,
(1) “Low probability non-short game state” which is a low-probability gaming state and a non-temporal gaming state;
(2) “Low-probability short-time gaming state” which is a low-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state;
(3) A “high-probability short-time gaming state” that is a high-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state is provided.

  Note that the initial gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is set to a “low probability non-short gaming state”, and this gaming state is referred to as a “normal gaming state” in the present embodiment. In addition, the gaming state during the jackpot game is also set to the “low-probability non-short-time gaming state”, but the gaming state is different from the normal gaming state.

  Here, the “low probability gaming state” means, for example, when the set value (the jackpot probability in the jackpot lottery) is “1” at the advantageous level of the game, the first start port 45 or the second start In a special game determination (a jackpot determination) that is performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the mouth 47, it means a gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is set to be as low as about 1/300.

  On the other hand, the “high probability gaming state” means that when the set value is “1”, the winning probability of jackpot is set as high as about 1/60, so that the player is compared with the low probability gaming state. A game state that is advantageous to the game. Note that the transition from the low probability gaming state to the high probability gaming state is performed after the end of the jackpot game.

  In addition, the “non-short-time gaming state” means that in the auxiliary game determination (winning determination) performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the normal gate 44, the winning probability of winning is set as low as 1/16. It means a gaming state in which the average display time of the symbol variation display is set to about 30 seconds, and the opening time of the second start opening 47 when winning is won is set to 0.2 seconds.

  On the other hand, the “short-time gaming state” means that the winning probability of winning is set as high as 15/16, the average display time of the normal symbol fluctuation display is set to about 3 seconds, and the winning winning is 2 The opening time of the start port 47 is set to 5 seconds, which means a gaming state that is advantageous to the player with reduced consumption of game balls compared to the non-time-saving gaming state. The transition from the non-time-saving gaming state to the time-saving gaming state is performed after the end of the jackpot game.

  It should be noted that the “short time gaming state” is set to be more advantageous for the average symbol variation time, the opening time of the second start opening 47 and the winning probability of winning the lottery than the “non-short time gaming state”. Alternatively, only one of the average symbol variation time, the opening time of the second start port 47, and the winning probability of winning the lottery may be set to be advantageous.

  In addition, the winning probability of winning in the auxiliary game determination in the non-time-saving gaming state is the same without changing depending on the setting value, but it is different depending on the setting value so that the winning probability becomes more advantageous as the setting value becomes larger. Also good. In addition, the winning winning probability in the auxiliary game determination in the short-time gaming state is the same without changing depending on the setting value, but it is different depending on the setting value so that the winning probability becomes more advantageous as the setting value becomes larger. Also good.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Big hit judgment table)
FIG. 5A is a jackpot determination for the first special symbol that is referred to when determining (special jackpot determination) the special figure determination information acquired based on the winning of the game ball to the first start opening 45 (winning ball). FIG. 5B is a second special symbol that is referred to when determining (special jackpot determination) the special figure determination information acquired based on the winning (winning) of the game ball at the second starting port 47. It is a jackpot determination table for.

  As shown in FIGS. 5A to 5B, the jackpot determination table includes a current set value, a probability gaming state when the jackpot determination is performed, a jackpot determination random value, and a determination result of the jackpot determination ( Jackpots, jackpots, loses) are associated with each other, and for reference, the approximate winning probabilities in the case of “big hits” or “small hits” are described in the rightmost column as a reference.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 5 (a) or the jackpot determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 5 (b), and sets the current set value and the current probability game. Based on the state and the jackpot determination random number value, it is determined whether it is “big hit”, “small hit”, or “lost”.

  For example, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 5A, when the set value is “1” and the gaming state is low probability, 200 pieces of “100” to “299” are obtained. When the jackpot determination random number value is determined as “big hit” and the game state is a high-probability gaming state, 1000 jackpot determination random number values “100” to “1099” are determined as “big hit”. In addition, regardless of whether the game state is a low probability game state or a high probability game state, 200 jackpot determination random numbers “2000” to “2199” are determined to be “small hit”. Therefore, the jackpot determination random value other than the jackpot or the jackpot is determined to be “lost”.

  A feature of the special symbol jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 5 is that the jackpot probability changes depending on the set value, but the small hit probability does not change and is constant. In this way, the player's advantage level does not change extremely depending on the set value, and the player can play the game with peace of mind.

  The probability of being determined to be a big hit in the high probability gaming state is five times the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the low probability gaming state (common regardless of the set value). The probability of being performed is not limited to 5 times, and may be set to an arbitrary value such as 3 times or 8 times if the value is 10 times or less.

  Moreover, although the jackpot is not set in the jackpot determination table for the second special symbol, the jackpot may be set to have the same probability as the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol, The jackpot may be set to have a different probability from the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol.

  In addition, the larger the set value is, the more advantageous to the player (the higher the probability of jackpot) is. On the contrary, the smaller the set value is, the more advantageous to the player (the higher the probability of jackpot is). It may be.

  In addition, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the low probability gaming state and / or the high probability gaming state may be the same in all the setting values (1 to 4). For example, two or three setting values ( 1 and 2, 1-3, etc.), the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the low probability gaming state and / or the high probability gaming state may be the same.

(Special symbol judgment table)
FIG. 6A is a special symbol determination table for jackpots that is referred to when determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when determined to be a big hit, and FIG. 6B is a case where it is determined that the game has been lost. FIG. 6C is a special symbol determination table for loss referred to when determining the stop symbol of the special symbol, and FIG. 6C shows the small hits referred to when determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when determined to be the small hits. It is a special symbol determination table for use.

  As shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C, the special symbol determination table includes a special symbol type for determining a stop symbol, a special symbol determination random number, a determination result of the special symbol determination, and this determination. The stop special symbol data indicating the result is associated with the special symbol designation command indicating the determination result of the special symbol determination.

  Special symbols “01” and “04” are jackpot special symbols that execute the first jackpot game consisting of 16 round games, and special symbols “02” and “05” are from 16 round games. The jackpot special symbol for executing the second jackpot game is “03”, and “03” is the jackpot special symbol for executing the third jackpot game consisting of two round games. The special symbols “00” and “10” are lost special symbols in which the jackpot game is not executed. Also, the special symbols “20” and “21” are small bonus special symbols in which the small bonus game is executed.

  In addition, although one losing special symbol is associated with each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, a plurality of losing special symbols are associated with at least one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Also good.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the special symbol determination table shown in any of FIGS. 6A to 6C, and determines the special symbol based on the special symbol type for determining the stop symbol and the special symbol determination random number. The type, stop special symbol data, and special symbol designation command are determined, and the special symbol designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130.

  The first feature of the special symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6 is that the type of the big bonus special symbol, the type of the special bonus symbol, and the type of the special bonus symbol are the same without changing depending on the set value. By doing so, it becomes possible that the player can play the game with peace of mind without being too complex. In addition, it is good also considering at least one of a big hit special symbol and a small hit special symbol as one kind.

  The second feature of the special symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6 is that the selection ratio of various jackpot special symbols, the selection ratio of various losing symbols, and the selection ratio of various small hit symbols are constant without changing depending on the set value. Is mentioned. In this way, the player's advantage level does not change extremely depending on the set value, and the player can play the game with peace of mind.

(Special figure fluctuation pattern judgment table)
FIG. 7 is a special figure variation pattern determination table for the non-short-time gaming state which is referred to when determining the variation pattern of the special symbol in the non-short-time gaming state.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the special figure fluctuation pattern determination table, the type of special symbol (starting port) for performing fluctuation display, the determination result of jackpot determination, the determination result of special symbol (stop special graphic data), Reach determination random number, first special figure hold number (U1) or second special figure hold number (U2), special figure fluctuation pattern judgment random number value, special figure fluctuation pattern as a judgment result, and special symbol Are associated with a special figure fluctuation pattern designation command indicating a special figure fluctuation pattern.

  Therefore, it can be said that the “special pattern variation pattern” can specify at least the special symbol type, the determination result of the jackpot determination, and the special symbol variation time. Further, when the determination result of the big hit determination is lost, the reach determination random number value is referred to, but when the big hit and the small hit are determined, the reach determination random number value is not referred to.

  In the special figure variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 7, when the determination result of the jackpot determination is a loss, if the number of special figure reservations (the number of first special figure reservations) increases, the variation time of the special symbol is shortened. The fluctuation pattern is determined.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the special figure variation pattern judgment table shown in FIG. 7, and determines the jackpot judgment result, special symbol judgment result (stop special figure data), reach judgment random number value, first special figure reservation number (U1) ) Or 2nd special figure hold number (U2), special figure fluctuation pattern determination random number value, special figure fluctuation pattern, special symbol fluctuation time and special figure fluctuation pattern designation command are judged and special figure fluctuation pattern designation A command is transmitted to the effect control board 130.

  Further, in the effect control board 130, as will be described later, the content (effect mode) of the change effect is determined based on the special figure change pattern (change pattern designation command). In the rightmost column of the figure pattern determination table, the contents of effects that can be executed as a variable effect are described for reference.

  As the contents of the effects shown in the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 7, “normal variation”, “shortening variation”, “long variation”, and “super-shortening variation” are the three effect symbols 70 a varying at high speed. This means that the vehicle stops without reaching reach, and the normal fluctuation ends with a shorter fluctuation time than the long fluctuation, and the shortened fluctuation ends with a shorter fluctuation time than the normal fluctuation. However, the ultra-short variation will end in a shorter variation time.

  In addition, “reach” means that the player is expected to execute a jackpot game in which a part of the combination of effect symbols 70a for notifying the jackpot is temporarily stopped and other effect symbols 70a are changed. This means a variation mode. For example, when a combination of three effect symbols 70a of “777” is set as a combination of effect symbols 70a for notifying the jackpot (a jackpot result mode), the same effect symbol 70a is “7” in the left area and the right area. Is temporarily stopped, and the remaining production symbol 70a is changing in the central region.

  Note that the “temporary stop” means that the effect design 70a is slightly shaken or the effect design 70a is deformed to a small extent, so that it appears to the player as if the effect design 70a is stopped (completely stopped). Not).

  “Normal reach” means a reach in which the same effect symbol 70a temporarily stops in the left and right regions, and the remaining one effect symbol 70a fluctuates in the central region. It has become. In the present embodiment, it is possible not to make a big hit by “normal reach” but to make a big hit by “normal reach”.

  The “SP reach” is a super reach that has a higher expectation of jackpot than a normal reach. For example, a special effect that causes the player to expect that a big hit game is executed using almost the entire display area of the image display device by reducing the three effect symbols 70a to the corners of the image display device. To do.

  “SPSP reach” is a special reach that has a higher expectation of jackpot than super reach. For example, the three effect symbols 70a are reduced and moved to the corners of the image display device, and a special effect is performed more than “SP reach” using almost the entire display area of the image display device.

  In addition, the “full turn reach” is a reach where the jackpot is determined. For example, the three effect symbols 70a are all the same and are changed at a low speed, and a more special effect than “SPSP reach” is performed using almost the entire display area of the image display device.

  In addition, the “chance production” is an effect that swears whether to win big or small. For example, the three effect symbols 70a are reduced and moved to the corners of the image display device, but are not in a reach state, and a special effect is performed using almost the entire display area of the image display device.

  The first feature of the special figure fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 7 is that the type of the special figure fluctuation pattern to be determined is the same without changing depending on the set value. By doing so, it becomes difficult to see the set value from the special figure variation pattern, and it becomes possible to provide a fair game.

  The second feature of the special figure fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 7 is that the selection ratio of each special figure fluctuation pattern is the same without changing depending on the set value. By doing so, it becomes difficult to see the set value from the special figure variation pattern, and it becomes possible to provide a fair game.

  The main ROM 110b also stores a special figure variation pattern determination table for a short-time gaming state that is referred to when determining a variation pattern of a special symbol in a short-time gaming state. This is the same as the special figure variation pattern determination table. However, a relatively short variation time can be easily determined (average variation time becomes shorter) than the special figure variation pattern determination table for the non-time-saving gaming state. Therefore, it is possible to change the variation time of the special symbol between the non-short-time game state and the short-time game state, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  The selection ratio of the special figure variation pattern may be changed for each set value, may be changed between the odd setting and the even setting, or is the low setting (for example, 1-2)? You may make it change according to whether it is a high setting (for example, 3-4). Also, a dedicated special figure fluctuation pattern is provided for each set value, or a special special figure fluctuation pattern is provided for one of the odd setting and the even setting, and a special special figure fluctuation pattern is not provided for the other, One of the low setting and the high setting may be provided with a dedicated special figure fluctuation pattern, and the other may not be provided with a special special figure fluctuation pattern.

(Preliminary judgment table)
FIG. 8 is a pre-determination table for the non-short-time gaming state that is referred to when pre-determining special figure determination information acquired based on the winning of a game ball at the start opening.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the pre-determination table includes a special symbol (starting port) type, a gaming state, a jackpot determination determination result, a special symbol determination random value, a reach determination random value, The random number value for figure fluctuation pattern determination, the special figure scheduled fluctuation pattern as the judgment result, and the start opening prize designation command indicating the special figure scheduled fluctuation pattern are associated with each other.

  In prior determination of special symbol determination information, it is possible to determine whether it is “big hit”, “small hit” or “lost” by the random number value for jackpot determination, and it is possible to determine the type of special symbol by the random number value for special symbol determination Because it is possible to determine in advance the type of special figure scheduled variation pattern to be executed by the random number value for reach determination and the random number value for special figure variation pattern determination, is it a big hit or small hit from the start opening prize designation command? No, it is possible to specify the special symbol type and the special symbol scheduled variation pattern.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the pre-determination table shown in FIG. 8, and based on the jackpot determination random number value, the special symbol determination random number value, the reach determination random number value, and the special figure variation pattern determination random value, The pattern and the start opening prize designation command are determined, and the start opening prize designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130.

  The main ROM 110b also stores a special figure variation pattern determination table for a short-time gaming state that is referred to when determining a variation pattern of a special symbol in the short-time gaming state. Although it is different in that there is no determination information corresponding to the first special symbol, it is basically the same as the prior determination table for the non-time-saving gaming state, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

(Large winning mouth opening mode judgment table)
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a big prize opening opening determination table for state conversion of the first big prize opening 50 or the second big prize opening 53 in the big hit game (special game).

  As shown in FIG. 9, the special winning opening release mode determination table includes the special symbol stop special drawing data, the type of special winning opening to be opened, the maximum number of round games in the jackpot game, and the big winning mouth in one round game. The maximum number of winnings, the opening time from the start of the jackpot game to the execution of the first round game, the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening in each round game, and the opening of each round game The opening time of the big winning opening, the closing interval time for closing the big winning opening after the end of the round game, and the ending time from the end of the final round game to the end of the jackpot game are associated with each other.

  When the stop special chart data is “01”, the main CPU 110a executes the first big hit game, and when the stop special figure data is “02”, the main CPU 110a is advantageous to the player over the first big hit game. When the second big hit game is executed and the stop special figure data is “03”, the third big hit game, which is more disadvantageous to the player than the second big hit game, is executed.

(Game state setting table)
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game state setting table for setting the game state after the end of the jackpot game. The game state setting table can be executed in special symbol stop special data, winning state data indicating a gaming state at the time of a big win, a short-time gaming flag indicating a short-time gaming state, and a short-time gaming state The number of short times (J) indicating the number of variable displays, the high probability game flag indicating the high probability gaming state, and the high probability number (X) indicating the number of variable displays executable in the high probability gaming state. It is associated.

  Here, the “winning state data” is information indicating a gaming state at the time of a big win. The gaming state is composed of a combination of a non-short-time gaming state, a short-time gaming state, a low probability gaming state, and a high probability gaming state.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the gaming state setting table shown in FIG. 10, and based on the stop special chart data and the winning state data, the short time game flag, the short time number (J), the high probability game flag, The number of probabilities (X) is determined.

  In addition, when the high probability gaming state is set, 50,000 times may be set as the high probability number (X). However, in the high probability gaming state, the jackpot winning probability is 1/60. Since the next jackpot game is substantially confirmed, the second jackpot game and the third jackpot game are jackpot games in which the next jackpot game is confirmed.

  The first feature of the game state setting table shown in FIG. 10 is that even if the same stop special data is used, the setting of the short-time game flag and the number of short-time games are based on the state data at the time of winning (the game state at the time of winning the big hit). (J) may be different.

  Specifically, in the case of the stop special figure data 01 (special symbol 01), “00H” indicating the low-probability non-short-time game state is stored as the winning time state data regarding the short-time game flag and the short-time game number (J). If so, the time-saving game flag is not set at the end of the jackpot game, and the time-saving count (J) is set to zero. On the other hand, if “01H” indicating the low-probability short / short game state or “02H” indicating the high-probability short / short game state is stored as the winning state data, the short-time game flag is set at the end of the jackpot game. , Set the time reduction (J) to 100 times. Thereby, the number of time reductions (J) can be changed according to the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot, and the player can be interested in the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot.

  A second feature of the gaming state setting table shown in FIG. 10 is that the types of the short time gaming flag and the high probability gaming flag to be set are the same without changing depending on the set value. In this way, the player's advantage level does not change extremely depending on the set value, and the player can play the game with peace of mind.

(Various storage areas of main RAM)
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing various storage areas set in the main RAM 110c. Specifically, FIG. 11A is a special chart in which special figure determination information acquired when a game ball wins (enters) the first start opening 45 and / or the second start opening 47 is stored. FIG. 11B is a diagram showing a configuration of each storage unit of the special figure determination information storage area, and FIG. FIG. 11 (d) is a diagram showing the configuration of each storage unit in the common figure determination information storage area, in which the common figure determination information acquired when passing is stored.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (a), the special figure determination information storage area stores first special figure determination information on-hold storage in which special figure determination information acquired based on the winning of a game ball to the first starting port 45 is stored. An area, a second special figure determination information holding storage area in which special figure determination information acquired based on the winning of a game ball to the second starting port 47 is stored, and special figure determination information in which variable display is being executed are stored The first special figure determination information holding storage area and the second special figure determination information holding storage area are divided from the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit, respectively.

  The first storage unit, the second storage unit, the third storage unit, and the fourth storage unit of the first special figure determination information holding storage area are the first display unit 70C1 and the second display of the first holding icon display area 70C. Corresponds to the unit 70C2, the third display unit 70C3, and the fourth display unit 70C4. In addition, the first storage unit, the second storage unit, the third storage unit, and the fourth storage unit of the second special symbol storage area are the first display section 70D1, the second display section 70D2, and the second display section 70D2. This corresponds to the third display unit 70D3 and the fourth display unit 70D4, respectively.

  The number of special figure determination information (holding information) stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit of the first special figure determination information storage area becomes the first special figure reservation number (U1), and these special figure determinations are performed. The number of first hold icons corresponding to the information is displayed on the first display part 70C1 to the fourth display part 70C4 of the first hold icon display area 70C. Further, the number of special figure determination information (holding information) stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit of the second special figure determination information becomes the second special figure reservation number (U2), and corresponds to these determination information. A number of hold icons are displayed on the first display portion 70D1 to the fourth display portion 70D4 of the second hold icon display area 70D.

  In addition, the 0th storage unit which is the special figure determination information execution storage area corresponds to the icon display area 70E. And the said icon corresponding to the special figure determination information memorize | stored in the 0th memory | storage part will be displayed on the said icon display area 70E.

  As shown in FIG. 11B, each storage unit stores a jackpot determination random number storage area for storing a jackpot determination random number value, and a special symbol determination random number storage for storing a special symbol determination random value. The area is divided into a reach determination random number storage area for storing a reach determination random number value, and a special figure variation pattern determination random number storage area for storing a special figure variation pattern determination random value.

  When the game ball wins (enters) the first start port 45 and the special figure determination information is acquired, the special figure determination information is most not stored in the first special figure determination information holding storage area. The special figure determination information acquired is stored in the storage unit having a small number. Further, when a game ball enters the second start port 47 and special figure determination information is acquired, the smallest number in which no special figure determination information is stored is stored in the second special figure determination information holding storage area. The special figure determination information acquired in the storage unit is stored.

  The 0th storage unit, which is the special figure determination information execution storage area, stores the special figure stored in the first storage part of the first special figure determination information holding storage area when the start condition of the variable display of the first special symbol is satisfied. The determination information is shifted and referred to in order to execute the variation display of the first special symbol. Further, when the start condition for the variable display of the second special symbol is satisfied, the special symbol determination information stored in the first storage unit of the second special symbol determination information holding storage area is shifted, and the variable display of the second special symbol is displayed. Will be referred to to perform.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (c), the common figure determination information storage area is different from the common figure determination information storage area in which the common figure determination information acquired based on the passage of the game ball to the general figure gate 44 is stored. It is divided into the common figure determination information storage area in which the common figure determination information being displayed is stored, and the common figure determination information storage area is divided from the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit. In addition, the number of the common figure determination information memorize | stored in the 1st memory | storage part-the 4th memory | storage part of the common figure determination information holding | maintenance storage area becomes the number of common figure hold.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (d), each storage unit stores a hit determination random number storage area for storing a hit determination random number value, and a normal symbol determination random number storage for storing a normal symbol determination random value. The area is divided into a random number storage area for determining a normal pattern variation pattern for storing a random number value for determining a normal pattern variation pattern.

  Then, when the game ball passes through the general map gate 44 and the general map determination information is acquired, it is acquired in the storage unit with the smallest number in which the general map determination information is not stored in the general map determination information holding storage area. Is stored.

  The 0th storage unit, which is an ordinary figure determination information execution storage area, shifts the ordinary figure determination information stored in the first storage part of the ordinary figure determination information hold storage area when the start condition of the normal symbol variation display is satisfied. And is usually referred to for performing variable display of symbols.

(flowchart)
Next, the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 will be described using a flowchart.

(Main processing of main control board)
The main process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing main processing in the main control board 110. This main processing is performed by inputting a system reset generated when a power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board 160 to the main CPU 110a.

  First, the main CPU 110a performs an initial setting process in step S10. Specifically, preparation processing for starting control of the game, setting change processing for changing the setting value based on the setting change operation, and initialization of a predetermined RWM area of the main RAM 110c based on the RWM clear operation RWM clear processing, setting confirmation processing for confirming setting values based on setting confirmation operations, and the like are performed. Details of the initial setting process will be described later.

  In step S50, the main CPU 110a updates the special symbol determination random number value and the reach determination random value, and in step S51, the big hit determination initial random value, the special symbol determination initial random value, the hit determination initial random value, Update the initial random number for normal symbol determination.

  In step S52, the main CPU 110a detects a voltage drop indicating the occurrence of a voltage drop of the power supply from the power interruption detection circuit 162 of the power supply board 160 (for example, the supply power supplied at 24 volts drops below 18 volts). It is determined whether or not a signal is input. If the voltage drop detection signal is not input, the process proceeds to step S50. If the voltage drop detection signal is input, the process proceeds to step S53.

  In step S53, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the voltage drop detection signal is continuously input for a predetermined period (for example, 10 milliseconds). If it is continuously input for a predetermined period, it is assumed that a complete power failure has occurred, and the process proceeds to step S54. The processing moves to step S52 as having the property.

  In step S54, the main CPU 110a sets an interrupt prohibition for prohibiting the timer interrupt. In step S55, the main CPU 110a issues a power shutdown instruction command for notifying the payout control board 120 that the power shutdown process has started. Send. Thereby, the remaining payout ball number designation command indicating the remaining payout ball number of the game balls stored in the payout RAM 121c is transmitted from the payout control board 120 that has received the power shutoff designation command.

  In step S56, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a remaining payout ball number designation command has been received. If the remaining payout ball number designation command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S57. If the remaining payout ball number designation command has been received, the process proceeds to step S58.

  In step S57, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a standby time for waiting for reception of the remaining payout ball number designation command has elapsed. If the standby time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S56, and if the standby time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S58 on the assumption that normal communication with the dispensing control board 120 cannot be performed.

  In step S58, the main CPU 110a saves the payout ball number in the payout counter set in the RWM area of the main RAM 110c. Specifically, if the remaining payout ball number designation command is received, the remaining payout ball number specified by the remaining payout ball number designation command is saved, and the remaining payout ball number designation command is not received. To save “0” as the number of remaining payout balls. The remaining payout ball number saved here is referred to in a timer interrupt payout control process described later, and a payout ball number designation command corresponding to the remaining payout ball number is transmitted to the payout control board 120 after the power supply is restored. Will be.

  In step S59, the main CPU 110a clears the output port. As a result, the output state of the output port is initialized, and the operations of various displays and various drive sources (motors, solenoids) are stopped.

  In step S60, the main CPU 110a calculates a checksum (abnormality determination data) of the main RAM 110c and saves it in a predetermined area of the main RAM 110c. By doing so, it is possible to determine data abnormality in the RWM area by checksum when the power is turned on next time.

  In step S61, the main CPU 110a saves a backup flag indicating that the data in the main RAM 110c is backed up (power recovery) in the RWM area of the main RAM 110c. In step S62, the main CPU 110a prohibits RWM access. Wait until the power supply is completely cut off.

  As described above, when the supply of the operating power supply (18 volts or more) necessary for the operation of the gaming machine 1 is started, the initial setting process is performed, but with the occurrence of an instantaneous power failure (voltage drop to less than 18 volts). Thus, when the supply of operating power is resumed, the initial setting process is not performed. That is, even if the setting change operation, the setting confirmation operation, and the RWM clear operation are performed for some reason when the instantaneous power failure occurs, the setting change processing, the setting confirmation processing, and the RWM clear processing are not executed. The machine does not perform an unintended operation, and the reliability as a gaming machine can be ensured.

(Main control board initial setting process)
The initial setting process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an initial setting process of the main control board 110.

  First, the main CPU 110a prohibits all interrupts in step S11, performs initial setting of the CPU such as setting of built-in registers in step S12, and performs start-up waiting processing of other boards in step S13. Specifically, it waits for one second until the payout control board 120 and the effect control board 130 are activated so that no command is missed from the main control board 110.

  The main CPU 110a permits access to the RWM area of the main RAM 110c in step S14, and transmits a launch permission designation command to the payout control board 120 in step S15. As a result, the payout control unit 121 performs a process for permitting the launching device 26 to launch the game ball.

  In step S16, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a backup flag indicating that power is restored is saved in the RWM area of the main RAM 110c. If the backup flag is saved, the process proceeds to step S17 assuming that the power supply is restored, and if the backup flag is not saved, the process proceeds to step S18 assuming that the power is turned on for the first time.

  In step S17, the main CPU 110a calculates a checksum (abnormality determination data) of the main RAM 110c, and determines whether or not a setting change operation has been performed in step S18. Specifically, it is determined whether the setting key switch 112a, the RWM clear switch 111a, and the open detection switch 31a are in the ON state. If a setting change operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S19 as a transition to the setting change mode, and if no setting change operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S20.

  In step S19, the main CPU 110a performs setting change processing. Specifically, based on the operation of the RWM clear switch 111a, the setting value (the jackpot probability in the jackpot lottery) is changed (updated) and the control state of the game (the set value of the RWM area) is changed. Processing for initializing other than the area) or transmitting a setting change designation command indicating that the setting is being changed to the effect control board 130 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S25. Thereby, in the effect control board 130, the process for performing the setting change notification which shows that the setting value is being changed is performed.

  “Setting change notification” means that a setting change screen for recognizing that the setting value is being changed is displayed on the image display device or that the frame lighting device 10 or the panel lighting device 74 is being changed. In other words, it is possible to turn on all the lights in a predetermined light emission color (for example, white). Note that a setting change notification sound (“setting is being changed”) indicating that the setting is being changed may be output from the audio output device 9.

  In step S20, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the checksum is normal. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the checksum saved in the RWM area of the main RAM 110c matches the checksum calculated in step S17. If the checksum is normal (the data in the RWM area is normal), the process proceeds to step S21. If the checksum is not normal (the data in the RWM area is abnormal), the process proceeds to step S22. Move.

  When the backup flag is not saved, that is, when the power is turned on for the first time, it is determined that the checksum is abnormal.

  In step S21, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not there is a setting changing flag indicating that the setting is being changed in the RWM area of the main RAM 110c. If there is no setting change flag, the process proceeds to step S23 assuming that the previous power interruption did not occur during the setting change process. If there is a setting change flag, the previous power interruption is the setting change process. The processing moves to step S22 because it has occurred. The setting changing flag is saved in the RWM area of the main RAM 110c at the start of the setting change process, and is cleared from the RWM area of the main RAM 110c at the end of the setting change process.

  In step S22, the main CPU 110a performs non-recoverable error processing. Specifically, error information indicating a non-recoverable error is displayed on the information display 113, and a non-recoverable error designation command indicating that a non-recoverable error has occurred is transmitted to the effect control board 130. After setting the interrupt prohibition to disable the interrupt and clearing the output port, the non-recoverable error signal (security signal) indicating the occurrence of the non-recoverable error is output from the security signal terminal of the game information output terminal board 90, and the power supply Wait until the supply is completely cut off. As a result, the effect control board 130 performs a process for executing a non-recoverable error notification indicating that a non-recoverable error has occurred.

  The “non-recoverable error” is an error state in which the game control is not performed (the game control is not shifted), and is not canceled unless the setting change process is executed. Therefore, when an unrecoverable error occurs, the power switch provided on the power supply board 160 is turned off, and even if the power switch is turned on without a setting change operation, it is not released. The power switch must be turned on with a change operation. Note that during an unrecoverable error, the presence or absence of signal input from various input devices (various switches, various sensors) is not monitored at all.

  “Non-recoverable error notification” displays a non-recoverable error screen (“Non-recoverable error. Please change settings”) to recognize that a non-recoverable error has occurred on the image display device. The frame lighting device 10 and the panel lighting device 74 are all lit in a predetermined light emission color (for example, red) until the power is cut off, or the sound output device 9 indicates that an unrecoverable error has occurred. An error sound ("Recoverable error" + buzzer sound) is output until the power is turned off.

  In step S23, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not an RWM clear operation has been performed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the RWM clear switch 111a and the open detection switch 31a are in the ON state. If there is an RWM clear operation, the process proceeds to step S24 assuming that the RWM clear mode is to be entered, and if there is no RWM clear operation, the process proceeds to step S26.

  In step S24, the main CPU 110a performs RWM clear processing. Specifically, based on the operation of the RWM clear switch 111a, the control state of the game is initialized (other than the set value area of the RWM area), or the RWM clear designation indicating that the RWM clear is being prepared Processing for transmitting a command to the effect control board 130 is performed, and the processing proceeds to step S25. As a result, the effect control board 130 performs a process for executing the RWM clear preparation notification indicating that the RWM clear preparation is in progress.

  “RWM clear preparation notification” means that the image display device displays a clear confirmation screen for recognizing that RWM clear is performed by operating the RWM clear switch 111a, or the frame lighting device 10 or the panel lighting device 74. Is fully lit in a predetermined light emission color (for example, white) during the RWM clear confirmation. In addition, a notification sound during confirmation indicating that the RWM clear is being confirmed may be output from the voice output device 9 (“RWM is cleared by operating the RWM clear switch”).

  In step S25, the main CPU 110a issues a power-on designation command indicating that the control state of the game has been initialized and the current game state (here, the low probability non-short game state as the normal game state) and the payout control board 120 and Transmit to the effect control board 130, and the process proceeds to step S31. As a result, the effect control board 130 performs processing for executing power-on notification indicating that the game control state has been initialized.

  “Power-on notification” means that an initial screen (background image and initial effect pattern “123”) upon power-on for recognizing that the control state of the game has been initialized is displayed on the image display device, The lighting device 10 and the panel lighting device 74 are all lit in a predetermined emission color (for example, white) for a predetermined period (for example, 60 seconds), or the RWM area is initialized from the audio output device 9. A power-on notification sound (“RWM cleared” + buzzer sound) is output for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds).

  In step S26, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a setting confirmation operation has been performed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 112a and the open detection switch 31a are in the ON state. If there is a setting confirmation operation, the process proceeds to step S27 as a transition to the setting confirmation mode. If there is no setting confirmation operation, the control state of the game is restored to the state before the power is turned off. The process moves to step S28.

  In step S27, the main CPU 110a performs setting confirmation processing. Specifically, the setting value saved in the setting value area of the RWM area of the main RAM 110c is displayed on the information display 113, or a setting confirmation designation command indicating that the setting is being confirmed is transmitted to the effect control board 130. Process to do. Thereby, in the effect control board 130, the process for performing the setting confirmation notification which shows that the setting value is being confirmed is performed.

  “Setting confirmation notification” means that a setting confirmation screen for recognizing that the setting value is being confirmed is displayed on the image display device, or the frame illumination device 10 and the panel illumination device 74 are being confirmed. In other words, it is possible to turn on all the lights in a predetermined light emission color (for example, white). Note that a setting confirmation notification sound (“setting value is being confirmed”) indicating that the setting is being confirmed may be output from the voice output device 9.

  In step S28, the main CPU 110a clears (zero clears) the backup flag and checksum saved in the RWM area of the main RAM 110c, and sets the RWM area when power is restored. Thereby, since the progress state (control state) of the game is restored (recovered) to the state before the power is turned off, the game can be resumed from the state before the power is turned off.

  In step S29, the main CPU 110a transmits to the effect control board 130 a power recovery designation command indicating that the game control state has been recovered and the game state before the occurrence of the power failure. As a result, the effect control board 130 performs a process for executing a power supply recovery notification indicating that the setting control notification and the like which will be described later are ended and the control state of the game has returned to the state before the power is turned off. .

  “Power recovery notification” means that a power recovery screen (image) is displayed for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) in order for the image display device to recognize that the control state of the game has been restored to the state before the power interruption. The frame lighting device 10 and the panel lighting device 74 are all lit in a predetermined emission color (for example, white) for a predetermined period (for example, 60 seconds), or the power is restored from the audio output device 9 (from a power failure). A power recovery notification sound (buzzer sound) indicating that is output for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds).

  In step S30, the main CPU 110a transmits other commands (a special symbol memory designation command, a normal symbol memory designation command, etc., which will be described later) to the effect control board 130. As a result, the effect control board 130 can grasp the number of special figure reservations, and a process for displaying the first hold icon and the second hold icon on the image display device is performed.

  In step S31, the main CPU 110a activates a CTC (counter timer circuit) for generating a timer interrupt (4 milliseconds). In step S32, the main CPU 110a permits all interrupts and ends the initial setting process. .

  As described above, since a plurality of conditions (operations) are set for the setting change operation, the RWM clear operation, and the setting check operation, the setting change, RWM clear, and setting check cannot be easily performed. It is possible to suppress fraud and improve the security of the gaming machine.

  In addition, since the number of conditions (operations) set in the setting change operation is larger than the conditions (operations) set in the RWM clear operation and setting confirmation operation, the most incorrect setting change is performed. It is possible to increase the security of events that are likely to be performed and to effectively prevent fraud.

  In addition, if the checksum is abnormal, non-recoverable error processing is executed to stop the progress of the game, causing the game machine to perform an unexpected operation and causing trouble to the game store or player. It is possible to improve the reliability of the gaming machine.

  Also, if there is a setting change flag, that is, if the previous power failure occurred during the setting change, even if the checksum is normal, non-recoverable error processing is executed to stop the progress of the game By doing so, the game does not proceed in a state where a setting value that is not intended by the game store is set, and the reliability of the gaming machine can be improved.

  In the setting change operation, the RWM clear operation, and the setting confirmation operation, the open detection switch 31a is included in the ON state, but the open detection switch 31a is not included in the ON state. Good.

  In addition, when it is determined that there is a backup flag (power is restored) and it is determined that there is no setting change operation, if it is determined that the checksum is abnormal in the subsequent step S20, an unrecoverable error process is executed. However, when it is determined that the checksum is abnormal, the RWM area of the main RAM 110c is initialized (cleared to 0) and the initial value “1” is saved in the set value area, and step S25 is performed. The process may be moved to.

  In addition, the power-on designation command and the power restoration designation command are transmitted together with information indicating the current gaming state. However, after the power on designation command and the power restoration designation command are transmitted, the current gaming state is transmitted. A game state designation command indicating the above may be transmitted.

  Further, by not determining the presence / absence of the setting change flag, the non-recoverable error process may not be performed even when the previous power interruption occurred during the setting change.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board)
The timer interrupt process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing in the main control board 110.

  In this timer interrupt process, after the initial setting process of the main process is completed, a clock pulse is input from the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided in the main control board 110 every predetermined period (4 milliseconds). To be executed.

  First, in step S100, the main CPU 110a saves the information stored in the register in the stack area, and performs time control processing in step S110. Specifically, processing for updating various timer counters such as a special symbol stop time and a special electric accessory release time is performed.

  In step S120, the main CPU 110a performs specific random value update processing. Specifically, the jackpot determination random number value, special symbol determination random number value, special symbol variation pattern determination random value, hit determination random number value, normal symbol determination random number value, general symbol variation pattern determination random value update Specifically, the process of updating each random number value and random number counter by adding +1 is performed. If the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value of the random number range (when the random number counter makes one round), the random number counter is returned to 0, and the random number counter returns to the initial value of the round. The initial random number value to be set is set as a new circulation initial value, and the random number value is newly updated.

  In step S130, the main CPU 110a performs an initial random number value update process. Specifically, similarly to step S30, a process for updating the jackpot determining initial random value, the special symbol determining initial random value, the hit determining initial random value, and the normal symbol determining initial random value is performed.

  In step S200, the main CPU 110a performs input control processing. Specifically, the general winning opening detection switch 43a, the first large winning opening detection switch 50a, the second large winning opening detection switch 53a, the first starting opening detection switch 45a, the second starting opening detection switch 47a, and the gate detection switch 44a. It is determined whether or not there is an input to various switches such as, and when there is an input, processing for setting predetermined data is performed. Details of the input control process will be described later.

  In step S300, the main CPU 110a performs a special figure special power control process. Specifically, determination of special figure determination information acquired based on winning of a game ball to the first start opening 45 or the second start opening 47, a change display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, a large winning opening Processing such as opening / closing (first grand prize winning port 50, second grand prize winning port 53), setting of game state, and the like are performed. Details of the special figure special electric control process will be described later.

  In step S400, the main CPU 110a performs a normal power control process. Specifically, processing such as determination of the acquired general-purpose determination information based on the passage of the game ball to the general-purpose gate 44, normal symbol variation display, opening and closing of the second start opening 47 (auxiliary game), and the like are performed.

  Note that the types of hit normal symbols and types of lost normal symbols determined as the determination result of the general symbol determination information performed in the normal symbol / electric power control process are the same without changing depending on the set value. By doing so, it becomes possible that the player can play the game with peace of mind without being too complex.

  In addition, the selection ratio of various symbols per symbol and the selection ratio of various types of normal symbols determined as the determination result of the general map determination information performed in the general map / electric power control process are constant without changing depending on the set value. ing. In this way, the player's advantage level does not change extremely depending on the set value, and the player can play the game with peace of mind.

  In step S500, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process. Specifically, various winning ball counters stored in the main RAM 110c are referred to, and various winning ports (general winning port 43, first starting port 45, second starting port 47, first big winning port 50, second winning port). A process for transmitting a payout ball number designation command corresponding to the big winning opening 53) to the payout control board 120 is performed. As a result, a process for paying out a prize ball from the payout device 95 is executed by the payout control board 120.

  In step S600, the main CPU 110a performs data creation processing. Specifically, external output data (game information) output from the game information output terminal board 90, start opening / closing data output to the second start opening / closing solenoid 48b, first big prize opening / closing solenoid 51b, second big prize Special winning opening opening / closing data to be output to the opening / closing solenoid 54b, first special symbol display 60, special symbol display data to be output to the second special symbol display 61, normal symbol display data to be output to the normal symbol display 62, first Data such as special symbol hold display data to be output to the 1 special symbol hold indicator 63 and the second special symbol hold indicator 64 and normal symbol hold display data to be output to the normal symbol hold indicator 65 is processed.

  In step S700, the main CPU 110a performs an abnormality determination process. Specifically, various errors (an illegal winning error such as a game ball winning at the second start opening 47 when not in an auxiliary game, or a game ball winning at a big winning opening when not in a special game, various winnings) An abnormal winning error in which the number of game balls won in the mouth and the number of game balls discharged from the winning ball flow path for flowing down the winning ball do not match, a magnetic error in which abnormal magnetism is detected over a predetermined period by the magnetic detection sensor 55a, Radio wave error for detecting abnormal radio waves over a predetermined period by the radio wave detection sensor 56a, door open error when the open detection switch 31a is turned on from the OFF state, and the RWM clear switch 111a while the game progress control is being performed And an operation error in which the setting key switch 112a is operated) is determined, and an error designation command corresponding to the generated error is effected. It performs processing for transmitting to the plate 130. Thereby, the process for performing error notification by the effect control board 130 is executed.

  In step S720, the main CPU 110a performs a game ball counting process. Specifically, it counts (collects) the number of paid-out balls that have been paid out by winning game balls at various winning holes, the number of out-balls discharged from the game area 5a (fired into the game area), and the like. Process.

  In step S740, the main CPU 110a performs normal base value calculation processing. Specifically, the normal base value is calculated from the number of payout balls and the number of out balls counted (collected) in the game ball counting process. Note that the normal base value is calculated by the formula “(the number of normal medium payout balls being the number of payout balls in the normal game state ÷ the number of normal medium outballs being the number of out balls in the normal game state) × 100”. The

  In step S760, the main CPU 110a performs normal base value display data setting processing. Specifically, a process of setting display data for displaying the normal base value calculated in the normal base value calculation process on the information display 113 is performed.

  In step S800, the main CPU 110a performs output control processing. Specifically, port output processing for outputting signals such as the external output data, start port opening / closing data, special prize opening / closing data created in step S600, special symbol display data, normal symbol display data, special symbol hold display Data, normal symbol hold display data, display output processing for outputting signals such as normal base value display data set in step S760 to various displays, and commands set in the payout transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c A payout command transmission process for transmitting a command to the payout control board 120 and a process for executing an effect command transmission process for transmitting a command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the payout control board 120 or the effect control board 130 I do.

  In step S900, the main CPU 110a restores the information saved in step S100 to the register of the main CPU 110a, and ends the current timer interrupt process.

  Thus, since the timer interrupt is not executed during the setting change mode, the RWM clear mode, and the setting confirmation mode, the number of paid-out balls and out balls, the calculation of the normal base value, Since the normal base value is not displayed, the control burden on the main control board can be reduced.

(Input control processing of main control board)
The input control processing of the main control board 110 will be described using FIG. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing input control processing in the main control board 110.

  First, in step S210, the main CPU 110a performs a general winning opening detection switch input process. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 43a, that is, whether or not the game ball has won the general winning opening 43, and the payout device 95 pays out the winning ball. Process.

  In step S220, the main CPU 110a performs a special winning opening detection switch input process. Specifically, whether a detection signal is input from the first grand prize opening detection switch 50 a or the second big prize opening detection switch 53 a, that is, the game ball wins the first big prize opening 50 or the second big prize opening 53. It is determined whether or not a prize ball is paid out from the payout device 95.

  In step S230, the main CPU 110a performs a first start port detection switch input process. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 45a, that is, whether or not the game ball has won the first start port 45, and the winning ball is paid out from the payout device 95. And processing for acquiring and storing special figure determination information. Details of the first start port detection switch input process will be described later.

  In step S240, the main CPU 110a performs a second start port detection switch input process. Specifically, it is determined whether a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 47a, that is, whether or not the game ball has won the second start port 47, and the payout device 95 pays out the winning ball. And processing for acquiring and storing special figure determination information.

  In step S250, the main CPU 110a performs gate detection switch input processing. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 44a, that is, whether or not the game ball has passed through the general-purpose gate 44, and processing for acquiring and storing the general-purpose determination information. I do.

(Input processing for the first start port detection switch on the main control board)
The first start port detection switch input process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a first start port detection switch input process in the main control board 110.

  First, in step S230-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a detection signal from the first start port detection switch 45a has been input. When the detection signal from the first start port detection switch 45a is input, the process proceeds to step S230-2. When the detection signal from the first start port detection switch 45a is not input, 1 The start port detection switch input process is terminated.

  In step S230-2, the main CPU 110a performs processing for adding and updating data indicating three prize balls to the three prize ball counter used for the three prize balls, and in step S230-3, special figure determination is performed. Information (random number for jackpot determination, random number for special symbol determination, random value for reach determination, random value for determination of special figure variation pattern) is acquired.

  In step S230-4, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the first special figure reservation number (U1) is less than four. If the first special figure hold number (U1) is less than 4, the process proceeds to step S230-5. If the first special figure hold number (U1) is not less than 4, the current first start port The detection switch input process is terminated.

  In step S230-5, the main CPU 110a performs a process of updating by adding “1” to the first special figure hold number (U1) (U1 ← U1 + 1), and in step S230-6, the first special figure hold number. A first special symbol memory designation command corresponding to (U1) is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. As a result, the first special symbol memory designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130, and the number of first reserved icons corresponding to the first special figure reservation number (U1) is displayed on the image display device.

  In step S230-7, the main CPU 110a searches for an empty storage unit in order from the first storage unit in the first special figure determination information storage area, and acquires the special storage unit acquired in step S230-3 in the empty storage unit. The figure determination information is stored.

  In step S230-8, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the current time is in the non-time saving gaming state. If it is in the non-short-time gaming state, the process proceeds to step S230-9. If it is not in the non-time-short gaming state, the current first start port detection switch input process is terminated.

  In step S230-9, the main CPU 110a performs a first preliminary determination process. In the first pre-determination process, the pre-determination table shown in FIG. 8 is referred to, and the special-determination determination information acquired this time is pre-determined before the first special symbol variation display is performed. A first start opening prize designation command for notifying the effect control board 130 of the figure scheduled variation pattern) is generated.

  In step S230-10, the main CPU 110a sets the first start port winning designation command generated in step S230-9 in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  Thereby, the first start winning information can be transmitted to the effect control board 130 as the first start opening prize designation command, and the sub CPU 130a of the effect control board 130 that has received the first start opening prize designation command receives the first start prize. Pre-reading notice (continuous notice effect, icon change effect) that expects the jackpot game to be executed over one or more variable displays before the variable display of the first special symbol corresponding to the winning prize designation command is started. ) Can be executed.

  Since the second start port detection switch input process is the same as the first start port detection switch input process, the first start port detection switch 45a, the three prize ball counters, the first special figure hold number (U1), the first special figure determination information holding storage area, the non-short-time gaming state, the first pre-determination process, the first starting opening winning designation command part, the second starting opening detection switch 47a, two prize ball counters, What is necessary is just to read as 2nd special figure pending | holding number (U2), 2nd special figure determination information holding | maintenance storage area | region, a time-saving gaming state, a 2nd prior determination process, and a 2nd start opening prize designation | designated command.

  In the present embodiment, the upper limit value of the second special figure reservation number (U2) is “4”, but it may be larger or smaller. Further, the upper limit value of the second special figure reservation number may be reduced as compared with the upper limit value of the first special figure reservation number. Furthermore, the second reserved memory itself may be eliminated by storing the special figure determination information only in the 0th storage unit of the second special figure determination information storage area.

(Special figure special electric control processing of main control board)
With reference to FIG. 17, the special figure special power control process of the main control board 110 will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a special figure special electric control process in the main control board 110.

  First, in step S301, the main CPU 110a loads the value of the special figure special electricity processing data, refers to the branch destination address from the special figure special electric treatment data loaded in step S302, and executes processing corresponding to the branch destination address. This special figure special electric control process is terminated.

Specifically, if the special figure special power processing data = 0, the process for starting the special symbol variation display and the special figure special power processing data are changed to “1” based on the hold storage (special figure determination information). The special symbol memory determination process (step S310) for performing the process to perform is performed.
If special figure special power processing data = 1, special symbol fluctuation processing (step for performing processing for stopping special symbol display as the fluctuation time elapses, processing for changing special figure special electric processing data to “2”, etc.) S320) is executed.
If the special figure special electric processing data = 2, the special figure special electric processing data is changed to “0” if the special symbol is lost, and the special special electric processing data is changed to “0” if the special symbol is a big hit. 3 ", and if it is a small bonus special symbol, the special symbol stop process (step S330) for changing the special symbol special electric processing data to" 5 "is executed.

If the special figure special power processing data = 3, the big hit game processing for performing the processing for executing the jackpot game or the processing for changing the special figure special power processing data to “4” based on the end of the final round game ( Step S340) is executed.
If special figure special power processing data = 4, processing for ending jackpot game or processing for changing special figure special power processing data to “0” based on the end of jackpot game ending, etc. (Step S350) is executed.
If special figure special power processing data = 5, a small hit for performing a process for executing a small hit game or a process for changing the special figure special electric processing data to “0” based on the end of the small hit game ending A game process (step S360) is executed.

(Special symbol memory judgment processing of the main control board)
The special symbol memory determination process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing special symbol memory determination processing in the main control board 110.

  First, in step S310-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the special symbol is being variably displayed. If the special symbol variation display is being performed, the special symbol storage determination process is terminated, and if the special symbol variation display is not being performed, the process proceeds to step S310-2.

  In step S310-2, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the second special figure holding number (U2) is 1 or more. If the second special figure reservation number (U2) is 1 or more, the process proceeds to step S310-3. If the second special figure reservation number (U2) is not one or more, the process proceeds to step S310-4. Move.

  In step S310-3, the main CPU 110a updates the second special figure hold number (U2) by subtracting “1”, and in step S310-6, the main CPU 110a corresponds to the subtracted second special figure hold number (U2). A special symbol memory designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereby, a special symbol memory designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130, and a process for updating the hold icon displayed on the image display device and the display of the icon is performed.

  In step S310-7, the main CPU 110a sets a gaming state designation command corresponding to the current gaming state in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c, and in step S310-8, the second special figure determination information storage area. The stored data is shifted, and the special figure determination information stored in the first to fourth storage units is shifted to the previous storage unit.

  For example, the special figure determination information stored in the fourth storage unit of the second special figure determination information holding storage area is shifted to the third storage unit of the second special figure determination information holding storage area. Further, the special figure determination information stored in the first storage unit of the second special figure determination information holding storage area is shifted to the zeroth storage part which is the special figure determination information execution storage area and stored in the zeroth storage unit. The special figure determination information used in the previous game is deleted.

  On the other hand, in step S310-4, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the first special figure reservation number (U1) is 1 or more. If the first special figure reservation number (U1) is 1 or more, the process proceeds to step S310-5. If the first special figure reservation number (U1) is not 1 or more, the process proceeds to step S319-1. Move.

  The main CPU 110a updates the first special figure hold number (U1) by subtracting “1” in step S310-5 and updates the special figure corresponding to the first special figure hold number (U1) after subtraction in step S310-6. The symbol memory designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereby, a special symbol memory designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130, and a process for updating the hold icon displayed on the image display device and the display of the icon is performed.

  In step S310-7, the main CPU 110a sets a gaming state designation command corresponding to the current gaming state in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. In step S310-8, the main CPU 110a stores it in the first special symbol holding storage area. The special data determination information stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit is shifted to the previous storage unit.

  For example, the special symbol determination information stored in the fourth storage unit of the first special symbol reservation storage area is shifted to the third storage unit of the first special symbol reservation storage region. In addition, the special figure determination information stored in the first storage unit of the first special symbol holding storage area is shifted to the zeroth storage part which is the special figure determination information execution storage area and stored in the zeroth storage unit. The special figure determination information used in the previous game is deleted.

  As the special symbol determination information is shifted in step S310-8, the special symbol hold display data indicating the first special figure hold number (U1) and the second special figure hold number (U2) after subtraction is stored in the main RAM 110c. Set to a predetermined area. As a result, the display contents of the first special symbol hold indicator 63 and the second special symbol hold indicator 64 are updated.

  Further, in this embodiment, in steps S310-2 to S310-8, the second special figure determination information reservation storage area is given priority over the first special figure determination information reservation storage area (the second special figure reservation number is set to The number of the first special figure determination information holding storage area or the second special figure determination information holding storage area is determined in the order in which the game balls enter the starting opening. It is possible to shift (subtract the first special figure hold number and the second special figure hold number in the winning order), and give priority to the first special figure determination information hold storage area over the second special figure determination information hold storage area. May be shifted (the first special figure reservation number is prioritized and subtracted over the second special figure reservation number).

  In step S311, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not it is a big hit and stops special figure data of a special symbol based on the special figure determination information stored in the 0th storage unit that is the special figure determination information execution storage area. A jackpot determination process is executed. Details of the jackpot determination process will be described later.

  In step S312, the main CPU 110a sets a special symbol designation command corresponding to the type of special symbol determined in the jackpot determination process in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereby, the special symbol designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130, and the process for determining the effect symbol 70a to be stopped and displayed as a result of the variation effect is performed.

  In step S313, the main CPU 110a determines a special symbol variation pattern (variation time) based on the special symbol determination information stored in the 0th storage unit which is the special symbol determination information execution storage area. I do. Details of the special figure variation pattern determination process will be described later.

  In step S314, the main CPU 110a sets a special figure fluctuation pattern designation command corresponding to the type of the special figure fluctuation pattern determined in the special figure fluctuation pattern determination process in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. As a result, a special figure variation pattern designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130, and a process for determining a variation effect pattern which is an effect mode of the variation effect performed during the variation display of the special symbol is performed.

  In step S315, the main CPU 110a sets a special symbol fluctuation time (counter value) corresponding to the type of the special figure fluctuation pattern determined in the special figure fluctuation pattern determination process in a predetermined area of the main RAM 110c, and in step S316. , The special symbol variation display is started. Thus, LED lighting data for executing the special symbol variation display in the data creation processing in step S700 is created, and the created lighting data is output in the output control processing in step S800. In the special symbol display 60 or the second special symbol display 61, the variation display of the special symbol is performed.

  In step S317, the main CPU 110a clears the customer waiting state flag for ending the customer waiting state. In step S318, the main CPU 110a sets “1” in the special symbol special electric processing data, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing this time. To do.

  In step S319-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a customer waiting state flag indicating that a customer waiting state is set in the main RAM 110c. If the customer waiting state flag is set, the current special symbol storage determination process is terminated. If the customer waiting state flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S319-2. The waiting state for a customer means a state in which a special symbol variation display and a special game (a jackpot game) are not executed, but includes that a normal symbol variation display and an auxiliary game are not executed. May be.

  In step S319-2, the main CPU 110a sets a customer waiting state flag in a predetermined area of the main RAM 110c. In step S319-3, the main CPU 110a uses a customer waiting state designation command indicating that the customer is waiting for the effect in the main RAM 110c. This is set in the transmission data storage area, and the current special symbol memory determination process is terminated. As a result, a customer waiting state designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130, and processing for executing a customer waiting demonstration effect for encouraging the player to perform a game is performed.

(Main control board jackpot determination process)
The jackpot determination process for the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a jackpot determination process in the main control board 110.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the set value stored in the set value area of the main RAM 110c in step S311-1 and selects the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 5 in step S311-2. Specifically, if the special figure determination information stored in the 0th storage unit which is the special figure determination information execution storage area is shifted from the first special figure determination information holding storage area, FIG. If the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 5 is selected and shifted from the second special symbol determination information holding storage area, the jackpot for the second special symbol shown in FIG. Select a judgment table.

  In step S311-3, the main CPU 110a compares the current probability gaming state and the jackpot determination random value with the jackpot determination table to determine whether or not the jackpot has been won. If the jackpot is won, the process proceeds to step S311-4. If the jackpot is not won, the process proceeds to step S311-6.

  In step S311-4, the main CPU 110a sets winning state data (any one of 00H to 02H) corresponding to the current gaming state in a predetermined area of the main RAM 110c, and in step S311-5, FIG. The special symbol determination table for jackpot shown in (2) is selected, and the process proceeds to step S311-9.

  In step S311-6, the main CPU 110a compares the current probability gaming state and the jackpot determination random number value with the jackpot determination table to determine whether or not the jackpot is won. If the win is won, the process moves to step S311-7. If the win is not won, the process goes to step S311-8.

  In step S311-7, the main CPU 110a selects the special symbol determination table for small hits shown in FIG. 6C, and moves the process to step S311-9.

  In step S311-8, the main CPU 110a selects the special symbol determination table for loss shown in FIG. 6B, and moves the process to step S311-9.

  In step S311-9, the main CPU 110a collates the special symbol type (first special symbol, second special symbol) and special symbol determination random number for which the jackpot determination (lottery) has been performed with the special symbol determination table. Then, the special symbol that is stopped and displayed as a result of the variable display executed by the first special symbol display device 60 or the second special symbol display device 61 is determined.

  In step S311-10, the main CPU 110a sets stop special symbol data corresponding to the special symbol determined in step S311-9 in a predetermined area of the main RAM 110c, and ends the current jackpot determination processing.

(Special map variation pattern judgment process of main control board)
The special figure variation pattern determination process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing special figure variation pattern determination processing in the main control board 110.

  First, in step S313-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the current state is a non-time saving gaming state. If it is in the non-short game state, the process proceeds to step S313-2. If it is not in the non-short time game state, the process proceeds to step S313-3.

  In step S313-2, the main CPU 110a selects the above-described special figure variation pattern determination table for the non-short game state in FIG. 7, and moves the process to step S311-4.

  In step S313-3, the main CPU 110a selects the special figure variation pattern determination table for the short time gaming state described above, and moves the process to step S310-7-4.

  In step S313-4, the main CPU 110a compares the determination result of the jackpot determination, the special symbol type, the reach determination random number value, and the special pattern variation pattern determination random value with the special diagram variation pattern determination table, and changes the special diagram variation. Determine the pattern.

  In step S313-5, the main CPU 110a sets the fluctuation time corresponding to the determined special figure fluctuation pattern in a predetermined area of the main RAM 110c, and in step S313-6, the special figure fluctuation corresponding to the decided fluctuation pattern. The pattern designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c, and the current special figure fluctuation pattern determination process is terminated. As a result, a special figure variation pattern designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 130, and processing for determining a variation effect pattern that is an effect mode of the variation effect is performed.

(Main process of production control unit)
The main process of the effect control unit 130m will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 21 is a flowchart of the main process in the effect control unit 130m.

  First, the sub CPU 130a prohibits all interrupts in step E1, performs initial settings of the CPU such as setting of built-in registers in step E2, and permits access to the RWM area of the sub RAM 130c in step E3.

  The sub CPU 130a initializes (clears to 0) all RWM areas (work area, stack area, unused area) of the sub RAM 130c in step E4, and generates a timer interrupt (4 milliseconds) in step E5. CTC (counter timer circuit) is started, and all interrupts are permitted in step E6.

  In step E7, the sub CPU 130a performs a sub random number update process. Specifically, a process for updating various random numbers stored in the RWM area of the sub RAM 130c is performed. Thereafter, the process of step E7 is repeated.

(Timer interrupt processing of the production control unit)
The timer interrupt process of the effect control unit 130m will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 22 is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process in the effect control unit 130m. This timer interruption process is executed by inputting a clock pulse every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) from a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided in the effect control unit 130m.

  First, the sub CPU 130a saves the information stored in the register in the stack area of the RWM area of the sub RAM 130c in step E100, and performs timer update processing in step E200. Specifically, a process for updating various timer counters necessary for the performance is performed.

  In step E300, the sub CPU 130a performs command analysis processing. Specifically, a process of analyzing a command (transmitted from the main control board 110 or the payout control unit 121) stored in the reception buffer in the RWM area of the sub RAM 130c is performed. Details of the command analysis process will be described later.

  In step E400, the sub CPU 130a performs a customer waiting control process. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a customer waiting time (for example, 60 seconds) has passed in a customer waiting state in which a special symbol variation display or special game (big hit game, small hit game) is not executed. Based on the fact that the waiting time has elapsed, a process for executing a waiting-for-customer effect for stimulating the player's gaming motivation is performed.

  In step E500, the sub CPU 130a performs an expectation effect control process. Specifically, the promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 during the effective period that occurs during the variable effect is executed, and the expectation that the jackpot game will be executed according to the operation of the effect button 17 during the effective period. A process for performing an expectation effect (indicating that the jackpot game is expected to be executed) is performed. Details of the expectation level effect control process will be described later.

  The “expectation effect” includes a serif notice effect that suggests the degree of expectation that the jackpot game will be executed depending on the type and display mode of the dialog displayed on the image display device, and the jackpot game based on the result of the roulette executed on the image display device. Roulette notice effect suggesting the degree of expectation to be executed, Cut-in notice effect suggesting the degree of expectation that the jackpot game will be executed according to the type and display mode of the cut-in image displayed on the image display device, and the jackpot game are executed There are four types of winning decision effects that indicate whether or not a special game is executed with a success effect with a 100% expectation level or a failure effect with a 0% expectation level that a jackpot game is executed.

  In step E600, the sub CPU 130a performs an unexpected degree effect control process. Specifically, a promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 (cross key 19) during the effective period generated during the above-described waiting state is executed, and the operation of the effect button 17 (cross key 19) during the effective period is performed. In response to this, a process for executing a non-expected degree effect that does not suggest the degree of expectation that the jackpot game will be executed (does not expect the jackpot game to be executed) is performed. Details of the non-expected degree effect control process will be described later.

  “Unexpected degree effect” is a type of menu display effect in which a plurality of choices (items) are arranged, and a menu image (option image) that does not suggest the degree of expectation that a special game is executed is displayed on the image display device. Is mentioned.

  In step E700, the sub CPU 130a performs an effect mode update process. Specifically, the update of the effect mode (effect stage) in which effect elements (background image, effect image, effect sound, etc.) in the audio output device 9, the first image display device 70, the second image display device 71, etc. are defined. It is determined whether conditions (game state change, winning of the mode update lottery, execution of SP / SPSP reach effect that results in losing, etc.) are satisfied, and if the update condition is satisfied, a plurality of effect modes A process for updating to one of the modes is performed.

  The “effect mode” includes effect modes A to C set in the low probability non-short game state, effect modes D to E set in the low probability short game state, and an effect mode set in the high probability short game state. F to G are provided. When the power is turned on, the production mode that is initially set when the game is controlled to the low probability non-short game state (for example, after changing the setting, after clearing the RWM, after confirming the setting, etc.) is always the production mode A. When the power is turned on, the production mode that is initially set when the low-accuracy short game state is controlled is always the production mode D. When the power is on, the production mode is controlled to the high-probability short game state. The effect mode that is initially set is effect mode F.

  In step E800, the sub CPU 130a performs output control processing. Specifically, processing for transmitting various commands set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150 is performed.

  In step E900, the sub CPU 130a restores the register saved in the RWM area of the sub RAM 130c in step E100 described above, and ends the current timer interrupt process.

(Command analysis processing of production control unit)
The command analysis process of the effect control unit 130m will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing command analysis processing in the effect control unit 130m.

  First, in step E301, the sub CPU 130a refers to the reception buffer of the sub RAM 130c and determines whether or not a command has been received. If a command has been received, the process proceeds to step E302. If no command has been received, the current command analysis process ends.

  In step E302, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a setting change designation command. If it is a setting change designation command, the process proceeds to step E303, and if it is not a setting change designation command, the process proceeds to step E304.

  In step E303, the sub CPU 130a performs a setting change notification process. Specifically, a process for setting a notification instruction command for starting the above-described setting change notification in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c is performed. Thereby, a notification instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the setting change notification is performed.

  In step E304, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is an RWM clear designation command. If it is an RWM clear designation command, the process proceeds to step E305, and if it is not an RWM clear designation command, the process proceeds to step E306.

  In step E305, the sub CPU 130a performs an RWM clear notification process. Specifically, a process of setting a notification instruction command for starting the above-described RWM clear preparation notification to the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c is performed. Thereby, a notification instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the RWM clear preparation notification is performed.

  In step E306, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a setting confirmation designation command. If it is a setting confirmation designation command, the process proceeds to step E307, and if it is not a setting confirmation designation command, the process proceeds to step E308.

  In step E307, the sub CPU 130a performs a setting confirmation notification process. Specifically, a process of setting a notification instruction command for starting the above-described setting confirmation notification in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c is performed. As a result, a notification instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the setting confirmation notification is performed.

  In step E308, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a power-on designation command or a power restoration designation command. If it is a power-on designation command or a power-recovery designation command, the process proceeds to step E309. If it is not a power-on designation command or a power-recovery designation command, the process proceeds to step E310.

  In step E309, the sub CPU 130a performs a power ON notification process. Specifically, when the received command is a power-on designation command, a notification instruction command for executing the above-described power-on notification is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c, and the received command is a power restoration designation command. If it is, the notification instruction command for executing the above-described power supply restoration notification is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c. Thereby, a notification instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing power-on notification or power-recovery notification is performed.

  In step E310, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is an error system designation command. If it is an error system designation command, the process proceeds to step E311. If it is not an error system designation command, the process proceeds to step E312.

  "Error system specification command" includes non-recoverable error specification command, illegal winning error specification command, abnormal winning error specification command, magnetic error specification command, radio wave error specification command, door opening error start specification command, door opening error end specification Commands and operation error specification commands are included.

  In step E311, the sub CPU 130a performs error notification processing. Specifically, error notification according to the type of received error designation command (non-recoverable error notification, illegal winning error notification, abnormal winning error notification, magnetic error notification, radio wave error notification, door opening error notification, operation error notification) Etc.) is executed to set a notification instruction command in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. Thereby, a notification instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing various error notifications is performed.

  In step E312, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a gaming state designation command. If it is a gaming state designation command, the process proceeds to step E313, and if it is not a gaming state designation command, the process proceeds to step E314.

  In step E313, the sub CPU 130a performs a gaming state setting process. Specifically, a process of updating the gaming state stored in the sub RAM 130c to the gaming state according to the gaming state designation command is performed.

  In step E314, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a special symbol storage designation command. If it is a special symbol memory designation command, the process proceeds to step E315, and if it is not a special symbol memory designation command, the process proceeds to step E316.

  In step E315, the sub CPU 130a performs a pending number update process. Specifically, a process of setting an effect instruction command for updating the number of special figure hold stored in the sub RAM 130c to increase or decrease the hold icon displayed on the image display device in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c. Do. As a result, an effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and a process for increasing or decreasing the hold icon displayed on the image display device is performed.

  In step E316, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a start slot winning designation command. If it is a start opening prize designation command, the received starting opening prize designation command (special figure scheduled variation pattern) is set in a pre-read storage area (to be described later) of the sub-RAM 130c, and then the process proceeds to step E317 to designate a start opening prize designation. If it is not a command, the process proceeds to step E318.

  The “prefetch storage area” includes a first prefetch storage unit for sequentially storing prefetch information (such as a special figure scheduled variation pattern) based on the first start opening prize designation command, and hold information based on the second start opening prize designation command. Are divided into a second prefetch storage unit for sequentially storing the prefetch information and a storage unit (the 0th storage unit) for storing prefetch information corresponding to the variation display (variation effect) being executed. The storage unit and the second prefetch storage unit are divided into first to fourth storage units, respectively.

  The first to fourth storage units of the first prefetch storage unit correspond to the first to fourth storage units of the first special figure determination information holding storage area described above, respectively, and receive the first start opening winning designation command Then, the prefetch information is stored in the storage unit corresponding to the first special figure hold number. The pre-read information stored in each storage unit is moved (shifted) to the storage unit having a smaller number each time the first special symbol variation display (variation effect) is executed.

  The first to fourth storage units of the second prefetch storage unit correspond to the first to fourth storage units of the second special figure determination information holding storage area described above, respectively, and receive the second start opening winning designation command Then, the prefetch information is stored in the storage unit corresponding to the second special figure hold number. The pre-read information stored in each storage unit is moved (shifted) to a storage unit having a smaller number each time the second special symbol variation display (variation effect) is executed.

  The storage unit (the 0th storage unit) corresponds to the above-described special figure determination information execution storage area, and when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, the first storage unit of the first prefetch storage unit The pre-reading information that is moved (shifted) from is stored, and the pre-reading information that is moved (shifted) from the first storage unit of the second pre-reading unit is stored when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed. The

  In step E317, the sub CPU 130a performs prefetch effect determination processing. Specifically, it is expected that a jackpot game is executed by executing a predetermined effect over a variable display (variable effect) of one or more special symbols (implying that a jackpot game may be executed). Whether or not to execute the pre-reading effect, the type of the pre-reading effect to be executed is determined, and processing for setting the effect instruction command in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c is performed in order to execute the pre-reading effect. Thereby, an effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the prefetch effect is performed.

  As the “prefetching effect”, an icon change effect that suggests a degree of expectation that a special game will be executed by displaying the hold icon displayed on the image display device or the icon in a special display mode different from the normal display mode. Or the pre-reading continuous notice effect etc. which suggest the expectation degree in which a special game is performed by performing a predetermined | prescribed effect during several change display (variation effect) etc. are mentioned.

  In step E318, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a special symbol designation command. If it is a special symbol designation command, the process proceeds to step E319, and if it is not a special symbol designation command, the process proceeds to step E320.

  In step E319, the sub CPU 130a performs symbol data determination processing. Specifically, a process of determining an effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the image display device as a result of the variation effect, that is, an arrangement (combination) of effect symbols to be stopped on a predetermined effective line is performed.

  In step E320, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a special figure variation pattern designation command. If it is a special figure variation pattern designation command, the process proceeds to step E321, and if it is not a special figure variation pattern designation command, the process proceeds to step E324.

  In step E321, the sub CPU 130a performs a variation effect pattern determination process. Specifically, based on the content of the received special figure variation pattern designation command, a variation effect pattern that is a variation effect execution mode executed by a rendering device including an image display device is determined, and the variation effect pattern is shown. Processing for setting the instruction command in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c is performed. As a result, an effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the changing effect is performed.

  In step E322, the sub CPU 130a performs an expectation effect determination process. Specifically, based on the variation effect pattern determined in step E323, whether or not to execute the expectation effect suggesting the expectation that the special game will be executed (that is, letting the jackpot game be executed). In addition, the execution aspect (pattern) of the expected degree effect to be executed is determined, and the execution information of the expected degree effect is set in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 130c. Thereby, the execution information of an expectation degree effect is referred by the expectation degree effect control process of step E500 mentioned above, and the process for performing an expectation degree effect is performed.

  In step E323, the sub CPU 130a performs prefetch effect execution processing. Specifically, a process of setting an effect instruction command for starting the prefetch effect determined in the prefetch effect determining process in step E317 or changing the effect mode in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c is performed. Thereby, an effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the prefetch effect is performed.

  In step E324, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a symbol determination command. If it is a symbol confirmation command, the process proceeds to step E325, and if it is not a symbol confirmation command, the process proceeds to step E326.

  In step E325, the sub CPU 130a performs an effect symbol stop process. More specifically, a process of setting an effect instruction command for stopping and displaying the effect symbol in the temporarily stopped state in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c is performed. Thereby, an effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and a process for ending the changing effect is performed.

  In step E326, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the received command is a special game system designation command. If it is a special game system designation command, the process proceeds to step E327, and if it is not a special game system designation command, the current command analysis process is terminated.

  The “special game system designation command” includes a jackpot opening designation command, a jackpot round designation command, a jackpot ending designation command, a jackpot opening designation command, a jackpot ending designation command, and the like.

  In step E327, the sub CPU 130a performs special game effect determination processing. Specifically, in the case of an opening designation command, a process for determining an opening effect of a big hit game or a small hit game and setting an effect instruction command for executing the opening effect in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c is performed. In the case of a designated command, a process for determining a round effect of the round game and setting an effect instruction command for executing the round effect in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c is performed. A process of setting an effect instruction command for determining the ending effect of the small hit game and executing the ending effect in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c is performed, and the current command analysis process is terminated. Thereby, an effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing an opening effect, a round effect, and an ending effect is performed.

(Fluctuation effect pattern determination processing of the effect control unit)
The variation effect pattern determination process of the effect control unit 130m will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 24 is a flowchart of the variation effect pattern determination process in the effect control unit 130m.

  First, the sub CPU 130a refers to the received variation pattern designation command in step E321-1, and selects the variation effect pattern determination table (FIG. 25) in step E321-2.

  In step E321-3, the sub CPU 130a determines one variation effect pattern from a plurality of variation effect patterns using the variation effect pattern determination table, and sets it in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 130c. Details of the variation effect pattern determination table will be described later.

  In step E321-4, the sub CPU 130a sets a variation effect pattern instruction command corresponding to the determined variation effect pattern in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c, and ends the present variation effect pattern determination process. Thereby, the variation effect pattern instruction command is transmitted to the image control unit 145 (VDP) and the lamp control unit 150, and the process for executing the variation effect is performed.

(Variation effect pattern judgment table)
FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a variation effect pattern determination table for a non-time-saving gaming state that is referred to when determining a variation effect pattern in a non-time-short gaming state.

  As shown in FIG. 25, in the variation effect pattern determination table for the non-time-saving gaming state, the type of special figure variation pattern designation command, the distribution ratio (%) for each variation effect pattern, and the determined variation effect pattern Are associated with each other, and the effect configuration (type of game effect) of each variation effect pattern is described in the rightmost column as a reference.

  The variation effect pattern is a variation effect effect mode performed using an effect device including an image display device. Presence / absence of pseudo continuous notice, number of pseudo continuous notices, presence / absence of reach effect, contents of reach effect, etc. are defined. Has been.

“Normal variation” in the column of the effect configuration indicates that a normal variation effect in which the reach state of the effect symbol 70a is not formed is executed.
The “shortening variation” indicates that a shortening variation effect is executed in which a reach state is not formed shorter than the normal variation effect.
“Long variation” indicates that a long variation effect is executed in which a reach state is not formed longer than a normal variation effect.
“Normal reach” indicates that the same effect symbol 70a on the left and right is in a reach state in which it is temporarily stopped, and a normal reach effect in which the center effect symbol 70a is changed is executed.

The “SP reach” is an SP reach effect in which the reach design 70a is displayed in a reduced size at the corner of the effective display area of the image display device, and a big hit game is expected to be executed using the character. Indicates that it will be executed.
“SPSP reach” is an SPSP reach effect that causes the effect symbol 70a in a reach state to be displayed in a minimal manner at the corner of the effective display area of the image display device, and that a jackpot game is expected to be executed using the character. Indicates that it will be executed.
“Full rotation reach” is a premier effect that suggests that a jackpot game is executed while fluctuating at a low speed with the same effect symbol 70a in the middle left and right, and then the effect symbol 70a is stopped and displayed. It shows that the full rotation reach effect is executed.
“Chance production” means that the three presentation symbols 70a that are changing without reaching the reach state are displayed in a reduced size at the corner of the effective display area of the image display device, and the jackpot game is expected to be executed using the character. This shows that a chance effect is performed.

“Pseudo-continuous failure” means that after performing an effect asking whether or not a pseudo-continuous notice effect to be changed again after temporarily stopping the effect symbol 70a during a special symbol change display is performed, It shows that the failure effect that results in the continuous notice effect not being performed is executed.
“Pseudo-successful success” means that after performing an effect asking whether or not a pseudo-continuous notice effect is executed, a successful effect that results in the execution of the pseudo-continuous notice effect is executed and the pseudo-continuous notice effect is executed. It is shown that.
“Cut-in” indicates that a cut-in notice effect, which is one of the above-described expectation effects, is executed in response to an operation of the effect button 17 during the effective period.
“Decision” indicates that a winning decision effect, which is one of the above-described expectation effects, is executed in response to an operation of the effect button 17 during the effective period.

  Note that the degree of expectation that the jackpot game of each reach effect is executed is set so as to increase in the order of normal reach effect <SP reach effect <SPSP reach effect <full rotation reach effect (decision of jackpot).

  As a first feature of the variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 25, if the reach effect to be executed is the same variation effect pattern, the pseudo continuous notice is executed rather than the change effect pattern in which the pseudo continuous notice is not executed. The variation effect pattern has a higher expectation that the jackpot game will be executed (the jackpot game is more likely to be executed). By doing so, it is possible to increase the player's expectation on whether or not the pseudo continuous notice is executed, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  As a second feature of the variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 25, if the variation effect pattern in which the pseudo continuous notice is performed twice, the variation effect pattern in which the pseudo continuous notice is performed without sandwiching the normal reach effect, The variation effect pattern in which the pseudo-continuous notice is performed across the normal reach effect has a higher expectation that the jackpot game will be executed (the jackpot game is more likely to be executed). By doing so, it is possible to increase the player's expectation for the timing at which the pseudo fluctuation is performed, and to improve the interest of the game.

  The third feature of the variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 25 is that when the SP reach effect is finally executed, the cut-in notice effect is executed as the expectation effect, but finally When the SPSP reach effect is executed, the winning decision effect is executed as the expectation effect. By doing in this way, differentiation of SP reach production and SPSP reach production can be aimed at, and it becomes possible to improve the interest of a game.

  In addition, when the SP reach effect is finally executed, the winning decision effect may be executed. When the SPSP reach effect is finally executed, the cut-in notice effect may be executed. The type of expectation effect when the SP reach effect is executed is one type of cut-in effect or winning decision effect, and the type of expectation effect when the SPSP reach effect is finally executed is cut-in effect. And it is good also as two types of winning decision production.

  The sub ROM 130b also stores a variable effect pattern determination table for a short time gaming state that is referred to when determining a variable effect pattern in the short time gaming state. Since this is the same as the effect pattern determination table, the description is omitted here.

(Expectation effect determination process of the effect control unit)
The expectation degree effect determination process of the effect control unit 130m will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 26 is a flowchart of expectation degree effect determination processing in the effect control unit 130m.

  First, the sub CPU 130a refers to the variable effect pattern set in the sub RAM 130c in step E322-1, and executes the pre-reach effect using the pre-reach notice determination table (FIG. 27) in step E322-2. A notice pattern in which the presence / absence of execution of the pre-reach notice effect (line notice notice effect, roulette notice effect) and the type of pre-reach notice effect to be executed is determined is determined. The details of the pre-reach notice determination table will be described later.

  In step E322-3, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the determined notice pattern is a notice pattern for executing a serif notice effect. If it is a notice pattern for executing a serif notice effect, the process proceeds to step E322-4. If it is not a notice pattern for executing a serif notice effect, the process proceeds to step E322-6.

  In step E322-4, the sub CPU 130a uses the serif notice pattern determination table (FIG. 28) to determine a serif notice pattern, which is an effect mode of the serif notice effect, and in step E322-5, determines the serif notice pattern. The execution information of the corresponding line notice effect is set in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 130c. The execution information of the line notice effect is referred to in the expectation effect control process in step E500. The details of the serif notice pattern determination table will be described later.

  In step E322-6, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the determined notice pattern is a notice pattern for executing the roulette notice effect. If it is a notice pattern for executing a roulette notice effect, the process proceeds to step E322-7. If it is not a notice pattern for executing a roulette notice effect, the process proceeds to step E322-9.

  In step E322-7, the sub CPU 130a uses the roulette notice pattern determination table (FIG. 29) to determine the roulette notice pattern that is the effect of the roulette notice effect. In step E322-8, the sub CPU 130a uses the determined roulette notice pattern. The execution information of the corresponding roulette notice effect is set in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 130c. The execution information of the roulette notice effect is referred to in the expectation effect control process in step E500. The details of the roulette notice pattern determination table will be described later.

  In step E322-9, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the referenced variation effect pattern is a variation effect pattern for executing a cut-in notice effect. If it is a variable effect pattern for executing a cut-in notice effect, the process proceeds to step E322-10. If it is not a variable effect pattern for executing a cut-in notice effect, the process is transferred to step E322-12.

  In step E322-10, the sub CPU 130a uses the cut-in notice pattern determination table (FIG. 30) to determine a cut-in notice pattern that is an effect mode of the cut-in notice effect, and in step E322-11, determines the cut The execution information of the cut-in notice effect corresponding to the in-notice pattern is set in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 130c. The execution information of the cut-in notice effect is referred to in the expectation effect control process in step E500. The details of the cut-in notice pattern determination table will be described later.

  In step E322-12, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the referenced variation effect pattern is a variation effect pattern for executing a winning decision effect. If it is a fluctuating effect pattern for executing a winning effect, the process proceeds to step E322-13. If it is not a fluctuating effect pattern for executing a winning effect, the current expectation effect determining process is terminated.

  In step E322-13, the sub CPU 130a uses the determined effect pattern determination table (FIG. 31) to determine a determined effect pattern that is the effect mode of the winning effect, and in step E322-14, determines the determined effect pattern. The execution information of the corresponding winning decision effect is set in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 130c, and the current expectation effect determining process is terminated. The execution information of the winning decision effect is referred to in the expectation effect control process in step E500. The details of the determined effect pattern determination table will be described later.

(Pre-reach notice decision table)
FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a pre-reach notice determination table that is referred to when a pre-reach notice effect notice pattern is determined. The pre-reach notice determination table is associated with the jackpot lottery result, the variation effect type, the distribution ratio (%) for each notice pattern, and the notice pattern to be determined.

  There are three types of pre-reach pre-announcement patterns: “no pre-notification” in which pre-reach pre-announcement is not executed, “serif pre-announcement” in which serif pre-announcement is executed, and “roulette pre-announcement” in which roulette pre-notification is executed. The degree of expectation that the jackpot game is set is “no notice” <line notice notice <roulette notice effect.

  As a feature of the pre-reach notice determination table shown in FIG. 27, a pre-reach notice effect is more likely to be executed in the case of a jackpot than in the case of a jackpot lottery result, and a variation effect pattern with a low expectation of jackpot It is easier to execute the pre-reach notice effect when the variation effect pattern having a higher jackpot expectation is determined than when the effect is determined. By doing so, it is possible to increase the player's expectation that the jackpot game will be executed, and to improve the interest of the game.

(Serif notice pattern determination table)
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a serif notice pattern determination table that is referred to when determining the notice pattern of the serif notice effect. In the serif notice pattern determination table, the jackpot lottery result, the variation effect type, the distribution ratio (%) for each serif notice pattern, and the determined serif notice pattern are associated with each other. (Introduction period, effective period, end period, contents of dialogue effect) are described.

  The serif notice effect is an effect that the operation of the effect button 17 becomes effective without executing the introduction effect (no introduction period) that suggests (predictive) that the effective period occurs (the promotion effect described later is executed). A period that generates a period (3 seconds), executes a promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 during the effective period, and indicates a level of expectation that the jackpot game will be executed when the effect button 17 is operated during the effective period An effect is executed, and an end effect (an end period of 0.5 seconds) indicating that the effective period has ended (to end the promotion effect) is executed.

The “promotion effect A” in the column of the effective period is an effect that indicates that the effective period related to the serif notice effect has occurred by performing without the introduction effect before the reach effect (prompt the operation of the effect button 17). It has become. Specifically, a small-sized button image (normal button small image) imitating the effect button 17 in the non-projecting state (normal state) is displayed on the image display device, and the effect button 17 emits white light.
“Button non-protruding” in the effective period column indicates that the effect button 17 is in the non-protruding state (normal state) in the effective period.

  The “end effect A” in the end period column is an effect of ending the promotion effect A (indicating that the effective period related to the serif notice effect has ended). Specifically, instead of the normal button small image displayed on the image display device, a small effect image (end effect small image) is displayed.

“Normal serif (black characters)” in the column of the content of the serif effect indicates that normal serifs that are unclear whether or not the jackpot game is likely to be executed are displayed in black characters.
“Expectation UP serif (blue characters)” indicates that an expectation UP serif indicating that a jackpot game may be executed is displayed in blue characters.
The “reach finalized serif (red character)” indicates that the reach finalized serif that the reach effect is to be executed is displayed in red characters.
“Accurate serif (rainbow character)” indicates that the exact serif that is determined to be a big hit is displayed in rainbow characters.

  The expectation that the jackpot game of each line will be executed is set so as to increase in the order of “normal line” <“expectation level UP line” <“reach fixed line” <“actual line (big line fixed)” . In addition, the expectation level that the jackpot game of each line notice pattern is executed is set so as to increase in the order of “pattern 1” <“pattern 2” <“pattern 3” <“pattern 4 (decision of jackpot)”. Yes.

  As a feature of the serif notice pattern determination table shown in FIG. 28, a serif notice pattern that becomes a serif that is higher than the expectation level is more easily determined in the case of a big hit than in the case of a big hit lottery result, and the expected degree of jackpot When a variation production pattern with a high jackpot expectation is determined, it is easier to determine a serif notice pattern that becomes a speech with a higher expectation than the case when a variation production pattern with a low is determined. It is done. By doing so, it is possible to increase the player's expectation that the jackpot game will be executed, and to improve the interest of the game.

(Roulette notice pattern determination table)
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a roulette notice pattern determination table that is referred to when determining the notice pattern of the roulette notice effect. The roulette notice pattern determination table correlates the jackpot lottery result, the variation effect type, the distribution ratio (%) for each roulette notice pattern, and the determined roulette notice pattern. (Introduction period, effective period, end period, roulette result effect) are described.

  In the roulette announcement effect, the operation of the effect button 17 becomes effective after executing the introduction effect (introduction period 1 second) that suggests (predicts) that the effective period occurs (execution effect to be described later is executed). An effective period (3 seconds) is generated, a promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 is executed in the effective period, and when the effect button 17 is operated during the effective period, the degree of expectation that the jackpot game is executed is suggested. A roulette result effect is executed, and an end effect (an end period of 0.5 seconds) indicating that the effective period has ended (to end the promotion effect) is executed.

  “Introduction effect A” in the column of the introduction period is an effect that suggests (predicts) that an effective period related to the roulette notice effect occurs (execution effect B described later is executed) by being performed before the reach effect. It has become. More specifically, a medium-size dialogue image (introduction serif image) of “Press the button to stop roulette” is displayed on the image display device, and an introduction sound effect of “button press” is output from the audio output device 9 Is done.

The “promotion effect B” in the effective period column indicates that the effective period related to the roulette notice effect has occurred by performing before the reach effect and after the introduction effect A (prompt the operation of the effect button 17). It has become. Specifically, a medium-sized button image (normal button middle image) simulating the non-projecting state (normal state) effect button 17 is displayed on the image display device, the effect button 17 emits white light, and the sound output device From 9, the sound effect of “Picon ♪” is output.
“Button non-protruding” in the effective period column indicates that the effect button 17 is in the non-protruding state (normal state) in the effective period.

  The “end effect A” in the end period column is an effect that ends the promotion effect B (indicating that the effective period related to the roulette notice effect has ended). Specifically, a small-size effect image (end effect image) is displayed instead of the normal button middle image displayed on the image display device.

"X" in the roulette result effect content column indicates that "X" is selected as a result of the roulette consisting of the choices of "X, good opportunity, hot, right" and no jackpot game is executed.
“Opportunity” indicates that “Opportunity” indicating that a jackpot game may be executed is selected as a result of the roulette made up of the choices of “x, opportunity, hot, right”.
`` Hot '' means that `` Hot '' is selected as a result of the roulette consisting of the choices of `` X, Opportunity, Hot, Precise '', which suggests that the chance of a jackpot game being executed is higher than `` Opportunity '' Show.
“Accurate” indicates that “Accurate” is selected, which determines that the jackpot game is executed as a result of the roulette made up of the options “×, opportunity, hot, certain”.

  The expectation that the jackpot game of each roulette result will be executed is set so as to increase in the order of “× (determined lose)” <“opportunity” <“hot” <“actual (determined jackpot)”. In addition, the expectation that the jackpot game of each roulette notice pattern will be executed increases in the order of “pattern 1 (losing confirmation)” <“pattern 2” <“pattern 3” <“pattern 4 (confirming jackpot)”. Is set to

  As a feature of the serif notice pattern determination table shown in FIG. 29, in the case of a jackpot lottery result, it is easier to determine a serif notice pattern in which “great opportunity” or more is selected in the case of a jackpot, When a variation production pattern with a high jackpot expectation is determined, a line warning notice pattern in which “opportunity” or higher is selected for the roulette production is selected rather than when a variation production pattern with a low jackpot expectation is determined. The point which is easy to be decided is mentioned. By doing so, it is possible to increase the player's expectation that the jackpot game will be executed, and to improve the interest of the game.

(Cut-in notice pattern determination table)
FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a cut-in notice pattern determination table that is referred to when a notice pattern for a cut-in notice effect is determined. The cut-in notice pattern determination table correlates the jackpot lottery result, the presence / absence of pseudo continuous notice effect, the distribution ratio (%) for each cut-in notice pattern, and the cut-in notice pattern to be determined. The effect composition (introduction period, effective period, end period, cut-in effect content) of the cut-in notice pattern is described.

  In the cut-in notice effect, the operation of the effect button 17 is performed after executing the introduction effect (introduction period 3.5 seconds) that suggests (predicts) that the effective period occurs (the promotion effect described later is executed). Expected degree of occurrence of a jackpot game when an effective period (4 seconds) that is effective is generated, a promotion effect that prompts an operation of the effect button 17 during the effective period is executed, and the effect button 17 is operated during the effective period In addition to executing a cut-in effect that suggests, an end effect (an end period of 0.5 seconds) that indicates that the effective period has ended (to end the promotion effect) is executed.

  “Introduction effect B” in the column of the introduction period suggests that an effective period related to the cut-in notice effect occurs (execution effect C or D described later is executed) by being performed during the SP reach effect ( This is a sign. Specifically, a medium-sized effect image (introduction effect-in-progress image) is displayed on the image display device, and an introduction effect sound “Fush ~” is output from the audio output device 9.

The “promotion effect C” in the effective period column indicates that the effective period related to the cut-in notice effect has occurred by being performed during the SP reach effect and after the introduction effect B (prompt to operate the effect button 17). ) Directing. Specifically, a medium-sized button image (normal button middle image) simulating the non-projecting state (normal state) effect button 17 is displayed on the image display device, the effect button 17 emits white light, and the sound output device From 9, the sound effect of “Picon ♪” is output.
The “promotion effect D” in the effective period column indicates that the effective period related to the cut-in notice effect has occurred during the SP reach effect and after the introduction effect B (prompt the operation of the effect button 17) ) Directing. Specifically, a large-sized button image (projection button large image) imitating the effect button 17 in the protruding state (specific state) is displayed on the image display device, the effect button 17 emits white light, and the audio output device 9 Will output an introductory sound of "Press!"

“Button non-protruding” in the effective period column indicates that the effect button 17 is in the non-protruding state (normal state) in the effective period.
“Button protrusion” in the effective period column indicates that the effect button 17 is in the protruding state (specific state) in the effective period.

  The “end effect B” in the end period column is an effect for ending the promotion effect C or D (indicating that the effective period related to the cut-in notice effect has ended). Specifically, instead of the normal button medium image or the protruding button large image displayed on the image display device, a medium size effect image (end effect medium image) is displayed.

  The degree of expectation that the jackpot game of each promotion effect is executed is set to increase in the order of “promotion effect C” <“promotion effect D”. In addition, the expectation that the jackpot game of each button state is executed is set so as to increase in the order of “button non-protruding” <“button protruding”.

“Character A (blue)” in the column of the cut-in effect content is a cut-in image composed of a character A image and a blue effect image displayed on the image display device, and a cut composed of “Joi ♪” from the audio output device 9. The effect is to output in-effect sound.
“Character A (green)” is an effect in which a cut-in image composed of a character A image and a green effect image is displayed on the image display device, and the above-described cut-in sound effect is output from the audio output device 9. Yes.
“Character B (red)” is an effect in which a cut-in image composed of a character B image and a red effect image is displayed on the image display device, and the above-described cut-in sound effect is output from the audio output device 9. Yes.
“Character A & B (Rainbow)” means that a cut-in image composed of a character A image, a character B image, and a rainbow effect image is displayed on the image display device. The effect is output and the effect button 17 is in an oscillating state.

  The expectation that the jackpot game of each cut-in effect will be executed is in the order of “character A (blue)” <“character A (green)” <“character B (red)” <“character A & B (rainbow)” It is set to be large. In addition, the degree of expectation that the jackpot game of each cut-in notice pattern is executed increases in the order of “Pattern 1” <“Pattern 2” <“Pattern 3” <“Pattern 4” <“Pattern 5 (decision of jackpot)” It is supposed to be.

  The first feature of the cut-in notice pattern determination table shown in FIG. 30 is that the introductory effect is executed but the effective period does not occur when the jackpot lottery result is lost than when the jackpot lottery result is lost (cut-in). There is a point that it is difficult to determine the cut-in notice pattern (pattern 1). By doing so, it is possible to increase the player's expectation that the jackpot game will be executed, and to improve the interest of the game.

  A second feature of the cut-in notice pattern determination table shown in FIG. 30 is that a cut-in notice having a higher jackpot expectation is higher when the pseudo continuous notice effect is executed than when the pseudo continuous notice effect is not executed. There is a point that the pattern is easily determined. By doing so, it is possible to increase the player's expectation on whether or not the pseudo continuous notice effect is executed, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  A third feature of the cut-in notice pattern determination table shown in FIG. 30 is that a cut-in notice pattern is set in which the introduction effect is executed but the effective period does not occur and the promotion effect, the end effect, and the cut-in effect are not executed. It is mentioned. By doing so, it is possible to increase the player's expectation for whether or not the effective period occurs (the promotion effect or the cut-in effect is executed), and it is possible to improve the interest of the game. .

(Decision effect pattern determination table)
FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a determined effect pattern determination table that is referred to when determining the determined effect pattern of the winning determination effect. In the decision effect pattern determination table, the jackpot lottery result, the presence / absence of the pseudo continuous notice effect after reach where the pseudo continuous notice effect is executed after the normal reach effect is executed, and the distribution ratio (%) for each decided effect pattern are determined. The decided production patterns are associated with each other, and the production configuration (introduction period, effective period, end period, decided production contents) of each decided production pattern is described as a reference.

  In the winning decision effect, the operation of the effect button 17 becomes effective after executing the introduction effect (introduction period 4 seconds) that suggests (predicts) that an effective period occurs (the promotion effect described later is executed). An effective period (4 seconds) is generated, a promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 is executed during the effective period, and if the effect button 17 is operated during the effective period, it is suggested whether or not the jackpot game is executed A decision effect (success effect, failure effect) to be executed is executed, and an end effect (end period 0.5 seconds) indicating that the effective period has ended (to end the promotion effect) is executed.

“Introduction effect B” in the column of the introduction period suggests (predictive) that an effective period related to the winning decision effect occurs (execution effect C described later is executed) by being performed during the SPSP reach effect. It has been directed. Specifically, a medium-sized effect image (introduction effect-in-progress image) is displayed on the image display device, and an introduction effect sound “Fush ~” is output from the audio output device 9.
“Introduction effect C” in the column of the introduction period indicates that an effective period related to the winning decision effect occurs (execution effect D or E described later is executed) by being performed during the SPSP reach effect. ). Specifically, an introduction effect large image composed of a large-sized effect image is displayed on the image display device, and an introduction effect sound composed of “Shugou” is output from the audio output device 9.

  The “promotion effect C” in the effective period column indicates that an effective period related to the winning decision effect has occurred during the SPSP reach effect and after the introduction effect B (prompt the operation of the effect button 17). It has been directed. Specifically, a medium-sized button image (normal button middle image) simulating the non-projecting state (normal state) effect button 17 is displayed on the image display device, the effect button 17 emits white light, and the sound output device From 9, the sound effect of “Picon ♪” is output.

  The “promotion effect D” in the effective period column indicates that an effective period related to the winning decision effect has occurred during the SPSP reach effect and after the introduction effect C (prompt the operation of the effect button 17). It has been directed. Specifically, a large-sized button image (projection button large image) imitating the effect button 17 in the protruding state (specific state) is displayed on the image display device, the effect button 17 emits white light, and the audio output device 9 Will output an introductory sound of "Press!"

  “Promotion effect E” in the effective period column indicates that an effective period related to the winning decision effect has occurred during the SPSP reach effect and after the introduction effect C (prompt the operation of the effect button 17). It has been directed. Specifically, a large projecting button large image composed of a large button image imitating the projecting button 17 in the projecting state (specific state) is displayed on the image display device, the rendering button 17 emits light in rainbow colors, and the audio output device 9 is an effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 by outputting an introduction sound effect consisting of “Press!”.

“Button non-protruding” in the effective period column indicates that the effect button 17 is in the non-protruding state (normal state) in the effective period.
“Button protrusion” in the effective period column indicates that the effect button 17 is in the protruding state (specific state) in the effective period.

  The “end effect B” in the end period column is an effect that ends the promotion effects C to E (implying that the effective period related to the winning decision effect has ended). Specifically, instead of the normal button medium image or the protruding button large image displayed on the image display device, a medium size effect image (end effect medium image) is displayed.

  The degree of expectation that the jackpot game of each introduction effect is executed is set to increase in the order of “introduction effect B” <“introduction effect C”. In addition, the degree of expectation that the jackpot game of each promotion effect is executed is set so as to increase in the order of “promotion effect C” <“promotion effect D” <“promotion effect E (determined jackpot)”. In addition, the expectation that the jackpot game of each button state is executed is set so as to increase in the order of “button non-protruding” <“button protruding”.

“Failure production” in the column of the decision production content indicates that a decision failure production (display of a failure effect image) suggesting that the jackpot game is not executed is executed.
“Success effect” indicates that a decision success effect (success effect image display + operation effect effect of the movable effect device 73 + vibration effect of the effect button 17) is executed, which suggests that the jackpot game is executed. Yes.

  The degree of expectation that the jackpot game of each decided production is executed is set so as to increase in the order of “failure production (losing decision)” <“success production (bonus decision)”. In addition, the expectation level that the jackpot game is executed when the introduction effect and the promotion effect of each decided effect pattern are executed is “pattern 1” <“pattern 2” <“pattern 3” <“pattern 4” < "Pattern 5 (big hit confirmed)".

  The first feature of the decision effect determination table shown in FIG. 31 is that the effect button 17 is more effective when the post-reach pseudo-continuous notice effect is executed than when the post-reach pseudo-continuous notice effect is not executed. It is easier to execute a successful effect when the effect button 17 is in a protruding state than when the effect button 17 is in a non-protruding state. In this way, it is possible to increase the player's expectation as to whether or not the pseudo-continuous notice effect after reach is executed and whether or not the effect button 17 is in a protruding state, and the game is more interesting. It becomes possible to make it.

  The second feature of the decision effect determination table shown in FIG. 31 is that the end effect is not executed when the success effect in which the operation effect of the movable effect device 73 is performed when the jackpot lottery result is a big win. Is mentioned. By doing in this way, it becomes easy to attract a player's consciousness to a successful effect (the operation effect of the movable effect device 73), and it becomes possible to improve the interest of the game.

(Expectation production control process of production control unit)
The expectation level effect control process of the effect control unit 130m will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 32 is a flowchart of the expectation level effect control process in the effect control unit 130m.

  First, in step E501, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the sub RAM 130c has execution information for the speech notice effect. If there is no execution information for the serif notice effect, the process proceeds to step E503. If there is execution information for the serif notice effect, in step E502, the serif notice effect is determined as an execution target, and the process proceeds to step E509. .

  In step E503, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not there is execution information for the roulette notice effect in the sub RAM 130c. If there is no execution information for the roulette notice effect, the process proceeds to step E505. If there is execution information for the roulette notice effect, the roulette notice effect is determined as an execution target in step E504, and the process proceeds to step E509. Transfer.

  In step E505, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not there is execution information for the cut-in notice effect in the sub RAM 130c. If there is no execution information for the cut-in notice effect, the process proceeds to step E507. If there is execution information for the cut-in notice effect, in step E506, the cut-in notice effect is determined as an execution target, and step E509 is performed. Move processing to.

  In step E507, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not there is execution information of the winning decision effect in the sub RAM 130c. If there is no execution information on the winning effect, the current expectation effect control process is terminated, and if there is execution information on the winning effect, the winning effect is determined as an execution target in step E508.

  In step E509, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not it is currently in an effective period in which the operation of the effect button 17 is valid. If it is not in the valid period, the process proceeds to step E510, and if it is in the valid period, the process proceeds to step E518.

  In step E510, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not there is introduction effect information related to the introduction effect in the execution information of the expectation effect determined as the execution target. If there is introduction effect information, the process proceeds to step E511, and if there is no introduction effect information, the process proceeds to step E513. Specifically, when the line notice effect is an execution target, it is determined that there is no introduction effect information, and when any of the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, and the winning decision effect is an execution object, It is determined that there is introduction effect information.

  In step E511, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the present is the start timing of the introduction effect. If it is not the start timing of the introduction effect, the process proceeds to step E513. If it is the start timing of the introduction effect, in step E512, the introduction effect information in the execution information of the expectation effect determined as the execution target. Is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. Thereby, the introduction effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and the process for executing the introduction effect of the expectation degree effect (any of the introduction effects A to C) is performed.

  In step E513, the sub CPU 130a determines whether it is the start timing of the promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17. If it is not the start timing of the promotion effect, the process proceeds to step E515. If it is the start timing of the promotion effect, in step E514, the promotion effect information in the execution information of the expectation effect determined as the execution target. Is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. Thereby, a promotion effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141, and a process for displaying a promotion effect image on the image display device or outputting a promotion sound effect from the audio output device 9 is performed. .

  In step E515, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not it is the start timing of an effective period in which the operation of the effect button 17 is effective. If it is not the start timing of the effective period, the current expectation level effect control process is terminated, and if it is the start time of the effective period, in the execution information of the expected level effect determined as the execution target in step E516 The effective period instruction command corresponding to the effective period information is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c, and in step E517, the effective period corresponding to the effective period information in the execution information of the expected degree effect determined as the execution target is sub- This is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 130c, and the current expectation level effect control process is terminated. Thereby, the effective period instruction command is transmitted to the lamp control unit 150, and processing for causing the effect button 17 to emit light or changing the effect button 17 to the protruding state is performed.

  In step E518, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the effect button 17 has been operated. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the effect button detection switch 17a has changed from the OFF state to the ON state. If the effect button 17 has been operated, the process proceeds to step E522. If the effect button 17 has not been operated, the process proceeds to step E519.

  In step E519, the sub CPU 130a decrements the valid time set in the sub RAM 130c by 1. In step E520, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the valid time has passed (whether or not the valid time is “0”). . If the effective time has not elapsed, the current expectation level effect control process is terminated. If the effective time has elapsed, in step E521, it is determined whether or not the speech notice effect is an execution target. To do. If the serif notice effect is an execution target, the process proceeds to step E525 assuming that the operation effect of the serif notice effect is not executed, and if the serif notice effect is not an execution target (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision) In the case of production), the process proceeds to step E522.

  In step E522, the sub CPU 130a sets an operation effect execution instruction command corresponding to the execution information of the expectation effect determined as the execution target in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c. Thereby, an operation effect execution instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the corresponding operation effect (serial effect, roulette effect, cut-in effect, and determined effect) is performed. become.

  In step E523, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the end effect information related to the end effect is included in the execution information of the expectation effect determined as the execution target. If there is no end effect information, the process proceeds to step E525 assuming that the end effect is not executed, and if there is end effect information, the process proceeds to step E524. Specifically, when the effect other than the winning decision effect is the execution target or the determined effect pattern in which the failing effect is executed in the winning decision effect, it is determined that there is the end effect information, and the successful effect is determined by the winning effect. Is determined to be executed, it is determined that there is no end information.

  In step E524, the sub CPU 130a sets an end effect instruction command corresponding to the end information in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c. Thereby, an end effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the end effect is performed.

  In step E525, the sub CPU 130a clears the execution information of the expected degree effect determined as the execution target from the sub RAM 130c, and ends this expected degree effect control process.

(Menu display effect)
Here, before explaining the non-expected degree effect control process of the effect control unit 130m shown in FIG. 33, an outline of the menu display effect that is an unexpected degree effect will be described.

  In the menu display effect, the operation of the effect button 17 becomes effective after executing the introduction effect (introduction period 3 seconds) that suggests (predicts) that an effective period occurs (the promotion effect described later is executed). An effective period (30 seconds) is generated, a promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 is executed during the effective period, and if the effect button 17 is operated during the effective period, the degree of expectation that the jackpot game will be executed is not suggested The menu display is executed, and the end effect indicating that the effective period has ended (the promotion effect is ended) is not executed.

  In the menu display effect, an “introduction effect D” is executed that suggests (predicts) that an effective period related to the menu display effect occurs (a promotion effect F described later is executed) by being performed while waiting for a customer. It has become so. Specifically, a small-sized introduction speech small image “3 seconds until the button is valid” is displayed on the image display device, but the introduction sound effect is not output from the audio output device 9.

  Further, in the menu display effect, it is suggested that the effective period related to the menu display effect has occurred during the effective period related to the menu display effect in the waiting state and after the introduction effect D (the operation of the effect button 17 is performed). (Prompt) “Promotion effect F” is executed. Specifically, a small menu guidance image composed of a button image of a small size imitating the effect button 17 in a non-projecting state (normal state) and a character image of “menu display” is displayed on the image display device. The output device 9 does not output a promotion sound effect.

  In the effective period related to the menu display effect in the customer waiting state, the effect button 17 is maintained in a non-projecting state (normal state) and emits white light. At this time, the operation of the cross key 19 is also effective, but the cross key 19 may emit white light or may not emit light.

(Unexpected degree production control process of production control unit)
The non-expected degree effect control process of the effect control unit 130m will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 33 is a flowchart of the expectation degree effect control process in the effect control unit 130m.

  First, in step E601, the sub CPU 130a refers to the reception buffer of the sub RAM 130c and determines whether a customer waiting state designation command is received. If the customer waiting state designation command has not been received, the process proceeds to step E603, and if the customer waiting state designation command has been received, in step E602, the effect button 17 is turned on after the customer waiting state has been entered. The effective waiting time until the effective period during which the operation is effective is set in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 130c, and the process proceeds to step E621.

  In step E603, the sub CPU 130a determines whether it is during the effective standby time. Specifically, it is determined whether or not effective standby time> 0. If it is not in the effective standby time, the process proceeds to step E612. If it is in the effective standby time, in step E604, the effective standby time set in the sub RAM 130c is decremented by 1.

  In step E605, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the effective standby time is the introduction start value (remaining 3 seconds) that is the start timing of the menu display effect introduction effect (introduction effect D). If it is not the introduction start value, the process proceeds to step E607. If it is the introduction start value, in step E606, an introduction effect instruction command corresponding to the introduction effect information of the menu display effect is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c. The process is performed, and the process proceeds to step E621. Thereby, the introduction effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the introduction effect of the menu display effect (introduction effect D) is performed.

  In step E607, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the effective standby time is the promotion start value (remaining 0.2 seconds) that is the start timing of the menu display effect promotion effect (promotion effect F). If it is not the promotion start value, the process proceeds to step E609. If it is the promotion start value, in step E608, a promotion effect instruction command corresponding to the promotion effect information of the menu display effect is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c. The process is moved to step E621. Thereby, a promotion effect instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and a process for executing a promotion effect of the menu display effect (promotion effect F) is performed.

  In step E609, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the effective standby time has elapsed (whether it is the start timing of the promotion effect that prompts the user to operate the effect button 17). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the effective standby time = 0. If the effective standby time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step E621. If the effective standby time has elapsed, in step E610, an acceleration effect instruction command corresponding to the effective period information of the menu display effect is issued. In step E611, the effective time (here, 30 seconds) corresponding to the effective period information of the menu display effect is set in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 130c, and the process proceeds to step E621. As a result, an effective period instruction command is transmitted to the lamp control unit 150, and processing for causing the effect button 17 to emit light is performed.

  In step E612, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not it is currently in an effective period in which the operation of the effect button 17 is effective. If it is not in the valid period, the process proceeds to step E621. If it is in the valid period, 1 is subtracted from the valid time set in the sub-RAM 130c in step E613.

  In step E614, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the effective time has elapsed (whether it is the end timing of the menu display effect). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the valid time = 0. If the valid time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step E617. If the valid time has elapsed, in step E615, an unexpected degree effect end instruction command for instructing the end of the unexpected degree effect is sent to the sub RAM 130c. In step E616, the above-described effective waiting time (here, 10 seconds) is reset in a predetermined area of the sub-RAM 130c, and the process proceeds to step E621. As a result, a non-expected degree effect end instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for ending the effect related to the non-expected degree effect (display of the menu image, light emission of the effect button 17, etc.) is performed. Will be done.

  In step E617, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the effect button 17 or the cross key 19 is operated. If the effect button 17 or the cross key 19 is operated, the process proceeds to step E618. If the effect button 17 or the cross key 19 is not operated, the process proceeds to step E621.

  In step E618, the sub CPU 130a updates the effect progress information of the non-expected degree effect set in the sub RAM 130c according to the operation result of the effect button 17 or the cross key 19. Specifically, when the effect button 17 is operated during execution of the promotion effect, the information is updated to information indicating the display of the menu image, and when the cross key 19 is operated during display of the menu image, The selected menu item is updated to information to be changed, and when the effect button 17 is operated during display of the menu image, the information is updated to information indicating the display of the image corresponding to the selected menu item.

  In step E619, the sub CPU 130a sets an operation effect execution instruction command corresponding to the updated effect progress information in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c. In step E620, the sub CPU 130a sets the above-described effective time (here, 30 seconds) in the sub RAM 130c. Reset to the specified area. Thereby, the operation effect execution instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the corresponding operation effect is performed. Specifically, a menu image in which a plurality of menu items are arranged is displayed, a menu item selected in the menu image is updated, information on the selected menu item is displayed, and the like.

  In step E621, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not the changing effect has been started. When the variation effect is started, the process proceeds to step E622, and when the variation effect is not started, the current unexpected degree effect control process is terminated.

  In step E622, the sub CPU 130a sets a non-expected degree effect end instruction command instructing the end of the non-expected degree effect in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 130c, and in step E623, the sub-expected degree effect set in the sub RAM 130c is set. This information is cleared, and the current unexpected expectation effect control process is terminated. As a result, a non-expected degree effect end instruction command is transmitted to the overall control unit 141 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for ending the effect related to the non-expected degree effect (display of the menu image, light emission of the effect button 17, etc.) is performed. Will be done.

  In this way, by executing the introductory effect before the effective period occurs in the non-expected degree effect (menu display effect), the player can be motivated to operate before the effective period occurs. Even from the viewpoint of the developer who wants to operate the button 17, the operation function is not wasted.

  Further, the effective period related to the unexpected degree effect is not ended by the player operating the effect button 17 or the cross key 19, and a period during which the effect button 17 or the cross key 19 is not operated is predetermined. It ends when the period has passed and when the changing production is started. Therefore, it is possible to secure a long period for accepting the operation for the non-expected degree effect, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  In addition, you may make it complete | finish the effective period which concerns on an expectation degree effect | action by operation of the effect button 17 and the cross key 19 by a player. In this case, a menu item “End” may be provided in the menu image, or the valid period may be ended by a long press operation of the effect button 17 or the like.

(Main processing of the general control unit)
The main process of the overall control unit 141 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing main processing of the overall control unit 141. This main process is performed by inputting a system reset generated when a power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board 160 to the overall CPU 141a.

  First, the overall CPU 141a prohibits all interruptions in step T1, and performs initial setting processing in step T2. Specifically, CPU initial setting such as setting of built-in registers, access permission to the overall RAM 141c, initialization of all RWM areas of the overall RAM 141c (0 clear), CTC (counter timer circuit for generating timer interrupts) ) And the like, and all interruptions are permitted in step T3.

  In step T4, the overall CPU 141a performs adjustment mode switching processing. Specifically, the volume (value) of the effect sound output from the audio output device 9 with reference to the input signal from the changeover switch 22 that can be operated by the game shop clerk and the image display device (the first image display device 70, the first A process for switching the adjustment mode relating to the adjustment of the light amount (value) of the backlight of the two-image display device 71) and the adjustment of the volume and the light amount is performed.

  The overall CPU 141a performs a volume adjustment process in step T5. Specifically, it is output from the audio output device 9 based on detection signals (left button detection signal, right button detection signal) from the cross key detection switch 19a that detects the operation of the cross key 19 that can be operated by the player. A process for adjusting the volume (value) of the production sound is performed.

  The overall CPU 141a performs light amount adjustment processing in step T6. Specifically, based on the detection signal (down button detection signal, up button detection signal) from the cross key detection switch 19a that detects the operation of the cross key 19 that can be operated by the player, the image display device (first image). Processing for adjusting the light amount (value) of the backlight of the display device 70 and the second image display device 71) is performed.

  In addition, it is not only adjusting the light quantity of the backlight of an image display apparatus (the 1st image display apparatus 70, the 2nd image display apparatus 71), but the light quantity of LED provided in the frame illuminating device 10 or the panel illuminating device 74 Also, it may be possible to make adjustments.

  In step T7, the overall CPU 141a performs an eco mode control process. Specifically, a process for controlling the start and end of the eco mode that reduces the amount of light of the backlight of the image display devices (the first image display device 70 and the second image display device 71) to reduce power consumption is performed. .

  In step T8, the overall CPU 141a determines whether an effect instruction command or a notification instruction command transmitted from the effect control unit 130m has been received. If an effect instruction command or notification instruction command has not been received, the process proceeds to step T11. If an effect instruction command or notification instruction command has been received, the process proceeds to step T9.

  In step T9, the overall CPU 141a performs an animation pattern setting process. Specifically, a process of determining an animation pattern from the type of animation group corresponding to the received effect instruction command or notification instruction command and setting (setting) it in a predetermined area of the overall RAM 141c is performed.

  In step T10, the overall CPU 141a performs sound pattern setting processing. Specifically, a process of determining a sound pattern from the type of sound group corresponding to the received effect instruction command or notification instruction command and setting (setting) it in a predetermined area of the overall RAM 141c is performed.

  In step T11, the overall CPU 141a determines whether or not a frame switching flag indicating that it is the frame update timing for updating the display image of the image display device is set in the overall RAM 141c. If there is a frame switching flag, the process proceeds to step T12. If there is no frame switching flag, the process proceeds to step T4.

  The frame switching flag is set by a V blank interrupt process of the overall control unit 141 described later. Therefore, the processes of steps T12 to T15 described below are executed every time the V blank interrupt process is executed (frame update timing).

  The overall CPU 141a clears the frame switching flag set in the overall RAM 141c at step T12, and performs a scene update process at step T13. Specifically, referring to the scene switching counter, the wait frame counter, and the frame counter that are updated in the V blank interrupt process described later, the animation scene address is updated based on the animation pattern determined in step T9. Then, the process of updating the address of the sound scene is performed based on the sound pattern determined in step T10.

  The overall CPU 141a performs a drawing control process in step T14. Specifically, according to the priority order (drawing order) of the animation group to which the anime scene belongs, the display control information group is composed of display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) of one frame of the animation scene at the updated address. A display list is generated, the display list is output to the image control unit 145 (VDP), and processing for instructing drawing of a display image based on the display list is performed.

  As a result, the image control unit 145 (VDP) draws the display image based on the display list in the VRAM drawing frame buffer and the image drawn in the VRAM display frame buffer (effect image, abnormality notification image). Is displayed on the image display device (first image display device, second image display device 71).

  The overall CPU 141a performs voice control processing in step T15. Specifically, a process of generating a voice control command from the sound information at the updated address and outputting the voice control command to the voice control unit 148 (voice LSI) is performed.

  As a result, the voice control unit 148 (voice LSI) performs processing for outputting various effect sounds and notification sounds from the voice output device 9 based on the voice control command. When this process ends, the process moves to a step T4.

(Command reception interrupt processing of the general control unit)
A command reception interrupt process of the overall control unit 141 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 35A is a flowchart showing command reception interrupt processing of the overall control unit 141. This command reception interrupt process is executed by receiving various commands transmitted from the effect control unit 130m.

  First, the overall CPU 141a performs command reception processing in step T30. Specifically, when an effect instruction command or a notification instruction command transmitted from the effect control unit 130m is received, a process of storing in the reception buffer of the overall RAM 141c is performed. When this process ends, the current command reception interrupt process ends.

(V blank interrupt processing of the general control unit)
The V blank interrupt process of the overall control unit 141 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 35B is a flowchart showing the V blank interrupt process of the overall control unit 141. This V blank interruption process is performed every time a V blank signal is transmitted from the image control unit 145 (VDP) every 1/30 seconds (the time at which rendering and display of effect images for one frame is scheduled to be completed). To be executed.

  First, the overall CPU 141a performs a counter update process in step T50. Specifically, a process of updating +1 of various counters (scene switching counter, weight frame counter, frame counter, etc.) used in the above-described animation control process or the like is performed.

  In step T51, the overall CPU 141a performs a frame buffer switching command process. Specifically, the image control is performed on the condition that the drawing completion signal transmitted from the image control unit 145 (VDP) is received by completing the drawing of the effect image for one frame in the drawing frame buffer. The unit 145 (VDP) is instructed to switch between the first frame buffer area and the second frame buffer area of the VRAM. As a result, each time the V blank interrupt process is executed every 1/30 seconds (about 33 milliseconds), the first frame buffer area and the second frame buffer area are changed to “drawing frame buffer” and “display frame”. It will switch to “buffer” alternately.

  In step T52, the overall CPU 141a sets a frame switching flag indicating that the drawing (display) frame has been switched to a predetermined area of the overall RAM 141c, and ends the current V blank interrupt processing. This frame switching flag is referred to in step T11 of the main process of the overall control unit 141.

(Specific example of dialogue notice effect)
A specific example of the dialogue notice effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 36 and 37. FIG. 36 is a timing chart before and after the execution of the serif notice effect, and FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of the effect of the serif notice effect. FIGS. 36 (a) to (g) and FIGS. and g) correspond to each.

First, at the timing of T0, it is in a normal gaming state and a customer waiting state, and the image display device has a customer waiting state image comprising three effect symbols 70a, a first hold icon display region 70C, and the icon display region 70E. Is displayed (see FIG. 37A).
At the timing of T1, when the game ball wins at the first start opening 45 and the variable display of the first special symbol is started, in the image display device, the first displayed on the first hold icon display area 70C for a moment. The hold icon moves to the icon display area 70E, and the variation display of the effect symbol 70a is started and the normal variation effect is started (see FIG. 37B).

At the timing of T2, when the valid period related to the serif notice effect occurs, the above-described promotion effect A is started, and the effect button 17 is lit in white (see FIG. 37 (c)).
At the timing of T3, when a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds) elapses after the effective period occurs, the image window displays the serif window image WG, and the above-described normal size of the small size so as to be superimposed thereon. A button small image BS (promotion effect image) is displayed (see FIG. 37D).

  At the timing of T4, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a changes from the OFF state to the ON state, the above-described end effect A is started with the end of the valid period related to the serif notice effect, and the effect button 17 is Turns off. In the image display device, the small-size end effect small image ES (end effect image) described above is displayed instead of the normal button small image BS (promotion effect image), and the end effect small image in the serif window image WG. A dialogue image (operation effect image) of “This change is an opportunity!”, Which is an expectation UP dialogue, is displayed behind the ES (see FIG. 37E).

When the execution time of end effect A (0.5 seconds) elapses at the timing of T5, the end effect small image ES (end effect image) is deleted and the serif image (operation effect image) is completely displayed on the image display device. It becomes visible (see FIG. 37 (f)).
At the timing of T6, when a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds) elapses after the display of the speech image (operation effect image), the execution period of the speech notification effect ends, and the image display device displays the speech window image WG together with the speech window image WG. The image (operation effect image) is deleted (see FIG. 37 (g)).

  When the effective time has passed without the effect button 17 being operated, the end effect small image ES (end effect image) is displayed, but the speech image (operation effect image) is not displayed. The serif window image WG is erased.

(Specific example of roulette notice effect)
A specific example of the serif notice effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 38 and 39. FIG. 38 is a timing chart before and after the execution of the roulette notice effect. FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example of the effect of the roulette notice effect. FIGS. 38 (a) to (h) and FIGS. h) correspond to each.

First, at the timing of T0, it is in a normal gaming state and a customer waiting state, and the image display device has a customer waiting state image comprising three effect symbols 70a, a first hold icon display region 70C, and the icon display region 70E. Is displayed (see FIG. 39A).
At the timing of T1, when the game ball wins at the first start opening 45 and the variable display of the first special symbol is started, in the image display device, the first displayed on the first hold icon display area 70C for a moment. The hold icon moves to the icon display area 70E, and the variation display of the effect symbol 70a is started to start the normal variation effect (see FIG. 39B).

At the timing of T2, when the start timing of the roulette notice effect is reached, the introduction effect A described above is started, and the image display device displays a roulette image RG consisting of options of “×, opportunity, reach, confirm”. The medium-size introductory image ST (introduction effect image) of the above-mentioned “press the button to stop the roulette” is displayed so as to be superimposed, and the speech sound of “press the button” is output from the audio output device 9 ( FIG. 39 (c)).
At the timing of T3, when a predetermined period (0.8 seconds) elapses after the introduction effect A is started, the effective period related to the roulette notice effect is generated and the promotion effect B described above is started, and the effect button 17 is white. Is lit (see FIG. 39D).

When the execution time (1 second) of the introduction effect A elapses at the timing T4, the medium size normal button medium image BT (promotion effect image) described above is displayed on the image display device instead of the introduction line image ST. One of the choices of the roulette image RG is turned on, and the lighting position is sequentially moved (see FIG. 39 (e)).
At the timing of T5, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a changes from the OFF state to the ON state, the end effect A and the roulette result effect described above are started along with the end of the effective period related to the roulette notice effect. The production button 17 is turned off. In the image display device, the small-size end effect small image ES (end effect image) described above is displayed instead of the normal button middle image BT (promotion effect image), and the roulette result in which “reach” is selected as the roulette image RG. The image changes to an image RKG (operation effect image) (see FIG. 39 (f)).

When the execution time (0.5 seconds) of the end effect A elapses at the timing of T6, the end effect small image ES (end effect image) is deleted and the roulette result image RKG (operation effect image) is displayed on the image display device. It becomes completely visible (see FIG. 39 (g)).
At a timing T7, when a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds) elapses after the change to the roulette result image RKG (operation effect image), the execution period of the roulette notice effect ends, and the image display device displays the roulette result image RKG ( The operation effect image) is deleted (see FIG. 39 (h)).

  Even if the effect button 17 is not operated and the effective time has elapsed, the end effect small image ES (end effect image) is displayed and the roulette result image RKG (operation effect image) is displayed. It is like that.

(Specific example of cut-in notice effect)
A specific example of the cut-in notice effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 40 and 41. 40 is a timing chart before and after the execution of the cut-in notice effect, and FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an example of the effect of the cut-in notice effect, and FIGS. 40 (a) to (g) and FIG. 39 (a). To (g) correspond to each.

First, at the timing of T0, when the SP reach effect is started in the variation effect executed during the normal game state, the left and right effect symbols 70a forming the reach state are displayed on the left and right corners of the upper part of the screen. A battle image in which the teammate character (left side) and the enemy character (right side) battle is displayed (see FIG. 41A).
At the timing of T1, when the cut-in notice effect start timing is reached, the introduction effect B described above is started. In the image display device, the above-described introduction effect medium image ET (introduction effect image) is displayed in the center of the screen from a small size to a medium size. The sound output device 9 outputs an introduction effect sound of “Fush ~” (see FIG. 41B).

When a predetermined time (3.3 seconds) elapses after the introduction effect B is started at the timing T2, the effective period related to the cut-in notice effect is generated and the above-described promotion effect C is started, and the effect button 17 is displayed. Lights up in white (see FIG. 41C).
When the execution time of the introduction effect B (3.5 seconds) elapses at the timing of T3, the image display device replaces the introductory effect image ET (introduction effect image) with the above-described medium size normal button medium image BT ( (Promotion effect image) is displayed, and the sound effect sound of “picone ♪” is output from the audio output device 9 (see FIG. 41 (d)).

  At the timing of T4, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a changes from the OFF state to the ON state, the end effect B and the cut-in effect described above are started with the end of the effective period related to the cut-in notice effect. The production button 17 is turned off. In the image display device, the medium-size end effect medium image ET (end effect image) described above is displayed instead of the normal button medium image BT (promotion effect image), and the cut-in image CI including the character B and the red effect image is displayed. (Operation effect image) is displayed, and a sound effect sound of “Joi ♪” is output from the audio output device 9 (see FIG. 41E).

When the execution time of end effect B (0.5 seconds) elapses at the timing of T5, the image display device deletes the end effect image ET (end effect image) and the cut-in image CI (operation effect image). It becomes completely visible (see FIG. 41 (f)).
At a timing T6, when a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) elapses after the cut-in image CI (operation effect image) is displayed, the execution period of the cut-in notice effect ends, and the image display device uses the cut-in image CI. (Operation effect image) is erased, and a final effect is executed as to whether or not the central effect symbol 70a “3” changes to “4” (see FIG. 41 (g)).

  Even when the effect button 17 is not operated and the valid time has elapsed, the end effect image ET (end effect image) is displayed, and the cut-in image CI (operation effect image) is displayed. A production effect sound of “Joi ♪” is output from the audio output device 9.

(Specific example 1 of winning decision production)
A specific example of the winning decision effect (success effect) will be described with reference to FIGS. 42 and 43. FIG. 42 is a timing chart before and after execution of the winning decision effect (success effect), and FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of the winning decision effect (success effect), and FIGS. And FIGS. 43A to 43F correspond to each other.

First, at the timing of T0, the SP reach effect is executed in the variation effect executed during the normal gaming state, and the development notification image is displayed on the image display device for informing that the SP reach reach effect is developed.
When the SPSP reach effect is started at the timing of T1, the image display device displays three effect symbols 70a forming the reach state in a minimal manner at the lower right corner of the screen, and two teammate characters fight together. The battle battle image to be displayed is displayed (see FIG. 43A).

At the timing of T2, when it is the start timing of the winning decision effect, the introduction effect C described above is started, and in the image display device, a large introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image) is formed so as to swirl from the outside of the screen to the inside. Is displayed, and the introduction effect sound of “Shgo ~” is output from the audio output device 9 (see FIG. 43B).
At the timing of T3, when a predetermined time (3.8 seconds) elapses after the introduction effect C is started, the effective period related to the winning decision effect is generated, the above-described promotion effect D is started, and the effect button 17 protrudes. The change to the state (specific state) is started and the light is turned on in white (see FIG. 43C).

When the execution time (4 seconds) of the introduction effect C elapses at the timing of T4, the effect button 17 completes the change to the protruding state, and the image display device changes to the introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image). The large-sized protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image) described above is displayed, and the sound effect sound of “press ♪” is output from the audio output device 9 (see FIG. 43D).
At the timing of T5, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a is turned from the OFF state to the ON state, the success effect is started with the end of the effective period related to the winning decision effect, and the effect button 17 is switched from white light emission. It changes to rainbow light emission and changes from a non-vibration state to a vibration state. In the image display device, the above-mentioned success effect large image SED (operation effect image) is displayed instead of the protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image), and the success sound effect of “Cuin ♪ Cuin ♪” is output from the audio output device 9. The first movable member 73a is moved down to the center of the screen (see FIG. 43 (e)).

  At a timing of T6, when a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) elapses after the execution of the successful effect, the execution period of the winning effect is ended, and the success effect large image SED (operation effect image) is erased in the image display device. Then, the jackpot effect symbol 70a of “777” is temporarily stopped and displayed at the normal size, and the effect button 17 is turned off (see FIG. 43 (f)).

  Even if the effective time has passed without the effect button 17 being operated, the success effect large image SED (operation effect image) is displayed, and the sound output device 9 makes a success effect sound of “Cuin ♪ Cuin ♪”. Is output, and the first movable member 73a is lowered to the center of the screen.

(Specific example of winning decision production 2)
A specific example of the winning decision effect (failure effect) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 44 is a timing chart before and after execution of the winning decision effect (failure effect). Since the timing from T0 to T4 is the same as the timing from T0 to T4 in FIG. 42, the description thereof is omitted here.

At the timing of T5, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a changes from the OFF state to the ON state, the end effect B and the failure effect are started with the end of the effective period related to the winning decision effect, and the effect button 17 Goes off. In the image display device, the medium-size end effect medium image (end effect image) described above is displayed instead of the protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image), and the failure effect image (operation effect image) is displayed.
When the effect time (0.5 seconds) of the end effect B elapses at the timing of T6, the end effect in-effect image ET (end effect image) is deleted and the failed effect image (operation effect image) is completely completed in the image display device. Becomes visible.

  At a timing T7, when a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) elapses after the failure effect is executed, the execution period of the winning effect is ended, and the failure effect image (operation effect image) is erased in the image display device. The loss effect symbol 70a of “787” is temporarily stopped and displayed at the normal size.

  Even when the effect button 17 is not operated and the valid time has elapsed, the end effect in-progress image ET (end effect image) is displayed and the failure effect image (operation effect image) is displayed. It has become.

  Thus, in the expectation degree effect (the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, and the winning decision effect), the introduction effect is executed before the effective period occurs. Therefore, the player can be motivated to operate the effect button 17 before the effective period occurs, and the fun of the game can be improved. Further, since the occurrence of the effective period can be detected by the introduction effect, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the operation timing of the effect button 17 is missed.

  In addition, for the speech advance notice effect in which the player's expectation is the lowest among the expectation effects and the corresponding operation effect (the speech effect) is not executed when the effect button 17 is not operated, The introduction effect is not executed before the occurrence of. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from expecting the serif notice effect excessively by executing the introduction effect and being discouraged by the result and reducing the interest of the game.

  In addition, the expectation effect (the serif notice effect, the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, the winning decision effect) is expected to be performed more than the type of expectation effect (the serif notice effect) in which the introduction effect is not performed. There are more types of degree production (roulette notice production, cut-in notice production, winning decision production). Therefore, it is possible to improve the player's expectation for the overall expectation effect, and to improve the interest of the game.

  Also, in the expectation effect (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), the introduction effect executed during the reach effect rather than the type of introduction effect (introduction effect A) executed before the reach effect. There are more types (introduction effects B, introduction effects C). For this reason, it is possible to enhance the effect of performing the reach effect whether or not the jackpot game is executed, and to improve the interest of the game.

  Moreover, in the expectation effect (the serif notice effect, the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, the winning decision effect), the generation timing of the effective period and the lighting timing of the effect button 17 coincide, but after the effective period generation timing. A promotion effect image is displayed on the image display device. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the effect button 17 is not effective although the promotion effect image is displayed while accurately knowing the generation timing of the effective period related to the expectation effect. It becomes possible to improve.

  In addition, in the expectation effect (cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), the effect button 17 may change to the protruding state (specific state) or not change to the protruding state when the effective period occurs. It has become. Therefore, it is possible to improve the player's expectation as to whether or not the effect button 17 is in a protruding state when the effective period occurs, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  Further, in an expectation degree effect (a roulette notice effect, a cut-in notice effect, a winning decision effect), a promotion sound effect is output when a promotion effect image is displayed. Therefore, the player can be motivated to operate the effect button 17 during the effective period, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  Further, in the expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), when the effect button 17 is operated and the effective period ends, the promotion effect ends (end of the effective period) The end effect is executed. Therefore, it is possible to make the player recognize that the effective period has expired, and to avoid the inconvenience of operating the effect button 17 many times.

  In addition, in the expectation effect (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), the introduction effect execution period and the effective period overlap with each other (timing), but the effective period and the end effect execution period are There is no overlapping period (timing). Therefore, it is possible to appropriately accept the operation of the effect button 17 by the player, and it is possible to improve the reliability of the gaming machine.

  In addition, in the expectation level effect (the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, and the winning decision effect), the display size of the introduction effect image differs depending on the expectation level. Specifically, the introduction effect image of the winning decision effect has a larger display size in the image display device than the introduction effect image of the roulette notice effect and the introduction effect image of the cut-in notice effect. Therefore, it is possible to vary the sense of expectation that the player has depending on the introduction effect image, and to improve the interest of the game.

  In addition, in the expectation level effect (the serif notification effect, the roulette notification effect, the cut-in notification effect, and the winning decision effect), the display size of the promotion effect image differs depending on the expectation level. Specifically, the display effect size of the display effect on the image display device is larger than the display image of the promotion effect of the other expected degree effect than the effect image of the promotion effect of the serif notice effect. The display effect in the image display device is larger in the promotion effect image of the winning decision effect than in the promotion effect image. Therefore, it is possible to vary the sense of expectation that the player has with the promotion effect image, and to improve the interest of the game.

  In addition, in the winning decision effect where the player's expectation is the highest among the expectation effects, when the successful effect in which the operation effect of the movable effect device 73 is performed, the end effect is executed after the effective period ends. It is supposed not to. Therefore, it becomes easy to attract the player's consciousness to the success effect (the operation effect of the movable effect device 73), and the interest of the game can be improved.

  In addition, in the expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), the effect time of the introductory effect rather than the type of effect time of the end effect (0.5 seconds of the end effect A) Types (1 second of introduction effect A, 3.5 seconds of introduction effect B, 4 seconds of introduction effect C) are increasing. Therefore, while fully enjoying the process until the operation effect is executed, by finishing the end effect smoothly, the effect will proceed smoothly according to the player's expectation, and the entertainment of the game It becomes possible to improve.

  In addition, in the production of expectation (serif notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), the effect time of the introduction effect (introduction time 0.5 seconds of the finish effect A) The effect A is 1 second, the introduction effect B is 3.5 seconds, and the introduction effect C is 4 seconds). Therefore, while fully enjoying the process until the operation effect is executed, by finishing the end effect smoothly, the effect will proceed smoothly according to the player's expectation, and the entertainment of the game It becomes possible to improve.

  In addition, in the expectation effect (the serif notice effect, the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, and the winning decision effect that becomes the failure effect), the end effect is executed regardless of whether or not the effect button 17 is operated during the effective period. It has become. Therefore, the player can be surely informed that the effective period has expired, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  In addition, in the production of expectation (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), it is introduced rather than the type of end effect image (end effect small image ES, end effect medium image ET) in the end effect. There are more types of introductory effect images (introductory speech images ST, introductory effect images ET, and introductory effect large images ED). Therefore, it is possible to sufficiently entertain the player before the execution of the operation effect that the player is thrilled than after the execution of the operation effect, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  In addition, in the expectation effect (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), the introduction effect sound is output during the execution of the introduction effect, but the end effect sound is not output during the execution of the end effect. ing. Therefore, while the player's sense of expectation is enhanced by the introduction sound effect, the operation effect is not hindered by the end sound effect, and the entertainment of the game can be improved.

  In the expectation effect (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), the display effect size is displayed on the image display device in the introduction effect rather than the display size of the end effect image displayed on the image display device in the end effect. The display size of the introduction effect image is larger. Therefore, it is possible to sufficiently entertain the player before the execution of the operation effect that the player is thrilled than after the execution of the operation effect, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  In the expectation effect (cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), when the effect button 17 is operated and the operation effect is executed, the effect button 17 may change to a vibration state. Therefore, it is possible to increase the player's expectation on whether or not the effect button changes to the vibration state, and to improve the interest of the game.

  It should be noted that in the serif notice effect, the introduction effect (display of the introduction effect image, output of the introduction effect sound) may be executed before the effective period occurs. In this case, the display size of the introduction effect image may be smaller than the cut-in notice effect or the winning decision notice effect, or the introduction effect sound may not be output.

  Further, in the winning decision effect, even if a successful effect in which the operation effect of the movable effect device 73 is performed is executed, an end effect (display of the end effect image) is executed after the effective period ends. Good.

(Specific example when processing failure occurs in the image control unit during expectation stage)
With reference to FIG. 45, a specific example will be described in the case where a process failure occurs in the image control unit 145 (VDP) during an expectation effect (here, a winning decision effect). FIG. 45 is a timing chart before and after the processing failure of the image control unit 145 (VDP). Note that the timings of T0 to T6 in FIG. 45 are the same as the timings of T0 to T6 in FIG.

  “Processing failure” is a phenomenon in which the rendering image buffer and the display frame buffer are not switched in the VRAM of the image control unit 145 (VDP), and the same effect image as the previous frame is displayed on the image display device ( Error). For example, when the image control unit 145 (VDP) has not completed rendering of the effect image in the drawing frame buffer within 1/30 seconds, a drawing completion signal is not output to the overall control unit 141, or drawing is performed. Although the completion signal is output but the overall control unit 141 cannot receive it, it is generated when the overall control unit 141 does not issue a frame buffer switching instruction, or the overall control unit 141 issues a frame buffer switching instruction. The general control unit 141 generates a V blank signal that is generated when the image control unit 145 (VDP) cannot receive the instruction, or is output from the image control unit 145 (VDP) every 1/30 seconds. May not occur because the general control unit 141 does not issue a frame buffer switching instruction.

  If a processing drop occurs in the image control unit 145 (VDP) at the timing T4 when the execution time (4 seconds) of the introduction effect C elapses, the image display device originally has a large introduction effect image ED (introduction effect image). ) Is displayed instead of the large protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image) described above, the display period of the introduction effect large image ED is extended (continued). On the other hand, the sound output device 9 outputs a promotion sound effect “push ♪”.

  After that, at the timing of T4a, which is the next frame update timing, if the drawing process is normally performed without any processing loss in the image control unit 145, the above-described effect is replaced with the introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image). A large projecting button large image ED (promotion effect image) is displayed. When the effective period elapses without the effect button 17 being operated after this, the display period of the protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image) is longer than when the image control unit 145 does not cause processing failure. Although the time is shorter by one frame, the output period of the promotion sound effect is the same time regardless of whether or not the effect button 17 is operated and whether or not a processing failure occurs in the image control unit 145.

  After that, if the processing drop occurs in the image control unit 145 at the timing T5 when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a is turned from the OFF state to the ON state, the image display device normally has a large protruding button. When the success effect large image SED (operation effect image) described above is displayed instead of the image BD (promotion effect image), the display period of the protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image) is extended (continued). On the other hand, the sound output device 9 outputs a success sound effect of “Cuin ♪ Cuin ♪”, and the first movable member 73a moves down to the center of the screen.

  Then, at the timing of T5a, which is the next frame update timing, when the drawing process is normally performed without any processing loss in the image control unit 145, the above-described projecting button large image BD (promotion effect image) is used instead. A successful effect large image SED (operation effect image) is displayed and displayed until the timing of T6 so that the display period is shortened by one frame in which a processing failure has occurred. It should be noted that the output period of the successful sound effect is the same time regardless of whether or not a processing failure has occurred in the image control unit 145.

  Here, an example has been described in which the processing failure has occurred in the image control unit 145 during the execution of the winning decision effect. However, other expectation effects (the serif notice effect, the roulette notice effect, and the cut-in notice effect) are also introduced effects. Processing when processing drop occurs at the timing when the execution time (4 seconds) elapses, or when processing button occurs when the presentation button 17 is operated and the presentation button detection switch 17a changes from the OFF state to the ON state And the flow of the production are the same as in the case of the winning decision production described above.

  As described above, even if the processing drop occurs at the timing when the introduction effect execution time (4 seconds) elapses and the display timing of the introduction effect image shifts backward, the generation timing of the effective period, the effect button 17 The lighting timing, the change timing of the effect button 17 to the specific state, and the output timing of the sound effect sound are not changed, and the predetermined timing (invariable timing determined by the value of the weight frame counter or the frame counter) It has become. Therefore, other control (production) shifts backward in accordance with the processing failure of the image control unit 145, so that the progress of the expectation production and the fluctuation production does not become abnormal, and the entertainment of the game is prevented from being lowered. Nothing will happen.

  Further, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a is turned from the OFF state to the ON state, a process drop occurs and an operation effect image (a serif effect image, a roulette result effect image, a cut-in effect image, a decision effect) Even if the display timing of the image) is shifted backward, the end timing of the effective period, the turn-off / lighting color change timing of the effect button 17, the change timing of the effect button 17 to the normal state, and the operation timing of the movable member Does not change and has a predetermined timing (an invariable timing determined by the value of the wait frame counter or the frame counter). Therefore, other control (production) shifts backward in accordance with the processing failure of the image control unit 145, so that the progress of the expectation production and the fluctuation production does not become abnormal, and the entertainment of the game is prevented from being lowered. Nothing will happen.

  When the display of the promotion effect image and the operation effect image (the serif effect image, the roulette result effect image, the cut-in effect image, and the decision effect image) is started after the processing failure occurs, the first frame image of the corresponding effect And display the image of the previous frame from the last frame when the production time has elapsed, so that the scale (adjustment) of the image display may be performed at the end of the production. The image display may be adjusted (adjusted) at the beginning of the effect by displaying the image of the second frame and displaying the image of the last frame when the effect time has elapsed.

(An expectation degree modification)
A modified example of the expectation effect (here, the winning decision effect) will be described with reference to FIGS. 46 is a timing chart before and after execution of the winning decision effect (success effect) in the modified example, and FIG. 47 is a diagram showing an example of the winning decision effect (success effect) in the modified example. a) to (g) correspond to FIGS. 47 (a) to (g), respectively. 42 and 43 described above, the specific relationship between the display timing of the promotion effect image (output timing of the promotion effect sound) and the generation timing of the effective period (lighting timing of the effect button 17). Is different in that it is reversed.

First, at the timing of T0, the SP reach effect is executed in the variation effect executed during the normal gaming state, and the development notification image is displayed on the image display device for informing that the SP reach reach effect is developed.
When the SPSP reach effect is started at the timing of T1, the image display device displays three effect symbols 70a forming the reach state in a minimal manner at the lower right corner of the screen, and two teammate characters fight together. The battle battle image to be displayed is displayed (see FIG. 47A).

At the timing of T2, when it is the start timing of the winning decision effect, the introduction effect C described above is started, and in the image display device, a large introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image) is formed so as to swirl from the outside of the screen to the inside. The sound output device 9 displays the introduction effect sound “Shgo ~” (see FIG. 47B).
When a predetermined time (for example, 3.8 seconds) elapses after the introduction effect C is started at the timing of T3, the image display device displays the introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image) over the entire screen (see FIG. 47 (c)).

At the timing of T4, when the execution time (4 seconds) of the introductory effect C elapses, the effect button 17 starts changing to the protruding state (specific state), and the above-described promotion effect D is started. The large-sized protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image) described above is displayed instead of the introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image), and the sound effect sound of “press ♪” is output from the audio output device 9. (See FIG. 47d).
At the timing of T5, when a predetermined time (0.2 seconds) has elapsed since the promotion effect D is started, the effect button 17 completes the change to the protruding state, and an effective period related to the winning decision effect is generated. The button 17 lights up in white (see FIG. 47 (e)).

At the timing of T6, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a is turned from the OFF state to the ON state, the success effect is started with the end of the effective period related to the winning decision effect, and the effect button 17 is switched from white light emission. It changes to rainbow light emission and changes from a non-vibration state to a vibration state. In the image display device, the above-mentioned success effect large image SED (operation effect image) is displayed instead of the protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image), and the success sound effect of “Cuin ♪ Cuin ♪” is output from the audio output device 9. The first movable member 73a is moved down to the center of the screen (see FIG. 47 (f)).
At a timing of T6, when a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) elapses after the execution of the successful effect, the execution period of the winning effect is ended, and the success effect large image SED (operation effect image) is erased in the image display device. Then, the jackpot effect symbol 70a of “777” is temporarily stopped and displayed at the normal size, and the effect button 17 is turned off (see FIG. 47 (f)).

  At a timing of T7, when a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) elapses after the execution of the success effect, the execution period of the winning effect is ended, and the success effect large image SED (operation effect image) is erased in the image display device. Then, the jackpot effect symbol 70a of “777” is temporarily stopped and displayed at the normal size, and the effect button 17 is turned off (see FIG. 47 (g)).

  Here, although the modification example of the winning decision effect has been described, the display of the promotion effect image is also displayed for the other expectation effects (the serif notice effect, the roulette notice effect, and the cut-in notice effect) as in the modified example of the winning decision effect. It is preferable to reverse the order of the timing (the output timing of the sound effect sound) and the generation timing of the effective period (the lighting timing of the effect button 17).

  In this way, the promotion effect image is first displayed on the image display device, the promotion effect sound is output, the effective period is generated, and the effect button 17 is lit in white. For this reason, it is possible to prepare the mind for operating the effect button 17 with the promotion effect image and the promotion effect sound before the effective period occurs, and the operation timing of the effect button 17 is missed during the effective period. Can be avoided.

(Specific example in the case where a processing failure occurs in the image control unit during the expectation stage in the modification)
With reference to FIG. 48, a specific example will be described in the case where a process failure occurs in the image control unit 145 (VDP) during an expectation degree effect (here, a winning decision effect) in the modification. FIG. 48 is a timing chart before and after the processing failure of the image control unit 145 (VDP). Note that the timings of T0 to T7 in FIG. 48 are the same as the timings of T0 to T7 in FIG.

  If a processing drop occurs in the image control unit 145 at the timing T4 when the execution time of the introduction effect C (4 seconds) elapses, the image display device originally changes to the introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image). When the large-sized protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image) described above is displayed, the display period of the introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image) is extended (continued). On the other hand, the sound output device 9 outputs a promotion sound effect “push ♪”.

  After that, at the timing of T4a, which is the next frame update timing, when the drawing process is normally performed without any processing loss in the image control unit 145, the above-described effect is replaced with the introduction effect large image ED (introduction effect image). A large projecting button large image BD (promotion effect image) is displayed. When the effective period elapses without the effect button 17 being operated after this, the display period of the protruding button large image ED (promotion effect image) is longer than when the image control unit 145 does not cause a processing failure. Although the time is shorter by one frame, the output period of the promotion sound effect is the same time regardless of whether or not the effect button 17 is operated and whether or not a processing failure occurs in the image control unit 145.

  After that, if the processing drop occurs in the image control unit 145 at the timing T6 when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a is turned from the OFF state to the ON state, the image display device originally has a large protruding button size. When the success effect large image SED (operation effect image) described above is displayed instead of the image BD (promotion effect image), the display period of the protruding button large image BD (promotion effect image) is extended (continued). On the other hand, the sound output device 9 outputs a successful sound effect of “Cuin ♪ Cuin ♪”, and the first movable member 73a moves down to the center of the screen.

  Then, at the timing of T6a, which is the next frame update timing, when the image control unit 145 performs the drawing process normally without any processing loss, the above-described projecting button large image BD (promotion effect image) is used. A successful effect large image SED (operation effect image) is displayed and displayed until the timing of T7 so that the display period is shortened by one frame in which a processing drop has occurred. It should be noted that the output period of the successful sound effect is the same time regardless of whether or not a processing failure has occurred in the image control unit 145.

  Here, an example has been described in which the processing failure has occurred in the image control unit 145 during the execution of the winning decision effect. However, other expectation effects (the serif notice effect, the roulette notice effect, and the cut-in notice effect) are also introduced effects. Processing when processing drop occurs at the timing when the execution time (4 seconds) elapses, or when processing button occurs when the presentation button 17 is operated and the presentation button detection switch 17a changes from the OFF state to the ON state And the flow of the production are the same as in the case of the winning decision production described above.

  As described above, even if the processing drop occurs at the timing when the introduction effect execution time (4 seconds) elapses and the display timing of the introduction effect image shifts backward, the generation timing of the effective period, the effect button 17 The lighting timing, the change timing of the effect button 17 to the specific state, and the output timing of the sound effect sound are not changed, and the predetermined timing (invariable timing determined by the value of the weight frame counter or the frame counter) It has become. Therefore, other control (production) shifts backward in accordance with the processing failure of the image control unit 145, so that the progress of the expectation production and the fluctuation production does not become abnormal, and the entertainment of the game is prevented from being lowered. Nothing will happen.

  Further, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a is turned from the OFF state to the ON state, a process drop occurs and an operation effect image (a serif effect image, a roulette result effect image, a cut-in effect image, a decision effect) Even if the display timing of the image) is shifted backward, the end timing of the effective period, the turn-off / lighting color change timing of the effect button 17, the change timing of the effect button 17 to the normal state, and the operation timing of the movable member Does not change and has a predetermined timing (an invariable timing determined by the value of the wait frame counter or the frame counter). Therefore, other control (production) shifts backward in accordance with the processing failure of the image control unit 145, so that the progress of the expectation production and the fluctuation production does not become abnormal, and the entertainment of the game is prevented from being lowered. Nothing will happen.

  When the display of the promotion effect image and the operation effect image (the serif effect image, the roulette result effect image, the cut-in effect image, and the decision effect image) is started after the processing failure occurs, the first frame image of the corresponding effect And display the image of the previous frame from the last frame when the production time has elapsed, so that the scale (adjustment) of the image display may be performed at the end of the production. The image display may be adjusted (adjusted) at the beginning of the effect by displaying the image of the second frame and displaying the image of the last frame when the effect time has elapsed.

(Specific examples of menu display effects)
A specific example of the menu display effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 49 and 50. 49 is a timing chart before and after execution of the menu display effect, and FIG. 50 is a diagram showing an example of the menu display effect. FIGS. 49 (a) to (g) and FIGS. and g) correspond to each.

First, at the timing of T0, the normal gaming state and the fluctuating effect are being performed, and the fluctuating display of the effect symbol 70a is performed on the image display device (see FIG. 50A).
At the timing of T1, when the variation effect ends, the customer wait state is entered, and the image display device displays a customer wait state image including three effect symbols 70a, a first hold icon display region 70C, and the icon display region 70E. (See FIG. 50 (b)).

At the timing of T2, when the start timing of the menu display effect is reached, the introduction effect D described above is started, and the above-described introduction serif small image AD (introduction effect image) is displayed on the lower right of the screen in the image display device. The introduction sound effect is not output from the audio output device 9 (see FIG. 50C).
At the timing of T3, when a predetermined time (2.8 seconds) elapses after the introduction effect D is started, an effective period related to the menu display effect is generated, the promotion effect F is started, and the effect button 17 is lit in white (See FIG. 50D).

When the execution time (3 seconds) of the introduction effect D elapses at the timing of T4, the above-described menu guidance small image MA (promotion effect image) is replaced with the introduction speech small image AD (introduction effect image) in the image display device. Although displayed, no sound effect sound is output from the audio output device 9 (see FIG. 50 (e)).
At the timing of T5, when the effect button 17 is operated and the effect button detection switch 17a changes from the OFF state to the ON state, the menu display is started without ending the effective period related to the menu display effect. In the image display device, the menu guidance small image MA (promotion effect image) is erased, and “game description” that explains the game method as a menu item (option) in the center of the screen, “the effect customization” that sets the frequency of a predetermined effect, etc. ”, A menu image MG (operation effect image) on which“ character selection ”for mainly selecting characters appearing is displayed to be enlarged (fade in) from a small size to a large size (FIG. 50 (f)). reference).

At the timing of T6, the menu image MG (operation effect image) described above is displayed in a large size, and the effective period related to the menu display effect and the lighting of the effect button 17 are continued (see FIG. 50 (g)).
Thereafter, when a menu item is selected by operating the cross key 19 and the effect button 17 is operated in that state, the item content image (an operation effect image including a return item) corresponding to the menu item is switched to the last operation. When the predetermined time elapses or the changing effect is started, the menu image MG and the item content image are deleted, the effect button 17 is turned off, and the above-described customer waiting state image is displayed.

  As described above, in the unexpected degree effect (menu display effect), the introduction effect is executed before the effective period occurs. Therefore, the player can be motivated to perform an operation before the effective period occurs, and the interest of the game can be improved. Further, since the occurrence of the effective period can be detected by the introduction effect, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the operation timing of the effect button 17 is missed.

  In addition, unlike the expectation effect (the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, the winning effect), the non-expectation effect (menu display effect) does not output the introduction sound effect during the introduction effect. . Therefore, the disappointment effect without expectation that the jackpot game is executed is not excessively appealed, and it is possible to suppress the player from being frustrated. Note that the introductory sound effect may be output, but in that case, the introductory effect sound may be output at a lower volume than the introductory effect sound of the expectation effect.

  Also, in the non-expectation degree effect (menu display effect), the display size of the introduction effect image displayed on the image display device is smaller than the expectation effect (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect) (expectation degree The direction of the effect is a larger display size of the introduction effect image). For this reason, it is possible to suppress annoying feeling of introduction effect of the non-expected degree effect that has no expectation that the jackpot game will be executed.

  In addition, in the non-expectation degree effect, the display size of the promotion effect image displayed on the image display device is smaller than the expectation effect (the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, the winning decision effect) (the expectation effect effect is promoted more The display size of the effect image is large). Therefore, it is possible to suppress annoying feeling of the promotion effect of the non-expected degree effect that has no expectation that the jackpot game is executed.

  In addition, unlike the expectation effect (the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, the winning decision effect), the non-expected effect effect (menu display effect) is not output when the promotion effect image is displayed. It has become. Therefore, it is possible to suppress annoying feeling of the promotion effect of the non-expected degree effect that has no expectation that the jackpot game is executed. In addition, although you may make it output a promotion effect sound, in that case, it is good to output with a volume smaller than the promotion effect sound of an expectation degree effect.

  Further, in the non-expected degree effect (menu display effect), the generation timing of the effective period and the lighting timing of the effect button 17 match, but the promotion effect image is displayed on the image display device after the generation period of the effective period. It has become. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the effect button 17 is not effective although the promotion effect image is displayed while accurately knowing the generation timing of the effective period related to the unexpected degree effect.

  In addition, in the non-expected degree effect (menu display effect), unlike the expected effect effect (cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect), the effect button 17 does not change to the protruding state (specific state) when a valid period occurs. It has become. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from getting frustrated with respect to the non-expected degree effect in which the big hit game is not expected to be executed.

  Further, in the non-expected degree effect (menu display effect), when the effect button 17 is operated and the operation effect (menu display) is executed, the promotion effect is ended (indicating the end of the effective period). Do not run. Therefore, it is possible to make the player recognize that the effective period has not expired, and to let the player know that the effect button 17 can be operated many times.

  Also, in the non-expected degree effect (menu display effect), unlike the expected effect effect, when the effect button 17 is operated and the operation effect is executed, the effect button 17 is not changed to the vibration state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from getting frustrated with respect to the non-expected degree effect in which the big hit game is not expected to be executed.

  In addition, in the non-expected degree effect (menu display effect), the execution period and the effective period of the introduction effect overlap with each other (timing), but the effective period and the execution period of the end effect do not overlap (timing). It is like that. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately accept the operation of the effect button 17 by the player, and it is possible to improve the reliability of the gaming machine.

  In the nonexpected degree effect (menu display effect), the end effect may be executed in the same manner as the expected effect when the effective period ends. In this case, the display size of the introduction effect image and the display size of the end effect image may be the same, or the display size of the introduction effect image may be larger than the display size of the end effect image.

(Summary of this embodiment)
According to the present embodiment, there are a plurality of expectation effects (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect) where the introduction effect is executed, and expectation effects (serif notice effect) where the introduction effect is not executed. In addition, the number of types of expectation effects (three types) in which the introduction effects are executed is greater than the type of expectation level effects (one type). Therefore, the number of cases suggesting the degree of expectation that the jackpot game is executed by the operation of the effect button 17 is increased, and it is possible to improve the interest related to the effect using the effect button 17.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, even when an expectation degree effect (a roulette notice effect, a cut-in notice effect, a winning decision effect) is executed, an unexpected degree effect (menu display effect) is executed. However, the introduction effect can be executed before the occurrence of the effective period, but the type of introduction effect in the expectation effect (introduction effects A to R) is more than the type of introduction effect in the non-expectation effect (one type of introduction effect D). 3 types of C) are increasing. Therefore, the variation of the expectation level effect is richer than the non-expectation level effect, and it is possible to improve the interest related to the effect using the effect button 17.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the effect time of the introduction effect in the expectation effect (cut-in notice effect, winning decision effect) is more than the effect time (3 seconds) of the introduction effect in the non-expectation effect (menu display effect). (3.5 seconds, 4 seconds) is longer. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently increase the player's expectation on whether or not the jackpot game is executed, and it is possible to improve the interest related to the effect using the effect button 17.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the expectation effect (the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect) rather than the display size of the introduction effect image displayed on the image display device by the introduction effect of the non-expectation effect (menu display effect). The display size of the introduction effect image displayed on the image display device in the introduction effect of the winning decision effect) is larger. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently increase the player's expectation on whether or not the jackpot game is executed, and it is possible to improve the interest related to the effect using the effect button 17.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, in the expectation effect (cut-in notice effect), when the promotion effect is executed after the introduction effect (effective period occurs) and when the promotion effect is not executed (effective period occurs) However, in the non-expected degree effect (menu display effect), the promotion effect is always executed (effective period is generated) after the introduction effect. Therefore, in the expectation level effect, it is possible to increase the player's expectation on whether or not the promotion effect is executed, and in the non-expectation level effect, the player is frustrated that the promotion effect is not executed. Can be avoided, and it is possible to improve the interest related to the production using the production button 17.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the expectation effect (the serif notice effect, the roulette) is performed rather than the type of the promotion effect (one kind of the promotion effect F) executed in the effective period related to the non-expectation effect (menu display effect). There are more types of promotion effects (five types of promotion effects A to E) executed during the effective period related to the notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, and the winning decision effect). Therefore, the variation of the expectation level effect is richer than the non-expectation level effect, and it is possible to improve the interest related to the effect using the effect button 17.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, in the expectation degree effect, the end effect is executed when the operation effect (the serif effect, the roulette result effect, the cut-in effect, the decision effect) is executed. The end effect is not executed when the operation effect (menu display, item content display) is executed. Therefore, it is possible to make the player recognize that the validity period has not ended in the nonexpected degree effect. In addition, it is possible to prevent the player from getting frustrated with an unexpected degree effect in which the big hit game is not expected to be executed.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, in the expectation level effect (the serif notice effect, the roulette notice effect, the cut-in notice effect, and the winning decision effect), the validity period ends by the operation of the effect button 17 by the player. However, in the unexpected degree effect (menu display effect), the effective period does not end by the player operating the effect button 17 or the cross key 19, and the effect button 17 or the cross key 19 is not operated. The period ends when a predetermined period elapses and when a changing effect is started. Therefore, in the expectation level effect, the value for one operation of the effect button 17 can be increased, and in the non-expectation level effect, the value for one operation of the effect button 17 can be lowered. 17 can be operated. It is possible to improve the interest related to the production using the production button 17.

  In the present embodiment, after the jackpot effect symbol 70a is temporarily stopped and displayed, the re-lottery effect indicating whether or not the jackpot effect symbol 70a is advantageous to the player is not executed. You may make it perform as a production. In this case, similarly to the winning decision effect, the operation of the movable effect device 73 is executed when the successful effect (the expectation level for executing the jackpot game is 100%) that becomes the jackpot effect symbol 70a advantageous to the player is executed. An effect is performed, and an operation effect of the movable effect device 73 is not performed when a failure effect that does not become a jackpot effect symbol 70a advantageous to the player (the expectation level that the jackpot game is executed is 100%) is executed. When the success effect is executed, the end effect is not executed after the effective period ends, and when the failure effect is executed, the end effect is executed after the effective period ends.

  In the present embodiment, the menu display effect is given as an example of the non-expected degree effect. However, the effect executed by operating the effect button 17 or the cross key 19 does not imply the expectation that the jackpot game will be executed. If so, other effects may be used.

  For example, a card selection image for selecting one of a plurality of card images is displayed on the image display device during a fluctuating effect, and a dialogue image “Select a card with a button!” Is introduced. An introductory effect that directly suggests that an effective period is generated by displaying the effect image (a promotion effect is executed), and is not projected in the image display device in the effective period (3 seconds) that occurs thereafter A promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 is executed by displaying a promotion effect image that is a small-sized button image that imitates the effect button 17 in the state (normal state), and the effect button 17 is operated during the effective period. The card selection effect in which a switching effect for switching the selected card image is executed each time may be used as an unexpected degree effect.

  In addition, after the effective period of executing the promotion effect for displaying the promotion effect image which is a small-sized button image imitating the effect button 17 in the non-protruding state (normal state) on the image display device during the jackpot effect, The introductory effect that indirectly suggests that the effective period is generated by displaying the introductory effect image, which is a speech image “Still more!” (The promotion effect is executed), and the effective period that occurs thereafter A promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 is executed by displaying a promotion effect image that is a small-sized button image imitating the effect button 17 in a non-projecting state on the image display device at (2 seconds), and during the effective period When the effect button 17 is operated, an additional effect that displays the number of game balls that can be acquired in the jackpot game is displayed as an unexpected effect. There.

  In addition, a cross-like that simulates the cross key 19 is displayed on the image display device during the round presentation of the jackpot game, and a mode selection image for selecting one of a plurality of presentation mode images to be played after the jackpot game is ended is displayed. It is suggested that the effective period will be generated (promotion effect will be executed) by gradually displaying the composite image consisting of the key image and the line image of “Please select the mode by operating!” From the end The introductory effect is executed, and during the effective period (10 seconds) generated thereafter, the above-described composite image is completely displayed on the image display device to execute the promotion effect that prompts the operation of the cross key 19, and during the effective period A mode selection effect in which a switching effect for switching the selected effect mode image is performed each time the cross key 19 is operated may be an unexpected degree effect.

  In addition, during the jackpot effect ending effect, the image display device displays a mode selection image for selecting one of a plurality of effect mode images to be played after the jackpot game ends, and “Please select a mode. The introductory effect suggesting that the effective period is generated (the promotion effect is executed) is displayed by displaying the introductory effect image that is a line image of "", and the image is displayed in the effective period (3 seconds) generated thereafter. A promotion effect for encouraging the operation of the cross key 19 is executed by displaying a promotion effect image which is a medium size cross key image imitating the cross key 19 on the apparatus, and every time the cross key 19 is operated during the effective period. The mode selection effect in which the switching effect for switching the selected effect mode image is executed may be an unexpected degree effect.

  In addition, a mode selection image for selecting one of a plurality of effect mode images to be played from the next change effect, a dialogue image of “Select”, and a cross key 19 are displayed on the image display device during the change effect. Execute the introductory effect that suggests that the effective period will occur (promotion effect will be executed) by fading in the three small-sized cross key images that are imitated (gradual color display from white or dark color) Then, in the subsequent effective period (5 seconds), the above-mentioned mode selection image, serif image, and cross key image are displayed in full color on the image display device, and the promotion effect that prompts the operation of the cross key 19 is executed. Then, each time the cross key 19 is operated during the effective period, the mode selection effect in which the switching effect for switching the selected effect mode image may be executed as the unexpected degree effect.

  Further, during the jackpot game ending effect, the image display device displays a character selection image for selecting one of a plurality of character images to be rendered after the jackpot game ends, and an effect button imitating the effect button 17 An introductory effect that suggests that an effective period is generated by fading-in display of the image (gradual color display from white or dark color) (promoting effect is executed), and an effective period that occurs after that (5 seconds) ) Is executed every time the effect button 17 is operated during the effective period, by executing the promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 by completely displaying the effect button image described above on the image display device. The character selection effect in which the switching effect for switching the character image is performed may be an unexpected degree effect.

  In addition, a story state selection image for selecting one of a plurality of story state images (“from the beginning” and “from continuation”) to be performed after the end of the jackpot game is displayed on the image display device during the ending effect of the jackpot game, An introductory effect suggesting that an effective period is generated (promotion effect is executed) by fading in two effect button images simulating the effect button 17 (gradual color display from white or dark color). Executes a promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect button 17 by completely displaying the above-described story state selection image and effect button image on the image display device in an effective period (5 seconds) that is executed thereafter, and is effective Every time the effect button 17 is operated during the period, a story effect is executed in which a switching effect is performed to switch the selected story state image. The selection production may be as a non-expectations performance.

  In addition, a music selection image for selecting one of a plurality of music images indicating the type of music to be output during the next round game and the effect button 17 are imitated on the image display device during the round effect of the jackpot game. It is suggested that the effective period is generated (promotional effect is executed) by fading in the effect button image and the three-way image imitating the cross key 19 (gradual color display from white or dark color). The effect button 17 and the cross key 19 are displayed by completely displaying the music selection image, the cross key image, and the effect button image described above on the image display device in the effective period (5 seconds) generated thereafter. Music selection that executes a switching effect that switches the selected music image every time the cross key 19 is operated during the effective period. Out it may be used as a non-expectations performance.

  In addition, a place selection image for selecting one of place images indicating a plurality of places where the character moves during the next round game is displayed on the image display device during the round effect of the jackpot game. "Is this it?" The introductory effect that indirectly suggests that the effective period is generated by displaying the introductory effect image that is a dialogue image (promotional effect is executed), and the effective period that occurs after that In 5 seconds, the promotion effect image that is a cross key image imitating the cross key 19 is displayed on the image display device to execute the promotion effect that prompts the operation of the cross key 19, and the cross key 19 is operated during the effective period. The destination selection effect in which the switching effect for switching the selected place image is performed each time the destination image is performed may be an unexpected degree effect.

  In addition, during the round effect of the jackpot game, the introductory effect image, which is a dialogue image of “select a song with the cross key”, is displayed on the image display device so that an effective period is generated (the promotion effect is executed). In order to select a music image that indicates the type of music to be output to the image display device during the next round game during the effective period (5 seconds) that occurs directly after the introduction effect that directly suggests A promotion effect that prompts the user to operate the cross key 19 is executed by displaying the selected music image, and a switching effect that switches the selected music image is executed each time the cross key 19 is operated during the effective period. The music selection effect may be an unexpected degree effect.

  In this embodiment, the non-expectation degree effect is one type of menu display effect, but a plurality of types may be used as long as it is less than the expectation level effect type.

  Further, in this embodiment, the validity period of the unexpected degree effect is not terminated by the player's operation, but may be terminated by the player's operation. Specifically, when only the effect button 17 is used in the non-expected degree effect, the effective period does not end depending on the operation of the effect button 17 from the beginning to a predetermined number of times (for example, once or twice). The validity period may be ended by operating the effect button 17 later (for example, twice or three times). Further, when the effect button 17 and the cross key 19 are used, the effective period may not be ended by the operation of the cross key 19, but the effective period may be ended by the operation of the effect button 17.

  In this embodiment, the projecting effect button 17 in the protruding state is operated during the effective period in which the promotion effect D is executed in the cut-in notice effect. However, an operation unit such as an effect lever is provided at a position different from the effect button 17. It is also possible to display an effect lever large image that imitates the effect lever in the promotion effect D and operate the effect lever during the effective period.

  In the present embodiment, the effect button 17 in the protruding state is operated during the effective period in which the promotion effect D and the promotion effect E are executed as the winning decision effect. However, the effect lever or the like is located at a position different from the effect button 17. An operation unit may be provided to display a large effect lever image simulating the effect lever in the promotion effect D and the promotion effect E, and the effect lever may be operated during the effective period.

(Content of invention described in this embodiment)
Here, a conventional gaming machine is generally a gaming machine capable of determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player and executing the special game according to the result of the determination. In such a gaming machine, there is provided an effect control means for controlling an effect related to the game, and a special game is played in response to the operation means being operated during an effective period in which a promotion effect for prompting the operation of the operation means is performed. There is a gaming machine that executes an expectation effect that suggests the expected execution degree (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-158774). However, the gaming machine described in the above-mentioned patent document has a problem that the interest relating to the performance using the operation means is low.

  As a first configuration for solving the above-described problem, there are operating means (effect button 17 and cross key 19) that can be operated by the player, and determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect) that executes the effect (acceleration effects A to E) and suggests the expected degree of execution of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period , A decision effect), a second promotion effect (promotion effect F) for urging the operation of the operation means in a second effective period, and the execution expectation level in accordance with the operation during the second effective period. Not suggestive When the first effective period occurs, the introduction effect (introduction effects A to C) suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed can be executed. When the second effective period occurs, an introduction effect (introduction effect D) suggesting that the second promotion effect is executed can be executed. By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  As a second configuration for solving the above-described problem, there are operating means (effect button 17 and cross key 19) that can be operated by the player, and determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect) that executes the effect (acceleration effects A to E) and suggests the expected degree of execution of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period , A decision effect), a second promotion effect (promotion effect F) for urging the operation of the operation means in a second effective period, and the execution expectation level in accordance with the operation during the second effective period. Not suggestive When the first effective period occurs, the introduction effect (introduction effects A to C) suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed can be executed. When the second effective period occurs, an introduction effect (introduction effect D) suggesting that the second promotion effect is executed can be executed, and the introduction effect is executed as the expectation effect There are a plurality of first expectation effects (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, decision effect) and a second expectation effect (serif notice effect) in which the introduction effect is not executed. There are more types of said 1st expectation degree production than. By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  As a third configuration for solving the above-described problem, there are operating means (effect button 17 and cross key 19) that can be operated by the player, and determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect) that executes the effect (acceleration effects A to E) and suggests the expected degree of execution of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period , A decision effect), a second promotion effect (promotion effect F) for urging the operation of the operation means in a second effective period, and the execution expectation level in accordance with the operation during the second effective period. Not suggestive When the first effective period occurs, the introduction effect (introduction effects A to C) suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed can be executed. When the second effective period occurs, it is possible to execute the introduction effect (introduction effect D) that suggests that the second promotion effect is executed, and suggest that the second promotion effect is executed. There are more types of introduction effects that suggest that the first promotion effect is executed than types of introduction effects. By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  As a fourth configuration for solving the above-mentioned problem, the operation means (the effect button 17 and the cross key 19) that can be operated by the player and the determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect) that executes the effects (promotion effects A to E) and suggests the expected degree of execution of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period , A decision effect), a second promotion effect (promotion effect F) for urging the operation of the operation means in a second effective period, and the execution expectation level in accordance with the operation during the second effective period. Not suggestive When the first effective period occurs, the introduction effect (introduction effects A to C) suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed can be executed. When the second effective period occurs, an introduction effect (introduction effect D) suggesting that the second promotion effect is executed can be executed, and the first promotion effect can be performed more than the type of the second promotion effect. There are more types of promotional performances. By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  As a fifth configuration for solving the above-described problem, there are operating means (effect button 17 and cross key 19) that can be operated by the player, and determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect) that executes the effect (acceleration effects A to E) and suggests the expected degree of execution of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period , A decision effect), a second promotion effect (promotion effect F) for urging the operation of the operation means in a second effective period, and the execution expectation level in accordance with the operation during the second effective period. Not suggestive When the first effective period occurs, and when the first effective period does not occur, the introductory effect (1) suggests that the first promotion effect is executed. Introduction effects A to C) can be executed, and when the second effective period occurs, an introduction effect (introduction effect D) suggesting that the second promotion effect is executed can be executed. . By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  As a sixth configuration for solving the above-mentioned problems, there are operating means (effect button 17 and cross key 19) that can be operated by the player, and determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect) that executes the effect (acceleration effects A to E) and suggests the expected degree of execution of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period , A decision effect), a second promotion effect (promotion effect F) for urging the operation of the operation means in a second effective period, and the execution expectation level in accordance with the operation during the second effective period. Not suggestive When the first effective period occurs, the introduction effect (introduction effects A to C) suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed can be executed. When the second effective period occurs, an introduction effect (introduction effect D) suggesting that the second promotion effect is executed can be executed, and the first effective period is determined by the operation or the predetermined period. The second effective period ends with the elapse of time, but does not end with the operation, but ends with the elapse of a predetermined period. By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  As a seventh configuration for solving the above-described problem, there are operating means (effect button 17 and cross key 19) that can be operated by the player, and determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Expectation effect (serial notice effect, roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect) that executes the effect (acceleration effects A to E) and suggests the expected degree of execution of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period , A decision effect), a second promotion effect (promotion effect F) for urging the operation of the operation means in a second effective period, and the execution expectation level in accordance with the operation during the second effective period. Not suggestive When the first effective period occurs, the introduction effect (introduction effects A to C) suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed can be executed. When the second effective period occurs, an introduction effect (introduction effect D) suggesting that the second promotion effect is executed can be executed, and when the first effective period ends, The end effect (end effects A to B) for ending the first promotion effect can be executed, and when the second effective period ends, the end effect for ending the second promotion effect is not executed. Yes. By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  As an eighth configuration for solving the above-described problem, there are operating means (effect button 17 and cross key 19) that can be operated by the player, and determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Execute an effect (promotion effect C to E), execute an expectation effect (cut-in notice effect, decision effect) that suggests an expected execution degree of the special game in response to the operation during the first effective period, The second promotion effect (promotion effect F) that prompts the operation of the operation means in the second effective period is executed, and the expectation effect (menu that does not suggest the execution expectation degree according to the operation in the second effective period) Display effect) When the first effective period occurs, an introduction effect (introduction effects B to C) suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed can be executed, and when the second effective period occurs, The introduction effect (introduction effect D) that suggests that the second promotion effect is executed can be executed, and the time (3 seconds) of the introduction effect that suggests that the second promotion effect is executed, The introduction effect time (3.5 seconds or 4 seconds) suggesting that the first promotion effect is executed is longer. By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  As a ninth configuration for solving the above-described problem, there are operating means (effect button 17 and cross key 19) that can be operated by the player, and determination for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player. Means (main control board 110) and effect control means (effect control board 130) for controlling effects relating to the game, wherein the effect control means is a first promotion that prompts the operation means to operate during a first effective period. Expectation effects (roulette notice effect, cut-in notice effect, decision effect) that execute effects (promotion effects B to E) and suggest the expected degree of execution of the special game according to the operation during the first effective period The second promotion effect (promotion effect F) for prompting the operation of the operation means in the second effective period is executed, and the expectation of execution is not suggested according to the operation in the second effective period Degree production (menu When the first effective period occurs, an introductory image (introducing serif image, introductory effect image, introductory effect large image) that suggests that the first promotion effect is executed is displayed. An introductory image (introductory serif small image) that can be displayed on the display means and suggests that the second promotion image is displayed when the second effective period occurs can be displayed on the display means, The display size of the introduction image that suggests that the first promotion effect is executed is larger than the display size of the introduction image that indicates that the second promotion effect is executed. By doing in this way, it becomes possible to improve the interest regarding the production using the operation means.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the game state after the end of the jackpot game changes according to the type of the jackpot game (special bonus game) and the game state at the time of the jackpot, but all jackpot games The game machine may be shifted to the high-probability short-time gaming state or the low-probability non-short-time gaming state or the low-probability short-time gaming state after the transition to the high-probability short-time gaming state after the completion. In this case, the number of variable displays executed in the high-probability short / short game state may be the same regardless of the set value, and the change for each set value so that the continuation rate of the high-probability short / short game state is the same. The number of times of display may be set.

  In addition, after all jackpot games are over, if the player transitions to the high probability gaming state and wins the falling lottery executed at the start of the special symbol variation display in the high probability gaming state, the high probability gaming state is terminated and the normal A gaming machine that returns to a gaming state may be used.

  In addition, when a game ball passes through a specific area provided inside the big prize opening in a specific round game of the jackpot game, the game ball passes through the specific area after the jackpot game is finished and is shifted to a high-probability short-time game state. If not, a gaming machine that shifts to a low-probability short-time gaming state after the end of the jackpot game may be used.

  Also, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the first special symbol variation display and the second special symbol variation display are not performed simultaneously (in parallel), and the second special symbol variation display is preferentially performed. However, it may be a gaming machine in which the change display of the first special symbol and the change display of the second special symbol are executed simultaneously (in parallel).

  Note that the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and a winning symbol is stopped and displayed on an active line by a game using a medal (game medium) as a gaming value (giving condition). In addition, it can be used for a revolving game machine (so-called slot machine) that can give a predetermined amount of award medals to a player. Furthermore, it can also be used for january game machines and arrange ball game machines.

  In addition, it should be considered that the embodiment disclosed this time is illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 5 Game board 44 General-purpose gate 45 1st start opening 47 2nd start opening 50 1st big prize opening 53 2nd big prize opening 70 1st image display device 71 2nd image display device 110 Main control board 110a Main CPU
120 Discharge control board 130 Production control board 130a Sub CPU

Claims (1)

Operation means that can be operated by the player;
Determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player;
Production control means for controlling the production of the game,
The production control means includes
Executing a first promotion effect that prompts the operation of the operation means in a first effective period, and executing an expectation effect that suggests an expected execution degree of the special game in accordance with the operation during the first effective period;
Executing a second promotion effect that prompts the operation means to operate in the second effective period, and executing an unexpected degree effect that does not suggest the execution expectation degree according to the operation during the second effective period;
When the first effective period occurs, it is possible to execute an introduction effect that suggests that the first promotion effect is executed,
In the case where the second effective period occurs, it is possible to execute an introduction effect that suggests that the second promotion effect is executed,
A gaming machine characterized in that there are more types of the first promotion effect than types of the second promotion effect.