JP2020000530A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine reducing an amount of codes of a control program.SOLUTION: Special electric generator discharge confirmation processing is processing to confirm conformity between the numbers of in/out game balls in a second variable winning device, and is called out in a process of the processing to be executed when game balls are discharged from the second variable winning device. A main control CPU executes generalized byte counter subtraction processing to decrement a special electric in/out ball counter by one (S1100 and S1102). Further, when a value of the special electric in/out ball counter before the subtraction is 0, the main control CPU confirms whether or not a special game management phase falls under a value during a special symbol winning game (S1104, S1106, S1108, and S1110), and when it does not fall under the value during the special symbol winning game (No in S1110), after setting a lower byte of an abnormal discharge occurrence designation command (S1112), executes the generalized security setup processing to transmit a performance command and output a security signal (S1114).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 18

Description

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

  In this type of gaming machine, various devices have been devised to monitor the occurrence of an abnormality inside the winning device. For example, when a game ball is won by a variable winning device (attacker), a remaining ball error determination time of a preset length is set, and a result of detecting a winning of a game ball to the variable winning device and a variable winning are set. The presence or absence of a game ball remaining in the variable winning device is determined based on the result of detecting the discharge of the game ball from the device, and a remaining ball error determination is performed before the number of the game balls remaining in the variable winning device becomes zero. There is known a gaming machine that determines a residual ball error after a lapse of time (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent No. 4320007

  In this type of gaming machine, the code amount and the data amount of the control program operated by the main controller are limited to a certain amount. The program required for the process of monitoring the occurrence of the error must be kept within a limited code amount. Therefore, it is desired that control programs corresponding to these processes be implemented as compactly as possible.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique for reducing the code amount of a control program.

  The present invention employs the following solutions in order to solve the above problems. In addition, the wording in the following brackets is only an example, and the present invention is not limited to this. In addition, the present invention can be an invention including at least one of the invention-specifying matters shown in the following solution means. Further, in each of the invention-specifying matters described in the following means for solving, it is possible to add an element for limiting the invention-specifying matter to make it a lower concept, and to delete the element for limiting the invention-specifying matter to make it a higher concept. .

  Solution 1: The gaming machine of the present solution comprises a lottery executing means for executing a predetermined lottery when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, and a symbol for a predetermined variable time when the predetermined lottery is executed. , A symbol display means for performing a stop display after variably displaying, a special game execution means for executing a special game when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning mode, and a game ball entering during the execution of the special game. A variable ball-in device that discharges a game ball that has entered through one of a predetermined specific area and a discharge port; and a ball-in detection that detects that a game ball has entered the variable ball-in device. Means, a specific area passage detecting means for detecting that a game ball has passed through the predetermined specific area, an outlet passage detecting means for detecting that a game ball has passed through the outlet, and the specific area passage detection At the time of detection by means, and And a discharge check means for performing a count for both at the time of detection by the outlet passage detection means common.

In the gaming machine of the present solution, a game proceeds, for example, in the following flow.
(1) When a game ball is fired, it flows down the game area while being guided by obstacle nails, windmills, structures, etc., passes through some area in the process, or enters various entrances of the ball. I do. When a game ball passes / enters a start area (start gate, start winning opening), a lottery opportunity occurs.

(2) When a lottery opportunity occurs during the game (when a game ball enters the starting winning opening), a lottery element (a special symbol random number) required for executing a predetermined lottery (special symbol lottery) is obtained. .

(3) When the predetermined lottery in the above (2) is executed, the symbols (special symbols) are variably displayed over a predetermined variance time and then stopped and displayed.

(4) When the symbol of (3) is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning mode, a special game (big hit game, small hit game) is executed.

(5) In the game area of (1), a variable ball-in device capable of entering a game ball during execution of the special game of (4) is provided. The variable ball input device has a predetermined specific area and a discharge port therein. The game ball that has entered the variable ball-entering device is discharged out of the game region through one of the predetermined specific region and the discharge port.

(6) When a game ball enters the variable ball entry device of the above (5), it is detected by the ball entry detecting means.

(7) When the game ball passes through the predetermined specific area of (5), it is detected by the specific area passage detection means.

(8) When the game ball passes through the outlet of (5), it is detected by the outlet passage detecting means.

(9) The discharge confirmation means is provided as a shareable means (general-purpose module). The discharge confirmation means is a common means for confirming whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the discharge of the game balls. At the time of detection by the specific area passage detecting means of (7) and at the time of detection by the outlet passage detecting means of (8), the discharge confirming means is called and discharged from the variable ball-in device of (5). The counting of the game balls is performed by the discharge confirmation means.

  Game balls that have entered the variable ball-entering device are discharged through one of a predetermined specific area and a discharge port. Therefore, the number of game balls ejected from the variable ball-in device is equal to the sum of the number of game balls that have passed through the specific area and the number of game balls that have passed through the outlet. Also, if the number of game balls ejected from the variable ball-in device (number of ejected balls) exceeds the number of game balls (ball-in number) in the variable ball-in device, it should occur if the ball is operating normally. However, if the number of discharges exceeds the number of incoming balls, it is considered that an abnormal discharge has occurred in the variable ball input device. Therefore, as a material for determining whether or not a discharge abnormality has occurred, the number of discharges is counted when the game ball passes through a predetermined specific area and when the game ball passes through a discharge port.

  By the way, when the game ball passes through a predetermined specific area (at the time of detection by the specific area passage detection means), necessary processing is performed in accordance with the passage of the specific area. In addition, when the game ball passes through the outlet (at the time of detection by the outlet passage detection means), necessary processing is performed along with the passage of the outlet. Among the processes performed at the time of each passage detection, there are processes specific to the passed region (predetermined specific region, discharge port), and processes common to both such as the counting of the number of discharges described above. At this time, if all the processes are implemented individually regardless of whether they are unique to the region or common to the region, the common process will be implemented at a plurality of locations, and the code amount of the entire control program will increase. .

  On the other hand, in the present solution, the discharge confirming means is provided as a sharable means, and the process relating to counting the number of discharges is implemented only in the discharge confirming means. Then, when the passage of the predetermined specific area or the discharge port is detected, the discharge confirmation means is called, and the discharge confirmation means counts the number of discharges. Therefore, according to this solution, since the common processing is integrated and implemented in one means (emission confirmation means), the code of the control program is compared with the case where the common processing is individually implemented without aggregation. The amount can be reduced.

  Solution 2: The gaming machine according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the solution 1, the subtraction means for subtracting 1 from the subtraction value if the subtraction value is not 0, while maintaining the subtraction value if the subtraction value is 0. Furthermore, the discharge confirmation means performs counting using the value subtracted by the subtraction means.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(10) The subtraction means is provided as a sharable means (general-purpose module). The subtraction means subtracts 1 from the subtraction target value when the subtraction target value is not 0, and maintains the subtraction target value without performing the subtraction.

(11) The counting by the discharge confirmation means in (9) is performed using the value subtracted by the subtraction means in (10).

  In this solution means, a sharable subtraction means is provided. This subtraction means is used not only when the emission confirmation means counts the number of emissions, but also in the countdown processing of various numerical values performed in the process of controlling the game. It is shared in the whole process of subtracting 1 if it is not 0. Therefore, according to the present solution, since the countdown processing is integrated and implemented in one means (subtraction means), compared with the case where the countdown processing is individually implemented in each place without aggregation, the control program is executed. The code amount can be further reduced.

  Solution 3: In the gaming machine of the present solution, in the solution 1 or 2, when the discharge confirming means determines that a discharge abnormality has occurred based on the counting result, it outputs information on the discharge abnormality.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(12) When it is determined that an abnormal discharge of the game ball has occurred based on the result of the count performed in the above (9), information regarding the abnormal discharge (for example, a production command or a security signal) is output.

  According to this solution, when an abnormal discharge of the game ball occurs, information indicating the fact is output, so that it is possible to make the game hall manager or the hall staff aware that the abnormality has occurred, It is possible to promptly respond.

  Solution 4: The gaming machine of this solution further comprises an abnormality output means for outputting information relating to the designated abnormality in the solution means 3, wherein the discharge confirmation means determines that the discharge abnormality has occurred. An abnormality output unit outputs information on the discharge abnormality.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(13) The abnormality output means is provided as a sharable means (general-purpose module). The abnormality output unit is a unit that commonly outputs information relating to the abnormality. When an abnormality occurs, the abnormality output unit is called from various units with specific designation of the abnormality.

(14) When the discharge confirmation means of (12) determines that a discharge abnormality of the game ball has occurred, the abnormality output means of (13) is called, and the discharge abnormality is designated. As a result, information on the discharge abnormality is output by the abnormality output means.

  In the course of the game, various abnormalities may occur in addition to the above-described discharge abnormalities. For example, when a radio wave or magnetism is detected, when a connection error of a panel switch or an out switch is detected, various errors (illegal winning error, large winning opening excessive winning error, winning frequency abnormal error, base abnormal error, etc.) Is also determined, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred, and a process of outputting information on the abnormality corresponding to each situation is performed. Although these processes differ in the specific contents of the abnormality, they are common in that they output information about the abnormality.

  In the present solution, sharable abnormality output means is provided, and the abnormality output means is commonly used in a process of outputting various abnormalities in a process of controlling a game. Therefore, according to the present solution, the process of outputting an abnormality is integrated and implemented in one unit (anomaly output unit). Thus, the code amount of the control program can be further reduced.

  According to the present invention, the code amount of the control program can be reduced.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a game board unit independently. It is a figure (1/2) which shows the detail of the 2nd variable winning device 31. It is a figure (2/2) which shows the detail of the 2nd variable winning device 31. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating various electronic devices provided in the pachinko machine. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of CPU initialization processing. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of CPU initialization processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the evacuation process at the time of power failure. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a command reception interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of switch management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of 1st special symbol memory update processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the 2nd special symbol memory update processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the process at the time of passing through a certain variable area. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of special electric auditors discharge confirmation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a byte counter subtraction process. It is a figure which shows the example of a program of the special electric auditors product discharge confirmation processing. It is a figure which shows the example of a program of the switch management process and the process at the time of a probable change area passage. It is a figure which shows the example of a program of the switch management process as a comparative example, and the process at the time of passing through a certain variable area. It is a figure which shows the example of a program of the big winning opening abnormal discharge error setting processing as a comparative example. It is a flow chart which shows the example of composition of special design game processing. It is a figure showing an opening operation pattern of a variable winning device. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol fluctuation pre-processing. It is a figure showing an example of a variation pattern selection table at the time of out. It is a figure showing the example of composition of the 1st special symbol big hit stop design selection table. It is a figure showing the example of composition of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop design selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol storage area shift process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a structure of the variable winning prize device management processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big win big opening opening and closing operation processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big hit big winning opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big hit end process. It is a flow chart which shows the example of composition of variable winning a prize device management processing at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning opening opening / closing operation processing at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a small hit big winning opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the small hit end process. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "12 round normal design" or "12 round probable change design 1,2" in the normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "16 round probable change design" or "6 round probable change design 1 and 2" in a fireworks rush or a shore mode. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the effect image corresponding to the fluctuation | variation display and stop display of a special symbol. It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the reach effect (super reach effect) performed at the time of a big hit (winning). It is a continuous figure (1/4) which shows a part of the production example of the big role production when it corresponds to "12 round normal design" etc. It is a continuation figure which shows a part of the production example of the big role production in the case where it corresponds to "12 round normal design" etc. (2/4). It is a continuation figure which shows a part of the production example of the production in the middle of a large part when it corresponds to "12 rounds regular design" etc. (3/4). It is a continuous figure which shows a part of the production example of the production in the middle of a large part when it corresponds to "12 round normal symbols" etc. (4/4). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of production of a fireworks rush. It is a continuous figure partially showing an example of the big role production effect performed during the big hit game when it corresponds to “six round probable change symbol 1” or the like. It is a continuation figure (1/2) which shows a part of the example of the big role production effect performed during the big hit game when it corresponds to "16 round probability change pattern 1" etc. It is a continuation figure which shows a part of the example of the big role production effect performed during the big hit game when it corresponds to "16 round probability change pattern 1" etc. (2/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of production of the coast mode. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an effect control process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of operation memory effect management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the effect symbol management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the effect symbol fluctuation pre-processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of composition of processing at the time of a variable winning device operation.

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

〔overall structure〕
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (plastic frame, game machine frame) as its main body. When viewed from the front facing the player, the integrated door unit 4 is located on the most front side thereof. The inner frame assembly 7 is located on the rear side (rear side) of the integrated door unit 4, and the outer frame unit 2 is arranged so as to surround the outside of the inner frame assembly 7.

  The outer frame unit 2 is a structure in which wood and metal materials are combined in a vertically long rectangular shape, and the outer frame unit 2 uses fasteners such as screws for an island facility (not shown) in the game arcade. It is fixed by using. In the vertically long rectangular outer frame unit 2, wood is used for portions corresponding to upper and lower short sides, and metal material is used for portions corresponding to left and right long sides.

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

  A unified lock unit 9 is provided inside a right edge (left edge in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, a locking device (not shown) is provided on each of the right edge portions (back side) of the integral door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2. As shown in FIG. 1, in a state in which the integral door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side thereof together with the locking device is used as the integral door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly. The opening of 7 has been disabled.

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

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

  The pachinko machine 1 also includes a game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 is detachable from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The integrated door unit 4 has a vertically long window 4a formed in the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is mounted in the window 4a. The glass unit is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via an attachment (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface, game board) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and the game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface so that game balls can flow down.

  The pan unit 6 has a shape projecting from the integral door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper plate 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. In the upper plate 6b, game balls (lending balls) lent to the player and game balls (prize balls) obtained by winning can be stored. Further, the tray unit 6 has a lower plate 6c formed at a lower position of the upper plate 6b. In the lower plate 6c, game balls further paid out while the upper plate 6b is full are stored. Note that the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (a model connected to a CR unit), and a game ball borrowed by a player is separated from a prize ball by a payout device unit 172 on the back side and a saucer unit 6 (upper). Dispensed to plate 6b or lower plate 6c).

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

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

  A handle unit 16 is provided at the lower right of the pan unit 6. The player operates the handle unit 16 to activate the launch control board set 174, and can launch (hit) a game ball toward the game area 8a (a ball launching device). The fired game balls rise from the lower edge of the game board unit 8 along the left edge, are guided by an outer band (not shown), and are thrown into the game area 8a. A number of obstacle nails and windmills (without reference numerals in the drawing) are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown game balls flow down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and windmill. The configuration of the game area 8a (the board surface, the game board) will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

[Configuration of front of frame]
In the integrated door unit 4, a left top lens unit 47 and a right upper illumination unit 49 are installed as components for effecting. Among them, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decoration lamp 48, and the right upper illumination unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decoration lamp 50. In addition, left and right glass frame decorative lamps 52 are installed on the integrated door unit 4 so as to be connected below the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right electric unit 49, respectively. It extends so as to extend from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the pan unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46, the left and right glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, 52, and the like are arranged so as to surround the glass unit.

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

  At the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 45 is provided at a position before the upper plate 6b (operation input means). The player switches the effect contents (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pressing down the effect switching button 45, or, for example, during the change of the symbol, during the decision display of the big hit, or during the big hit game. In addition, it is possible to generate a certain effect (for example, a notice effect, a probable change promotion effect, a promotion effect in a large role, etc.).

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

[Back side configuration]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a firing control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176 are provided. , A back cover unit 178 and the like. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer (not shown)), an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are provided.

  The payout device unit 172 has, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (without reference numerals). Among them, the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge portion (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. The game balls supplied from a supply path (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to a prize ball case through an upper prize ball gutter (not shown). The channel unit 173 guides the game balls sent out from the payout device unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

  The external terminal board 160 is for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, or the like). And various external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination frequency information, big hit information, start-up information, etc.) representing the maintenance state and the like are output to external electronic devices. .

  The power cord 164 is, for example, connected to a power supply (for example, AC 24 V) installed in an island facility of a game arcade to secure a power supply (electric power) required for the operation of the pachinko machine 1. In addition, the ground wire 166 is connected to a ground terminal also installed in the island facility to secure the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 includes a game board 8b serving as a base, and a game area 8a is formed on the front side of the game board 8b. The game board 8b is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate. With the game board unit 8 fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit. On the front surface of the game board 8b, a game area 8a is formed inside a firing rail (no reference numeral) installed in a substantially circular shape.

  In the game area 8a, a relatively large effect unit 40 is disposed at the center thereof, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left portion, a right portion, and a lower portion around the effect unit 40. The left part of the game area 8a is a first game area (left hit area) used in a normal game state (low probability non-time shortened state), and the right part of the game area 8a is a special game state (big hit game state). , A small hitting game state, a low probability time reduction state, a high probability time reduction state, etc.). The left portion of the game area 8a is also used in a high probability non-time shortened state (advantageous game state). Also, in the gaming area 8a, the middle start winning opening 26, the starting gate 20, the normal winning openings 22, 24, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device are provided around the effect unit 40. 31 and the like are distributed.

  The middle start winning opening 26 is located at the center of the lower part of the game area 8a. The starting gate 20, the variable starting winning device 28, the second variable winning device 31, and the first variable winning device 30 are arranged in this order from the top on the right side of the game area 8a. Here, the first variable winning device 30 is arranged on the right side of the middle start winning opening 26, and the second variable winning device 31 is arranged on the upper right of the first variable winning device 30. Further, the three normal winning prizes 22 on the left side are arranged on the left side of the game area 8a, and the one normal winning prize opening 24 (predetermined winning prize) on the right side is disposed below the variable start winning device 28. .

In addition, four obstacle nails are arranged above the variable starting winning device 28, and further above that, a ball entrance 19a and a discharge port 19b are arranged. The entrance 19a and the exit 19b are connected by a communication passage on the back side (not shown). The game ball that has entered the entrance 19a is decelerated and straightened through this communication path, and is released from the release 19b.
Further, on the right side of the starting gate 20, an out port 19c (predetermined entrance port) is arranged. The game ball released from the release port 19b basically falls straight and passes through the starting gate 20, but enters the out port 19c when hit by the obstacle nail to the right.

  The game balls thrown into the game area 8a fall into the middle start winning opening 26, the normal winning openings 22 and 24, pass through the start gate 20, or the variable start winning device at the time of operation in the course of flowing down. 28, the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, and the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation. Here, there is a possibility that the game ball flowing down the left area of the game area 8a mainly enters the middle start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22. On the other hand, a game ball flowing down the right area of the game area 8a enters the ball entrance 19a and is released from the discharge port 19b, and mainly passes through the start gate 20 or the variable start winning device 28 at the time of operation. There is a possibility that the player enters the ball, enters the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, enters the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation, or enters the normal winning opening 24. The game ball that has passed through the starting gate 20 continues to flow in the game area 8a, but has a medium starting winning opening 26, a normal winning opening 22, 24, a variable starting winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, a second variable winning device. The game balls entering the device 31 and the out port 19c are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through through holes formed in the game board (plywood material, transparent plate, etc. constituting the game board unit 8).

  Here, in the present embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), when a game ball is to enter the middle start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22, a left side area (left hitting) in the game area 8a is set. It is necessary to hit a game ball into the area (perform so-called "left hit").

  On the other hand, when a game ball is to be thrown into the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the normal winning opening 24, an area on the right side in the gaming area 8a (right-handed area). ) (The so-called “right-hand”) must be performed.

  In the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operation condition is satisfied (when a symbol is normally stopped and displayed for a predetermined stop display time in a hit state), and accordingly, a right start is performed. It is possible to enter the winning opening 28a (predetermined entrance opening) (ordinary electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 is provided with a tongue-shaped (velo-type) opening / closing member 28b. In the state shown in the figure, the opening / closing member 28b is at a position retracted from the board surface (a retracted position), making it impossible or difficult for the game ball to enter the right starting winning opening 28a. On the other hand, when the opening / closing member 28b moves to a position (drive position) protruding forward from the board surface, the opening / closing member 28b receives the game ball flowing down from above and guides the game ball to the right starting winning opening 28a (right Ball entry into the start winning port 28a is possible or easy). Note that the variable start winning device 28 may be a device that opens and closes the right start winning opening by displacing the opening / closing member to fall forward with the lower end edge portion as a hinge.

  The first variable prize winning device 30 is provided when a predetermined condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big hit or small hit mode) and a predetermined first condition (for example, from the first round of the big hit game) Activates when the condition of the fifth round or the 7th to 16th rounds and the condition of the small hitting game being opened) are satisfied, and the ball can enter the first big winning opening 30b. (Special electric accessory, first special ball entry event generating means).

  The first variable winning device 30 is a device (so-called lower attacker) arranged on the right side of the middle starting winning port 26, and has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a. The first variable winning device 30 is a device of a type in which the opening and closing member 30a slides inside the board surface (sliding type attacker). The opening / closing member 30a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface, for example, by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). The opening / closing member 30a is in a closed position (closed state) in a state protruding from the board surface toward the player, and at this time, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening / closing member 30a. Is impossible or difficult (the first winning port 30b is closed). Then, when the first variable winning device 30 operates, the opening / closing member 30a is drawn into the inside of the board, and the first big winning opening 30b is opened (open state). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is in a state where the inflow of the game ball is not impossible (possible or easy), and an event of entering the first large winning opening 30b can be generated.

  The second variable winning device 31 is a case where a prescribed condition is satisfied (a case where a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big hit mode) in the same manner as the first variable winning device 30, and a predetermined second condition (for example, This is activated when the condition of the sixth round of the jackpot game is satisfied, and it is possible to enter the second big winning opening 31b (specific winning opening) (special electric accessory, second special entering) Ball event generating means).

  The second variable winning device 31 is a device arranged at the upper right of the first variable winning device 30 (a so-called upper attacker), and has, for example, one opening / closing member 31a. The second variable winning device 31 is of a type in which the opening / closing member 31a slides inside the board surface (sliding type attacker). The opening / closing member 31a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface, for example, by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). The opening / closing member 31a is in a closed position (closed state) in a state of protruding from the board surface toward the player, and at this time, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening / closing member 31a. Is impossible or difficult (the second special winning opening 31b is closed). Then, when the second variable winning device 31 operates, the opening / closing member 31a is drawn into the inside of the board, and the second big winning opening 31b is opened (open state). During this time, the second variable winning device 31 enters a state where the inflow of the game ball is not impossible (possible or easy), and an event of entering the second large winning opening 31b can be generated.

  Further, inside the second variable winning device 31, a guiding path 31c for guiding a game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 is arranged. The guide passage 31c extends downward from the second special winning opening 31b, turns left from there, extends downward and left, and then extends downward again.

  A second count switch 85 is disposed upstream of the guide passage 31c, and a probable area blade 31d and a probable area hole 31e are provided in the middle of the guide path 31c. A discharge port 31f is arranged downstream of the container.

  First, the second count switch 85 detects that a game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 has entered. Here, when the positive variable region solenoid that operates the positive variable region blade member 31d is ON, the positive variable region blade member 31d rises and guides the game ball to the positive variable region hole 31e. On the other hand, when the probable area solenoid for operating the probable area blade member 31d is OFF, the probable area blade member 31d does not rise, so that the game ball passes through the upper part of the probable area blade member 31d, It is led to the discharge port 31f.

[Probable change area (specific area)]
In addition, a probable area (no reference numeral) is provided inside the probable area hole 31e. The probability variable region is a region where the game ball cannot pass when the second variable winning device 31 is in the closed state, and is the case where the second variable winning device 31 is in the open state, and the probability variable blade member 31d operates. If so, it is an area through which game balls can pass.

  The variable probability region blade member 31d operates when the second variable winning device 31 is opened during the big hit game. The operation pattern of the probable area blade 31d is such that the effect area is opened for a short period (for example, 0.1 second) at the same time as the start of the round, and then closed for a few seconds (about 2 to 3 seconds). (Eg, about 20 seconds). Note that, in the short-term opening performed at the same time as the start of the round, the game ball does not reach the probable-variation-area blade member 31d. In addition, even if the probable variable area blade member 31d operates, when the second variable winning device 31 is short-opened, the game ball does not pass through the probable area.

  In the gaming board unit 8, an effect unit 40 is installed from the center position to the right side portion. The effect unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a functioning as a guide member for changing a flowing direction of a game ball, and includes various decorative components 40b and 40c inside the effect unit. The decorative components 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by the three-dimensional shaping, and can perform a staging operation by emitting transmitted light by, for example, a built-in light emitting device (LED or the like). . Further, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, including an effect design corresponding to a special design. (Output means). Thus, the game board unit 8 gives the player an impression of the features of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40. When the game board 8b is a transparent resin board (for example, an acrylic board) as in the present embodiment, various decorative bodies (including a movable body and a light-emitting body, etc.) disposed behind the game board 8b as well as on the front side. ) Can be added.

  In addition, a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) is attached to the inside of the rendering unit 40 together with a movable body 40f for rendering (for example, a decoration simulating a vehicle on which a female character is riding). The effect movable body 40f can execute an effect involving the movement of a tangible object in addition to an effect using an image on the liquid crystal display 42 and an effect using a light emitting device. With the effect using these movable bodies 40f, it is possible to exert a different appeal than the effect using the two-dimensional image.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d is opened diagonally to the upper left in the game area 8a, and when a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a flows into the ball guide path 40d at random, the ball passes through the inside and rolls. It is released onto the stage 40e. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface, and here, the game ball can freely roll in the left-right direction. The game ball rolled on the rolling stage 40e flows down into the lower game area 8a. A ball discharge path 40k is formed at the center position of the rolling stage 40e, and a game ball guided from the rolling stage 40e to the ball discharge path 40k is likely to flow into the middle start winning opening 26 immediately below the ball. .

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8a, and game balls that do not enter (win) the various winning ports are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out port 32. In addition, the game area including the normal winning openings 22 and 24, the middle starting winning opening 26, the right starting winning opening 28a, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the game ball entering the out opening 19c. All the game balls hit into 8a are collected on the back side of the game board unit 8. The recovered game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and join the supply path of the island equipment (not shown).

[2nd variable winning device]
4 and 5 are diagrams showing details of the second variable winning device 31. FIG.
First, the internal structure of the second variable winning device 31 will be described.

  As described above, the guide path 31c extending downward is provided inside the second variable winning device 31, and the second large winning opening 31b and the second count switch 85 are disposed upstream thereof. The game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 first enters the second big winning opening 31b. Then, when the ball passes through the second count switch 85 located immediately below, a ball entering the second big winning opening 31b is detected. The game ball that has passed through the second count switch 85 is guided by the guidance passage 31c and further flows down.

  At a midstream position of the guide passage 31c, there are disposed a probable area blade 31d, a probable area hole 31e, and a probable area switch 95. When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the blade member 31d for probable change region is activated by the power from the probable change region solenoid and rises. When the probable area wing member 31d rises, the game ball that has flowed down to the midstream position is guided to the probable area hole 31e to close the guide passage 31c downstream of the probable area hole 31e. Then, by passing through the probability variable area switch 95 located on the back side of the probability variable area hole 31e, the passage of the probability variable area (discharge from the probability variable area hole 31e) is detected.

  On the other hand, the probable-variation-area blade member 31d is maintained in a prone state along the guide passage 31c while a predetermined condition is not satisfied. When the probable area blade 31d is in a prone state, the game ball that has flowed down to the midstream position to cover the probable area hole 31e is not discharged from the probable area hole 31e to cover the probable area hole 31e. It passes through the upper part, is guided by the guide passage 31c, and flows down further.

  A discharge port 31f and a discharge port switch 198 are arranged at a downstream position of the guide passage 31c. The game ball that has flowed down to the downstream position is guided to the outlet 31f. Then, by passing through the outlet switch 198 located on the back side of the outlet 31f, the discharge from the outlet 31f is detected.

  In addition, the game balls discharged from the hole 31e for the variable probability area and the discharge port 31f are collected on the back side of the game board unit 8.

  Next, the operation of the second variable winning device 31 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, while the slide-type opening / closing member 31a is drawn inside the board, the game ball can enter the second big winning opening 31b. At this point, of the four game balls that have reached the second variable winning device 31, the first game ball has just passed through the second count switch 85, and the second game ball has the second count. The third and fourth game balls are flowing toward the second special winning opening 31b, passing through the switch 85.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, at this time, the first game ball has reached the probable area blade 31d, and the second game ball has passed the second count switch 85. Immediately after, the third game ball is passing through the second count switch 85, and the fourth game ball is flowing down to the second special winning opening 31b.

  As shown in FIG. 4 (C), at this point, the probability variable region blade member 31d covers the probability variation region hole 31e, so that the first game ball is further guided downstream. In addition, the second game ball has reached a position slightly upstream of the probability changing area blade member 31d, the third game ball has just passed through the second count switch 85, and the fourth game ball has The game ball enters the second special winning opening 31b and flows down toward the second count switch 85.

  Here, it is assumed that immediately after the time point shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 5D, at this point, the first game ball is guided to the outlet 31f and detected by the outlet switch 198. Further, since the probable area blade 31d is raised, the second game ball is guided to the probable area hole 31e and detected by the probable area switch 95. Then, the third game ball has reached the middle position of the guidance passage 31c, and the fourth game ball is just before passing through the second count switch 85.

  As shown in FIG. 5 (E), at this time, the probable variable area blade member 31d is still up, so that the third game ball is guided to the probable area hole 31e and is operated by the probable area switch 95. Is detected. The fourth game ball has just passed through the second count switch 85.

  Here, immediately after the point shown in FIG. 5E, it is assumed that the blade member 31d for the variable probability area has finished operating.

  As shown in FIG. 5 (F), at this point in time, since the variable probability area blade member 31d covers the variable probability area hole 31e, the fourth game ball is guided further downstream. Thereafter, the fourth game ball further flows down, is led to the outlet 31f, and is detected by the outlet switch 198.

  As described above, the game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 always enters the second large winning opening 31b, and then is ejected from either the probable variable area hole 31e or the outlet 31f. You. That is, the number of balls entering the second special winning opening 31b is equal to the sum of the number of discharges from the hole 31e for the variable probability area and the number of discharges from the discharge port 31f, and the number of detections by the second count switch 85 is The normal operation corresponds to the sum of the number of times of detection by the area switch 95 and the outlet switch 198. On the other hand, when the number of discharges from the probable variable area hole 31e or the discharge port 31f exceeds the number of balls entering the second special winning opening 31b, the game ball has not entered the second special winning opening 31b. Despite this, it means that it has been discharged from the probable area hole 31e or the discharge port 31f, and it is considered that some abnormality (for example, passing through the probabilistic area due to fraud) has occurred. Therefore, in such a case, since the danger level is high, it is necessary to notify the hall computer and the effect control device 124 to notify the game arcade manager and the hall staff that an abnormality has occurred. is there.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the probability changing area switch 95 and the outlet switch 198, the number of balls entering the second large winning opening 31b (the number of balls entering the second variable winning device 31). ) And the number of discharges from the holes 31e and the discharge ports 31f (the number of discharges from the second variable winning device 31) match with each other, and if they do not match, abnormal discharge occurs. Is to be reported. A specific method for confirming the consistency between the number of balls entered into the second variable prize device 31 and the number discharged from the second variable prize device 31 will be described later in detail with reference to another drawing.

  FIG. 6 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (the lower left position in the window 4a). That is, in the game board unit 8, for example, a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a are provided at a lower left position in the window 4a, for example, and a first special symbol display device 34 and a second special symbol display device 35 are provided. And a game status display device 38 are provided. Among them, the ordinary symbol display device 33 alternately illuminates, for example, two lamps (LEDs) to display the ordinary symbol in a variable manner, and stops and displays the ordinary symbol by turning on or off the lamp. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 stored numbers by a combination of turning off, lighting, and blinking of two lamps (LEDs), for example. For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, 0 storage numbers are displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is turned on, one storage number is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked, In the display mode in which two storage numbers are displayed and one lamp is turned on in addition to the flashing of one lamp, three storage numbers are displayed. In the display mode in which both lamps are flashed together, four storage numbers are displayed. And so on. Although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, four lamps (LEDs) may be used to configure the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a. In this case, the number of operation memories can be displayed by the number of lit lamps.

  The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to a display mode after being increased one by one in a sense that each time a game ball passes through the starting gate 20, the fact that a passage that triggers an operation lottery has occurred is stored. At first (up to a maximum of four), each time a change of the ordinary symbol is started with the passage of the symbol, the display mode is changed to a reduced display mode by one by one. In the present embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of stored symbols is 0), the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in a state where the normal symbol can be started to change (during stop display). However, the display mode does not change. In other words, the number of storages (up to four) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a indicates the number of passes in which the normal symbol variation has not yet started at that time.

  In addition, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, respectively display the fluctuating state and the stop state of the corresponding first special symbol or the second special symbol by 7-segment LEDs (with dots). (Symbol display means). Note that the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are geometrically (eg, circular) arranged.

  In addition, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a each have, for example, 0 to 4 lamps in a display mode composed of a combination of turning off, lighting, and blinking of two lamps (LEDs). Is displayed (storage number display means). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, 0 storage numbers are displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is turned on, one storage number is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked, In the display mode in which two storage numbers are displayed and one lamp is turned on in addition to the flashing of one lamp, three storage numbers are displayed. In the display mode in which both lamps are flashed together, four storage numbers are displayed. And so on.

  The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is a display after increasing one by one in a sense that every time a game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26, the fact that a game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26 is stored. It changes to a mode (up to a maximum of four), and when the change of the special symbol is started with the entry of the ball, the display mode changes by one by one. The second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is increased by one each time a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 so as to memorize that the game ball has entered the right start winning opening 28a. (Up to a maximum of four), and each time the change of the special symbol is started with the entry of the ball, the display mode changes by one by one. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a is not lit (the number of storage is 0), the middle special winning opening 26 is in a state where the first special symbol can already start to change (at the time of stop display). The display mode does not change even if a game ball enters. Also, when the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is not lit (the number of storage is 0), the game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 in a state where the second special symbol can already start to change (during stop display). The display mode does not change even if the user spheres. That is, the number of storages (up to four) represented by the display mode of each of the special symbol operation storage lamps 34a and 35a is the number of balls that have not yet started changing the first special symbol or the second special symbol at that time. Indicates the number of times.

  The gaming state display device 38 includes, for example, LEDs respectively corresponding to the jackpot type display lamps 38a, 38b, 38c, the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d, the time reduction state display lamp 38e, and the firing position designation lamp 38f. In the present embodiment, the above-described ordinary symbol display device 33, the ordinary symbol operation storage lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, the second special symbol The symbol operation memory lamp 35a and the game state display device 38 are mounted on the game board unit 8 in a state mounted on one integrated display board 89.

  These LED lamps mounted on the integrated display board 89 are divided into four different control areas (hereinafter, referred to as “common”) for the purpose of controlling the switching between lighting and extinction. In other words, there are four commons on the integrated display board 89, and each lamp belongs to any one of the commons. In the present embodiment, a dynamic lighting method is adopted, and the lamps are driven sequentially in common units at intervals of an interrupt cycle (for example, 4 ms). Therefore, all the lamps mounted on the integrated display substrate 89 are not driven at the same time.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating various electronic devices provided in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer) which is a center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. I have. The main control device 70 is built in the main control board unit 170.

  The main controller 70 is provided with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72 as a central processing unit is mounted. The main control CPU 72 includes a ROM 74 and a RAM (not shown) together with a CPU core and registers (not shown). It is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as RWM 76 are integrated. The main controller 70 includes a random number circuit 75, an interrupt controller (interrupt CTR) 192, a parallel I / O port 79, a timer circuit (PTC) 194, and a serial communication circuit (SCU) 196. Among them, the random number circuit 75 generates hardware random numbers (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for determining a big hit in a special symbol lottery and for determining a hit in a normal symbol lottery. It is input to the main control CPU72. Further, the interrupt controller 192 receives each interrupt request (XINT interrupt, PTC interrupt, SCU interrupt) from the parallel I / O port 79, the timer circuit 194, and the serial communication circuit 196, and receives these interrupt requests. Control based on priority. In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with a clock generation circuit (not shown) and peripheral ICs such as a reset controller for monitoring various states and generating a reset when necessary. Implemented above. Note that signal transmission paths, power supply paths, control buses, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or inner layer part). The I / O port of main controller 70 may be of a serial type.

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

  Further, inside the second variable prize device 31, a variable probability area switch 95 and a discharge port switch 198 are provided. The probability changing area switch 95 is a switch for detecting that the game ball has passed through the probability changing area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 (the game ball has been discharged from the hole 31e for the probability changing area). On the other hand, the discharge port switch 198 is a switch for detecting that a game ball has been discharged from the discharge port 31f disposed inside the second variable winning device 31.

  Similarly, the game board unit 8 includes a first winning port switch 86 for detecting a game ball entering the normal winning port 22 and a second winning port switch for detecting a game ball entering the normal winning port 24. 81 are equipped. In addition, as for the three normal winning ports 22 on the left side, a configuration using a common winning port switch 86 is taken as an example. For example, three winning port switches are installed, and a game ball for each normal winning port 22 is provided. The incoming ball may be detected individually.

  In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Note that, in the present embodiment, due to the configuration of the game board unit 8, the gate switch 78, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85, the first winning opening switch 86, the second winning opening switch 81, and the positive change area switch 95 The winning detection signal is transmitted via the panel relay terminal plate 87, and the panel relay terminal plate 87 is provided with a wiring pattern, a connection terminal, and the like for relaying each winning detection signal.

  The game board unit 8 is provided with an out switch 199. The game board unit 8 has a normal winning opening 22, 24, a middle starting winning opening 26, a right starting winning opening 28a, a first winning opening 30b, a second winning opening 31b, and a game ball passing through the out opening 19c, 32. Are formed, and an out-switch 199 is provided in the merging passage. The out switch 199 detects a game ball passing through the merging passage, and a detection signal is input to the main control device 70 each time a game ball is detected. Main controller 70 counts the number of out balls based on the detection signal input from out switch 199. Here, since the game balls fired into the game area 8a always pass through the merging passage and are discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 1, the out switch 199 determines the number of shot balls fired in the game area 8a, That is, the number of discharges (the number of out-balls) discharged from the game area 8a is counted.

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

  In addition, the game board unit 8 has a variable start winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, a second variable winning device 31, and an ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 corresponding to the upstream of the variable probability region, a first big winning opening. A solenoid 90, a second big winning opening solenoid 97, and a solenoid 99 for a variable area are provided. These solenoids 88, 90, 97, and 99 operate (excit) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 to open and close the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. Actuation) or move the blade member 31d for the variable probability area. The control signals are also transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to these solenoids 88, 90, 97, and 99 via the panel relay terminal plate 87.

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

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

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

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

  Further, in the pachinko machine 1, for example, a full tank switch 161 is installed inside the lower plate 6c (at the back position when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The actually paid out prize balls (game balls) are discharged to the upper plate 6b through the flow path unit 173, but when the upper plate 6b is full of game balls, the game balls paid out more are described above. Flows into the lower plate 6c. Further, when the lower plate 6c is full of gaming balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned ON, and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, the payout control CPU 94 temporarily suspends the further prize ball operation even when receiving the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and stores the unpaid prize ball remaining number in the RAM 98. Note that the storage of the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is turned off, and even if a power failure (including a momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the unpaid prize ball remaining information will not be lost. .

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a launch solenoid 110 is installed together with the launch control board 108 (ball launch means). Further, a ball feed solenoid 111 is provided in the receiving unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the above-described launch control board set 174, and the launch control board 108 includes a drive circuit for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Of these, the ball feeding solenoid 111 performs an operation of sending out the game balls stored in the saucer unit 6 one by one to a predetermined firing position in the launcher case. Further, the firing solenoid 110 performs an operation of hitting the game balls sent to the firing position and continuously (intermittently) hitting the game balls one by one toward the game area 8a as described above. The firing interval of the game balls is, for example, an interval of about 0.6 seconds (within 100 shots per minute).

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

  The receiving unit 6 is provided with a firing relay terminal plate 118, and signals from the firing lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the firing stop switch 116 are transmitted to the firing control board 108 via the firing relay terminal plate 118. Is done. Further, the drive signal from the launch control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the launch relay terminal plate 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (or an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the operation amount, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. As a result, the strength of launching a game ball is adjusted according to the operation amount of the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when a firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. I do. In addition to this, a game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120 is connected to the launch relay terminal plate 118, and when no CR unit is connected to the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120, the launch control board is also connected. The drive circuit 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110.

  In addition, the tray unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a lending / returning switch board 123. The frequency display board 122 is provided with a display of a frequency display unit (three-digit seven-segment LED). In addition, a switch module connected to the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is mounted on the lending / returning switch board 123. When the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, an operation signal is sent out. And, it is transmitted from the return switch board 123 to the CR unit via the game ball or other rental device connection terminal plate 120. Further, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted from the CR unit to the frequency display board 122 via the game ball or other rental device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives the display based on the frequency signal and numerically displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium. When the valuable medium is not inserted into the CR unit or when the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes 0, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display to display the demonstration (valuable medium). Display for prompting the user to input).

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with an effect control device 124 (effect control computer) as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls effects associated with the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also provided with an effect control CPU 126 as a central processing unit on a circuit board (composite sub-control board). The effect control CPU 126 is configured as an LSI incorporating a semiconductor memory such as a RAM 130 together with a CPU core (not shown). The effect control device 124 is provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 1 at a position covered by the back cover unit 178.

  The effect control device 124 is equipped with a control ROM 180 and a watchdog timer IC (WDTIC) 188 necessary for controlling the execution of the effect. The control ROM 180 stores a basic program related to effect control. The effect control CPU 126 controls the effect by accessing the control ROM 180 via a CPU bus (not shown) and executing a program stored in the control ROM 180. The watchdog timer IC 188 is a timer that monitors whether the control executed by the effect control device 124 is performed normally (whether the processing is completed within an estimated time) and is connected to a reset terminal of the effect control CPU 126. I have. If a signal (clear pulse) for clearing the monitoring timer of the watchdog timer IC 188 is not input within a predetermined time, the watchdog timer IC 188 outputs a reset pulse to the effect control CPU 126. As a result, the effect control device 124 is forcibly reset.

  The effect control device 124 includes a circuit board (effect display control board) on which the VDP 152 (drawing means) is mounted, and a CGROM (image / voice ROM) 190. The VDP 152 has a built-in VRAM 156 that is mainly used when developing a drawing material. The VRAM 156 can use a part of the storage area as a frame buffer. The VDP 152 is integrated with the effect control CPU 126 into one chip, and is connected to the CGROM 190 via a CG bus (not shown). The CGROM 190 stores image data of a drawing material constituting an effect screen and audio data output as the effect progresses.

  The effect control CPU 126 controls the effect according to the program stored in the control ROM 180. The control of the effect includes control of the effect using the various lamps 46 to 53 and the speakers 54, 55, and 56 as described above, and also includes control of the effect by image display using the liquid crystal display 42. . The effect control CPU 126 outputs a detailed control signal for controlling the image display for the effect to the VDP 152 based on the basic information on the effect (for example, the effect number). Upon receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the CGROM 190 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data in the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time) on the VRAM 156, and converts each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data. Drive individually.

  In addition to these, the effect control device 124 supplies backup power to the SRAM 182 as a storage area for backup data, a real-time clock (RTC) 184 for time management, and the SRAM 182 and the real-time clock 184 as functions related to the effect. Lithium battery 186 is mounted. The lithium battery 186 stores this power and charges itself while the drive power is supplied from the power supply control unit 162 to the effect control device 124. The SRAM 182 and the real-time clock 184 are connected to a lithium battery 186, and can be driven by the lithium battery 186 when the power supply from the power supply control unit 162 to the effect control device 124 is cut off. Therefore, even when the power supply from the power supply control unit 162 is cut off, the SRAM 182 and the real-time clock 184 continue to operate for a period until the lithium battery 186 is cut off (for example, about one and a half months). The SRAM 182 can hold information stored for a while even under a power-off condition.

  The effect control program is configured to be able to store information on security, monitoring, defects, and the like that should not be easily erased in the SRAM 182. Thus, for example, when any trouble occurs in the effect control device 124, the pachinko machine 1 is collected (or inspected in an installed state), and the cause of the trouble is investigated by analyzing the information held in the SRAM 182. It becomes possible.

  Further, the effect control device 124 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input / output driver (not shown), a clock generation circuit, a counter / timer circuit, etc., as well as a driver IC 132 and a voice IC 134. The production control CPU 126 controls the production based on the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and gives instructions to the driver IC 132 and the voice IC 134 to make the various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53 emit light, Processing for actually outputting sound effects, voices, and the like from 54, 55, and 56 is performed.

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

  The driver IC 132 includes, for example, a switching element (not shown) such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET. The driver IC 132 switches (or switches duty) driving voltages applied to various lamps including LEDs. The operation such as light emission and blinking is managed. Note that the various lamps include a board lamp 53 for decoration and effect installed in the game board unit 8 in addition to the glass frame top lamp 46 and the glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, and 52. The board lamp 53 corresponds to an LED built in the effect unit, or an LED built in the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, or the like. Here, an example in which the glass frame decorative lamp 52 is connected to the sub-connection board 136 is given. However, a tray decorative board is installed in the tray unit 6, and the tray decorative lamp is used for the glass frame decorative lamp 52. The configuration may be such that it is connected to the driver IC 132 via an external device.

  The audio IC 134 is a sound generator, and is connected to a CG bus and an amplifier (not shown). The audio IC 134 accesses the CGROM 190 via the CG bus to read audio data, decodes the data, and outputs the decoded audio data to the speakers 54 and 55 on the glass frame and the outer frame speaker 56 via the amplifier, so that stereo 2ch or monaural 2ch. (The number of channels may be larger than 2).

  In the present embodiment, a sub-connection board 136 is provided on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and drive signals from the driver IC 132 and the audio IC 134 are transmitted via the sub-connection board 136 to the various lamps 46 to 52, the speakers 54, 55, and 54. 56. The effect switch button 45 is connected to the sub-connection board 136. When the player operates the effect switch button 45, the contact signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the sub-connection board 136. Further, a jog dial 45a is connected to the sub-connection board 136. When the player rotates the jog dial 45a, a rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the sub-connection board 136. Here, the example in which the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are connected to the sub-connection board 136 is described. However, when installing the saucer illuminated board, the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are connected to the saucer illuminated board. May be.

  In addition, a driver board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a movable body motor 57 is connected to the driver board 138 in addition to the board lamp 53. The movable body motor 57 drives the movable body 40f via, for example, a link mechanism (not shown). The drive signal from the driver IC 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 and the movable body motor 57 via the driver board 138.

  The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and its display screen is visible through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8. An inverter board 158 is provided on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power applied to a backlight (for example, a cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42.

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

  In addition, the power control unit 162 is provided with a RAM clear switch 163. The RAM clear switch 163 is a switch for clearing the RAM (initializing all areas except the use prohibited area of the RAM 76). When the RAM clear switch 163 is operated at the time of turning on the power, the RAM clear signal is sent to the main controller. 70 and the payout control device 92. Note that the RAM clear switch may be provided in main controller 70. Further, when the main control device 70 accepts the input of the RAM clear signal without inputting the RAM clear signal to the payout control device 92, the main control device 70 transmits a RAM clear command to the payout control device 92. Is also good.

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

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

[CPU initialization (main) processing in main controller]
When the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 starts a CPU initialization process. The CPU initialization process restores the gaming state based on the backup information saved at the time of the previous power-off (so-called power recovery), or conversely clears the backup information, thereby resetting the initial state of the pachinko machine 1. This is a process for trimming. Further, the CPU initialization process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable game operation of the pachinko machine 1 after the adjustment of the initial state.

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

  Step S100: The main control CPU 72 first sets the start address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

  Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector table. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the interrupt vector table in an I register (interrupt vector register) used for interrupt control. In the interrupt vector table, priorities required for controlling an interrupt request generated during the execution of the CPU initialization processing are defined. The main control CPU 72 sets the priority order defined in the interrupt vector table. Based on this, a plurality of interrupt requests are executed in order. The control of the interrupt processing will be described later in detail.

  Step S104: The main control CPU 72 saves the RAM clear signal (input signal from the RAM clear switch 163). More specifically, the value of the input port to which the RAM clear signal is input is obtained twice consecutively, and the logical sum based on these values is saved as the input port value.

  Step S106: The main control CPU 72 executes standby processing here. In this process, a certain standby time (for example, about several thousand ms) is secured after the power is turned on, and during this time, a power cut-off notice signal (a signal indicating that power cutoff is occurring) is checked. Things. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the waiting time, the main control CPU 72 checks the bit of the input port of the power-off notice signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The power-off notice signal is input by an IC that monitors the voltage level of the drive voltage. Then, when confirming the input of the power-off notice signal before the loop counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the processing from the head. Thereby, for example, the system can be protected in the case where the operation of turning on and off the main power switch (not shown) is repeatedly performed within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

  Step S108: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protection set value of the work area is reset (00H). Thus, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted thereafter.

  Step S110: The main control CPU 72 refers to the RAM clear signal by checking the specific bit of the input port value saved in the previous step S104, and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch 163 has been operated (switch ON). I do. If the RAM clear switch 163 has not been operated (No), then step S112 is executed.

  Step S112: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not the backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup was completed normally in the process executed at the time of the previous power-off and the backup validity determination flag (for example, “A5H”) has been set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S114. The processing executed when the power is turned off will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S114: The main control CPU 72 executes a sum check on the backup information in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 checksums all of the work area (user work area including the use prohibited area and the stack area) of the RAM 76 except the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S116.

  Step S116: The main control CPU 72 clears the storage contents of a partial area of the RAM 76. The partial area of the RAM 76 is a work area in a continuous predetermined range based on the address of the backup validity determination flag to be cleared when the power is restored. The main control CPU 72 can restore the power-off state by clearing the storage contents of this area for each address (in units of bytes) and keeping the stored valid backup information as it is. (Storage return means).

  Step S118: The main control CPU 72 should return to the power-off state and start the power-return designation effect command (command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124) and the payout command (transmission to the payout control device 92). Command).

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch 163 is operated at the time of turning on the power (step S110: Yes), the backup validity determination flag is not set (step S112: No), or the backup information is not normal. In this case (step S114: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S120.

Step S120: The main control CPU 72 clears the storage contents of the RAM 76 other than the use prohibited area. Thus, the work area and the stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, its contents are deleted.
Step S122: Further, the main control CPU 72 performs an initial setting of the RAM 76.

  Step S124: The main control CPU sets an effect command (a command for the effect control device 124) and a payout command (a command for the payout control device 92) that indicate that the RAM clear has been started.

  Step S126: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes payout control output processing. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 outputs the payout command (power supply designation) set in step S118 or the payout command (RAM clear designation) set in step S124 to the payout command buffer.

  Step S128: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this processing, first, the main control CPU 72 outputs the effect command (power supply designation) set in step S118 or the effect command (RAM clear designation) set in step S124 to the effect command buffer. The main control CPU 72 further performs various other production commands required for the production control (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a special figure destination determination production command, a production command when the number of operation memories increases, and a decrease in the number of operation memories). Time command, number-of-times counter remaining number command, special game state designation command, firing position designation command, etc.) and output these to the production command buffer. At this time, the main control CPU 72 sets different values for these effect commands when the power is restored and when the RAM is cleared.

  For example, when the power is restored, the value of each effect command is set based on the backup information. These effect commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the subsequent effect command transmission process (step S142), so that the effect control device 124 is in the effect state (for example, internal It is possible to return the probability state, the display mode of the effect symbols, the effect display mode of the number of operation memories, the audio output content, the light emission state of various lamps, and the like.

  Step S130: The main control CPU 72 executes an input port process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 obtains the content of each input port, and stores a result of performing a predetermined operation on the value in the status flag of each input port. After this processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S131 (connection symbol A → A).

  Step S131: The main control CPU 72 sets a main command permission signal to a specific bit of the output port. The main command permission signal is a signal indicating to the payout control device 92 that the main control device 70 permits command transmission to itself. When the main command permission signal is input to the payout control device 92, the payout control device 92 receives the command and inputs a payout command permission signal indicating that the transmission of the payout command is permitted to the main control device 70. It becomes.

  Step S132: The main control CPU 72 resets (OFF) the specific bit of the output port to clear the firing permission signal (specific output information clearing means). The firing permission signal is included in the backup target when the power is turned off. Therefore, when the main controller 70 (the pachinko machine 1) recovers power, the main control CPU 72 executes the power recovery flow in the CPU initialization process, and switches the main controller 70 to the power-off state based on the backup information. (Step S116), and as a part of that, the firing permission signal is also returned to the state at the time of power-off.

  The firing permission signal is set to a specific bit (for example, bit 0) of a specific output port buffer (for example, a buffer for the output port 3) stored in the RAM 76. However, the address of the output port buffer targeted here is located outside the continuous area targeted for clearing in step S116 in the address space of the RAM 76. For this reason, if it is attempted to clear the value of the specific bit of the specific address in which the firing permission signal is set in addition to the clear target area as part of the process of step S116, the specific address is specified. An exceptional process of clearing only the specific bit data of the 8-bit data stored at the address and maintaining the remaining 7-bit data must be performed. The efficiency of the process of clearing the area becomes very poor. Under such circumstances, the main control CPU 72 does not clear the firing permission signal in the previous step S116 and treats it in the same manner without distinguishing it from other data to be backed up, and temporarily returns to the power-off state.

  However, at the stage when the backup information is returned in the main control device 70 (step S116), communication with the payout control device 92 has not yet been established, and the payout control device 92 has been started normally (main control device 70). 70 can not be confirmed). If the power is cut off while the firing permission signal is ON, the firing permission signal is returned to ON, and as a result, it is possible to fire the game ball even though the normality of the payout control device 92 is unknown. A condition will occur. Here, suppose that the payout control device 92 is replaced with a modified product (for example, the number of award balls has been changed) that does not conform to the original inspection while the power is cut off, and the main control device 70 is restored by the subsequent power return. When activated, the launching signal is returned to ON, so that the game balls can be launched. Such a state is not preferable from the viewpoint of security.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, regardless of whether the activation is due to power return or RAM clear designation, the main control CPU 72 explicitly clears the firing permission signal once before transition to the main loop ( (Reset to OFF). After that, the main control CPU 72 confirms that the payout command permission signal has been input from the payout control device 92 to the main control device 70, and, upon transmitting the payout command to the payout control device 92, Control for setting the firing permission signal to ON is adopted. By performing such control, even if the game is started (restarted) by the processing of the main loop, the firing of the game ball is not permitted unless the communication between the main control device 70 and the payout control device 92 is established. In addition, in the case where the above-mentioned fraud is performed, it is possible to avoid the illegal firing of the game ball.

Step S133: The main control CPU 72 sets a timer interrupt cycle. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a value corresponding to the timer interrupt cycle (for example, 4 ms) in the counter setting register of the timer circuit 194.
Step S134: The main control CPU 72 resets the interrupt daisy chain. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes the RETI instruction after backing up the start address of the main loop, which will be described later, as a preparation for the interrupt processing. By performing this processing, it becomes possible to normally start the interrupt processing that occurs thereafter, and to continue the processing from the main loop after executing the interrupt processing.

  When the above procedure is executed in the CPU initialization processing, the main control CPU 72 shifts to a main loop (steps S136 to S146 described below). As long as the power supply from the power supply control unit 162 is maintained, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the main loop.

  Step S136, Step S138: After prohibiting the interrupt, the main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) the initial values of various software random numbers. In the present embodiment, various random numbers (for example, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach determination random number, a variation pattern determination random number, etc.) except a jackpot determination random number (hardware random number) and a hit determination random number (hardware random number) corresponding to a normal symbol are used. Is generated in the program. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another timer interrupt processing (step S212 in FIG. 12), and each time the random number makes a round in this processing, the initial value of the loop counter (all (It is not necessary for the random number to be the target.) The initial value updating random number is used to change the initial value at random, and in step S138, the initial value updating random number is updated. The reason that step S138 is executed after the interrupt is prohibited in step S136 is that the same processing is executed in another timer interrupt processing (step S210 in FIG. 12). ). In the present embodiment, the jackpot determination random number and the hit determination random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number circuit 75, and the update cycle thereof is faster (for example, several μs) than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms). Therefore, it is not necessary to update the initial values of the big hit random number and the hit random number. The timer interrupt processing will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S140: The main control CPU 72 executes a received command management process. In this process, the data received from the payout control device 92 is analyzed, and a process according to the result is performed. The main control CPU 72 outputs the payout start confirmation specifying command to the payout command buffer when the received command is the payout start specifying command, otherwise, the main control CPU 72 determines whether the received data is a value within a predetermined range (see the reception command). If the value is out of the range, a payout error designation command is output to the effect command buffer, and a payout radio wave error flag is set according to the situation.

  Step S142: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command transmission process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 transmits each effect command output to the effect command buffer to the effect control device 124.

  Step S144, Step S146: The main control CPU 72 permits interruption and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated in this process are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, and the like) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (hit type) among the software random numbers. This process is performed during the remaining time when an interrupt request is generated during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes various interrupt processes. The content of the interrupt processing will be described later using another flowchart.

[Evacuation processing when power is turned off]
Next, a description will be given of a process executed when a power interruption (hereinafter, abbreviated as “power interruption”) occurs. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the power-off save processing. In the main controller 70, the occurrence of power interruption and the occurrence of reset are monitored by the same monitoring IC (for example, an IC mounted on a reset controller (not shown)). The monitoring IC monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power supply control unit 162, and outputs a power-off notice signal to the XINT terminal of the parallel I / O port 79 when the voltage level falls below the reference voltage. The main control CPU 72 executes a power-off save process (XINT interrupt process, backup means) triggered by input of a power-off notice signal to the XINT terminal (XINT interrupt). Hereinafter, each procedure of the power-off save processing will be described.

  Steps S150 and S152: The main control CPU 72 reads the power-off detection switch input port of the parallel I / O port 79, checks a specific bit, and confirms whether or not the power-off notice signal has been detected. When it is not confirmed that the power-off notice signal has been detected (No), the main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt, terminates the power-off save process, and executes the main loop (FIG. 8 to FIG. 9) of the CPU initialization process (FIGS. 8 to 9). (Program address indicated by the stack pointer). On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the power-off notice signal has been detected (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S154.

  Step S154: The main control CPU 72 controls the test signal terminal and the command control in addition to the output ports corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first winning port solenoid 90, the second winning port solenoid 97, and the positive change area solenoid 99. Clear the output port buffer corresponding to the signal.

Step S156, Step S158: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents of the work area of the RAM 76 except for the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer in units of 1 byte, and repeats until the addition is completed for all the areas. .
Step S160: When the calculation of the sum is completed for all the areas (Step S158: Yes), the main control CPU 72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S162: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores a valid value in the backup validity determination flag area.
Step S164: Further, the main control CPU 72 stores “00H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the use prohibition area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.

Step S166: The main control CPU 72 sets a predetermined value for counting the number of checks of the power-off notice signal in the loop counter.
Step S168: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the power-off notice signal has been detected. The method of confirming the power-off notice signal is the same as the method in step S150 described above. When it is confirmed that the power-off notice signal has been detected (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the previous step S166 again. On the other hand, when it is not confirmed that the power-off notice signal has been detected (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S170.

Step S170: The main control CPU 72 decrements the value of the loop counter by one.
Step S172: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the loop counter is “0”. When it cannot be confirmed that the value of the loop counter is “0” (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S168. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the loop counter is “0” (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S174.
Step S174: The main control CPU 72 shifts from the power-off save processing to the CPU initialization processing (FIG. 8). At this time, since the RETI instruction is not executed before shifting to the CPU initialization processing, the CPU initialization processing can be started with other interrupts being prohibited.

  The processing of steps S166 to S172 described above is a so-called standby processing (follow-up observation processing) that is executed in preparation for interruption of power supply from the power supply control unit 162. When the power-off notice signal is continuously detected, steps S166 to S168 are repeatedly executed, and thus the loop counter does not become “0”. Therefore, the standby state is continued as long as the power supply is continued. On the other hand, if the detection of the power-off notice signal is temporary (for example, detection due to a momentary power failure or the like), steps S168 to S172 are repeatedly executed, and the loop counter is decremented as time elapses. Then, the process proceeds to the CPU initialization process when the value becomes “0”. That is, before the power supply is completely cut off, the main control CPU 72 first calculates the checksum and saves the result, enters a standby mode, and performs other processing in a situation where the power supply is being cut off. While the standby state is maintained without executing, the coming power supply is shut down in a safe state, whereas the CPU is initialized in a situation where stable power supply is restored after a temporary power failure occurs The processing shifts to main processing. By executing such a standby process, it is possible to guarantee a stable game operation of the main control device 70 and thus the pachinko machine 1.

  When the power supply from the power supply control unit 162 is cut off, the power supply source to the main control device 70 is automatically switched to the backup power supply. The main control unit 70 is supplied with backup power from a backup power supply circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main control unit 70) after the power failure occurs. It is maintained without being lost even after the power is turned off. The power supply circuit for backup may be built in the power supply control unit 162, for example.

  Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum addition target) is stored in the RAM 76 even after the power is turned off. The stored memory is restored as backup information at the time of power failure after confirming that the checksum is normal in the CPU initialization processing (FIG. 8).

[Command reception interrupt processing]
Next, a process executed when a command is received from the payout control device 92 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of a command reception interrupt process. The payout control device 92 transmits, to the main control device 70, a payout start designation command indicating that the payout of the game balls has started, and various devices related to the payout of the prize balls along with the progress of the game (for example, A command transmitted from the dispensing apparatus substrate 100 or the full tank switch 161 to the main controller 70 is relayed. These commands transmitted by the payout control device 92 are received by the reception data register of the specific channel of the serial communication circuit 196 of the main control device 70. The main control CPU 72 executes a command reception interrupt process (SCU interrupt process) triggered by the command reception (SCU interrupt). Hereinafter, each procedure of the command reception interrupt processing will be described.

  Step S180: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the A register (accumulator) and the F register (flag register) used during the execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. After saving the value, another value can be written to each register during the data reception interrupt process.

Step S182: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks a specific bit of the status register to confirm whether or not there is data in the reception data register (reception FIFO). When it is confirmed that there is data in the reception data register (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S184. On the other hand, when it is not possible to confirm that there is data in the reception data register (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S186.
Step S184: The main control CPU 72 stores the contents of the data register in the reception command buffer.

  Steps S186 and S188: The main control CPU 72 restores the values of the A and F registers saved in step S180 to the respective registers, permits the interrupt, terminates the command reception interrupt processing, and executes the CPU initialization processing. It returns to the main loop (FIG. 9).

[Timer interrupt processing]
Next, the timer interrupt processing will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the timer interrupt process. The main control CPU 72 executes timer interrupt processing (PTC interrupt processing) at predetermined time intervals (for example, several ms) based on an interrupt request (PTC interrupt) output from the timer circuit 194. Hereinafter, each procedure of the timer interrupt processing will be described.

  Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 stores the values of the AF register (a pair of an accumulator and a flag register) and the values of the BC, DE, and HL registers (a pair of general-purpose registers) used during the execution of the main loop in a save area of the RAM 76. Evacuate. After the value is saved, another value can be written to each register during the timer interrupt processing.

  Step S202: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits interruption. By permitting the interrupt here, another interrupt can be generated while executing the next step and subsequent steps of the timer interrupt process. As described above, multiple interrupts are permitted in the timer interrupt processing. The reception of an interrupt request signal and the priority control of multiple interrupts are executed by the interrupt controller 192. The interrupt management by the interrupt controller 192 will be described later.

  Step S204: The main control CPU 72 executes a dynamic port output process. In this process, port output is performed in common units in order to control the lighting of each lamp mounted on the integrated display board 89 by a dynamic lighting method. More specifically, after clearing the output port, the main control CPU 72 stores the content output to the common output request buffer corresponding to the selected common in the output port.

  Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes a port input process. In this processing, in order to accurately obtain the latest switch state based on the input port information, the main control CPU 72 performs a logical AND operation between the input values of various switch signals from the parallel I / O port 79 and the inversion result value of the previous input value. Is stored in the input port on detection flag. As a result, it is possible to grasp an accurate input state based on a change from the last time of various switch signals based on the value (ON / OFF) of the input port on detection flag. Specific examples of the various switch signals include a passage detection signal from the gate switch 78 and the positive-variable-area switch 95, a middle-start winning port switch 80, a right-start winning port switch 82, a first count switch 84, and a second count switch. 85, winning detection signals from the first winning opening switch 86, the second winning opening switch 81, and the like.

  Step S208: The main control CPU 72 executes a timer update process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 decrements and updates counters such as various timers for external information and a timer for security signals, in addition to a timer for managing a game time and a closing time of an ordinary electric accessory.

  Step S210: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process also here. The contents of the process are the same as those described in the process of the CPU initialization process (step S138 in FIG. 9).

  Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning symbol random number updating process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for the lottery of the special symbol and the ordinary symbol. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76, and loops within a specified range. The various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers.

  Step S214: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a switch management process. In this process, of the switch signals input in the previous port input process (step S206), the gate switch 78, the middle start winning port switch 80, the right starting winning port switch 82, the first count switch 84, and the second count switch 85 Based on the detection signals from the first winning port switch 86, the second winning port switch 81, the variable probability area switch 95, and the outlet switch 198, the event that occurred during the game is determined. Further processing is performed. The specific contents of the switch management process will be described later using another flowchart.

  In the present embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the middle-start winning port switch 80 or the right-start winning port switch 82, the main control CPU 72 selects an internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers (lottery trigger) has occurred. Further, when the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event that triggers a lottery corresponding to a normal symbol has occurred. When determining that any of the events has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each of the events. The processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the middle start winning opening switch 80 or the right starting winning switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S216, Step S218: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process. These processes are for causing the game in the pachinko machine 1 to specifically proceed. In the special symbol game processing (step S216), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device. 2 The variable display or the stop display by the special symbol display device 35 is determined, and the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 is controlled according to the display result. The details of the special symbol game process will be described later using another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S218), the main control CPU 72 determines the above-described variable display or stop display by the normal symbol display device 33, and activates the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. Control. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (ordinary random number per symbol) acquired upon passing through the starting gate 20 in the previous switch management process (step S204), and in the ordinary symbol game process. The random number value is read from the storage, and it is determined whether the random number value falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery executing means). When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol is varied and displayed by the normal symbol display device 33, and after the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined hit mode, the main control CPU 72 causes the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 to operate. It is excited to operate the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece operating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a stop display of the ordinary symbol in an outlying manner after the variable display.

  Step S220: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a state management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 collects an abnormality in the winning frequency (a state in which the number of balls entering the medium start winning opening 26 and the normal winning openings 22 and 24 is abnormally large) and a base abnormality (recovered to the back side of the game board unit 8). (The state in which the total number of winning balls to each winning opening 22, 24, 26, 28a, 30b, 31b is larger than the number of playing balls, that is, the number of playing balls driven into the game area 8a). Check whether a high state has occurred. When an abnormal state is detected, the main control CPU 72 generates an abnormality by outputting a security signal to the hall computer of the game arcade and by transmitting a predetermined effect control command to the effect control device 124. Notify that.

  Step S222: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning opening switch process. In this process, when the input port on detection flags stored based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 81, 82, 84, 85, 86 in the previous port input process (step S206) are ON, Each target prize ball control counter is updated by adding one.

  Step S224: The main control CPU 72 executes a prize ball payout process. Although a detailed flow is not shown, in this process, the main control CPU 72 first checks whether or not the payout command buffer is empty (whether or not a payout command to be transmitted is set). If it is set, the various payout commands output to the payout command buffer are transmitted to the payout control device 92. For example, a payout command indicating a power-on startup mode is set in the course of the CPU initialization process (steps S118 and S124 in FIG. 8) and output to the payout command buffer (step S126 in FIG. 8). However, a payout command indicating this activation mode is transmitted here. On the other hand, when the payout command buffer is empty, the process proceeds to a process for instructing payout of award balls. The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the prize ball control counter is not 0. If the prize ball control counter is not 0, the payout control device 92 issues a prize ball designation payout command indicating the number of prize balls corresponding to this counter. Send to More specifically, the payout command for award ball designation corresponding to each award ball control counter updated in the previous step S222 is transmitted here. The payout command is transmitted when the payout command permission signal is input from the payout control device 92 to the main controller 70, and the number of payout commands set in the transmission data register (transmission FIFO) is a predetermined number. If it is less than (more specifically, if the payout command set in the transmission FIFO in step S224 executed before the last time has already been transmitted, or if it is currently being transmitted and there is a free space in the transmission FIFO, ) Only executed.

  In particular, in step S224 when the power is turned on, when the payout command set in the process of the CPU initialization processing is normally transmitted, the main control CPU 72 turns on the firing permission signal with this as a trigger. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 clears the payout command buffer output when the power is turned on, and turns on the firing permission signal by setting a specific bit of the output port (specific output information setting means). Thus, after confirming the normal operation after the power is turned on, the launch of the game ball is permitted, and the launch permission signal is sent to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, whereby the launch of the game ball is possible. State.

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

  Step S226: The main control CPU 72 executes a firing position designation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets the firing position designation flag to the previous firing position designation flag, and then clears the firing position designation flag. Then, the main control CPU 72 turns on the firing position designation flag if the variable winning device is operating or the time shortening function is operating, and furthermore, the firing position designation flag and the previous firing position designation flag match. If not, a launch position designation command is generated. The generated launch position designation command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 9) executed in the main loop.

  Step S228: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 sends an external information signal (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination frequency information, big hit information, starting opening information, security information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Is stored in the port output request buffer.

  In the present embodiment, among the various external information signals, for example, “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” are output to the outside as big hit information, so that the external electronic device (data display) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is output. Various types of jackpot information can be provided to an apparatus or a hall computer (external information signal output means). That is, the jackpot information is divided into a plurality of "big hits 1" to "big hits 5" and outputted, so that the type of the big hits (winning type) is aggregated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) from these combinations, Recognition of changes in the probability state (low-probability state or high-probability state) or the shortened state of the symbol fluctuation time, and the occurrence of a small hit (a hit in which the condition device does not operate) that is not classified as a "big hit" even if it is not a non-winner Can be tabulated and managed. Further, based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1 and recognizes whether or not each machine is currently in a jackpot. It is possible to recognize whether or not each symbol is currently in a reduced state of the symbol variation time. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls the output states (ON or OFF set) of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” in detail.

  Step S230: The main control CPU 72 executes a test signal process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes various types of internal states (for example, a normal symbol game management state, a special symbol game management state, a launch position designation, a big hit, a probability variation function being activated, and a time reduction function being activated). Generate test signals and store them in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main control device 70.

  Step S232: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a display output management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, the second special symbol. Processing necessary for managing the lighting state of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, and the like is performed. Specifically, in a mode corresponding to the symbol change display, the stop display, the operation memory number display, the game state display, etc. determined in the previous special symbol game process (step S216) and the normal symbol game process (step S218). A drive signal for lighting each lamp is stored as byte data in a port output request buffer for each common.

  Here, the byte data stored in the port output request buffer for each common is stored in the output port one by one in the dynamic port output process (step S204) every time the timer interrupt process is performed. Is output. For example, in the next timer interrupt processing, the byte data stored for common 1 is output to a port, and in the next timer interrupt processing, the byte data stored for common 2 is output as a port. The byte data stored in the port output request buffer for each common is sequentially processed one by one. Thereby, each lamp constituting a predetermined display mode (a mode in which a symbol variation display, a stop display, an operation memory number display, a game state display, etc. is performed) is sequentially driven in common units, and the lighting is controlled by a dynamic lighting method. Will be.

  Step S234: The main control CPU 72 executes a solenoid output management process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive signals of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first big winning opening solenoid 90, the second big winning opening solenoid 97, and the positive-change area solenoid 99 stored in the port output request buffer. , And the test signal are stored in the port output request buffer.

  Step S236: The main control CPU 72 executes a port output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 checks whether values are stored in the port output request buffer, and outputs the values to the port if the values are stored. For example, the drive signals of the solenoids 88, 90, 97, and 99 stored in the port output request buffer in the previous step S234 are output as ports. Thereby, each drive signal is transmitted to the corresponding solenoid 88, 90, 97, 99, and each solenoid executes an operation according to the drive signal. Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (for example, jackpot information, security signal, etc.) stored in the port output request buffer at step S228 by port. As a result, the external information signal is transmitted to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160.

  In the present embodiment, an example is described in which the processing (game control program module) of steps S216 to S236 is executed as a part of the timer interrupt processing. However, these processings are executed by being incorporated in the main loop of the CPU. There are also known programming examples.

  Step S238: The control CPU 72 restores the values of the HL, DE, BC, and AF registers saved in step S200 to the respective registers, ends the timer interrupt processing, and returns to the main loop of the CPU initialization processing (FIG. 9). To return.

[Interrupt management by interrupt controller]
As described above, in the main control device 70, during the execution of the CPU initialization process (FIG. 8), which is the main control program, the parallel interrupt that is the source of the XINT interrupt (the power-off save process (FIG. 10)) is performed. An interrupt request output from the I / O port 79), an SCU interrupt (an interrupt request output from the serial communication circuit 196 that is a source of the command reception interrupt process (FIG. 11)), a PTC interrupt (a timer interrupt) An interrupt request output by the timer circuit 194 that is the source of the interrupt processing (FIG. 12) may occur. These interrupt requests are managed / controlled by an interrupt controller 192 mounted on main controller 70. The interrupt controller 192 permits reception of an interrupt request by an interrupt permission instruction (EI instruction) of the main control CPU 72, and prohibits reception of the interrupt request by an interrupt inhibition instruction (DI instruction), so-called maskable interrupt. Is controlled.

  Since the XINT interrupt, the SCU interrupt, and the PTC interrupt all occur based on independent factors having no interdependence, it is naturally considered that a plurality of interrupt requests are generated at the same time. Therefore, the interrupt controller 192 controls each interrupt request in accordance with a predetermined priority order of the interrupt requests in consideration of the importance of the interrupt processing, processing efficiency, and the like.

  More specifically, the priority of the interrupt request (interrupt processing) is defined in the interrupt vector table, and the priority of the XINT interrupt (save processing at power-off) is the lowest, and the SCU interrupt (command The priority of reception interrupt processing) is set to the highest. Since the setting of the interrupt vector table is performed at the beginning of the CPU initialization process (step S102 in FIG. 8), the interrupt controller 192 can perform priority control of an interrupt request generated at a timing thereafter. . Actually, after the CPU initialization process transitions to the main loop (steps S136 to S146 in FIG. 9), the interrupt is permitted (step S144 in FIG. 9) until the interrupt is prohibited (FIG. 9). If any interrupt request occurs during step S136), the interrupt controller 192 controls the received interrupt request based on the priority set in the interrupt vector table. For example, when an XINT interrupt and a PTC interrupt are received at the same time, a higher priority PTC interrupt (timer interrupt processing) is processed first. While the timer interrupt processing is being executed, the XINT interrupt is in an interrupt waiting state, and after the timer interrupt processing is completed, the power-off save processing is executed.

  When the procedure example of each interrupt processing is confirmed again, in the power-off save processing (FIG. 10) and the command reception interrupt processing (FIG. 11), immediately before returning from each interrupt processing (RETI instruction). The interrupt is permitted for the first time (immediately before the execution of step S152) (step S152 in FIG. 10, step S188 in FIG. 11), but in the timer interrupt process (FIG. 12), Is permitted (step S202 in FIG. 12), and then major steps are executed. That is, the interrupt controller 192 (main control CPU 72) prohibits the execution of multiple interrupts during the execution of the power-off save process and the command reception interrupt process, while prohibiting the execution of the multiple interrupt during the execution of the timer interrupt process. Execution is permitted.

  By controlling the interrupt request based on the priority order in this way, the interrupt controller 192 enables the main controller 70 to execute multiple interrupts.

[Switch management processing]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch management process (step S204 in FIG. 14). Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input (a lottery trigger has occurred) from the middle starting winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol storage updating process. The specific processing content will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if no winning detection signal has been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input (a lottery trigger has occurred) from the right starting winning opening switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol storage updating process. Here, similarly, the specific processing content will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if no winning detection signal has been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S17.

  Step S17: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal has been input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the ordinary symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S18, and executes a normal symbol storage update process. In the ordinary symbol memory updating process, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the current ordinary symbol operation memory number is less than the upper limit number (for example, four), and if the upper limit number has not been reached, obtains a random number per ordinary symbol. I do. The main control CPU 72 increments the number of ordinary symbol operation storages by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random number value per symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal has been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S19.

  Step S19: The main control CPU 72 sets the winning opening switch corresponding to the normal winning opening, more specifically, the first winning opening switch 86 corresponding to the normal winning opening 22 or the second winning opening switch corresponding to the ordinary winning opening 24. It is checked whether or not a winning detection signal has been input from 81. If the winning detection signal has been input (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 to execute a normal winning opening ball entry process. In the normal winning opening ball entry process, the main control CPU 72 generates a normal winning opening winning designation command corresponding to the second profit (for example, for 10 gaming balls). On the other hand, when the winning detection signal has not been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S21.

  Step S21: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a winning detection signal has been input from the first count switch 84 corresponding to the first big winning opening 30b of the first variable winning device 30. If the winning detection signal has been input (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S22 and executes the first big winning opening ball entry process. In the first big winning opening ball entry process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the first variable winning device 30 for each round during the big hit game and the first profit (for example, 15 game balls). In addition to the generation of the special winning opening winning designation command corresponding to the above, monitoring of an illegal winning is performed. On the other hand, when the winning detection signal has not been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S23.

  Step S23: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a winning detection signal has been input from the second count switch 85 corresponding to the second big winning opening 31b of the second variable winning device 31. If the winning detection signal has been input (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 to execute a second winning port opening process. In the second big winning opening ball entry process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable winning device 31 for each round during the big hit game, and the first profit (for example, 15 game balls). In addition to generating a special winning opening winning designation command corresponding to the above, addition of a special power entry / exit ball counter, monitoring of illegal winning, and the like are performed. Here, the “special power input / output ball counter” is a counter used to check whether the number of balls entering the second variable prize device 31 and the number of discharges from the second variable prize device 31 match. is there. The confirmation of the consistency of the number of incoming and outgoing balls using the special power incoming and outgoing ball counter (special electric auditors discharge check processing) will be described later in detail with reference to another flowchart. On the other hand, when the winning detection signal has not been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S25.

  Step S25: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal has been input from the certainty variable area switch 95 corresponding to the certainty variable area (stable variable area hole 31e) provided inside the second variable winning device 31. If the passage detection signal has been input (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S26, and executes a process at the time of passing the certain variable area. In the processing at the time of passing through the certainty variable area, the main control CPU 72 checks the consistency of the number of incoming and outgoing balls of the game balls in the second variable winning device 31 by subtracting the special incoming and outgoing ball counter (executes the special electric auditors discharge check processing). At the same time, a process necessary for shifting to the high probability state is executed. The specific contents of the processing at the time of passing the certainty variable area will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. On the other hand, when the passage detection signal has not been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S27.

  Step S27: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a detection signal has been input from the outlet switch 198 corresponding to the outlet 31f provided inside the second variable winning device 31. If this detection signal has been input (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S28 to execute a special electric auditors discharge confirmation process. In the special electric auditors discharge confirmation process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the special power entry / exit ball counter and confirms the consistency of the number of incoming / outgoing game balls in the second variable winning device 31. The specific contents of the special electric auditors discharge confirmation processing will be described later in detail with reference to another flowchart. On the other hand, when the detection signal has not been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S29.

  Step S29: The main control CPU 72 outputs the various winning designation commands generated in steps S20, S22 and S24 to the transmission buffer. The winning designation command output to the transmission buffer is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 9) executed in the main loop.

  After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the timer interrupt processing (FIG. 12).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the first special symbol storage update process (step S12 in FIG. 13). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol storage updating process will be described step by step.

  Step S30: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol operation storage number counter and confirms whether or not the operation storage number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The operation storage number counter represents the number (the number of sets) of the jackpot determination random numbers and the jackpot symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into eight sections (for example, 2 bytes each) commonly used in the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and each section has a jackpot determined random number and a jackpot symbol. Random numbers can be stored in sets one by one. At this time, if the value of the operation storage number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch management process (FIG. 13). On the other hand, if the value of the operation storage number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

  Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one to the first special symbol operation storage number. The first special symbol operation storage number counter is stored in, for example, an operation storage number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a is controlled in the display output management process (step S232 in FIG. 12).

  Step S32: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number circuit 75 (first lottery element obtaining means, lottery element obtaining means). The random number value is obtained by specifying the pin address of the random number circuit 75. In the case where the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address is specified in two times, one byte for each of the upper and lower bytes. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, it saves it as the jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol at the transfer destination address.

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

  Step S34: Also, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as random number values relating to the variation condition of the first special symbol (variation pattern determination element acquisition). Means, element acquisition means). Similarly, the acquisition of these random numbers is performed by designating the address of the random number counter area for fluctuation. When the main control CPU 72 obtains the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, it saves them at the transfer destination address.

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

  Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current special game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not during the big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. This determination is made in the present embodiment, because an effect by pre-reading is not performed for a ball that has occurred during a big hit.

  Step S37: If it is not during the big hit (step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes the at-acquisition effect determination processing for the first special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of the change) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, and thereby the effect contents are determined. This is for making a judgment (so-called “look-ahead”). The details of the specific processing will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S38: After returning from the acquisition effect rendering processing, the main control CPU 72 sets the upper byte (for example, “B8H”) of the special figure destination determination rendering command for the first special symbol. The upper byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect regarding the first special symbol”. Since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command has been set in the above-described effect determination process at the time of acquisition (step S37), the lower byte is combined with the upper byte to obtain, for example, a one-word command. Is generated.

  Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an operation memory number increase effect command for the first special symbol. Specifically, for the leading value (for example, "BBH") of the upper byte representing the type of command, the number of operation storages after the increase (for example, "01H" to "04H") is added to the lower byte for one word length. Generate a production command. At this time, for the lower byte, the second place is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “a result (change information) due to an increase in the number of operation memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the number of operation storages this time is “01H” as a result of increasing by one from the number of operation storages “00H” up to the previous time. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased by one each from the previous number of operation storages “01H” to “03H”, so that the current number of operation storages is “02H” to “02H”. 04H ". The leading value “BBH” is a value indicating that the present production command is the operation storage number command for the first special symbol.

Step S39: Then, the main control CPU72 executes an effect command output setting process for the first special symbol. This processing is for transmitting to the effect control device 124 the special figure destination determination effect command generated in step S38, the operation memory number increasing effect command generated in step S38a, and the starting opening winning sound control command. Things.
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch management processing (FIG. 13).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the second special symbol storage updating process (step S16 in FIG. 13). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol storage updating process will be described step by step.

  Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol operation storage number counter and confirms whether or not the operation storage number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol operation storage number counter represents the number (the number of sets) of the jackpot determination random number, the jackpot symbol random number, and the like stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation storage number counter has reached the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch management process (FIG. 13). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation storage number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and subsequent steps.

  Step S41: The main control CPU 72 adds one to the second special symbol operation storage number (increments the value of the second special symbol operation storage number counter). Similarly to the previous step S31 (FIG. 14), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is controlled in the display output management process (step S232 in FIG. 12) based on the value of the counter added here. Will be.

  Step S42: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number circuit 75 (second lottery element obtaining means, lottery element obtaining means). The method of obtaining the random value is the same as that in step S32 (FIG. 14) described above.

  Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a big hit symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the big hit symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method of obtaining the random value is the same as that in step S33 (FIG. 14) described above.

  Step S44: The main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number related to the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (the variation pattern determination element acquisition means, the element acquisition means). The acquisition of these random numbers is also performed in the same manner as in step S34 (FIG. 14) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number, reach determination random number and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and transfers these random numbers to the empty section in the area. In a set (storage means). The storage method is the same as that in step S35 (FIG. 14) described above.

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

  Step S46: If it is not during the big hit (step S45a: No), then the main control CPU 72 executes the at-acquisition effect determination processing for the second special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of the change) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the second special symbol acquired in the previous steps S42 to S44, and the effect contents are thereby determined. This is for determining. The details of the specific processing will be described later.

  Step S47: After returning from the at-acquisition effect determination processing, the main control CPU 72 sets the upper byte (for example, “B9H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command. The upper byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect regarding the second special symbol”. Similarly, since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command has been set in the previous acquisition effect rendering process (step S46), by combining the lower byte with the upper byte, for example, one word is obtained. A long command will be generated.

  Step S48: Next, the main control CPU72 sets an operation memory number increase effect command for the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-length production command in which the number of operation storages (for example, “01H” to “04H”) added to the lower byte is added to the leading value (for example, “BCH”) of the upper byte representing the type of command Generate Similarly, for the second special symbol, by setting the second place of the lower byte to “0” by default, it is possible to indicate that the value is “a result (change information) due to an increase in the number of working memories”. it can. The preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the present production command is the operation storage number command for the second special symbol.

Step S49: Then, the main control CPU72 executes an effect command output setting process for the second special symbol. Thus, the preparation for transmitting the special figure destination determination production command, the production command when the number of operation memory is increased, the start opening winning sound control command, and the like for the second special symbol to the production control device 124 is performed.
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch management processing (FIG. 13).

(Direction determination process at the time of acquisition)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the effect determination processing at the time of acquisition. The main control CPU 72 executes the acquisition-time effect determination process in the first special symbol storage update process and the second special symbol storage update process (step S37 in FIG. 14 and step S46 in FIG. 15) (prior determination). means). As described above, this process is executed for each of the first special symbol (when the ball enters the middle starting winning opening 26) and the second special symbol (when the ball enters the variable starting winning device 28). Therefore, the following description may be applicable to the process relating to the first special symbol or the process relating to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the contents of the processing will be described along each procedure.

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

  Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the random number value for the first judgment. The random number loaded here has been stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol storage update process (step S35 in FIG. 14) or the second special symbol storage update process (step S45 in FIG. 15). .

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

  Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a variation pattern information pre-determination process at the time of failure (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command for the fluctuation time at the time of a loss. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects prior determination information regarding the fluctuation time (or fluctuation pattern number) particularly when the “time reduction function” is activated. For example, if the current state is the time when the “time reduction function” is activated, the main control CPU 72 changes the fluctuation time corresponding to “out-of-reach fluctuation (non-reduced fluctuation time)” based on the loaded reach determination random number. It is determined whether or not there is. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “out-of-reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “non-shortening fluctuation time during working hours”. In the case of reach fluctuation, a “reach group (type of reach)” may be further determined from the reach mode random number, and a fluctuation pattern destination determination command may be generated from the result. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to the “out-of-reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the “shortening fluctuation time during working hours”. Alternatively, if the current state is the non-operating state of the “time reduction function” (low probability state), the main control CPU 72 sets the fluctuation time corresponding to the “normally out of reach fluctuation” based on the loaded reach determination random number. Is determined. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “normal out-of-reach reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normal out-of-reach reach fluctuation time”. On the other hand, if the fluctuation time does not correspond to “normal out-of-reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normal out-of-reach fluctuation time”. Further, the generated fluctuation pattern destination determination command is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49). In this processing, the main control CPU 72 may generate a fluctuation pattern destination determination command for the fluctuation pattern at the time of the small hit, similarly to the above-described processing at the time of the loss.

  When the above procedure is performed, the main control CPU 72 ends the acquisition-time effect determination process, and returns to the first special symbol storage update process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol storage update process (FIG. 15) of the caller. On the other hand, if it is determined in the previous step S54 that the loaded random number is not outside the range of the hit value but is within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S56.

  Step S56: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the probability state scheduled flag based on the result of the previous determination is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the result of the previous determination is set when the fluctuation has not yet started, but when there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far. Specifically, if the hit random number stored so far has a winning value, the big hit symbol random number to be paired with the winning random number is a symbol that can be passed through the probability variable area (any of the positive round symbols other than the 12 round normal symbol). )), For example, “A0H” is set in the probability state scheduled flag. This value indicates a flag value for setting a high-probability state to be scheduled in advance determination (pre-read determination) of the jackpot determination random number acquired after the jackpot determination random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far and if the jackpot symbol random number to be paired with the random number corresponds to the “non-probable (normal) symbol”, the probability state For example, “01H” is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting the normal (low) probability state to be scheduled in the preliminary determination (pre-read determination) of the jackpot determination random number acquired after the jackpot determination random number. If there is no winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). The value of the probability state scheduled flag is stored in, for example, a flag area of the RAM 76. Here, an example is given in which the prior collision determination is strictly performed using the “probability state schedule flag”. However, in the case where the preliminary collision determination is simply performed based on the current probability state, this step S56 and subsequent steps are performed. Steps S58, S60, S62, S76, etc. may be omitted.

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

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

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

  Step S70: Then, the main control CPU72 checks whether or not the loaded special symbol probability state flag does not indicate the high probability ($ 01H). ), And then execute step S64.

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

  In this way, if the probability state schedule flag based on the result of the previous determination has not been set yet and the current internal state has a high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for the high probability and the next step S72. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not indicate the high probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

  Step S72: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the random number loaded in the previous step S52 is outside the range of the winning value (lottery result destination determining means). That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the jackpot determination random number value from the comparison value set for each state. Then, the main control CPU 72 similarly determines whether or not the calculation result is a negative value (<0) from the value of the flag register. As a result, if the loaded random number is out of the range of the hit value (Yes) ), The main control CPU 72 executes a deviation pattern information pre-determination process (step S80). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the hit value but is within the range (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S74.

  Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the jackpot type (winning type) at that time based on the jackpot symbol random number paired with the jackpot determination random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the big hit symbol random number for each symbol stored in the first special symbol memory updating process (step S35 in FIG. 14) or the second special symbol memory updating process (step S45 in FIG. 15). Then, an operation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54, and based on the result, which of the “symbol-variable area difficult symbol (12 round normal symbol)” or the “stable-variable area transmissible symbol” is applicable as the jackpot type Is determined. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

  Step S76: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the probability state scheduled flag based on the result of the previous determination. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 indicates a “design with difficulty in passing through the variable probability area”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “01H” to the probability state scheduled flag. On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value indicates “a symbol that can pass through the probable variable area”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “A0H” to the probability state scheduled flag. As a result, in the subsequent processing, it is determined in step S56 that "the flag has been set".

  Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command. For example, the special symbol destination determination value is set to “01H” when the symbol corresponds to “a symbol that is difficult to pass through a probable variable area”, and is set to “A0H” when the symbol corresponds to a “design that can pass a probable variable area”. In any case, by setting the data for the lower byte here, the standard lower byte data “00H” set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

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

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

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

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

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

  Step S62: Then, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded probability state schedule flag does not indicate a high-probability schedule ($ 01H). No) Then, step S64 is executed to set a comparison value for high probability.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result has already been set and the value is to be scheduled with high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for the high probability case, and then the next step S72 and subsequent steps are performed. Will be executed. On the other hand, if it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not indicate the schedule with the high probability but indicates the schedule with the normal (low) probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the processing in the step S62. Step S64 is skipped and the following step S72 and subsequent steps are executed. Thus, in the present embodiment, a prior jackpot determination can be performed in consideration of a subsequent change in the internal state based on the result of the previous determination (normal probability state → high probability state, high probability state → normal probability state). .

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol storage updating process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol storage updating process (FIG. 15).

[Processing when passing through the variable probability area]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of a process at the time of passing a certainty variable area.
The processing at the time of passing the certainty-variable area is processing for making necessary preparations for shifting to the high-probability state when the game ball has passed the certainty-variable area, and is called in the process of the switch management processing (step S26 in FIG. 13). And executed. Hereinafter, description will be given along a procedure example.

  Step S90: The main control CPU 72 executes a special electric auditors product discharge confirmation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 checks the consistency of the number of incoming and outgoing game balls in the second variable prize device 31 by subtracting the special power incoming and outgoing ball counter. It should be noted that the specific contents of the special electric auditors discharge confirmation process will be described later in detail with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S92: The main control CPU 72 executes a probable change area passage-related process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes, for example, a process of setting the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag as a gaming state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 as a preparation necessary for shifting to the high probability state. . The probability variation function operation flag is reset when the special symbol fluctuates a predetermined number of times (170 times) without a winning result being obtained after the end of the big hit game. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a probable variable area passing command and outputs it to the transmission buffer. The probable variable area passing command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 9) executed in the main loop.

  After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch management processing (FIG. 13).

  In the above example, the probable area passing-related processing is executed every time the probable area passing processing is executed (each time the game ball passes the probable area), but within a specific valid time (for example, The certain-variable-area passage-related processing may be performed only during the time during which the certain-variable-area solenoid 99 is operated during the big hit game.

(Special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing)
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special electric auditors discharge confirmation processing.
The special electric auditors discharge confirmation processing is processing for confirming whether or not the number of incoming and outgoing balls of the game balls in the second variable prize apparatus 31 is consistent (discharge confirmation means). More specifically, the process (step S90 in FIG. 17) accompanying the passage through the certainty variable area (discharge from the certainty area hole 31e) and the discharge from the discharge port 31f It is called and executed in the accompanying process (step S28 in FIG. 13). Hereinafter, description will be given along a procedure example.

  Step S1100: The main control CPU 72 sets the address of the special power input / output ball counter. The special power input / output ball counter is stored in a counter area of the RAM 76, for example. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the address where the special power input / output ball counter is stored in the HL register.

  Step S1102: The main control CPU 72 executes a byte counter subtraction process. The byte counter subtraction process is a generalized process that is commonly executed when one is subtracted from the value of one byte. In this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the value stored at the address set in the previous step S1100, that is, the value of the special power input / output ball counter into the A register, and then subtracts 1 from the value of the special power input / output ball counter. . The specific contents of the byte counter subtraction process will be described later in detail with reference to the following flowchart.

  Step S1104: The main control CPU72 checks whether or not the value of the special power input / output ball counter before subtraction is "0". The value of the special power input / output counter before subtraction has been loaded into the A register in the previous step S1102, and the main control CPU 72 can confirm the value by referring to the value of the A register. As a result of the check, if the value of the special power input / output ball counter before subtraction is “0” (step S1104: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S1106. On the other hand, if the value of the special power input / output ball counter before the subtraction is not “0” (step S1104: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the process of the calling source as it is.

  Step S1106: The main control CPU72 loads a special game management phase. Here, the “special game management phase” is a value indicating the current operation state of the special game (special symbol game), and is stored in, for example, a flag area of the RAM 76. In this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the address where the special game management phase is stored into the A register.

  Note that the special game management phase can take values associated with various operation states that can occur during the special game. For example, “0” is in the special symbol change waiting state, “1” is in the special symbol changing state, “2” is in the special symbol stopped symbol display state, “3” is in the state before opening the special winning opening, and a large prize is won. "4" is associated with the mouth opening control state, "5" is associated with the special winning opening closed state, and "6" is associated with the special winning opening end waiting state. In the special game management phase, any one of these values corresponding to the current operation state is stored.

  Step S1108: The main control CPU72 checks the special game management phase. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 compares the special game management phase loaded in the previous step S1106 with the value (“3”) indicating the state before opening the special winning opening. At this time, if the special game management phase is smaller than the value ("3") indicating the state before opening the special winning opening, the carry flag is set.

  Step S1110: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the current operation state is a special symbol per game. More specifically, if the carry flag is set by the comparison performed in the previous step S1108, the main control CPU 72 determines that the special game management phase is less than the value indicating the state before opening the special winning opening ("3"). ), It can be determined that the current operation state is not a special symbol game. If the carry flag is not set, the special game management phase is equal to or more than the value indicating the state before the opening of the special winning opening ("3" or more), so that it is determined that the current operation state is a game per special symbol. can do. As a result of the confirmation, when the current operation state is the special symbol per game (step S1110: Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the process of the calling source. On the other hand, when the current operation state is not the special symbol game (step S1110: No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S1112.

  Step S1112: The main control CPU 72 sets a value indicating "abnormal discharge occurrence designation" in the lower byte of the error designation command.

  Step S1114: The main control CPU 72 executes a security setting process. The security setting process is a generalized process commonly executed when notifying the occurrence of an abnormality to the outside of the main control device 70 (the effect control device 124 and the hall computer) (anomaly output means).

  In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets the upper byte of the error designation command, and then outputs the error designation command to the transmission buffer. The error designation command output to the transmission buffer is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 9) executed in the main loop. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the security signal timer, turns on a specific bit of the signal output data corresponding to the security signal, and stores the signal output data in the port output request buffer. The signal output data stored in the port output request buffer is set in the output port corresponding to the security signal in the port output process (step S236 in FIG. 12) during the timer interrupt process, and transmitted to the hall computer at the game hall. Is done. Thus, the security signal is continuously output until the time of the security signal timer expires.

  After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the process of the caller.

[Byte counter subtraction processing]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of a byte counter subtraction process.
The byte counter subtraction process is a process of subtracting 1 from a value (0 to 255) within a range of 1 byte stored at a designated address (subtraction means), and subtracting 1 from various values related to a game. In such a situation, it is generally called and executed by various processes. Hereinafter, description will be given along a procedure example.

  Step S1300: The main control CPU 72 loads the value of the designated address. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 loads the value (subtraction target value) stored at the address set in the HL register into the A register. As a result, the subtraction target value before the subtraction is loaded into the A register.

  Step S1302: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value loaded in the previous step S1300 is “0”. When the loaded value is “0” (step S1302: Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the process of the calling source as it is. On the other hand, when the loaded value is not “0” (step S1302: No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S1304.

  Step S1304: The main control CPU72 compares the value loaded in step S1300 (subtraction target value before subtraction) with “2”. At this time, if the loaded value is smaller than “2”, that is, if the loaded value is “1”, the carry flag is set.

  Step S1306: The main control CPU 72 subtracts 1 from the value of the designated address. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 subtracts 1 from the value (subtraction target value) stored at the address set in the HL register.

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the process of the caller.
By executing the byte counter subtraction processing, if the value to be subtracted stored at the designated address is “0”, the value is maintained as it is, while if the value to be subtracted is not “0”, 1 is subtracted from the value. can do. After returning to the calling process, the subtraction target value before the subtraction can be obtained from the A register, and whether the subtraction target value has changed from “1” to “0” by the current subtraction is determined. Can be grasped from the state of the carry flag.

[Program example of special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing]
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a program example of the special electric auditors discharge confirmation processing.
The name of the module corresponding to the above-described special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing (FIG. 18) is “TDN_CHK”, and is called by this module from other modules. Further, this example of the program corresponds to an example of the procedure of the special electric auditors discharge check processing. Hereinafter, each instruction of the program will be described.

  The LDQ instruction shown in (1) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to step S1100 in FIG. 18, and stores the address indicated by the label “R_TD1_IOC” (the address where the special power input / output ball counter in the RAM 76 is stored). Set in the HL register. The size of this LDQ instruction is 2 bytes.

  The CALLF instruction shown in (2) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to step S1102 in FIG. 18, and calls and executes a BYTEDEC module, that is, a byte counter subtraction process (FIG. 19). The size of the CALLF instruction is 2 bytes.

  The RT instruction shown in (3) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to step S1104 in FIG. 18, and if the value of the A register (special power input / output counter before subtraction) is not “0”, the process of the caller is performed. Return to. The size of this RT instruction is 1 byte.

  The LDQ instruction shown in (4) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to step S1106 in FIG. 18, and changes the value of the address (the game management phase stored in the RAM 76) indicated by the label “R_TOK_PHS” to A. Load a register. The size of this LDQ instruction is 2 bytes.

  The CP instruction shown in (5) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to step S1108 in FIG. 18, and changes the value of the A register (game management phase) to the value of the symbol “$ TD_PRE_BHT” (the state before opening the special winning opening). ). The size of this CP instruction is 2 bytes.

  The RET instruction shown in (6) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to step S1110 in FIG. 18, and if the carry flag is not set, returns to the processing of the caller. The size of the RET instruction is 1 byte.

  The LD instruction shown in (7) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to step S1112 in FIG. 18, and sets the lower byte of the value of the symbol “$ CMD_ERR_EOE” (abnormal discharge generation designation command) in the E register. The size of this LD instruction is 2 bytes.

  The RST instruction shown in (8) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to step S1114 in FIG. 18, and calls and executes the SEC_SET module arranged in the restart area, that is, the security setting process. The size of the RST instruction is 1 byte.

  The RET instruction shown in (9) in FIG. 20 is an instruction corresponding to “return” in FIG. 18, and returns to the processing of the caller. The size of the RET instruction is 1 byte.

  Thus, the TDN_CHK module corresponding to the special electric accessory discharge confirmation process is composed of nine instructions (five two-byte instructions and four one-byte instructions), and the size of the entire module is 14 bytes. It is.

[Example of a program that calls the special electric accessory discharge confirmation process]
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a program on the side that invokes the special electric auditors discharge confirmation process. Among them, (A) shows a program example of the above-described switch management processing (FIG. 13), and (B) shows a program example of the above-described probable variable area passing processing (FIG. 17). Note that, for convenience of description, in each of the drawings, description of a command that is not related to the call of the special electric auditors discharge confirmation processing (TDN_CHK module) is omitted.

[Program example of switch management processing]
FIG. 21A illustrates an example of a switch management process program. This program example corresponds to the contents executed in the above-described switch management processing (FIG. 13). Hereinafter, each instruction of the program will be described.

  The instructions shown in (1) to (3) in the figure correspond to the contents of steps S23 and S24 in FIG. 13, and correspond to the LDQ instruction in (1) and the AND instruction in (2) in FIG. As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the specific bit of the input port corresponding to the second count switch 85 is not “0” (the signal input is ON), the CALL instruction shown in (3) in FIG. A module corresponding to the processing at the time of entering the two-prize winning opening is called. Then, one is added to the special power input / output ball counter in the called module.

  The JBITQ instruction shown in (4) in the figure corresponds to step S25 in FIG. 13, and if the value of the specific bit of the input port corresponding to the probability variable area switch 95 is "0" (signal input is OFF). For example, the CPU jumps to the address indicated by the label "SWI_PRC_60" and proceeds to the instruction described at that address, that is, the JBITQ instruction indicated by (6) in the figure. Further, the CALLF instruction shown in (5) in the figure corresponds to step S26 in FIG. 13, and calls and executes the KRS_PAS module, that is, the process at the time of passing through the variable probability area (FIG. 17).

  The JBITQ instruction shown in (6) in the figure corresponds to step S27 in FIG. 13, and the value of the specific bit of the input port corresponding to the outlet switch 198 is “0” (signal input is OFF). For example, the process jumps to the address indicated by the label "SWI_PRC_80", and proceeds to the instruction described at that address, that is, the CALLF instruction indicated by (8) in the figure. Further, the CALLF instruction shown in (7) in the figure corresponds to step S28 in FIG. 13, and calls and executes the TDN_CHK module, that is, the special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing (FIG. 18).

  The CALLF instruction shown in (8) in the figure corresponds to step S29 in FIG. 13, and calls and executes the PSW_CMD module, that is, the winning designation command output processing.

  The RET instruction shown in (9) in the figure is an instruction corresponding to "return" in FIG. 13, and returns to the processing of the caller.

  As described above, in the module corresponding to the switch management process, the TDN_CHK module (special electric accessory discharge confirmation process) is called only when the detection signal is input from the outlet switch 198 ((7) in the figure). ). Therefore, in this module, the only command required to confirm the discharge of the special electric accessory is the CALLF command shown in (7) in the figure, and its size is 2 bytes.

[Program example of processing at the time of passing through the variable probability area]
FIG. 21B is a diagram illustrating an example of a program of a process at the time of passing through a probable variable area. This example of the program corresponds to the contents executed in the above-described processing at the time of passing through the probable variable area (FIG. 17). Hereinafter, each instruction of the program will be described.

  The CALLF instruction shown in (1) in the figure is an instruction corresponding to step S90 in FIG. 17, and calls and executes the TDN_CHK module, that is, the special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing (FIG. 18).

  As described above, in the module corresponding to the processing at the time of passing through the variable probability area, the instruction required for confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory is only the CALLF instruction for calling the TDN_CHK module (the special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing), and its size is 2 bytes. It is.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the program capacity required for confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory is the total size of the TDN_CHK module (FIG. 20) corresponding to the special electric auditors discharge confirmation processing, and the two programs on the side that calls the TDN_CHK module. And the size of the specific part of the module (FIG. 21), the total is 18 bytes (= 14 + 2 + 2).

[Program example of special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing (comparative example)]
FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of a program on the side that invokes the special electric auditors discharge confirmation process as a comparative example. Among them, (A) shows a program example of a switch management process as a comparative example, and (B) shows a program example of a process at the time of passing a certain variable area as a comparative example. For convenience of explanation, in each of the drawings, instructions not related to the discharge confirmation of the special electric accessory are omitted.

[Program example of switch management processing (comparative example)]
FIG. 22A is a diagram illustrating a program example of a switch management process as a comparative example. This program example corresponds to the contents executed in the above-described switch management processing (FIG. 13).

  As is clear from comparison between FIG. 22A showing the comparative example and FIG. 21A showing the embodiment, in the comparative example, the TDN_CHK module (special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing) is used in the embodiment. This embodiment differs from the embodiment in that the place where the call instruction to be called is described is composed of four instructions (7-1) to (7-4) in the figure. Note that the instructions shown in (1) to (6), (8), and (9) in the figure are the same as the instructions in the embodiment, and thus description thereof will be omitted.

  The JTQ instruction shown in (7-1) in the figure is labeled "SWI_PRC_70" if the value of the address (special power input / output ball counter stored in the RAM 76) indicated by the label "R_TD1_IOC" is "0". The program jumps to the indicated address and proceeds to the instruction described at that address, that is, the CALLF instruction shown in (7-4) in the figure. The size of the JTQ instruction is 4 bytes.

  The DECQ instruction shown in (7-2) in the figure subtracts 1 from the value of the address indicated by the label “R_TD1_IOC” (special power input / output ball counter stored in the RAM 76). The size of this DECQ instruction is 3 bytes.

  The JR instruction shown in (7-3) in the figure jumps to the address indicated by the label "SWI_PRC_80", and proceeds to the instruction described in that address, that is, the CALLF instruction shown in (8) in the figure. That is, when the special power input / output ball counter is decremented by 1 in the immediately preceding DECQ instruction, the next instruction is executed without executing the CALLF instruction shown in (7-4) in the figure (without calling the EOESET module). It will proceed. The size of the JR instruction is 2 bytes.

  The CALLF instruction shown in (7-4) in the figure calls and executes the EOESET module. The size of the CALLF instruction is 2 bytes. Here, the “EORESET module” is a module corresponding to the special winning opening abnormal discharge error setting process. The "special winning opening abnormal discharge error setting process" is a process of notifying an abnormal discharge error when the current operating state of the special game does not correspond to the hitting game. The specific contents of the EOSET module (large winning opening abnormal discharge error setting processing) will be described later in detail with reference to the following drawings.

  As described above, in the module corresponding to the switch management processing of the comparative example, the instruction for handling the special power input / output ball counter is directly described, and the special power input / output ball counter under the situation where the detection signal is input from the outlet switch 198. Is branched depending on whether or not the value is “0” ((7-1) in the figure). Specifically, if the value of the special power input / output ball counter is not "0", the special power input / output ball counter is decremented by 1 ((7-2) in the figure), and the EOESET module (large winning opening abnormal discharge error setting processing) ) Is skipped ((7-3) in the figure). On the other hand, if the value of the special power input / output ball counter is "0", the EEOSET module (large winning opening abnormal discharge error setting processing) is called and executed ((7-4) in the figure).

  Therefore, in the module corresponding to the switch management processing of the comparative example, the instructions required for confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory are the four instructions shown in (7-1) to (7-4) in the figure, and the total The size is 11 bytes (= 4 + 3 + 2 + 2).

[Program example of processing at the time of passing through the variable probability area (comparative example)]
FIG. 22B is a diagram illustrating an example of a program of a process at the time of passing a probable variable area as a comparative example. This example of the program corresponds to the contents executed in the above-described processing at the time of passing through the probable variable area (FIG. 17).

  As is clear from comparison between FIG. 22B showing the comparative example and FIG. 21B showing the embodiment, in the comparative example, the TDN_CHK module (special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing) is used in the embodiment. The point where the call instruction to be called is described is composed of four instructions (1-1) to (1-4) in the figure, and a label (“KRS_PAS_10”) not described in the embodiment. , "KRS_PAS_20").

  The JTQ instruction shown in (1-1) in the figure is labeled "KRS_PAS_10" if the address value (special power input / output ball counter stored in the RAM 76) indicated by the label "R_TD1_IOC" is "0". The program jumps to the indicated address and proceeds to the instruction described at that address, that is, the CALLF instruction indicated by (1-4) in the figure. The size of the JTQ instruction is 4 bytes.

  The DECQ instruction shown in (1-2) in the figure subtracts 1 from the value of the address indicated by the label "R_TD1_IOC" (special power input / output ball counter stored in the RAM 76). The size of this DECQ instruction is 3 bytes.

  The JR instruction indicated by (1-3) in the figure jumps to the address indicated by the label "KRS_PAS_20" and proceeds to the instruction described at that address. That is, when the special power input / output ball counter is decremented by 1 in the immediately preceding DECQ instruction, the next instruction is executed without executing the CALLF instruction shown in (1-4) in the figure (without calling the EOESET module). It will proceed. The size of the JR instruction is 2 bytes.

  The CALLF instruction shown in (1-4) in the figure calls and executes the EOESET module. The size of the CALLF instruction is 2 bytes.

  As described above, in the module corresponding to the processing at the time of passing the certainty variable area in the comparative example, the instruction for handling the special power input / output ball counter is directly described, and the special power input / output under the situation where the detection signal is input from the certainty variable area switch 95 is described. The processing branches depending on whether or not the value of the ball counter is “0” ((1-1) in the figure). Specifically, if the value of the special power input / output ball counter is not “0”, the special power input / output ball counter is decremented by 1 ((1-2) in the figure), and then the EOESET module (large winning opening abnormal discharge error setting processing) ) Is skipped ((1-3) in the figure). On the other hand, if the value of the special power input / output ball counter is "0", the EORESET module (large winning opening abnormal discharge error setting processing) is called and executed ((1-4) in the figure).

  Therefore, in the module corresponding to the process at the time of passing through the variable probability area in the comparative example, the instructions required for confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory are the four instructions shown in (1-1) to (1-4) in the figure. Its total size is 11 bytes (= 4 + 3 + 2 + 2).

[Program example of the special winning opening abnormal discharge error setting process (comparative example)]
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a program example of a special winning opening abnormal discharge error setting process (EORESET module) as a comparative example.

  The special winning opening abnormal ejection error setting process is a process of notifying the occurrence of an abnormal ejection error to the outside of the main control device 70 when the current operating state of the special game does not correspond to the hitting game, and as a comparative example described above. This is called during the process of confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory by the switch management processing ((A) in FIG. 22) and the processing at the time of passing through the certainty variable area ((B) in FIG. 22).

  As shown in FIG. 23, the EOESET module corresponding to the special winning opening abnormal discharge error setting process is composed of six instructions. These instructions are the same as the six instructions ((4) to (9) in FIG. 20) that constitute the latter part of the TDN_CHK module corresponding to the special electric auditors discharge confirmation processing in the embodiment. That is, since the EOESET module is composed of three 2-byte instructions and three 1-byte instructions, the size of the entire module is 9 bytes.

  Therefore, in the comparative example, the program capacity required for confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory is the total size of the EOESET module (FIG. 23) corresponding to the special winning opening abnormal discharge error setting process, and the two programs on the side that calls the EOESET module. And the size of the specific portion of the module (FIG. 22), the total is 31 bytes (= 9 + 11 + 11).

[Advantages of the embodiment]
As described above, in the embodiment, a special power input / output ball counter is provided in order to check the consistency of the number of input / output balls of game balls in the second variable winning device 31. Then, when a game ball is detected by the second count switch 85 (enters the second special winning opening 31b), a special electric power is generated during the process of entering the second special winning opening (step S24 in FIG. 13). The entry / exit ball counter is incremented by one. When the game ball is detected by the certainty-variable area switch 95 (discharged from the certainty-change area hole 31e) or detected by the discharge port switch 198 (discharged from the discharge port 31f), the special electric combination is performed. The material discharge confirmation process (FIG. 18) is called, and the special power input / output ball counter is decremented by 1 during the execution process.

  Then, when the value of the special power input / output ball counter at the time when the game ball is detected despite being detected by the probability changing area switch 95 or the discharge port switch 198 (before subtraction) is “0”, Since it means that the number of discharges exceeds the number of incoming balls, it is determined that an abnormal discharge error has occurred, and an error designation command indicating this is transmitted to the effect control device 124, and the security signal is transmitted to the hall. Output to computer.

  As described above, the process of confirming the consistency of the number of in-and-out balls in the second variable winning device (the process of confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory) is roughly classified into a subtraction when the value of the special-purpose in-and-out ball counter is not “0”. It is divided into two parts, a former part for performing the processing, and a latter part for performing the error notification processing when the value of the special power input / output ball counter before the subtraction is “0”.

  In implementing such processing, in the comparative example, the processing of the latter part is collectively implemented in EOESET (large winning opening discharge error setting processing) which is a common module, while the main part and the latter part of the processing of the former part are implemented. The processing of the section is called when the game ball is detected by the probability variable area switch 95 (processing at the time of passing through the probability variable area) and processing performed when the game ball is detected by the outlet switch 198 (switch Management process). As a result, the total size of the common module is 9 bytes, and the total size of the commands required for the discharge confirmation of the special electric accessory on the side calling the common module is 11 bytes. Is 31 bytes in total.

  On the other hand, in the embodiment, not only the processing of the rear part but also the processing of the front part are collectively implemented in the common module TDN_CHK (special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing). Therefore, the total size of the common module is 14 bytes, and the code amount is increased by 5 bytes corresponding to the processing of the preceding stage as compared with the case of the comparative example. However, the processing executed when the game ball is detected by the probability variable area switch 95 (the processing at the time of passing through the probability variable area) and the processing executed when the game ball is detected by the outlet switch 198 (the switch management processing) Since only the common module needs to be called, the total size of the commands required for confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory in these processes is 2 bytes each. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the code amount of each of the sides calling the common module by 9 bytes (= 11-2) as compared with the case of the comparative example. As a result, the program capacity required for confirming the discharge of the special electric accessory in the embodiment is 18 bytes in total, and the code amount is reduced by 13 bytes (= 31-18) as a whole as compared with the comparative example. Can be.

  Further, in the embodiment, when the special power input / output ball counter is decremented by 1 in the common module (special electric accessory discharge confirmation processing), the generalized byte counter subtraction processing is called and executed, and the abnormality is detected. When the occurrence of an error is notified, a generalized security setting process is called and executed. In this way, similar processes that are executed in many situations are provided as common modules with a versatile configuration without being individually implemented in each place in the control program, and this common module is called from each place Thereby, it is possible to contribute to further reduction of the code amount of the control program.

[Special design game processing]
Next, details of the special symbol game process executed in the timer interrupt process (FIG. 12) will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process is an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), a big hit variable prize device. The configuration includes a subroutine (program module) group of a management process (Step S5000) and a variable winning prize device management process at the time of small hit (Step S6000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along with each process.

  Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects a jump destination of a process to be executed next (any of steps S2000 to S6000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

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

  Step S2000: In the special symbol change pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs a work of setting conditions for starting the special symbol change display. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 controls the driving of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, a drive signal (1 byte data) of ON or OFF is outputted for each segment and dot (No. 0 to No. 7) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the elapse of time, whereby a special symbol is fluctuated and displayed.

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

  Step S5000: The variable winning prize device management process at the time of big hit is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the big hit mode in the special symbol stop displaying process. When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the jackpot mode, an opportunity to transition from the normal state to the jackpot gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set to the big hit variable winning device management processing in the previous execution selection processing (step S1000), and the special symbol is not changed and displayed. In the big win variable winning device management process, the first big winning opening solenoid 90 or the second big winning opening solenoid 97 is kept for a certain period of time (for example, 29 seconds or 0.1 seconds, or until 10 balls are counted). ), Excitation is performed for a predetermined number of consecutive operations (for example, 16 times), whereby the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 open and close in a predetermined pattern. In the meantime, by causing the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 to intensively win game balls, the player is given an opportunity to collect many prize balls (special game). Execution means). The opening and closing operation of the first variable prize device 30 and the second variable prize device 31 at the time of a big hit is referred to as a “round”. If the number of continuous operations is 16 in total, these are referred to as “16 rounds”. It may be referred to collectively.

  In the present embodiment, the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed from the first round to the fifth round and from the seventh round to the 16th round, and the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed from the sixth round. ing.

  Further, the main control CPU 72 sets a special winning opening pattern (the number of rounds, the number of opening / closing operations per round, the opening time, etc.) in the variable winning prize device management processing at the time of a big hit, and the first variable prize device 30 for one round. Alternatively, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one each time the opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 is completed. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with, for example, an initial value of 0. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The number-of-rounds command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 9). When the value of the number-of-rounds counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (main role) only in that round.

  When the big hit game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state (high probability state, time shortening state) after the big hit game ends based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time reduction function operation flag) ( High probability time shortened state transition means, advantageous game state transition means, special state transition means). In the “high-probability state”, the probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery is, for example, about 10 times higher than usual (specific game state transition means, high-probability state transition means, high-probability state setting means). In the "time reduction state", the time reduction function is activated, and the normal lottery operation is highly probable, and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened and the opening time of the variable starting winning device 28 is extended. The number of times of opening increases (so-called electric tue support is performed). The “high-probability state” and the “time-shortened state” may be shifted to only one of them in control, or may be shifted in accordance with both.

  Step S6000: The small prize variable prize winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small symbol mode in the special symbol stop displaying process. For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit mode, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the small hit game state occurs. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set in the small hit variable prize winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol is not changed and displayed. In the small hitting game, although the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) in a predetermined opening time (for example, 0.1 second), prize winning in the first big winning opening hardly occurs. do not do.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, the following winning types are provided as a plurality of winning types.
(1) "Six round probable big hit 1"
(2) "Six Round Probable Change 2"
(3) "Twelve round probable big hits 1 (effectively 4 rounds)"
(4) "Twelve round probable big hit 2 (effectively nine rounds)"
(5) "12 rounds regular jackpot (nine rounds)"
(6) "16 round probable big hit"
In the present embodiment, a jackpot other than 6 rounds, 12 rounds, and 16 rounds may be provided.

  The winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, “6 round probable big hit 1” corresponds to the big hit of “6 round probable big design 1”, and “6 round probable big hit 2” corresponds to the big hit of “6 round probable big design 2”. Also, “12 round probable big hit 1” corresponds to the “12 round probable big hit 1”, and “12 round probable big hit 2” corresponds to the “12 round probable big hit 2” big hit. Further, "12 round normal big hit" corresponds to a "12 round normal design" big hit, and "16 round positive change big hit" corresponds to "16 round positive variable design" big hit. Therefore, hereinafter, the "winning type" will be appropriately referred to as "winning symbol".

[Open operation pattern of variable winning device]
FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an opening operation pattern of the variable winning device. The details of opening the special winning opening and the probability change area corresponding to each winning symbol will be described.

[6 round probable change pattern 1]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “six-round probable changing symbol 1”, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, in the first to fifth rounds, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In the sixth round, the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). For this reason, the big hit game of “six-round probable variable pattern 1” substantially gives six rounds of winning balls (prize balls) to the player.

  Here, in the sixth round in the case of the “six-round probability variation symbol 1”, the second large winning opening is long opened, and the game ball may pass through the probability variation region. For this reason, when the game ball passes through the probability change area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 in the sixth round in the case of “6 round probability change symbol 1”, after the big hit game ends, The "probability changing function" is activated, and a privilege for shifting to the "high probability state" is given to the player.

  Furthermore, if the “6 round probability change symbol 1” is applicable, the big hit game is terminated even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game regardless of whether the probability change area has passed or not. By activating the “time reduction function” later, a privilege for shifting to the “time reduction state” is given to the player.

[Six round probable pattern 2]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "six-round probable changing symbol 2", an opportunity to transition from the normal state to the jackpot game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, in the first to fifth rounds, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In the sixth round, the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). For this reason, the big hit game of "six-round certain variable pattern 2" substantially gives the player six balls to be played (prize balls).

  Here, in the sixth round in the case of the “six-round probability variation symbol 2”, the second large winning opening is long opened, so that the game ball may pass through the probability variation region. For this reason, when the game ball corresponds to the “six-round probability change symbol 2” and the game ball passes through the probability change area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 in the sixth round, after the big hit game ends, The "probability changing function" is activated, and a privilege for shifting to the "high probability state" is given to the player.

  Furthermore, if the “6 round probability change pattern 2” is applied, the big hit game ends even if the “time reduction function” has not been activated in the game up to that time, regardless of whether the probability change area has passed or not. By activating the “time reduction function” later, a privilege for shifting to the “time reduction state” is given to the player. The difference between the “six-round probable change symbol 1” and the “six-round probable change symbol 2” is the difference in the number of time savings to be provided (the details will be described later).

[12 round probable change pattern 1]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "12 rounds of the variable probability 1", an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, in the first round and the second round, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is short-opened (for example, opened for 0.1 second). Therefore, in the first and second rounds in the case of the “12th round variable pattern 1”, the game ends without giving a substantial payout (prize ball) to the player. Further, in the third to fifth rounds, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In the sixth round, the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Further, from the seventh round to the twelfth round, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is short-opened (for example, opened for 0.1 second). Therefore, the seventh round to the twelfth round in the case of the “12th round variable pattern 1” ends without giving a substantial payout (prize ball) to the player. For this reason, the big hit game of "12 round probable changing pattern 1" substantially gives a player four rounds of winning (prize balls).

  Here, in the sixth round in the case of the “12 round probability change symbol 1”, the second large winning opening is long opened, so that the game ball may pass through the probability change area. For this reason, in the case of "12 round probable change symbol 1", when the game ball passes through the probable change area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 in the sixth round, after the big hit game ends, The "probability changing function" is activated, and a privilege for shifting to the "high probability state" is given to the player.

  Furthermore, if the “12 round probability change symbol 1” is applied, the big hit game ends even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the game up to that time regardless of whether the probability change area has passed or not. By activating the “time reduction function” later, a privilege for shifting to the “time reduction state” is given to the player.

[12 round probable change pattern 2]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the "12 round probable change symbol 2" mode, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, in the first to fifth rounds, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In the sixth round, the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Further, from the seventh round to the ninth round, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Further, in the tenth to twelfth rounds, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is short-opened (for example, opened for 0.1 second). Therefore, in the tenth to twelfth rounds in the case of the “12th round variable pattern 2”, the process ends without giving a substantial payout (prize ball) to the player. For this reason, the big hit game of "12 round probable change pattern 2" substantially gives nine rounds (prize balls) to the player.

  Here, in the sixth round in the case of the “12 round probability change symbol 2”, the second large winning opening is long opened, so that the game ball may pass through the probability change area. For this reason, when the game ball corresponds to the “12 round probability change symbol 2” and the game ball passes through the probability change area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 in the sixth round, after the big hit game ends, The "probability changing function" is activated, and a privilege for shifting to the "high probability state" is given to the player.

  Furthermore, if the "12 round probability change pattern 2" is applicable, the big hit game ends even if the "time reduction function" is inactive in the previous game regardless of whether the probability change area has passed or not. By activating the “time reduction function” later, a privilege for shifting to the “time reduction state” is given to the player.

[12 round regular pattern]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "12 round normal symbols", an opportunity to transition from the normal state to the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, in the first to fifth rounds, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In the sixth round, the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31 is short-opened (for example, opened for 0.1 second). Further, from the seventh round to the tenth round, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Further, in the tenth round and the eleventh round, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is short-opened (for example, opened for 0.1 second). For this reason, in the tenth and eleventh rounds in the case of the “12th normal symbol”, the game ends without giving a substantial payout (prize ball) to the player. For this reason, the big hit game of "12 round normal symbols" substantially gives nine rounds (prize balls) to the player.

  Here, in the sixth round in the case of the “12 round normal symbol”, the second large winning opening is short-opened, so that it is difficult (impossible) for the game ball to pass through the certainty changing area. For this reason, after the big hit game ends, the “probability changing function” is not activated, and the privilege of shifting to the “high probability state” is not given to the player.

  In addition, in the case of the “12 round normal symbol”, even if the “time reduction function” is not activated in the game up to that time, the “time reduction function” is activated after the end of the big hit game. , A privilege for shifting to the “time reduction state” is given to the player.

[16 round probable pattern]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “16 round probable changing symbol”, an opportunity to transition from the normal state to the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, in the first to fifth rounds, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In the sixth round, the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Further, from the 7th round to the 16th round, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is long opened (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). For this reason, the jackpot game of “16 rounds with a variable probability design” substantially gives out 16 rounds (prize balls) to the player.

  Here, in the sixth round in the case of the “16 round probability variation symbol”, the second large winning opening is long opened, so that the game ball may pass through the probability variation area. Therefore, when the game ball corresponds to the “16th round probability change symbol” and the game ball passes through the probability change area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 in the sixth round, after the big hit game ends, “ The "probability changing function" is activated, and a privilege for shifting to the "high probability state" is given to the player.

  Furthermore, in the case of the “16 round probability change symbol”, regardless of whether the probability change area has passed or not, even if the “time reduction function” is in a non-operating state in the game up to that time, after the big hit game ends. By operating the “time reduction function”, a privilege for shifting to the “time reduction state” is provided to the player.

  Here, the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is closed without waiting for the elapse of the longest opening time when a predetermined number of wins (for example, 10 = 10 game balls) occur in one round. Is done. Similarly, if the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31 has a predetermined number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) in one round, the longest opening time does not have to elapse. Will be closed.

  In any case, if the winning symbol corresponds to "any probable symbol other than the 12 round regular symbol" and the game ball passes through the probable variable area during the jackpot game, the internal state is changed to "high probability" after the end of the jackpot game. A privilege for shifting to the “time reduction state” is provided to the player. On the other hand, if the winning symbol corresponds to the "12 round normal symbol", it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the probability change area during the big hit game, and the internal state shifts to the "low probability time shortened state" after the big hit game ends. I do. In addition, even if the winning symbol corresponds to “any probable symbol other than the 12 round regular symbol”, if the game ball does not pass through the probable variable region during the jackpot game, the internal state is “low probability time” after the end of the jackpot game. To the "shortened state".

  In the operation patterns shown in this table, the interval time between rounds is a common “1.5 seconds”. The inter-round interval time is a standby time set between rounds.

[Small hit]
In the present embodiment, a small hit is provided as a winning type other than the non-winning. When the small hit is won, a small hit game is performed separately from the big hit game, and the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed (special game execution means). That is, if the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode in the special symbol stop display process, the small hit game (the first variable winning device 30 is activated) in the normal probability state or the high probability state. Game). In such a small hit game, the first variable prize device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, two times), but a prize in the first big prize port hardly occurs. In addition, even if the small hitting game ends, the “probability changing function” does not operate and the “time reduction function” does not operate, so that the “high probability state” or the “time reduction state” is entered. No benefit will be granted to transfer (it will not be a prerequisite for that). In addition, even if the small hit is won in the “high probability state”, the “high probability state” does not end after the small hit game is over, and even if the small hit is won in the “time reduction state”, The “time reduction state” does not end after the end of the winning game (except when the upper limit number is reached). Note that, in the present embodiment, a game specification in which a small hit is set is used, but a game specification in which a small hit is not set may be used.

[Special symbol change pre-processing]
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol change pre-processing. Hereinafter, description will be given along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the first special symbol operation storage number or the second special symbol operation storage number remains (is larger than 0). This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the operation storage number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the operation storage numbers of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol are 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes a demonstration setting process of step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 9). When the demonstration setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. At the time of return, it returns to the end address as described above (the same applies hereinafter).

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

  Step S2200: The main control CPU72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the random number for the lottery (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the second special symbol. At this time, if the random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads out the random numbers sequentially from the head section, deletes (consumes) them, and moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ). The read random number is stored in another temporary storage area, for example. If the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads out the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for an internal lottery in the next big hit determination process. As a result, in this embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially performed over the first special symbol. Note that a program may be used in which random numbers are simply read out in the order in which they are stored without providing such special symbol-based priorities. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one from the value of the operation storage number counter (the first special symbol or the second special symbol which has shifted the random number) stored in the RAM 76, and The later value is set as “the number of operation memories at the start of fluctuation”. As a result, in the display output management process (step S232 in FIG. 12), the display mode of the storage number by the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a changes (decreases by 1). When the procedure up to here is completed, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2300.

  Step S2300: The main control CPU72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of the big hit value, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in the range (lottery executing means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time differs between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In the high probability state, the range of the jackpot value is expanded to about 10 times that of the normal probability state. You. Then, if the random number read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

  If the big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 sets the next small hit value range in the same big hit determination processing, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery executing means). . The "small hit" here is other than non-winning (losing), but has a different property from the "big hit". That is, the "big hit" generates an opportunity (game point) to shift to the "high probability state" or the "time reduction state", but the "small hit" does not generate such an opportunity. However, the "small hit" is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the first variable winning device 30 in the same manner as the "big hit". Note that the range of the small hit value set at this time may be different or the same in the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In any case, if the read random number is within the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program as the hit range other than the non-winning, but the big hit determination table and the small hit determination table for each state are set in advance. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and compared with the random number value to determine the big hit.

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

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

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes a lost-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 9).

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

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a variation pattern determination process at the time of a loss. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines a variation pattern number at the time of loss for a special symbol (variation pattern selection means). The variation pattern number is for distinguishing the type (pattern) of the variation display of the special symbol and corresponding to the variation time required for the variation display. Since the fluctuation time at the time of the loss differs depending on whether or not the “time reduction state”, in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads a game state flag and determines whether the current state is the “time reduction state”. Check whether or not. In the “time shortened state”, the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is set to a shortened time (for example, about 2.0 seconds) except for the case where the reach fluctuation is basically performed. ). Even if the time is not shortened, the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is based on, for example, the “variation display start operation storage number (0 to 3)” set in step S2200, except when the reach fluctuation is performed. In some cases, it may be shortened (for example, the number of operation memories at the start of the fluctuation display is 0 → about 12.5 seconds, the number of operation memories at the start of the fluctuation display → about 8 seconds, the number of operation memories at the start of the fluctuation display is 2 → 5 (Approximately 2 seconds, the number of operation memories at the start of the fluctuation display is 3 → about 2.5 seconds). The stop display time of the symbol at the time of the loss is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the fluctuation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (at the time of a loss) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of the loss in the stop symbol display timer.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a non-winning, for example, a “reach effect” is generated in the effect, and the control is performed such that the “reach effect” is not generated. And And, in the "variation pattern selection table at the time of loss", a variation pattern corresponding to a plurality of types of effects, for example, "non-reach effect" and "reach effect" is defined in advance. One of the fluctuation patterns is selected from among them. The reach production includes various reach productions such as a normal reach production, a long reach production, a super reach production, and the like.

[Example of a variation pattern selection table when missing]
FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation pattern selection table when falling off.
This selection table is a table to be used at the time of loss (in the case of non-winning) (variation pattern defining means). The selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are set as one byte each and stored in order from the top address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight stepwise different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, and “255 (FFH)”. The “comparison value” is assigned “1” to “8” of the “variation pattern number”.

  The fluctuation pattern numbers “1” to “5” correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without performing the reach effect, and the fluctuation pattern numbers “6” to “8” are the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach. Yes, it is. Here, the variation pattern number “8” can be a specific variation pattern. The specific variation pattern is a variation pattern in which a reach effect (for example, a super reach effect or the like) indicating that the winning expectation (the degree of possibility that the result of the lottery corresponds to the winning) is high is selected. The variation pattern selection table may have different table contents depending on the number of operation memories at the start of the variation, the internal state (low-probability state or high-probability state, non-time reduction state or time reduction state), and the winning symbol (hereinafter, Similar).

  Here, the length of the set fluctuation time differs greatly between the non-reach fluctuation pattern and the reach fluctuation pattern. That is, the “non-reach variation pattern” basically corresponds to a short variation time (for example, about 2.0 seconds to 13.0 seconds depending on the number of operation memories), whereas the “reach variation pattern” This corresponds to a long fluctuation time (for example, about 30 seconds to 150 seconds) that is twice or longer than that.

  Then, the main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the comparison value is determined. The corresponding variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 compares the next comparison value "101" with the first comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value. 201 "and a random number value. In this case, since the random number is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[Refer to Fig. 26: Special symbol change pre-processing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are the control procedure when the big hit determination result is lost (other than non-winning), but when the determination result is a big hit (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes) The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of a big hit will be described.

  Step S2410: The main control CPU72 executes a big hit stop symbol determination process (winning type determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the current winning symbol (big hit stop symbol number) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the big hit symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random value and the type of the winning symbol is defined in advance in a special symbol determination data table (winning type defining means). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 can determine the type of the winning symbol based on the big hit symbol random number from the stored content with reference to the big hit stop symbol selection table in the big hit stop symbol determination processing.

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
In the present embodiment, roughly six types of winning symbols are prepared as the winning symbols selectively determined at the time of the big hit. The six types are "6 round probable design 1", "6 round probable design 2", "12 round probable design 1", "12 round probable design 2", "12 round normal design", "16 round probable design". ". Each winning symbol may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of "6 round probable variable design 1", "6 round probable variable design 1a", "6 round probable variable design 1b", "6 round probable variable design 1c", and so on.

  Also, in the present embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol have different selection ratios of the winning symbols selected at the time of the big hit in the internal lottery corresponding thereto. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the winning symbol to be selected depending on whether the result of the current big hit corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current big hit corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol by referring to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

  In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the distribution value for each winning symbol is shown in the left column, and each distribution value “40”, “10”, and “50” has the denominator as 100. Equivalent to the case. In the second column from the left, “12 round probable variable design 1 (substantially 4 rounds)”, “12 round probable variable design 2 (substantial 9 rounds)”, and “12 round normal design ( (Substantially 9 rounds). " That is, at the time of the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting “12 round probable variable design 1 (substantially 4 rounds)” is 40/100 (= 40%), and “12 round probable variable design 2 (substantially 4 rounds)” The ratio at which "9 rounds" is selected is 10/100 (= 10%), and the ratio at which "12 rounds regular jackpot (substantially 9 rounds)" is selected is 50/100 (= 50%). . The size of each distribution value corresponds to a selection ratio for each winning symbol using the jackpot symbol random numbers.

  In any case, if the result of the current big hit corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the selection ratio indicated in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. Is used to select a winning symbol. In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, as shown in the third column from the left, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of a MODE value and an EVENT value. Of these, the MODE value “B1H” of the upper byte is that the current symbol has been selected at the time of the first special symbol big hit. Is represented. Also, the EVENT values “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” of the lower byte indicate the types of the corresponding winning symbols in the selection table. For this reason, for example, the result of the current big hit corresponds to the first special symbol, and when the “12 round probable changing symbol 1” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as “B1H01H”. Will be.

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

[Probable change count]
In the second column from the right of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of times of change (the number of STs) given after the end of the big hit game is shown.
In the present embodiment, this corresponds to “12 round probable change design 1” or “12 round probable change design 2”, and when the game ball passes through the probabilistic change area during the jackpot game, 170 probabilities are given.
On the other hand, in the case of the “12 round normal symbol”, it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the probability change area during the big hit game, and thus the number of times of the probability change is not given. In addition, if the game ball does not pass through the probability change area during the big hit game even though it corresponds to the “12 round probability change symbol 1” or the “12 round probability change symbol 2”, the probability change count is not given.

[Time saving times]
In the right column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (limit times) given after the end of the big hit game is shown.
In the present embodiment, this corresponds to “12 round probable change symbol 1” or “12 round probable change symbol 2”, and when the game ball passes through the probable change area during the big hit game, the number of times of saving is 170.
On the other hand, if it corresponds to the “12 round normal symbol”, the number of time savings is given 100 times.
In addition, if the game ball does not pass through the probability change area during the big hit game, although it corresponds to the “12 round probability change symbol 1” or the “12 round probability change symbol 2”, the number of times of saving is 100 times.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol by referring to the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

  In the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table as well, the distribution value for each winning symbol is shown in the left column, and each distribution value “60”, “20”, and “20” represents a denominator of 100. It corresponds to the ratio in the case of Similarly, in the second column from the left, “16 round probable variable design”, “6 round probable variable design 1”, and “6 round probable variable design 2” corresponding to the distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio at which the “16 round probability variation symbol” is selected is 60/100 (= 60%), and the ratio at which the “6 round probability variation symbol 1” is selected. Is 20/100 (= 20%), and the ratio of selecting “six-round probable variable pattern 2” is 20/100 (= 20%).

  When the result of the current big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the random number of the big hit symbol and selects a winning symbol at the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, as shown in the third column from the left, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning. Here also, the stop symbol command is described by a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of this time is the second special symbol big hit. It represents that. Also, the EVENT values “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” of the lower byte indicate the types of the corresponding winning symbols in the selection table. For this reason, for example, the result of the current big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, and when "16 round probable changing symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command is described as "B2H01H". .

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

[Probable change count]
In the second column from the right of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of probable changes (ST times) given after the end of the big hit game is shown.
In the present embodiment, this corresponds to “16 round probable change design”, “6 round probable change design 1” or “6 round probable change design 2”, and when the game ball passes through the probable change area during the jackpot game, the number of probable changes is 170 times. Granted. In addition, if the game ball does not pass through the probability change area during the jackpot game, the probability change number is not given, although it corresponds to the “16 round probability change pattern”, the “6 round probability change pattern 1” or the “6 round probability change pattern 2”. .

[Time saving times]
In the right column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (limit times) given after the end of the big hit game is shown.
In the present embodiment, when the game ball corresponds to the “16 round probable change symbol” or the “6 round probable change symbol 1” and the game ball passes through the probable change area during the big hit game, the number of times of saving is 170 times.
On the other hand, when the game ball corresponds to the “six-round probability variation symbol 2” and the game ball passes through the probability variation region during the big hit game, the number of times of saving is 100 times.
In addition, if the game ball does not pass through the probability change area during the jackpot game, although it corresponds to the "16 round probability change design", "6 round probability change design 1" or "6 round probability change design 2", the number of times of saving is 100 times. Granted.

[Refer to Fig. 26: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (the variation time and the stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. In addition, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. Generally, in the case of the jackpot reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of the loss is determined.

In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a big hit, for example, a “reach effect” is generated in the effect to control the big hit. Then, in the “big hit variation pattern selection table”, a variation pattern corresponding to a plurality of types of “reach effects” is defined, and if the hit hits, any one of the variation patterns is selected. Will be.
Here, the reach effect includes various reach effects such as a normal reach effect, a long reach effect, a super reach effect, and the like. In addition, at the time of winning while the time reduction function is activated, even if a fluctuation pattern having a short fluctuation time (a fluctuation pattern in which no reach effect is performed) is selected without selecting a fluctuation pattern having a long fluctuation time. Good.

[Example of large hit variation pattern selection table]
FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of a large hit variation pattern selection table.
This selection table is a table used at the time of a big hit (variation pattern defining means). The selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are set as one byte each and stored in order from the top address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight stepwise different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, and “255 (FFH)”. The “variation pattern numbers” “61” to “68” are assigned to the respective “comparison values”.

  Each of the variation pattern numbers “61” to “68” corresponds to a variation pattern that is a hit when a reach effect is performed. Here, the variation pattern number “61” can be a specific variation pattern.

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

[Refer to Fig. 26: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a big hit and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the time reduction function operation flag (01H) as the gaming state flag, regardless of the type of the winning symbol (symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in step S2410. ) Is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time reduction state transition means, time reduction function operation means, advantageous game state transition means, special state transition means).

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

Next, processing at the time of a small hit will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol at the time of the small hit (the symbol number at the time of the small hit) based on the big hit symbol random number. Also here, similarly, the relationship between the big hit symbol random number value and the type of the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is specified in advance in the special hit selection symbol selection table (winning type defining means). In the present embodiment, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is determined using the big hit symbol random number in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72. However, a special random number may be separately used.

[Winning pattern at small hit]
In the present embodiment, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is only one type of “one time open small hit symbol”. However, other types such as a “double open small hit symbol” and a “three open small hit symbol” may be prepared. Since the "small hit" as a result of the internal lottery does not trigger the subsequent state to change to the "high probability state" or the "time shortened state", "2 rounds (2 The "one-time opening small hit symbol" can be provided without being bound by the rule of "the first time opening).

  Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit variation pattern determination process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). ). The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, a reach variation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, and a variation pattern equivalent to that in a normal loss variation can also be selected.

  Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the small hit symbol number. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of a small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process.

  Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a special symbol change start process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 selects the variation pattern data based on the variation pattern number (at the time of a miss / hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol change start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This change start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission processing. After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 24: Special symbol changing process, special symbol stop displaying process]
In the special symbol change processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the change timer from the register to the timer counter, and then changes the value of the timer counter according to the lapse of time (the count number of the clock pulse or the value of the interrupt counter). Decrement. Then, the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display of the special symbol while referring to the value of the timer counter until the value becomes zero. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display processing (step S4000) to the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 26). Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The design stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process. When a stopped symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stopped displaying process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol storage area shift processing]
FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift processing. If the value of the operation storage counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than “0” in the previous special symbol change preprocessing (step S2100 in FIG. 26: Yes), the main control CPU 72 Executes this special symbol storage area shift processing. Hereinafter, description will be given along each procedure.

  Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the oldest one of the current operation memories corresponds to the first special symbol. That is, the storage area of the RAM 76 is accessed. If the oldest operation memory in the RAM 76 does not correspond to the first special symbol but corresponds to the second special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step. Proceed to step S2212.

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

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

  Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 with respect to the target special symbol specified in either step S2212 or step S2214. The details of the specific processing have already been described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU 72 decrements the value of the operation storage counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the target of shifting the storage area this time is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 decrements (−1) the value of the operation storage counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “the number of operation storage at the start of fluctuation” from the value of the operation storage counter after the subtraction. Note that, here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the value of the operation storage counter may be added, and then the “variation start operation storage number” may be set.

Step S2222: Also, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the special symbol to be shifted in the current storage area is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target is the second special symbol (Step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets an operation memory number reduction effect command for the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a command having a length of one word, and its configuration is in contrast to the above-mentioned "effect command when the number of operating memories is increased". In other words, the effect command at the time of the decrease in the number of operation memories is such that the value of the lower byte (for example, “00H” to “03H”) representing the operation memory number after the decrease is higher than the leading value (for example, “BCH”) of the upper byte representing the command type )), And the value of the lower byte is further added (logical sum) with an added value (for example, “10H”) meaning “reduction in the number of working memories due to consumption”. Therefore, as for the lower byte, the second place becomes “1” by ORing the addition value “10H”, and this value indicates “the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories”. It will be. That is, if the lower byte of the command is “13H”, the number of operation storages up to the previous time “4” (command notation is “14H”) is reduced by one, and as a result, the number of operation storages this time is “3” (command notation). The notation indicates "13H"). Similarly, if the lower byte is “12H” to “10H”, this is the result of the number of operation storages “3” to “1” (command notation “13H” to “11H”) reduced by one each time. , The number of operation storages this time is “2” to “0” (command notation is “12H” to “10H”). The preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the present production command is the operation storage number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S2226: If the current object is the first special symbol (step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets an operation memory number reduction effect command for the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as described above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, “BBH”) indicating that the command is the operation storage number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU72 executes an effect command output process. This processing is for transmitting the operation memory number reduction effect command set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 to the effect control device 124 (storage number notifying means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol change pre-processing (FIG. 26).

[Processing during special symbol stop display]
Next, FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of a special symbol stop displaying process. Hereinafter, description will be given along each procedure.

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

  Step S4200: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, and jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 24) also in the next interrupt cycle to repeatedly execute the special symbol stop displaying process.

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

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

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

[At the time of winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the jump table to “big hit variable winning device management processing”. The main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation in this processing. Specifically, the probability variation function is deactivated, and the time reduction function is deactivated. As a result, before the special game (main role) is started, the state is shifted to the low probability non-time reduction state.

  Step S4400: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "start of big win (during big hit game)" as an internal state flag for control. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation count status according to the type of the big hit symbol. For example, when the type of the big hit symbol is “16 round probable changing symbol”, a value corresponding to “16 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status. When the type of the big hit symbol is “12 round probable change symbols 1 and 2” or “12 round normal symbol”, a value representing “12 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status. Further, when the type of the big hit symbol is “six-round probable variable symbols 1 and 2”, a value indicating “six rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the big hit is being performed. The status command indicating the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process.

  Step S4500: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type of the big hit symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the above-described big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 26). For example, when the type of the big hit symbol is “16 round probability changing symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “16 rounds”. When the type of the big hit symbol is “12 round probable change symbols 1 and 2” or “12 round normal symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “12 rounds”. Furthermore, when the type of the big hit symbol is “six-round probable variable symbols 1 and 2”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “six rounds”. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process.

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

[At the time of non-election]
On the other hand, in the case other than the time of the big hit, the following procedure is executed.
That is, when the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4600.

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

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

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

  Step S4606: The main control CPU 72 sets "small hit start (small hit)" as an internal state flag for control. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that a small hit is occurring. The state command indicating the small hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission process.

  Step S4610: Next, the main control CPU72 loads the value of the number-of-times counter. In the “counting counter”, the respective counter values in the “high-probability state” and the “time reduction state” are set in the positive change count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76. In the present embodiment, a function of so-called frequency cut probability change is employed. Therefore, when shifting to the “high probability time reduction state”, the frequency cut counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 170 times), The number cut counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 170 times or 100 times). When shifting to the "low probability time reduction state", the count reduction counter for the high probability state is not set, and the count reduction counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 100 times).

  Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded counter value is 0. At this time, if the count value counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the number-of-times counter value is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S4630 after generating the number-of-times counter value command.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements the count value counter value (subtracts 1).
Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not 0. As a result of the subtraction, if the value of the number-of-times counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the value of the number-of-times counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets the flag at the time of operating the count cutoff function. In the present embodiment, when the transition to the “high-probability time reduction state” corresponding to “any probable variation pattern other than the 6-round probable variation pattern 2” is performed, the number cut counter for the high-probability state and the time reduction state is a predetermined numerical value. (For example, 170 times), what is reset are the probability variation function activation flag and the time reduction function activation flag.

  Further, when the transition to the “high-probability time reduction state” is performed corresponding to the 6-round probable change pattern 2, the number cut counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 170 times), and the number cut counter for the time reduction state is set. Is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times). Therefore, it is the time reduction function activation flag that is reset when the 100th variation ends, and the probability variation function activation flag is reset when the 170th variation ends (advantageous game state transition means). , Special state transition means).

  Further, when shifting to the "low probability time shortening state", the number cut counter for the time shortening state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 100 times), so that only the time shortening function operation flag is reset. is there. Thereby, the time reduction state or the high probability state ends after the special symbol is stopped. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S232 in FIG. 12) executed in the timer interrupt process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a status display setting process (step S1220), an operation storage display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation count display setting. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of the process (step S1240).

  Among them, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation storage display setting process (step S1230), as described above, include the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device. Generate and output a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the special symbol display device 35, the ordinary symbol display device 33, the ordinary symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a. This is the process to do.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the game state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d and the time reduction state display lamp 38e according to the value of the probability fluctuation function operation flag or the time reduction function operation flag, respectively. For example, if a value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability variation state display lamp 38d. The probability variation state display lamp 38d continues to be lit until the jackpot game relating to the special symbol is started or the probability variation function is turned off after the variation display of the special symbol is performed a specified number of times. The display can be switched (turned off). On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 turns on the LED corresponding to the time reduction state display lamp 38e regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output. Further, the main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the firing position designation lamp 38f according to the special game management status. For example, when the first variable prize device 30 or the second variable prize device 31 is activated by a big hit game or a small hit game, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f. . If the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f in addition to the time reduction state display lamp 38e. . When the shooting position designation lamp 38f shifts to the “time reduction state” after the big hit game, the firing position designation lamp 38f is lit from the start of the big hit game until the “time reduction state” ends, and is not lit when the “time reduction state” ends. OFF).

  The main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the big hit type display lamps 38a, 38b, 38c in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to one of the big hit type display lamps 38a, 38b, 38c based on the value of the continuous operation count status. At this time, the target of outputting the lighting signal is any of the display lamps 38a, 38b, 38c corresponding to the big hit symbol specified by the value of the continuous operation count status. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "16 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38c representing "16 rounds (16R)". If the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "12 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing "12 rounds (12R)". Further, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "6 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a indicating "6 rounds (6R)".

[Various winning device management processing at the time of big hit]
Next, the details of the big win variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of the configuration of the big win variable prize device management process. The big hit variable winning device management process includes a big hit game process selection process (step S5100), a big hit big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a big hit big win opening and closing operation process (step S5300), a big hit big win This is a configuration including a subroutine group of a winning opening closing process (step S5400) and a big hit end process (step S5500).

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

[Big win opening pattern setting process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of a big hit big win opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times of opening and closing the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 and the time of each opening at the time of a big hit. Hereinafter, description will be given along each procedure.

  Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a symbol-specific open pattern selection process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 determines the opening pattern of the special winning opening (the number of times of opening per round and the time of each opening), the interval time between rounds, and the number of counts during one round (maximum) according to the current winning symbol. (The number of winnings) and the operation pattern of the solenoid 99 for the variable probability area. The opening pattern of the special winning opening for each winning symbol, the operation pattern of the solenoid 99 for the variable probability area, and the interval time between rounds are as described in the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. The number of counts (maximum number of winnings) in one round is basically about 10, but rarely occurs during opening in an extremely short time (about 0.1 second) (impossible). Not very difficult).

  Step S5206: The main control CPU72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current big hit game based on the big hit winning symbol selected in the previous big hit stop symbol determination processing (step S2410 in FIG. 26). More specifically, if “16 round probable change symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 16 times. If “12 round probable changing symbols 1 and 2” or “12 round normal symbols” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 12. Further, if “six-round probable variable symbols 1 and 2” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to six. The number of execution rounds set here is stored, for example, in a buffer area of the RAM 76 using a corresponding value on the program.

  Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 counts the big hit opening timer and the certainty variable area timer (counts the opening time of the certainty variable area) based on the special winning opening opening pattern and the operation pattern of the positive variable area solenoid 99 set in the previous step S5204. Timer). The value of the timer set here is the opening time of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 or the opening time of the probable variable area. If a time of about 20.0 to 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the big hit release timer and the probability change area timer, the release time is determined by the time the ball is thrown into the special winning opening and the probability of change during a single opening. A sufficient time (for example, a time when 10 or more game balls are fired by the firing control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more) during which the passage of the area easily occurs is provided. On the other hand, if 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the big hit release timer and the probability change area timer, the release time is not impossible for a ball to enter the special winning opening or pass through the probability change area during one opening. In both cases, a short time (which becomes difficult) that hardly occurs (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the firing interval of the game balls by the firing control board set 174).

  Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU 72, based on the special winning opening opening pattern and the operation pattern of the positive variable area solenoid 99 set in the previous step S5204, the big hit interval timer and the positive variable area interval timer (the temporary variable area is temporarily set). Set a timer to count the waiting time for closing. The value of the timer set here is the waiting time between rounds during the big hit or the temporary closing time of the probability change area.

  Step S5212: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big hit special winning opening opening / closing operation process, and returns to the big hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 34).

[Hot Win Big Win Open / Close Operation]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of a big hit big winning opening opening / closing operation process. This processing is for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

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

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

  Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the first special winning opening or the second special winning opening. Specifically, based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. 25, the driving signal to be applied to the first big winning opening solenoid 90 or the second big winning opening solenoid 97 is output. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state.

  Step S5303: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. In this processing, the countdown of the opening timer set in the above-described big hit large winning opening opening pattern setting processing (step S5208 in FIG. 35) is executed.

  Step S5303a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the probability variable area interval timer is counting down. Specifically, it is possible to confirm whether or not the certainty variable interval timer is counting down by checking whether or not the certainty variable interval timer set in step S5314 described below is already operating.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the probability variable area interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5314. On the other hand, when it is not possible to confirm that the countdown interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5304.

  Step S5304: The main control CPU 72 executes a certain variable area release process. Specifically, based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. 25, the driving signal to be applied to the solenoid 99 for the variable probability area is output. As a result, the probable variable area blade member 31d is opened, and the game ball can be guided to the probable variable area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31.

  Step S5305: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a countdown area timer countdown process. In this processing, the countdown of the positive variable area timer set in the above-described big hit big win opening pattern setting processing (step S5208 in FIG. 35) is executed.

  Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the special winning opening time has ended. Specifically, it is checked whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown processing is 0 or less, and if the value of the release timer has not yet become 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5307a. Execute

  Step S5307a: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the probable variable area opening time has ended. Specifically, it is checked whether or not the value of the probable variable area timer after the countdown processing is 0 or less. If the value of the open timer has not yet become 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5308. Execute.

  On the other hand, when the value of the probable change area timer is equal to or smaller than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5307b.

  Step S5307b: The probable variable area closing processing is executed. Specifically, a process of stopping the output of the drive signal applied to the solenoid 99 for the variable probability area is executed. As a result, the probable variable area blade member 31d is closed, and the game ball cannot be guided to the probable variable area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31.

  Step S5308: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of gaming balls that have won the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 (the first large winning opening or the second large winning opening being opened) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the count number based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 during the opening time.

  Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (ten). The predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) per one opening (one round during the big hit). If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the big win variable prize device management process. Then, when the big win variable prize winning device management process is executed, the main control CPU 72 repeats the procedure of steps S5301 to S5310 because the jump destination is set to the big hit big win opening / closing operation process at this stage. I do.

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

  Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 closes the first special winning opening or the second special winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 or the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is stopped. Thereby, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 shifts from the open state to the closed state.

  Step S5313: The main control CPU72 executes a certain variable area closing process. Specifically, a process of stopping the output of the drive signal applied to the solenoid 99 for the variable probability area is executed. As a result, the probable variable area blade member 31d is closed, and the game ball cannot be guided to the probable variable area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31.

  Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an interval timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the special winning opening interval timer and the certainty variable interval timer set in the big hit special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 in FIG. 35).

  Step S5315: The main control CPU72 checks whether or not the special winning opening interval time has ended. Specifically, it is checked whether or not the value of the special winning opening interval timer after the countdown processing is 0 or less, and if the value of the special winning opening interval timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control is performed. The CPU 72 returns to the end address of the big hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 34). Then, when the big hit winning opening / closing operation processing is executed at the next call, the process jumps from the top step S5301 and immediately executes step S5314. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the special winning opening interval timer after the countdown processing has become 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5318.

  Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter. The value of the release counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with, for example, an initial value of 0.

  Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the release counter after the increment has reached the set number in the current round. Here, "the number of times set in the current round" is determined, for example, "opening operation of the first variable prize device 30 or the second variable prize device 31 a plurality of times in one round of the big hit". This is to respond to the open pattern. In the present embodiment, such an open pattern is not adopted, and the “number of times set in the current round” is set to once in each round. Therefore, in each round during the big hit game, since the counter value reaches the set number of times by one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5322 next.

  On the other hand, when a pattern in which the opening / closing operation is repeated a plurality of times in one round is adopted, the counter value has not yet reached the set number at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the jackpot variable prize winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the jackpot big prize opening opening / closing operation process at this stage. Therefore, the procedure from step S5301 to step S5320 is repeatedly executed. I do. As a result, in step S5318, the increment of the release number counter advances, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5322.

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

(Big hit prize opening closing process)
FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the big hit winning opening closing process. The big win winning port closing process is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 or ending the operation. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

  Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. As a result, for example, the first round is completed, and the value of the round number counter becomes “1” at the stage toward the second round.

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

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

  Step S5406: The main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the big hit winning opening / closing operation processing.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the big hit variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the jackpot variable prize device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot big win opening / closing operation process of the next jump destination in the big hit gaming process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 34). Execute Then, after executing the big hit big win opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the big hit big winning opening closing process again after executing the big hit big winning opening closing process, and repeatedly executes the steps S5402 to S5408. I do. Thus, the opening and closing operation of the first variable prize device 30 or the second variable prize device 31 is continuously performed until the actual round number reaches the set execution round number (9 or 16).

  If the actual round number has reached the set execution round number (step S5404: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

  Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the round number counter is reset (= 0), the next jump destination is set to the big hit end processing.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the big hit variable winning device management process. Thus, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the big hit variable prize device management processing, the big hit end processing is selected this time.

[Big hit end process]
FIG. 38 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the big hit end processing. The big hit end processing is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of the big hit. Hereinafter, description will be given along a procedure example.

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

  Step S5502: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the big hit end time has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the big hit end time timer has not yet become 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the big hit end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 terminates this module and returns to the big hit variable prize winning device management process (FIG. 34).

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

  Step S5503, Step S5504: The main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). Thereby, the big hit game state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 deletes "big hit" from the internal state flag here, and declares the end of the main role as the internal state in the control processing. Note that the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation count status.

  Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the previous switch management process (step S26 in FIG. 13).

  Step S5508: When the value of the probability variation function operation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of times of probability variation (for example, 170 times). The set value of the probability change count is stored in, for example, the probability change counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes a count cutoff counter value. The number of times of the probability change set here is the upper limit number of times of changing the special symbol (internal lottery) in the high probability state in the game thereafter. In the present embodiment, since the high-probability state has a substantial upper limit, the winning state may not be obtained in the high-probability state, and the state may return to the low-probability state (so-called frequency cut probability change). If the value of the probability variation function operation flag is not set (Step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute Step S5508.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit and other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 26) in the special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S5512: If the value of the time reduction function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of times of saving (for example, 100 times or 170 times). Here, which time saving number is set depends on the value of the probability variation function operation flag. That is, if the value of the probability variation function activation flag is set, the main control CPU 72 sets 170 times as the number of time savings (high probability time reduction state transition means, advantageous game state transition means), and sets the value of the probability variation function activation flag. If is not set, 100 is set as the number of time savings (low probability time reduction state transition means, advantageous game state transition means). However, even if the value of the probability variation function operation flag is set, the main control CPU 72 sets 100 times as the number of time savings if the winning symbol corresponds to the six-round probability varying symbol 2 (advantageous game). State transition means, special state transition means). The set time saving number is stored in the time saving count area of the RAM 76. The number of time savings set here is the upper limit number of times for reducing the fluctuation time of the special symbol in the game thereafter. If the value of the time reduction function operation flag has not been set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

  Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on various flags. Specifically, with the reset of the big hit flag or the end of the big win, a state designation command indicating "normal" as the game state is generated. In addition, if the probability variation function operation flag is set, a state designation command indicating "high probability is in progress" is generated as an internal state, and if the time reduction function operation flag is set, "in time reduction is in progress" as the internal state. Is generated. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect command transmission processing.

  Step S5516: After going through the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot big winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 24) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the big hit variable prize winning device management process.

[Small winning variable winning device management processing]
Next, the details of the small winning variable prize winning device management processing will be described. FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the small winning variable prize winning device management process. The small win variable winning device management process includes a small hit game process selection process (step S6100), a small hit big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6200), and a small hit big winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300). This is a configuration including a subroutine group of a small hit large winning opening closing process (step S6400) and a small hit ending process (step S6500).

  Step S6100: In the small hit game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects a jump destination of a process to be executed next (any one of steps S6200 to S6500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the small hit variable winning device management process as the return address in the stack pointer. . Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening / closing operation) of the first variable winning device 30 has not been started yet, the main control CPU 72 selects the small winning big win opening pattern setting process (step S6200) as the next jump destination. I do. On the other hand, if the small hit big win opening pattern setting processing has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the small hit big win opening / closing operation processing (step S6300) as the next jump destination, and the small hit big win. If the winning opening opening / closing operation processing has been completed, the small hitting large winning opening closing processing (step S6400) is selected as the next jump destination. Further, when the small hit big win opening / closing operation process and the small hit big winning opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of consecutive operations, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit end process (step) as the next jump destination. S6500) is selected. Hereinafter, each processing will be described in more detail.

[Small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of a small winning big win opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed at the time of a small hit and the time of each opening. Hereinafter, description will be given along each procedure.

  Step S6212: The main control CPU72 sets the "small hit release pattern". In the case of the present embodiment, for the “open pattern at small hit”, for example, an open pattern of “0.1 second open” is set for each of the first and second times. Since there is no concept of “round” for “small hit”, “opening pattern” is also described as “first opening” and “second opening”.

  Step S 6214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times of opening the special winning opening to, for example, two based on the special winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S 6212. The number of releases set here is stored in a buffer area of the RAM 76, for example.

  Step S6216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a small hit release timer. The value of the timer set here is the opening time per operation when the first variable winning device 30 is operated. In the present embodiment, 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the small hit opening timer. In such an opening time, a prize in the big winning opening hardly occurs during one opening (see difficulties). ) (For example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the interval between firing of the game balls by the firing device unit).

  Step S6218: The main control CPU 72 sets the small hit interval timer. The value of the timer set here is a standby time for each opening and closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 a plurality of times at the time of a small hit, and the timer value is set to, for example, about 2 seconds.

  Step S6220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small winning big win opening / closing operation process, and returns to the small winning variable winning device management process (FIG. 39). Then, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300).

[Small hit big winning opening opening and closing process]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of a small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process. This process is for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 at the time of a small hit. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

  Step S6301: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the interval timer is counting down. Specifically, by checking whether or not the interval timer set in step S6314 below is already operating, it can be checked whether or not the interval timer is counting down.

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

  Step S6302: The main control CPU 72 opens the first big winning opening. Specifically, a drive signal to be applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is output. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state.

  Step S6304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the open timer set in the small hit big win opening pattern setting process (step S6216 in FIG. 40) is executed.

  Step S6306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the opening time has ended. Specifically, it is checked whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown processing is 0 or less. If the value of the release timer has not yet become 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S6308. Execute

  Step S6308: The main control CPU72 executes a winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won the first variable winning device 30 (the first big winning opening being opened) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 during the opening time.

  Step S6310: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (ten). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) per one opening (one opening at the time of small hit). If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the small winning variable prize winning device management process (FIG. 39). Then, when the small winning variable prize winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the small winning large winning opening opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 executes the procedure of steps S6301 to S6310. Execute repeatedly.

  If it is determined in step S6306 that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is determined in step S6310 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6312. Here, since the value of the release timer is set to a short time for the release at the time of the small hit, the main control CPU 72 normally performs step S6310 before confirming that the count number has reached the predetermined number. In most cases, it is determined in S6306 that the release time has ended.

  Step S6312: The main control CPU72 closes the first special winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

  Step S6314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an interval timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the small hit big win opening pattern setting process (step S6218 in FIG. 40).

  Step S6315: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the interval time has ended. Specifically, it is checked whether or not the value of the interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the interval timer has not yet become 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 changes when the small hit occurs. The process returns to the end address of the winning device management process (FIG. 39). Then, when the small winning big win opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, the process jumps from the top step S6301 and immediately executes step S6314. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the interval timer after the countdown processing has become 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6316.

  Step S6316: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small winning big win opening closing process, and returns to the small winning variable winning device management process. Then, when the small hit-time variable winning device management process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next executes the small hit-time big winning port closing process.

[Small hit big winning opening closing process]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the small-hit-time large winning opening closing process. This small-hit-time large winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or ending the operation. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

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

  Step S6414: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the release number counter after the increment has reached the set release number. The number of times of opening is set in the special winning opening pattern setting process (step S6214 in FIG. 40). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6416.

Step S6416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small winning big win opening / closing operation processing.
Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 39).

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management processing, the main control CPU 72 executes the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation as the next jump destination in the small hit game process selection processing (step S6100 in FIG. 39). Execute Then, after executing the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation processing, the main control CPU 72 again executes the small winning large winning opening closing processing until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of times (two times). The opening and closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 is repeatedly executed.

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

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

  Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 39). Thus, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the small hit end process is selected this time.

[Small hit end processing]
FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the small hit end processing. The small hit end processing is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 at the time of the small hit. Hereinafter, description will be given along a procedure example.

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

  Step S6504: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the small hit end time has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the small hit end time timer has not yet become 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the small hit end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 terminates this module and returns to the small hit variable winning device management processing (FIG. 39).

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

  Step S6506, Step S6508: The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H), erases "small hit" from the internal state flag, and ends the small hit game. In the case of a small hit, since the internal condition device does not particularly operate, such a procedure is merely for the purpose of clearing the flag.

  Step S6510: After going through the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting processing.

  Step S6512: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 24) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the small hit variable prize winning device management process.

[Game flow (1)]
FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed in the case where “12 round normal symbol” or “12 round probable variable symbol 1, 2” is applied in the normal mode.
When a game is started with the pachinko machine 1, the game is started from [F1] normal mode. In the “normal mode”, the winning probability of the special symbol is “low probability state”, and the winning probability of the ordinary symbol is “low probability state”. As described above, since the [F1] normal mode is in the “low probability non-time shortening state”, the first special symbol starts to fluctuate by causing the game ball to enter the middle starting winning opening 26, and the game is started. Go on.

  [F1] In the normal mode, if [F2] wins the "12 round normal symbol" big hit, [F3] 12 round big hit game (battle bonus) is executed, and [F4] loses in the battle of the leading role production , [F5] Shift to the coast mode.

  [F5] The coast mode is a low probability time reduction state. [F5] In the coast mode, if the winning result is not obtained and [F6] the special symbol fluctuates 100 times, the mode shifts to [F1] normal mode.

  [F1] In the normal mode, if [F7] wins the big hit of "12 round probable changing pattern 1 and 2", [F3] 12 round big hit game (battle bonus) is executed, and [F8] the battle of big role production win.

  [F9] When the game ball passes through the probability change area in the sixth round of the 12th round jackpot game (when a win is made), [F10] an effect indicating that a V win has occurred is executed, and [F11] fireworks is performed. Move to rush.

  [F11] The fireworks rush is in a high probability time shortened state. [F11] In the fireworks rush, if the winning result is not obtained and [F12] the special symbol fluctuates 170 times, the mode shifts to [F1] normal mode.

  On the other hand, if the game ball does not pass through the probability change area in the sixth round of the jackpot game (F13) when the game ball falls under the "12 round probability change symbols 1 and 2", (F10) V An effect indicating that no winning has occurred is executed, and the mode shifts to [F5] shore mode.

[Game flow (2)]
FIG. 45 is a diagram for explaining a game flow developed when a “16-round probable variable design” or “6 round probable variable design 1, 2” is applied in the fireworks rush or coast mode.
When the [G1] jackpot of "16 round positive variation symbol" is won in [F5] beach mode or [F11] fireworks rush, [G2] 16 round jackpot game (special bonus) is executed.

  [G3] When the game ball passes through the probability change area in the sixth round of the 16th round jackpot game (when the player wins V), [G4] an effect indicating that a V winning has occurred is executed, and the jackpot game ends. Later, [F11], the process proceeds to the fireworks rush.

  On the other hand, if the game ball does not pass through the probability change area in the sixth round of the jackpot game (if no V wins) even though it corresponds to the [G5] 16 rounds probability change symbol, the [G6] V win does not occur. Is performed, and after the big hit game ends, the mode shifts to the [F5] shore mode.

  [G10] When the big hit of “G10” “Six-round probable pattern 1 or 2” is won in the coast mode or the [F11] fireworks rush, the [G11] six-round big hit game (normal bonus effect) is executed.

  [G12] When the game ball passes through the probability change area in the sixth round of the six round big hit game (when a V win is made), [G13] an effect indicating that a V win has occurred is executed, and the big hit game ends. Later, [F11], the process proceeds to the fireworks rush.

  On the other hand, if the game ball does not pass through the probability change area in the sixth round of the jackpot game (G14) if the game ball falls under the “6 round probability change pattern 1 or 2” (G does not win), [G15] V An effect indicating that no prize has been generated is executed, and then the mode shifts to [F5] shore mode. Although not particularly shown, it corresponds to “6 round probable changing pattern 2”, and when 100 transitions have elapsed after the transition to the fireworks rush, the mode transitions to the normal mode, but internally a high-probability non-time shortening state is set. ing.

  The above-described game flow is an example of a typical game flow, and does not cover the entire game flow.

[Example of effect image]
Next, the effect images actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the internal lottery of the jackpot is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the fluctuation display by the first special symbol or the second special symbol is performed. (Symbol display means). However, the first special symbol and the second special symbol themselves are lighted and blinked by the 7-segment LED, and thus have poor visual appeal. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, a variable display effect using an effect symbol is performed.

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

  FIG. 46 is a continuous diagram illustrating an example of the effect image corresponding to the change display and the stop display of the special symbol. Note that, here, an example of a variation display effect and a stop display effect (result display effect) performed using the effect symbols is shown with respect to the change of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (losing). This variable display effect is performed between the time when the special symbol (here, the first special symbol, but the second special symbol) starts the variable display and the time when the stop symbol is displayed (including the fixed stop). It corresponds to a series of productions. The stop display effect is an effect in which the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is represented as a combination of the effect symbol. Here, first, before describing the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the fluctuation display effect and the stop display effect for each fluctuation employed in the present embodiment will be described.

[Before fluctuation display]
In FIG. 46A, for example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to change (a state in which the demonstration effect is not being performed), a large row of three effect symbols is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, the effect symbols are also stopped and displayed in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

(Memory display effect)
Further, in the display area before change X1 at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, markers (reference numerals M1 and M2 in the figure) indicating the operation storage numbers of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed. ing. Each of the markers M1 and M2 indicates the number of operation memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (the number of display of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a). Therefore, the displayed number increases or decreases in conjunction with the change in the number of operation memories during the game.

  For the markers M1 and M2, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed as, for example, a circle (○) to facilitate visual discrimination, and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is, for example, a heart symbol. It is displayed in the shape of. In the illustrated example, all four markers M1 are lit and displayed to indicate that the number of operation memories of the first special symbol is four, and all markers M2 are not displayed (shown by broken lines). Indicates that the number of operation memories of the second special symbol is 0 (memory display effect).

  Further, during the variation display of the effect symbols, for example, a fourth symbol (reference numerals Z1 and Z2 in the figure) is displayed at the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are “fourth effect symbols” following the left, middle, and right effect symbols, and are variably displayed in synchronization with the effect symbols during the variability display. In addition, the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are simply a simple mark (for example, a figure of “□”) with a color, and a variable display can be expressed by, for example, changing the display color. The fourth symbol Z1 corresponds to the first special symbol, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponds to the second special symbol.

  The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the loss. This is for objectively clarifying that the stop display effect is correctly performed and the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually “6 rounds big hit”, “12 rounds big hit”, or “16 rounds big hit” instead of “missing”, the corresponding mode (for example, blue display color or red display color) Etc.), the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed.

(Start of variable display production)
In FIG. 46B, for example, in synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol, the three symbol columns scroll and fluctuate on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, thereby starting the variable display effect (the symbol effect). Execution means). That is, in synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol, the row of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol scrolls (flows) in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 so as to be changed and displayed. The production starts. Before the start of the change, the markers M1 and M2 are displayed in the display area X1 before the change of the band portion in the lower part of the liquid crystal display 42, but are displayed in the lower left part of the liquid crystal display 42 after the start of the change. The display moves to the changing display area X2 due to the pedestal image being displayed, and continues to be displayed until the change of the special symbol (effect symbol) is stopped and displayed (storage image display maintaining effect). In the drawing, the fluctuation display of the effect symbol is simply indicated by a downward arrow. Also, during the variable display, each effect design is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), so that the image (background image) serving as the background of the effect design is displayed on the display screen in a state where it is easy to visually recognize. Have been.

  The background image in this case expresses a landscape in which, for example, a female character wearing a yukata is sitting on a chaise lounge and relaxing as if in the evening. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the effect is, for example, the “normal mode”. In the present embodiment, the “normal mode” corresponds to a normal state in which the time reduction function is inactive and the probability variation function is inactive. In addition, various modes are provided in the effect, and background images having different scenes and scenes are prepared for each mode (state display effect executing means). The difference between these modes may correspond to an internal “time reduction state” or to a “high probability state”. Although not specifically illustrated here, a mode in which a preview effect is performed by, for example, displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on a display screen thereafter may be performed.

  In addition, during the variable display of the effect symbols, the fourth symbol Z1 is variably displayed at the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 expresses the variable display by changing its display color.

(Left symbol stop)
In FIG. 46C, for example, after a certain period of time (about half of the fluctuation time) elapses, the left effect symbol first stops changing. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “8” is stopped at the left position on the screen. Here, illustration of the background image is omitted (the same applies hereinafter).

(Example of effect when the number of working memories decreases)
Here, as shown in FIG. 46B, since the number of operation memories of the first special symbol is reduced by one with the start of the change, the display number of the marker M1 is reduced in conjunction therewith. It has been reduced by one. For example, assuming that the number of operation memories is four, the display of the oldest (oldest) memory number in the marker M1 is moved by one to the changing display area X2, and the effect consumed by the internal lottery is also added. Done. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the number of operation memories has been consumed for the first special symbol even in the effect.

  Then, in the example of (C) in FIG. 46, the marker M1 at the head in the storage order is moved to the changing display area X2, and the remaining display in the display area X1 before change becomes three. An effect is performed in which the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are shifted by one each in one direction (here, leftward). This allows the context of the change in the number of working memories to be accurately represented in the effect on the effect, and also indicates to the player that "the working memory has been consumed and one has been reduced" or that "the special memory has been consumed and the special symbol has been consumed." Is fluctuating "can be intuitively and easily understood.

(Right production design stopped)
In FIG. 46 (D): following the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol stops changing thereafter. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “3” is stopped at the middle position on the screen. At this point, since it is already determined that the reach state does not occur, it is almost visually apparent that this fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. Here, it is assumed that reach fluctuation due to a slip pattern or the like is excluded. The “slip pattern” means that, for example, once the effect design representing the number “7” stops, the design sequence slides by one design, and the effect design representing the number “8” stops, thereby developing into reach. It is to do. Alternatively, once the effect symbol representing the number "9" stops, the symbol pattern slides in the opposite direction by one symbol, and the effect symbol representing the number "8" stops. is there. In addition, when a design symbol representing a completely different number such as “5” temporarily stops, and then a character appears on the screen and the right design symbol column is re-varied, the numeral “8” is represented. There is also a pattern in which the production design stops and develops into reach.

(Stop indication production)
In FIG. 46E, the last medium effect symbol stops in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. If the result of this internal lottery is non-winning, and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (losing) mode, the staging display effect is also performed in the non-winning (losing) mode on the effect symbols as well. Is That is, in the illustrated example, the effect design representing the number “1” is stopped at the middle position of the screen, and in this case, the combination of the effect designs is “8” − “1” − “3”. Since it is a gap, it is expressed in the production that this variation corresponds to a normal "margin". At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the loss.

  Further, when the stop display effect is performed, the marker M1 that has been moved to the changing display area X2 and has been continuously displayed is also not displayed. Therefore, it is possible to intuitively and intuitively teach the player that "the change of the special symbol has been completed".

  The above is an example of the variable display effect and the stop display effect (at the time of non-winning) performed using the effect symbol for each change. Through such an effect, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for winning, and finally to clearly teach the result of the internal lottery in the effect.

  Although the above-described example is for a non-winning case, at the time of a big hit (winning), after the reach effect is executed during the variable display effect, the effect design is stopped and displayed in the stop display effect in a big hit manner. At this time, the stop display mode of the effect symbol basically corresponds to the winning symbol internally selected by the main control CPU 72 (the stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35). Selected.

[Direction example at the time of big hit]
FIG. 47 is a continuous diagram showing a flow of a reach effect (super reach effect) executed at the time of a big hit (winning). Here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a notice effect are included. In addition, an example of a notice effect (a notice effect before the occurrence of reach, a notice effect after the reach occurs) executed during the variable display effect will be described.

  In the following reach effects, for example, after the variation display according to the variation pattern at the time of the big hit is performed on the first special symbol display device 34, the first special symbol is a big hit (for example, “self”, “yo” of the 7-segment LED) , "Mouth", "snake", "F", "E", "L", "@", etc.) (reach effect execution means). Note that in FIG. 47, each effect symbol is shown in a simplified form using only numerals. The markers M1 and M2, the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2, the display area X1 before change, and the display area X2 during change are not shown (the same applies to the following drawings). Hereinafter, description will be given along the flow of the effect.

(Variation display effect)
In FIG. 47A, for example, in substantially synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol, the rows of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol are displayed in the vertical direction (for example, from the top) on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The variable display effect is started by scrolling down.

[Preliminary notice before reach occurs (first stage)]
In FIG. 47 (B): Next, in a relatively early stage of the variable display effect, a first stage pre-reach occurrence notice effect using a picture image (picture card) of the character is performed. The announcement effect before the occurrence of the reach is an announcement effect in which the change of the mode progresses stepwise from the first stage to a plurality of stages (for example, the second to fifth stages) in a predetermined order. The design image used in the pre-reach occurrence announcement effect is located in front of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the screen, and is displayed, for example, so as to appear from the left end of the screen slightly (other appearance modes). May be.) Here, the "notification before the occurrence of the reach" means that the possibility of the reach or the possibility of the big hit is forewarned before any of the effect symbols is stopped and displayed. Executing such a “pre-reach occurrence announcement effect” has the effect of giving the player an expectation that “it may develop into a reach = the possibility of a big hit increases”.

[Preliminary notice before reach occurs (second stage)]
In FIG. 47, (C): after the first stage mode of the pre-reach occurrence announcement effect is performed, the change of the mode of the pre-reach occurrence advance effect proceeds to the second stage. Here, an effect using a picture image of a character different from the previous one is performed as a notice effect before the occurrence of reach in the second stage. More specifically, another picture image additionally appears from the right end of the screen, and is displayed in front of the previously displayed picture image. The picture image displayed at this time is larger in size than the previously displayed picture image. Then, an effect by voice output, in which the character represented by the picture image utters a dialogue (for example, “I'll be reachable”), is also performed.

  Such a pre-reach occurrence announcement effect (second stage) using the second pattern image proceeds one step further from the reach-before-occurrence announcement effect (first stage) performed in FIG. 47B. It is a development type. The mode of the “preliminary notice announcement effect” that evolves in this way is sometimes referred to generally as “step-up notice” or the like. Here, an example is described in which the second stage picture image appears in the notice effect before the occurrence of the reach, but in a presentation mode in which the third, fourth, and fifth picture images appear one after another and are displayed. There may be. Further, for example, each time the picture images of the third, fourth, and fifth stages appear and are displayed one after another, the size may be enlarged. At this stage, the variation display of the effect symbols is continued. In any case, by causing the change of the mode of the announcement production before the occurrence of the reach to proceed to more stages, it is possible to suggest to the player that the possibility of a big hit (expected degree) by this fluctuation is high. (For example, progressing to the fifth stage indicates the highest degree of expectation, etc.).

[Stop left design symbol]
(D) in FIG. 47: The middle of the variable display effect is approaching, and the variable display of the left effect symbol is stopped soon. At this point, the effect symbol representing the number “5” is stopped at the left position on the screen.

[Occurrence of reach state]
(E) in FIG. 47: Then, following the left effect symbol, for example, the fluctuation display of the right effect symbol is stopped. At this point, since the effect symbol representing the number "5" is stopped at the right position on the screen, the reach state of "5"-"variing"-"5" occurs. Then, on the screen, an image that emphasizes one line in the reach state is also displayed. In addition, an effect of outputting a sound such as “reach!” Is performed.

  After the occurrence of the reach state, the reach effect at the time of winning is executed (however, at this time, the result of the winning has not been displayed yet). In the reach effect, only the effect symbol corresponding to the tempered number (here, “5”) is displayed on the screen, and the other symbols are not displayed. At this time, the effect design may be displayed in a reduced state at each of the four corners of the screen.

[Preliminary production after reach occurs (first time)]
In FIG. 47 (F): For a while after the reach state has occurred, for example, a notice effect (first time) after the occurrence of the reach, in which images representing figures of “heart” form a group and pass obliquely on the screen, is performed. . In this case, the image of the “heart group” is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it were flowing, so that the visual appeal to the player can be increased. Executing such a notice effect after the occurrence of a visually noticeable reach notice has an effect of giving the player a greater sense of expectation.

[Progress of Reach Direction]
In FIG. 47, (G): images showing numbers “2” to “6” are displayed in a three-dimensional array on the screen, for example, following the announcement effect after the first reach, and An effect is performed in which numerical images are deleted from the screen in the order of “2”, “3”, “4”,. Such an effect is also performed for the purpose of suggesting (suggesting) or reminding the player that the number "5" is a "big hit" if it remains without being erased until the end. If the number "4" is deleted and "5" remains in front of the screen, it means "big hit", and if the number "5" is also deleted, it means "miss". In the case of a loss, for example, the number “6” is displayed on the screen after the number “5” is deleted. Therefore, during this time, the sense of tension and expectation of the player increases as the images are sequentially erased in the order of "2", "3", and "4". Then, if the number “4” is actually erased on the screen and the effect proceeds while the number “5” remains on the screen, the possibility of a “big hit” increases, and the player's tension there Also increase at a stretch.

[Presentation effect after reach occurs (second time)]
(H) in FIG. 47: When the reach effect approaches the end stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen so as to break into a close-up, and the character utters some dialogue (or in silence) A notice effect (the second time) after the occurrence of the reach of "may smile" may be performed. At this point, for example, the content of the reach effect is that "if the number" 5 "remains without being erased, the possibility of a big hit of" 5 "-" 5 "-" 5 "will increase as it is". Therefore, by causing the image of the character to appear largely at this timing, an effect of giving the player an expectation that "it may be a big hit" is obtained.

  As another reach effect from the above, for example, there is also a development that "numbers" 2 "to" 4 "are erased, and if the number" 5 "remains at the end without being erased, a big hit occurs". When an image of a character appears at such a timing, an effect of giving the player an expectation that "the jackpot may be near at last" can be obtained.

(Stop indication production)
(I) in FIG. 47: Then, the last medium effect symbol stops. In this example, the effect symbol representing "5" is stopped and displayed at the center of the screen, so that the player can be notified that the big hit has occurred.

  In FIG. 47 (J): For example, a stop display effect as an effect symbol is performed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. The stop display effect of the effect symbol is performed, for example, in a state where the left, middle, and right effect symbols are restored to their initial sizes. By performing such a stop display effect, it is possible to teach the player that the final winning type has been determined in the effect. Conversely, by performing an indefinite stop display effect on the effect, it is possible to keep the player from knowing which winning symbol has been won.

  If the result of the internal lottery is non-winning, the first special symbol, which is the subject of the current fluctuation, is stopped and displayed in a lost symbol. In this case, by displaying a numeral “4” or “6” other than “5” at the center of the screen, an effect is given that informs that unfortunately, this change did not result in a big hit. It should be noted that such an effect is executed as an "outside reach effect".

[Example of directing in the middle of a large role in the case of "12 round normal design" etc.]
FIGS. 48 to 51 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of an effect in a large role in the case of “12 round normal symbol” or “12 round probable symbol 2”.

  In the present embodiment, when the “twelfth round normal symbol” is applicable, an effect in which the ally character is defeated by the enemy character in the large role production is executed. An effect in which the ally character defeats the enemy character is executed. Hereinafter, the flow of the production will be described step by step.

[First round]
In FIG. 48A, when the first round of the big hit game is started, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND1” is displayed on the screen, and a battle effect in a large role is started. In the illustrated example, a haunted image of an umbrella serving as an enemy character is displayed on the left side of the screen, an image of a female character serving as an ally character is displayed on the right side of the screen, and an image of a character “VS” is displayed in the center of the screen. Is displayed. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the battle effect is about to start.

  At the lower right corner of the screen, an effect symbol corresponding to the current winning symbol (the effect symbol “5” in this case) is displayed. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining eye”) even during the big hit game, it is possible to continuously teach the player that the information has been “winning with five effect symbols”.

[2nd round]
In FIG. 48 (B): When the second round of the big hit game is started, the battle effect in the role of a large player is specifically progressed. In the illustrated example, an effect is performed in which the umbrella of the umbrella moves from the left side to the right side. Then, an effect is performed in which the female character is surprised by the umbrella and runs away and disappears to the right side of the screen.

[3rd round]
In FIG. 48 (C): When the third round of the big hit game is started, the battle effect in the role of a special player progresses specifically. In the illustrated example, a female character takes out a fan (weapon), and an effect in which a flame (aura) appears from the fan is performed.

[4th round]
In FIG. 48 (D): In the fourth round of the jackpot game, an umbrella of the umbrella carries out a deadly technique in which a long tongue protrudes from the mouth, and a female character intercepts the special technique with a fan. If the umbrella's ghost wins in this state, it means that it was a big hit with "12 round regular symbol", and if the female character wins, it means that it was a big hit with "12 round positive variable symbol 2". ing.

[Fifth round (at the time of winning the 12th regular symbol)]
In FIG. 49 (E), in the case of winning in the “12 round normal symbol”, a defeat effect is executed in the fifth round. More specifically, the ghost of the umbrella is displayed large and the female character is displayed small along with the character of "defeat ..." (the ally character defeat effect).

[6th round (12 rounds when regular symbols are won)]
In FIG. 49 (F): In the case of winning in the “12 round normal symbol”, a re-challenge promotion effect is executed in the sixth round. Specifically, an effect in which the female character utters a line such as “I will not lose next!” Is executed. Thus, the player can be motivated to aim for the big hit again. In addition, in the seventh to twelfth rounds of the jackpot game, the same re-challenge promotion effect as in the sixth round is executed.

  In addition, in the sixth round in the case of winning in the “12 round normal symbol”, the second variable winning device 31 is opened, but since the opening time is set to be extremely short, the game ball may pass through the probability changing region. There is no.

[At the end of the role]
In FIG. 49 (G): at the timing when the big hit game in the “12 round normal symbol” ends (during the end processing), a large role end effect of teaching the internal state to be shifted to thereafter is executed. In the example shown in the figure, the character information "Entering the coast mode!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to instruct the player to shift to the coast mode of the “low probability time reduction state” as a privilege after the big hit game.

[Fifth round (when the 12th round winning pattern 2 wins)]
In FIG. 50 (H): On the other hand, in the case of winning in the “12 round probable variation pattern 2”, a victory effect is executed in the fifth round. Specifically, the female character is displayed large and the umbrella ghost is displayed small together with the character "victory !!" (friend character victory effect).

[Round 6 (12 rounds when winning two winning designs)]
In FIG. 50 (I): In the case of winning in the “12 round probable changing pattern 2”, a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the sixth round. If this challenge production is successful, it will enter the fireworks rush, which is a “high probability time reduction state”. Specifically, an effect is performed in which the hermit character speaks, for example, "Aim for V attacker!" Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player a game property such as aiming at the second variable winning device 31. Further, in the sixth round in the case of winning in the “12 round probable variable pattern 2”, the second variable prize device 31 is opened long, so that the profit from the ball is obtained as in the previous round. Further, in the sixth round in the case of winning the “12 round probability variation symbol 2”, the probability variation region solenoid 99 operates so as to open the probability variation region long, so that when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31, , The game ball is guided by the probable area blade member 31d and passes through the probable area.

  In FIG. 50 (J): When the player continues to hit the right and the game ball enters the second variable prize device 31 and passes through the certain variable area, the panda character raises the V mark and produces a blessing effect. Is executed. Note that a blessing effect similar to that of the sixth round is executed in the seventh to twelfth rounds of the big hit game.

[At the end of the role]
In FIG. 50 (K): at the timing when the big hit game ends (during the end process), a large role end effect of teaching the internal state to be shifted thereafter is executed. In the illustrated example, character information "Fireworks rush rush!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to instruct the player to shift to the fireworks rush in the “high probability time reduced state” as a privilege after the end of the big hit game.

  The above is an example of the effect when the game ball successfully passes through the probable change area corresponding to "12 round probable change pattern 2". If you do not pass through, will be the following production example.

[Fifth round (when the 12th round winning pattern 2 wins)]
In FIG. 51 (L): in the case of winning in the “12 round probable changing pattern 2”, a victory effect is executed in the fifth round. Specifically, the female character is displayed large and the umbrella ghost is displayed small together with the character "victory !!" (friend character victory effect).

[Round 6 (12 rounds when winning two winning designs)]
In FIG. 51 (M): In the case of winning in the “12 round probable changing pattern 2”, a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the sixth round. If this challenge production is successful, it will enter the fireworks rush, which is a “high probability time reduction state”. Specifically, an effect is performed in which the hermit character speaks, for example, "Aim for V attacker!" Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player a game property such as aiming at the second variable winning device 31. Further, in the sixth round in the case of winning in the “12 round probable variable pattern 2”, the second variable prize device 31 is opened long, so that the profit from the ball is obtained as in the previous round. Further, in the sixth round in the case of winning the “12 round probability variation pattern 2”, the probability variation region solenoid 99 operates so as to open the probability variation region long, so that when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31, The game ball is guided by the probable area blade 31d and passes through the probable area.

  However, here, it is assumed that no game ball has entered the second variable winning device 31 by the end of the sixth round for some reason (for example, the ball cannot be hit right or the ball is clogged). In this case, the game ball does not pass through the probability change area.

  51 (N) in FIG. 51: In this case, a failure effect in which the panda character speaks “sorry” is executed. In addition, even in the seventh to twelfth rounds of the jackpot game, the failed effect is continued.

[At the end of the role]
In FIG. 51 (O): at the timing when the big hit game in the “12 round probable changing symbol 2” ends (during the end process), a major role end effect of teaching the internal state to be shifted to thereafter is executed. In the example shown in the figure, the character information "Entering the coast mode!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to instruct the player to shift to the coast mode of the “low probability time reduction state” as a privilege after the big hit game.

  Here, an example of an effect in the case of “12 round probable pattern 1” is not particularly shown, but a battle effect is executed and a victory effect is executed in the same manner as in the case of “12 round probable pattern 2”. Alternatively, effects other than battle effects may be executed. Even in the case of "12 round probability variation pattern 2", the second variable winning device 31 is long opened in the sixth round, so that when the game ball passes through the probability variation area, a fireworks rush enters. In addition, in the “12 round probable change pattern 2”, it is possible to obtain pitches for substantially four rounds.

[Direction example of fireworks rush]
FIG. 52 is a continuous diagram illustrating an example of a fireworks rush effect. This fireworks rush is a mode in which the game is won after the big hit game when the gaming ball passes through the certain change area during the big hit game while winning the "any of the 12 round regular symbols other than the normal symbol". Fireworks rush is a state of high probability time reduction. Hereinafter, the flow of the production will be described step by step.

  In FIG. 52A, for example, by performing the first variation display after the end of the big hit game, the variation display of the effect symbol is performed in a state of “fireworks rush”. The background image of the fireworks rush is a background image that expresses "a scene in which fireworks are launched in the night sky" and "a woman character is watching fireworks" to give the player a deep impression of the fireworks motif. It has become. In the upper right part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed.

  In FIG. 52B, all the effect symbols are stopped and displayed (“3” − “1” − “7”) after the first change (at the time of non-winning) from the end of the big hit game. )). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).

  (C) in FIG. 52: When the next change is started, the second change display is performed after the end of the big hit game. In the fireworks rush (high-probability time shortened state), the variable starting winning device 28 is operated at a high frequency, and as long as the player keeps right-handing, the effect symbol accompanying the variable display of the second special symbol is changed. Frequent display is often performed. In addition, when a winning result is obtained in the fireworks rush, a reach effect is executed and a big hit is achieved.

  In the fireworks rush, similarly to the normal mode, the display area X1 before the change and the display area X2 during the change may be displayed, and the marker M1 and the marker M2 may be displayed. This point is the same in the following coast mode.

[Director middle production (normal bonus production)]
FIG. 53 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a large role production effect executed during the big hit game in the case of “six-round probable change symbol 1” or “six-round probable change symbol 2”.

[1 round]
In FIG. 53 (A): When the first round of the big hit game is started, a big win effect of the content corresponding to the progress of the game “big hit” is executed. In the large role production, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND1” is displayed on the screen. At the lower right corner of the screen, an effect symbol (here, 2 effect symbol) corresponding to the current winning symbol is displayed. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining eye”) during the big hit game, it is possible to continuously teach the player that the information has been “winning with two effect symbols”. In addition, characters “normal bonus” are displayed in a lower area of the display screen, and images related to festivals such as a fan and a drum are displayed around the screen.

[6 rounds]
In FIG. 53 (B): In the case of winning in “6 round probable change symbol 1” or “6 round probable change design 2”, a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the sixth round. If this challenge production succeeds, it will enter the fireworks rush, which is a state with a high probability time reduction. Specifically, an effect in which a female character utters a dialogue such as “Aim for V attacker” is executed. Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player a game property such as aiming at the second variable winning device 31. Also, in the sixth round in the case of winning with the “six-round probable variable symbol 1” or the “six-round probable variable symbol 2”, the second variable prize device 31 is opened long, so that the profit from the pitching is the same as in the previous round. Is obtained. Further, in the sixth round in the case of winning the “six-round probable change symbol 1” or the “six-round probable change symbol 2”, the probable-change area solenoid 99 operates to open the probable-change area long, so that the second variable winning device 31 When the game ball enters the game ball, the game ball is guided by the probable area blade member 31d and passes through the probable area.

  In FIG. 53 (C): When the player continues to hit the right and the game ball enters the second variable prize device 31 and passes through the certain variable region, a V mark is displayed on the upper right of the display screen. Blessing effect is performed.

[At the end of the role]
In FIG. 53 (D): at the timing when the big hit game ends, a big role end effect of teaching the internal state to be shifted thereafter is executed. In the illustrated example, character information "Fireworks rush rush!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to instruct the player to shift to the fireworks rush in the “high probability time reduced state” as a privilege after the end of the big hit game.

[Director middle production (special bonus production)]
FIGS. 54 and 55 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of a large role production effect executed during the big hit game in the case of the “16 round probable changing symbol”.

(At the beginning of the role)
In FIG. 54 (A): When the big hit game is started, a large role effect with a content corresponding to the progress of the game “big hit” is executed. Specifically, at the bottom of the screen, a title character of "special bonus" indicating that it is a 16-round jackpot game is displayed, and in the center of the screen, an image of a female character performing a peace sign over a horse is displayed. Is displayed. At the lower right corner of the screen, an effect symbol (here, 7 effect symbol) corresponding to the current winning symbol is displayed. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining eye”) even during the big hit game, it is possible to continuously teach the information that “the player has won with the seven effect symbols” to the player.

[1 round]
In FIG. 54B, when the first round of the big hit game is started, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND1” is displayed on the screen. Further, after the title character displayed at the bottom of the screen disappears, the acquired point display section PT is displayed.

[Acquired points display]
The acquired point display part PT is displayed by the payout control device 92 when a game ball enters the first or second large winning opening (the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31) during a big hit. This is an area in which the total number of paid out game balls (prize balls obtained by the player) is displayed as obtained points. As described above, 15 game balls are paid out each time one game ball enters the first special winning opening or the second special winning opening. It is updated at intervals of 15 according to the entry of the ball.

  In the first round of the jackpot game, the first variable winning device 30 operates to open the first big winning opening long. At the start of the first round, the game balls have not yet entered the first special winning opening, and the total number of the game balls paid out is 0. Therefore, “00000 pt” is displayed in the acquired point display section PT. Is displayed.

[1 round (in progress)]
In FIG. 54 (C): the first round of the jackpot game is in progress. Further, “00105pt” is displayed on the acquired point display section PT. By this display, it is possible to inform the player that 105 gaming balls have been paid out by the ball entry into the special winning opening (the first winning opening) by this time.

[1 round (closed)]
In FIG. 54 (D): the opening time of the first round of the jackpot game has ended, and the game has shifted to the closing time. A horse character is displayed during the opening time, but a panda character is displayed during the closing time.

  At this time, “00150pt” is displayed on the acquired point display section PT. By this display, it is possible to inform the player that 150 game balls have been paid out by entering the special winning opening (first winning opening) during one round.

[6 rounds]
In FIG. 55 (E): In the case of winning in the “16th round variable design”, a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the sixth round. If this challenge production succeeds, it will enter the fireworks rush, which is a state with a high probability time reduction. Specifically, an effect is performed in which the hermit character speaks, for example, "Aim for V attacker!" Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player a game property such as aiming at the second variable winning device 31. Also, in the sixth round in the case of winning in the "16 rounds with a variable probability symbol", the second variable prize device 31 is opened long, so that the profit from the ball is obtained as in the previous rounds. Further, in the sixth round in the case of winning the 16-round probability change symbol, the probability change area solenoid 99 operates so as to open the probability change area long, so that when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31, the game ball is The blade is guided by the probable area blade member 31d and passes through the probable area.

  At this time, “00720pt” is displayed on the acquired point display section PT. By this display, it is possible to inform the player that 720 game balls have been paid out by this time by the ball entry into the special winning opening (the first special winning opening or the second special winning opening).

  In FIG. 55 (F): When the player continues to hit the right and the game ball enters the second variable prize device 31 and passes through the certainty variable area, a V mark is displayed next to the female character that jumps up. The displayed blessing effect is performed.

  In addition, “00825pt” is displayed on the acquired point display section PT. By this display, it is possible to inform the player that 825 game balls have been paid out by this time by the ball entry into the special winning opening (the first special winning opening or the second special winning opening).

[16 rounds]
In FIG. 55 (G): After this, the jackpot game proceeds smoothly, and when the game proceeds to the final 16 rounds, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND16” is displayed on the screen, and the jackpot game is being played. Is displayed.

  At the end of the 16th round, “02160pt” is displayed on the end point display section PT. By this display, during the big hit game, it is possible to inform the player that a total of 2160 game balls have been paid out by entering the big winning opening (the first big winning opening or the second big winning opening). it can.

When a predetermined number (for example, 10) of balls (prizes) are received in all rounds, the total number of payouts is 2400, but the number of winnings in a certain round is less than the predetermined number. If there is a prize, or if a prize is generated in excess of a predetermined number, the total number of payouts can be variously changed.
Here, an example in which the total number of payouts is displayed is shown. However, the number of payouts expected to be obtained in the big hit game = 2400, such as “0015 / 2400pt”, is displayed in the end acquisition point display section PT. The number may be displayed as a denominator, and the total number of payouts up to the present may be displayed in the numerator.

[At the end of the role]
In FIG. 55 (E): at the timing when the big hit game ends, a big win end effect of teaching the internal state to be shifted thereafter is executed. In the illustrated example, character information "Fireworks rush rush!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to instruct the player to shift to the fireworks rush in the “high probability time reduced state” as a privilege after the end of the big hit game.

[Coast mode production example]
FIG. 56 is a continuous diagram illustrating an effect example of the coast mode. This shore mode is a jackpot game after the end of the jackpot game in the case of "12 round normal symbol", or when the game ball does not pass through the probability variable area during the jackpot game that corresponds to any probable pattern. The mode is shifted to after the end of. The coast mode is a “low probability time reduction state”. Hereinafter, the flow of the production will be described step by step.

  In FIG. 56 (A): For example, after the end of the big hit game in “12 round normal symbols”, the first variation display is performed, so that the variation symbols of the effect symbols are displayed in the “shore mode” state. I have. The background image in the coast mode is a background image with a motif of an image such as "sand beach", "sea", or "mountain" in order to express the impression of healing, which is the concept of the coast mode. In the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed.

  In FIG. 56B, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed (“1”-“1”-“5”) because the current fluctuation (at the time of non-winning) is completed. The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).

  (C) in FIG. 56: Then, the next fluctuation is started. This coast mode ends when the special symbol fluctuates 100 times without a winning result being obtained. When the coast mode ends, the mode is shifted to the normal mode in the low probability non-time shortening state. If a winning result is obtained in the coast mode, a reach effect is executed and a big hit occurs.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above-described effects will be described. The above-described variable display effects, reach effects, notice effects, memorized display effects, medium role effects, and the like are all controlled through control processing executed by the effect control device 124.

[Control processing in effect control device]
The effect control device 124 executes the program stored in the control ROM 180 as described above, so that the liquid crystal display 42, the lamps 46 to 53, and the speakers 54, 55, 56 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "speaker"). ) And effects using a playback device such as a motor. The flow of the effect control can be broadly divided into two stages of “overall control (reproduction instruction)” and “individual control (reproduction control)”.

  For example, the production control CPU 126 first receives a production command (hereinafter, referred to as a “production command”) transmitted from the main control device 70, and sends an effect corresponding to the content of the production command to each playback device. The reproduction is indirectly instructed (overall control). Next, the effect control CPU 126 generates instruction data in which the content of the instruction is converted into a more specific expression suitable for each playback device, and a control device that relays between the effect control CPU 126 and each playback device (hereinafter, “relay”). (Called "device") (individual control).

  Here, the relay device is, specifically, a VDP 152 that relays between the effect control CPU 126 and the liquid crystal display 42, a voice IC 134 that relays between the effect control CPU 126 and the speakers 54, 55, 56, an effect control. It refers to an LED driver that relays between the CPU 126 and the lamps 46 to 53, an SMC (serial control controller) that relays between the effect control CPU 126 and various motors, and the like. Each relay device controls each playback device based on the instruction data transmitted from the effect control CPU 126, so that the effect reproduction (screen display, audio output, lamp light emission, movable body displacement, etc.) using each device in the pachinko machine 1 is performed. ) Is realized.

  In this way, the effect control CPU 126 selectively uses resources according to the stage of the effect control (overall control, individual control) and exhibits different functions. Therefore, for convenience of description, in the following description, the operation subject when the effect control CPU 126 functions at the stage of overall control (playback instruction) is expressed as “effect control unit 126”, and the effect control CPU 126 is individually controlled. The operation subject when functioning at the control (reproduction control) stage is referred to as “reproduction control unit 126”.

(Direction control processing)
FIG. 57 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of an effect control process performed by the effect control unit 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control unit 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, several tens μs to several ms) during the execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes a command receiving process (step S400), an operation storage effect management process (step S401), an effect symbol management process (step S402), a display output process (step S404), a lamp drive process (step S406), and a voice output. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S408), effect random number updating processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, a basic flow of the effect control process will be described along with each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control unit 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU72. Further, the effect control unit 126 analyzes the received effect commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 for each type. The effect commands transmitted from the main control CPU 72 include, for example, a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when the number of operation memories is increased (a special symbol), an effect command when the number of operation memories is decreased, and a start opening prize sound. Control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, fluctuation pattern command, fluctuation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, number of rounds command, error notification command, jackpot end effect command, number cut counter value command , A fluctuation pattern destination determination command, a stop display time end command, a probable variable area passing command, a special winning opening winning designation command, a normal winning opening winning designation command, and the like.

  Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control unit 126 controls the execution of the memory display effect and the prefetch notice effect using the markers M1 and M2. The details of the operation storage effect management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control unit 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol, and performs the opening / closing operation of the first variable prize device 30 or the second variable prize device 31. And control the content of the production. In this process, the effect control unit 126 selects an effect pattern of various announcement effects (an announcement effect before reach, an announcement effect after reach, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S404: In the display output process, first, the effect control unit 126 instructs the reproduction control unit 126 to effect contents (for example, the number of operation memories, the operation memory effect pattern numbers, and the prefetch notice of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). Various messages for instructing an effect pattern number, a variable effect pattern number, a change notice effect number, a background pattern number, an output of the number of acquired balls, and the like are transmitted. In response to this, the reproduction control unit 126 gives a specific drawing instruction to the VDP 152 based on the content of the received message, and controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42.

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, first, the effect control unit 126 transmits various messages for instructing the effect contents to the reproduction control unit 126. In response to this, the reproduction control unit 126 relays the LED driver based on the content of the received message, outputs a specific drive signal to the driver IC 132, and drives the lamps 46 to 53 (lighting or extinguishing, blinking, Luminance gradation change).

  Step S408: In the next audio output processing, first, the effect control unit 126 instructs the reproduction control unit 126 on the effect contents (for example, effect pattern number or the like). In response to this, the reproduction control unit 126 specifically specifies output contents (such as a song number and volume in track units) to the audio IC 134 based on the instruction, and outputs sounds (sound effects, BGM, etc.) corresponding to the production contents. ) Is output from the speakers 54, 55 and 56.

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

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, first, the effect control unit 126 sets a control table for instructing the reproduction control unit 126 on the effect contents. In response to this, the reproduction control unit 126 instructs the SMC on specific control contents based on the contents of the set control table. Further, the SMC creates an operation pattern of the movable body 40f based on an instruction from the reproduction control unit 126, outputs a control signal corresponding to this to the driver IC 132, and drives the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates using the movable body motor 57 as a drive source, and performs an effect in synchronization with the display of an image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.

  Through the above-described effect control processing, the effect control unit 126 can control the contents of the effect in the pachinko machine 1 as a whole. Next, the contents of the operation storage effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

(Operation memory effect management process)
FIG. 58 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the operation storage effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described according to a procedure example.

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

  Step S702: The effect control unit 126 executes an effect selection process when the number of operation memories is increased. In this process, the effect control unit 126 selects an effect for displaying the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  Step S704: The production control unit 126 confirms whether or not a production command at the time of decreasing the number of operation memories has been received from the main control CPU 72. More specifically, the effect control unit 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and checks whether or not the effect command when the number of operation memories is reduced is stored. When it is confirmed that the effect command at the time of decreasing the operation memory number is stored (step S704: Yes), the effect control unit 126 executes step S706. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time of decreasing the number of operation memories is not stored (step S704: No), the effect control unit 126 does not execute step S706.

Step S706: The effect control unit 126 executes an effect selection process when the number of operation memories is reduced. In this processing, the effect control unit 126 changes the effect of sliding the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and changes the marker corresponding to the lottery element consumed by the internal lottery from the display area X1 before the change. An effect to be moved to the middle display area X2 is selected. In addition, the effect which erases the memory marker moved to the display area X2 during the change at the end of the change is selected.
After completing the above procedure, the effect control unit 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 57).

[Direction symbol management processing]
FIG. 59 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol variation pre-process (step S502), an effect symbol variation process (step S504), an effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and a variable prize device operation. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of the process (step S508). Hereinafter, a basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along with each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control unit 126 selects a jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control unit 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, in a situation where the fluctuation display effect has not yet started, the effect control unit 126 selects the effect symbol change pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol change pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control unit 126 selects the effect symbol changing process (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol changing process has been completed, The effect symbol stop displaying process (step S506) is selected as the next jump destination. The variable prize device operating process (step S508) is performed when the big hit variable prize device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 24) is selected in the main control CPU 72 or the small hit variable prize device management process (FIG. 24). (Step S6000) is selected as a jump destination. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

  Step S502: In the effect design change pre-processing, the effect control unit 126 performs an operation of setting conditions for starting a change display effect using the effect symbol. In this process, the effect control unit 126 selects the contents of the reach effect in accordance with various conditions (lottery result, winning type, change pattern, etc.), or effects patterns for the notice effect (other than the pre-read notice effect pattern). Or a pre-reach notice pattern, a post-reach notice pattern, etc.). In addition, the effect control unit 126 also controls a demonstration effect when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S504: In the effect symbol fluctuation process, the effect control unit 126 generates control information to instruct the reproduction control unit 126 as needed. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of the variable display effect using the effect symbol, the effect control unit 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and according to the result. The control information of the effect contents (button effect) is instructed to the reproduction control unit 126.

  Step S506: In the process of displaying the effect symbol stop display, the effect control unit 126 controls the content of the stop display effect using the effect symbol and the moving image in a mode according to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control unit 126 instructs the reproduction control unit 126 to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the reproduction control unit 126 actually ends the variable display effect that has been executed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 and executes the stop display effect. As a result, the stop display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be directed to the player (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) (symbol effect execution). means). At the time of a small hit, the stop display effect can be executed in a manner similar to or similar to the loss.

  Step S508: In the processing at the time of operating the variable winning device, the effect control unit 126 controls the effect content during the small hit or the big hit (special game effect executing means). In this process, the effect control unit 126 selects the contents of the large-scale effect in accordance with various conditions (for example, winning types). For example, in the case of a 16-round jackpot, the effect control unit 126 selects a 16-round large role effect pattern as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and instructs the reproduction control unit 126 thereto. As a result, the image of the large role effect is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the effect content changes as the round progresses.

(Pre-processing of effect design fluctuation)
FIG. 60 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the effect symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, description will be given along a procedure example.

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

  Step S602: The production control unit 126 executes a demonstration selection process. In this processing, effect control unit 126 selects a demonstration effect pattern. The demonstration effect pattern defines the contents of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

  After completing the above procedure, the effect control unit 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control unit 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 57) and the lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 57), the content of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern. Control.

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

  Step S604: The effect control unit 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control unit 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and checks whether or not the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the non-winning lottery result command is stored (Yes), the effect control unit 126 executes Step S612. Conversely, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not stored (No), the effect control unit 126 executes step S606. It should be noted that it is also possible to confirm whether or not the current fluctuation is out of date based on a fluctuation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. That is, if the current fluctuation pattern command corresponds to a normal deviation or a deviation reach variation, it can be determined that the current fluctuation is a deviation. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current fluctuation is out of order.

  Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (losing) (step S604: No), then the effect control unit 126 checks whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control unit 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and checks whether the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored (Yes), the effect control unit 126 executes Step S610. Conversely, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is not stored (No), only the lottery result command at the time of the small hit remains, so in this case, the effect control unit 126 executes step S608. . It is also possible to confirm whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit, based on a fluctuation pattern command or a stop symbol command. That is, if the current fluctuation pattern command corresponds to the big hit change, it can be determined that the current fluctuation is a big hit. If the current stop symbol command corresponds to the big hit symbol, it can be determined that the current fluctuation is a big hit.

  Step S608: The effect control unit 126 executes a small hit variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control unit 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the fluctuation pattern commands (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control unit 126 refers to an effect pattern selection table (not shown) and selects the effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. Can be. The effect pattern numbers may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern commands, or a plurality of effect pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

  Further, when the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control unit 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the fluctuation schedule (variation time and reach type and reach generation timing) of the effect symbol corresponding to the fluctuating effect pattern number at that time. The stop display mode and the like are determined. Note that the types of effect symbols determined here all correspond to “combinations of symbols at the time of small hits”.

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

  Step S610: The production control unit 126 executes a big hit variation production pattern selection process. In this processing, the effect control unit 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the fluctuation pattern commands (for example, “E0H00H” to “F0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. In the big hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each big hit stop symbol.

  In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. That is, when the effect control unit 126 confirms that there is a deviation in step S604 (Yes), the effect control unit 126 executes step S612.

  Step S612: The production control unit 126 executes a variation production pattern selection process at the time of loss. In this processing, the effect control unit 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of a loss based on the fluctuation pattern commands (for example, “A0H00H” to “A6H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern number at the time of a loss is classified into “normal loss fluctuation”, “time loss fluctuation”, “reach fluctuation”, and the like, and a detailed reach fluctuation pattern is defined for “reach fluctuation”. Which effect pattern number the effect control unit 126 selects is determined by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  When the effect pattern number at the time of the loss is selected, the effect control unit 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and changes the effect design schedule corresponding to the fluctuating effect pattern number at that time (variable time, whether or not reach occurs, whether or not reach occurs). In this case, the reach type and reach occurrence timing) and the mode of the stop display (for example, “7” − “2” − “4”) are determined.

  After performing any one of the above-described steps S608, S610, and S612, effect control unit 126 next executes step S614.

  Step S614: The effect control unit 126 executes a notice selecting process (notification effect executing means). In this process, the effect control unit 126 selects, by lottery, the content of the notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect. The content of the announcement effect is determined based on, for example, the result of the internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time reduction state). The notice effect is to notify the player of the possibility that a reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or to notify that the game may end up with a big hit. Therefore, the selection ratio of the announcement effect is set low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the announcement effect is set relatively high at the time of winning in order to increase the player's expectation.

  After completing the above procedure, the effect control unit 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). Thus, in the subsequent effect symbol change processing (step S504 in FIG. 59), the variable display effect and the stop display effect are executed based on the actually selected variable effect pattern (effect effecting means). A notice effect is executed based on the notice effect pattern.

[Processing when the variable winning device is activated]
FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing an example of the configuration of the variable winning device operation-time process. The processing at the time of the operation of the variable winning device is a subroutine of an execution selection process (step S902), a process before the operation of the variable winning device (step S904), a process during the operation of the variable winning device (step S906), and a process after the operation of the variable winning device (step S908). (Program module) group. First, a basic flow of the variable winning device operation processing will be described along each processing.

  Step S902: In the execution selecting process, the effect control unit 126 selects a jump destination of a process to be executed next (any of steps S904 to S908) from the “jump table”. For example, the effect control unit 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable prize device operation process at the stack pointer as the return address.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, in a situation where the pre-operation of the variable winning device has not been started yet, the effect control unit 126 selects the pre-operation of the variable winning device (step S904) as the next jump destination. If the variable prize device operation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control unit 126 selects the variable prize device operation processing (step S906) as the next jump destination. Furthermore, if the processing during the operation of the variable winning device has been completed, the effect control unit 126 selects the post-operation processing of the variable winning device (step S908) as the next jump destination.

  Step S904: In the pre-operation processing of the variable winning device, the effect control unit 126 executes a process of selecting the contents of the effect to be executed during the big hit game or the small hit game. For example, in the case of winning in the “12 round normal symbol”, a process of selecting an effect in which the ally character defeats the enemy character is executed. Further, in the case of winning in the “12 round probable variable patterns 1 and 2”, a process of selecting an effect in which the ally character wins the enemy character is executed. Further, in the case of winning in the “six-round probable change symbols 1 and 2”, a process of selecting a normal bonus effect is executed. Furthermore, in the case of winning in the "16 round probable change symbol", a process of selecting a special bonus effect is executed.

  Step S906: In the process during the operation of the variable winning device, the effect control unit 126 generates control information to instruct the reproduction control unit 126 as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of the big hit effect, the effect control unit 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and the effect content (button effect) according to the result. Is instructed to the reproduction control unit 126. In the variable prize device in-operation processing, when a certain-variable-area passing command is received during the big hit game, an effect indicating that a V prize has occurred (an effect shown in (J) in FIG. 50) is selected. On the other hand, when the process is executed and the probability variable area passing command is not received during the big hit game, an effect indicating that no V winning has occurred (the effect shown in (N) in FIG. 51) is selected. Execute

Step S908: In the post-operation processing of the variable winning device, the effect control unit 126 executes an effect of transmitting the transition destination mode to the player during the end time of the variable winning device. For example, the effect control unit 126 executes a shore mode entry effect or a fireworks rush entry effect depending on whether or not a winning symbol or a probable area has passed. Specifically, when a probability variable area passing command is received during the jackpot game, a process of selecting an effect indicating the entry into the fireworks rush (the effect illustrated in (K) in FIG. 50 and the like) is executed, and the process of selecting the jackpot is performed. If a certainty variable passage command is not received during the game, a process of selecting an effect (entering shown in (G) in FIG. 49, etc.) indicating entry into the coast mode is executed.
After completing the above procedure, the effect control unit 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (FIG. 59).

As described above, according to the above-described embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) According to the present embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the probable area switch 95 and when a game ball is detected by the outlet switch 198, the special electric motor provided as a common module is provided. The processing for confirming the discharge of the accessory is called, and in this processing, the consistency of the number of incoming and outgoing balls in the second variable prize device 31 is confirmed. The code amount of the control program can be reduced as compared with the case where the processing corresponding to the confirmation is individually implemented.

(2) According to the present embodiment, a byte counter subtraction process for subtracting 1 from the target value and a security setting process for performing a process for notifying the occurrence of an abnormality are provided in a versatile configuration. In the process of the special electric auditors discharge confirmation process for confirming the consistency of the number of incoming and outgoing balls in the device 31, these generalized processes are called and executed. The code amount of the control program can be reduced as compared with the case where the components are individually mounted.

  The present invention can be implemented in various modifications without being limited to the above-described embodiment. The effects and various numerical values described in the embodiment are merely examples, and are not limited to the contents described above.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example of the gaming machine (one type) that shifts to the high-probability state after the end of the big hit game by passing through the probability change area during the big hit game has been described. A big hit game is executed when a special area is passed through the game machine, and a gaming machine (one type and two types mixed type) which shifts to a time reduction state after the end of the big hit game may be used. In that case, if the “probable area” in the embodiment is replaced with a “specific area” (an area that generates two hits), the configuration relating to the consistency check of the number of incoming and outgoing balls in the embodiment can be applied as it is. is there.

  In the above-described embodiment, a description has been given of an example of a gaming machine that is not provided with a function of changing a setting relating to a probability of occurrence (winning probability) in a lottery. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a function of changing a setting is provided. Gaming machine. In a gaming machine equipped with a setting change function, the capacity of other programs is tighter than that of a gaming machine not equipped with a setting change function by the program in which the setting change function is implemented. Therefore, if the configuration of the embodiment is applied to a gaming machine equipped with a setting change function, it is possible to more effectively reduce the code amount of the control program.

  In the embodiment described above, the special ball entering and exiting ball counter is incremented by one when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31 (detected by the second count switch 85), and the ball is discharged from the second variable winning device 31. The above description has been given of an example in which the special power input / output ball counter is decremented by 1 according to (detection by the probability variable area switch 95 or the discharge port switch 198). While the counter is decremented by one, the special power input / output ball counter may be incremented by one with the discharge from the second variable winning device 31. In other words, in the consistency check processing of the number of incoming and outgoing balls using the special power incoming and outgoing ball counter, it is only necessary to confirm the difference between the number of incoming balls into the second variable winning device 31 and the number of discharged balls from the second variable winning device 31. .

  The images given in the other effects are only examples, and these can be appropriately modified. In addition, the structure, board configuration, specific numerical values, and the like of the pachinko machine 1 are preferred examples including those shown in the drawings, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Gaming area 20 Starting gate 31 Second variable winning device 31b Second big winning opening 31e Positive variable area hole 31f Outlet 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 First special symbol display Device 35 Second special symbol display device 34a First special symbol operation memory lamp 35a Second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game status display device 42 Liquid crystal display 45 Production switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
85 Second count switch 95 Probable change area switch 198 Discharge port switch

Claims (2)

When a lottery opportunity occurs during the game, lottery execution means for executing a predetermined lottery,
When the predetermined lottery is executed, a symbol display means for variably displaying a symbol for a predetermined variable time and then stopping and displaying the symbol,
When a symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning mode, a special game execution means for executing a special game,
A game ball can be entered during the execution of the special game, and a variable ball-in device that ejects the entered game ball through any one of a predetermined specific area and an outlet,
Ball entry detection means for detecting that a game ball has entered the variable ball entry device,
Specific area passage detection means for detecting that a game ball has passed the predetermined specific area,
An outlet passage detecting means for detecting that a game ball has passed through the outlet,
A gaming machine comprising: a discharge confirmation unit that commonly performs counting at both the time of detection by the specific area passage detection unit and the time of detection by the discharge opening passage detection unit. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
If the subtraction target value is not 0, 1 is subtracted from the subtraction target value;
The discharge confirmation means,
A gaming machine wherein counting is performed using the value subtracted by the subtracting means.