JP2020163079A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine which can execute a performance with high amusement while suppressing an amount of data required for execution of a performance.SOLUTION: A game machine 1 variable displays patterns and then stop displays patterns indicating a determination result, when it is determined whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to a player. The game machine 1 displays a first performance image in both periods of a variable display period in which patterns are variable displayed, and a non-variable display period in which patterns are not variable displayed, in the variable display period, a second performance image which is set based on a variable pattern of patterns is combined with the first performance image and is displayed with the first performance image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that produces an effect based on a determination as to whether or not to execute a special game.

For example, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, when a game ball wins a prize at the starting port, it is determined whether or not to execute a special game that is advantageous to the player, and after the symbols are displayed in a variable manner, a symbol showing the result of the above determination is displayed. Stop is displayed. Among this type of gaming machine, there are those that perform various effects such as a step-up notice effect during the variable display of the above-mentioned symbol (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-144115

By the way, in the conventional game machine, it is necessary to increase the amount of data required to execute the production in order to increase the variation of the production in order to improve the interest, and this causes the manufacturing cost of the game machine. There was a problem that it was bulky.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine capable of performing a highly interesting production while suppressing the amount of data required to execute the production.

The gaming machine of the first invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is
Judgment means for determining whether or not to execute a special game that is advantageous to the player,
When the determination is made, a symbol display control means for causing a predetermined symbol display means to display the symbol in a variable manner and then stopping and displaying a symbol indicating the result of the determination.
It is characterized by including an effect control means for controlling the execution of the effect based on the result of the determination.

According to the present invention, it is possible to carry out a highly interesting production.

Front view of game machine 1 Front view of game board 2 Enlarged view of the main display 40 in FIG. A block diagram showing a configuration example of a control device included in the game machine 1. Explanatory drawing for explaining the game state of game machine 1 Explanatory drawing for explaining the flow of production in a normal game state Screen view showing a concrete example of the effect accompanying the variable display of the first special symbol (No. 1) Screen view showing a concrete example of the effect accompanying the variable display of the first special symbol (Part 2) Explanatory drawing for explaining production data Time chart to explain special fluctuation production Screen view showing a concrete example of special fluctuation production Explanatory drawing for explaining the storage area of a main RAM 83 and the information stored in each storage area. Flow chart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the main control board 80 Detailed flowchart of the sensor detection process in step S2 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of the pre-determination process in steps S211, 219 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of special symbol processing in step S3 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of the jackpot determination process in step S308 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of the fluctuation pattern selection process in step S309 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of special figure stop processing in step S317 of FIG. A flowchart illustrating a game state setting process executed at the end of a jackpot game on the main control board 80. Flow chart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the sub-control board 90 Detailed flowchart of command reception processing in step S10 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of the fluctuation start command reception process in step S16 of FIG. 22 Detailed flowchart of the variation effect pattern setting process in step S163 of FIG. A flowchart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the image / acoustic control board 100. Detailed flowchart of the image display control process in step S71 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of fluctuation effect start processing in step S715 of FIG.

Hereinafter, a gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine) 1 according to an embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

[Configuration example of game machine 1]
First, a configuration example of the game machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. Here, FIG. 1 is a front view of the game machine 1, and FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 2. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the game machine 1 includes a game machine frame 30 and a game board 2 mounted in the game machine frame 30. The game machine frame 30 includes a front frame 31 having a decorative surface, a main body frame for attaching the game board 2 and the like, and an outer frame for fixing the game machine 1 to the island equipment of the hall. There is. The front frame 31 supports a glass plate arranged in parallel with the game board 2 at a predetermined distance, and the glass plate and the game board 2 form a game area 3 into which the game ball can flow down. ing.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the front frame 31 has a launch handle 32 for launching a game ball, an upper plate 33 for storing a game ball supplied to a launcher (not shown), and an upper plate. A lower plate 34 for storing game balls that cannot be stored in 33 is provided. When the player grasps the launch handle 32 and rotates it clockwise, the game ball stored in the upper plate 33 is guided to the launcher and is launched with a launch intensity according to the rotation angle of the launch handle 32. The launched game ball moves along the rail member 4 located on the left side of the game area 3 and then is guided to the upper position of the game area 3 and comes into contact with a game nail, a windmill, or the like provided in the game area 3. As a result, the game area 3 flows down along the game board 2 while changing the moving direction.

A ball return prevention piece 6 is provided at the end of the rail member 4, and the ball return prevention piece 6 prevents the game ball once entering the game area 3 from returning to the launcher side. Further, a stop button is provided at a position close to the launch handle 32, and the player can temporarily launch the game ball by operating this stop button without returning the launch handle 32 to the initial posture. It is possible to stop it.

When the player performs "left-handed" by rotating the firing handle 32 by a small rotation angle, the game ball is launched with a relatively weak firing intensity, and the game ball flows down the left game area 3L. On the other hand, when the player performs "right-handed" by rotating the firing handle 32 by a large rotation angle, the game ball is fired with a relatively strong firing intensity, and the game ball is located on the upper right side of the center decoration body 10. After moving along the rail member 4, it flows down the right game area 3R.

The passage path of the game ball in the left game area 3L is provided with a first starting port 21, a second starting port 22, an opening / closing member 23, and three general winning ports 24 as accessories related to winning and determination ( (See FIG. 2). Further, in the passage path of the game ball in the right game area 3R, the second start opening 22, the opening / closing member 23, one general winning opening 24, the gate 25, and the first large winning opening are used as accessories related to winning and determination. 26, an opening / closing member 27, a second large winning opening 28, and an opening / closing member 29 are provided (see FIG. 2).

In the process of flowing down the game area 3 along the game board 2, the game ball launched from the launching device has the first starting port 21, the second starting port 22, the general winning opening 24, the first large winning opening 26, and the like. You may win a prize in any of the second major winning openings 28. In this case, a predetermined number of prize balls according to the winning place are paid out to the upper plate 33 or the lower plate 34. The game balls that did not win any of the prizes are discharged from the game area 3 through the discharge port formed at the lower end of the game board 2.

A center decorative body 10 is provided in the opening formed in the center of the game board 2. The center decoration body 10 includes a stage portion 11 having a game ball rolling surface on which the game ball can roll, and a warp portion 12 having a warp inlet and a warp outlet at both ends. A game ball flowing down the left game area 3L may enter the warp section 12 from the warp entrance, and the game ball is discharged from the warp exit and guided to the stage section 11. At the center positions on the left and right sides of the stage portion 11, a guide groove is formed in which the game ball rolling on the stage portion 11 is dropped toward the first starting port 21. Therefore, the game ball guided to the stage portion 11 via the warp portion 12 wins a prize at the first starting port 21 as compared with the game ball that flows down the left game area 3L without passing through the warp portion 12. easy.

The first starting port 21 is a starting area that is always open. The second starting port 22 is a starting region that is normally closed when the opening / closing member 23 as an electric accessory is not operating, and is opened by operating the opening / closing member 23. In the game machine 1, when the game ball wins the first start port 21 (or the second start port 22), it is determined whether or not to execute a special game (big hit game) that is advantageous to the player. Then, on the first special symbol display 41 (or the second special symbol display 42), which will be described later, the symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and the symbols (big hit symbols or lost symbols) indicating the result of the above determination are stopped and displayed. Here, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed, a jackpot game that opens the first jackpot 26 or the second jackpot 28 is executed.

In the following description, the determination executed in response to the winning of the game ball for the first starting opening 21 is referred to as "first special symbol determination", and is executed in response to the winning of the game ball for the second starting opening 22. Judgment is referred to as "second special symbol determination", and these are collectively referred to as "special symbol determination".

The first large winning opening 26 is a special winning area that is opened according to the result of the special symbol determination. An opening / closing member 27, which is a plate for opening / closing the first winning opening 26, is provided at the opening of the first winning opening 26. The first large winning opening 26 is normally closed by the opening / closing member 27. On the other hand, when a predetermined jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 (or the second special symbol display 42), the opening / closing member 27 is operated to open the first prize opening 26. A jackpot game is executed. During this jackpot game, there are a plurality of long open round games in which the opening / closing member 27 maintains the open posture (see FIG. 2) that opens the first prize opening 26 and then returns to the closed posture that closes the first prize opening 26. It is done once. In each long open round game in which the first special winning opening 26 is opened, in the present embodiment, 10 game balls are won in the first large winning opening 26, or the first large winning opening 26 is opened. It continues until 25 seconds have passed since it was done.

The second large winning opening 28 is a special winning area that is opened according to the result of the special symbol determination. An opening / closing member 29, which is a blade member for opening / closing the second special winning opening 28, is provided at the opening of the second special winning opening 28. The second prize opening 28 is normally closed by the opening / closing member 29. On the other hand, when a predetermined jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 (or the second special symbol display 42), the opening / closing member 29 is operated to open the second special winning opening 28. A jackpot game is executed. During this jackpot game, there are a plurality of long open round games in which the opening / closing member 29 maintains an open posture (see FIG. 2) that opens the second prize opening 28 and then returns to a closed posture that closes the second prize opening 28. It is done once. In each long open round game in which the second special winning opening 28 is opened, in the present embodiment, 10 game balls are won in the second large winning opening 28, or the second large winning opening 28 is opened. It continues until 25 seconds have passed since it was done.

In this way, during the jackpot game, a plurality of long-opening round games in which the first prize opening 26 (or the second winning opening 28) is opened for a long time are performed, so that the player hits right during the jackpot game. By doing so, more prize balls can be obtained than when the jackpot game is not performed.

For convenience of explanation, FIG. 2 shows an open posture in which the opening / closing members 27 and 29 open the large winning openings 26 and 28 when the effect symbol is variablely displayed on the display screen 70 of the image display device 7. Although the state shown in the figure is shown, the opening / closing members 27 and 29 are not actually in the open posture during the variable display of the effect symbol. Further, in the long opening round game, since either one of the first large winning opening 26 and the second large winning opening 28 is used, in reality, these large winning openings are opened at the same time as shown in FIG. There is nothing. Further, which of the first big prize opening 26 and the second big winning opening 28 is used for the big hit game is set in advance according to the type of big hit.

An opening / closing member 23 (see FIG. 2) is arranged close to the second starting port 22. The opening / closing member 23 can change its posture between a closed posture in which the opening / closing member 23 closes the second starting port 22 and an open posture in which the second starting port 22 is opened (see FIG. 2).

The second starting port 22 is normally closed by the opening / closing member 23. On the other hand, when the game ball hit right by the player passes through the gate 25, the prize ball is not paid out, but it is determined whether or not to open the second starting port 22. Here, when it is determined that the second starting port 22 is opened, the opening / closing member 23 maintains the open posture for a predetermined time and then returns to the closed posture a predetermined number of times. As described above, the second starting port 22 is in a state in which it is difficult for the game ball to pass when the opening / closing member 23 is not operating, whereas the second starting port 22 is in a state in which the game ball is easily passed by operating the opening / closing member 23. Become.

In the following description, the determination executed on the condition that the game ball passes through the gate 25 is referred to as "ordinary symbol determination".

The general winning opening 24 is always open like the first starting opening 21, and is a winning opening in which a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out by winning a game ball. However, unlike the first starting opening 21 and the like, the determination is not made even if the game ball wins in the general winning opening 24.

[Configuration example of main display 40]
FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the main display 40 in FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the main display 40 includes a first special symbol display 41, a second special symbol display 42, a normal symbol display 43, a first special symbol hold indicator 44, and a second special symbol. It is configured to include a hold indicator 45, a normal figure hold indicator 46, a round indicator 47, a game state indicator 48, a launch direction indicator 49, and the like.

The first special symbol display 41 is configured to have eight LEDs indicated by "ip", and when the first special symbol determination is performed, the symbol is variablely displayed and then the first special symbol is displayed. The determination result of the first special symbol determination is notified by stopping and displaying the symbol indicating the determination result of the determination. Specifically, for example, the above eight LEDs are turned on in order to display the variation of the symbol, and each LED is set for a predetermined fixed time (for example, 0.6) in a combination according to the determination result of the first special symbol determination. The symbol is stopped and displayed by turning it on (for seconds).

The second special symbol display 42 is configured to have eight LEDs indicated by "a to h", and when the second special symbol determination is performed, the symbol is variablely displayed and then the second special symbol is displayed. The determination result of the second special symbol determination is notified by stopping and displaying the symbol indicating the determination result of the determination. Specifically, for example, the above eight LEDs are turned on in order to display the variation of the symbol, and each LED is set for a predetermined fixed time (for example, 0.6) in a combination according to the determination result of the second special symbol determination. The symbol is stopped and displayed by turning it on (for seconds).

The first special symbol display 41 (or the second special symbol display 42) is notified that it is a jackpot as a symbol indicating the determination result of the first special symbol determination (or the second special symbol determination). "Symbol" or "Loss symbol" notifying that it is lost is stopped and displayed. In the game machine 1, a plurality of jackpot symbols different from each other are prepared depending on the type of jackpot, and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed, the first jackpot 26 or the first jackpot 26 or the opening pattern according to the type of the jackpot symbol is used. A big hit game that opens the second big winning opening 28 is performed.

The ordinary symbol display 43 is configured to have two LEDs indicated by "s to t", and when the ordinary symbol determination is performed, the symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then the determination result of the ordinary symbol determination is shown. By stopping and displaying the symbol, the judgment result of the normal symbol determination is notified. Specifically, for example, the above two LEDs are alternately lit to display the fluctuation of the symbol, and each LED is lit for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) in a lighting mode according to the judgment result of the normal symbol determination. The symbol is stopped and displayed by turning it on. Here, when the hit symbol is stopped and displayed, an auxiliary game is performed in which the opening / closing member 23 is operated in an opening pattern according to the current gaming state to open the second starting port 22.

In the following description, the symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 41 and the second special symbol display 42 is referred to as a "special symbol", and the symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 43 is referred to as a "normal symbol". It shall be called. Further, the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 41 is called a "first special symbol", and the special symbol displayed on the second special symbol display 42 is called a "second special symbol". It may be distinguished.

The first special figure hold indicator 44 is configured to have two LEDs indicated by "u to v", and displays the number of holds for the first special symbol determination depending on the lighting mode of these LEDs. The second special figure hold indicator 45 is configured to have two LEDs indicated by "w to x", and displays the number of holds for the second special symbol determination depending on the lighting mode of these LEDs. In the present embodiment, the upper limit of the number of these reservations is set to "4". The normal figure hold indicator 46 is configured to have two LEDs indicated by "q to r", and displays the number of hold for normal symbol determination depending on the lighting mode of these LEDs.

The round display 47 is used in a jackpot game executed in response to a jackpot corresponding to the jackpot symbol as the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. Long open round Displays the number of rounds in the game. The round display 47 includes an LED for 4R, an LED for 6R, an LED for 8R, and an LED for 10R, and when any of these LEDs is turned on, a long opening round is performed. The number of rounds of the game is notified.

The game state display 48 is configured to have three LEDs indicated by "a1 to a3", and displays the game state of the game machine 1 according to the lighting mode of these LEDs. The launch direction indicator 49 is configured to have two LEDs indicated by “y to z”, and displays the launch direction of the game ball according to the lighting mode of these LEDs. That is, it displays whether the player should hit left or right.

[Structure example of the effect means included in the game machine 1]
As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the game board 2 and the front frame 31 have various effects, such as a decorative member 13, a movable decorative member 14, a frame lamp 37, a speaker 38, and an effect display 125. The effect first special figure hold indicator 126, the effect second special figure hold indicator 127, and the like are provided. An image display device 7 is provided behind the game board 2.

The decorative member 13 has a built-in board lamp 5 (see FIG. 4) composed of a plurality of LEDs, and changes the lighting and blinking patterns of each LED and changes the emission color of each LED. By doing so, various effects by light are performed.

The movable decorative member 14 is arranged in front of the image display device 7 and behind the decorative member 13. A plurality of LEDs are built in the movable decorative member 14, and the movable decorative member 14 performs a predetermined effect by the movement and / or light of the movable decorative member 14 itself. In the present embodiment, a predetermined space in which the movable decorative member 14 can operate is provided between the game board 2 and the display screen 70 of the image display device 7, and the movable decorative member 14 is along the display screen 70. It is configured to be able to move up and down. The movable decorative member 14 is usually arranged at an initial position (see FIG. 2) in which most of the movable decorative member 14 is hidden behind the decorative member 13 and only the lower end portion of the movable decorative member 14 is visible. On the other hand, the movable decorative member 14 emits a predetermined amount of light when, for example, an image display device 7 or a speaker 38 is used to perform a notice effect having a relatively high jackpot reliability, or when a jackpot is suggested. It emits light in a pattern and falls to an operating position that covers most of the display screen 70.

The frame lamp 37 is configured to have a plurality of LEDs built in various parts of the front frame 31, and changes the lighting and blinking patterns of each LED and changes the emission color of each LED. Various effects by light are performed.

The image display device 7 is a liquid crystal display device that displays an effect image on the display screen 70, and the player can visually recognize the display screen 70 through an opening formed in the central portion of the game board 2. On the display screen 70, the same number of hold images (hold) as the number of effect symbols, characters and items that notify the determination result of the special symbol determination, and the number of hold of the first special symbol determination (or the second special symbol determination) are displayed. An effect image including various display objects such as an icon) and a variation suggestion image (corresponding icon) suggesting that a variation display of a special symbol is being performed is displayed. The image display device 7 is not limited to the liquid crystal display device as long as it can display the effect image, and may be another image display device such as an EL display device.

The speaker 38 outputs production sounds such as music, sound, and sound effects in synchronization with or asynchronously with the display production performed on the display screen 70 to perform sound production.

The effect display 125 is configured to have two LEDs, displays the symbol in a variable manner according to the variable display of the special symbol and the effect symbol, and determines the special symbol in accordance with the stop display of the special symbol and the effect symbol. The symbol that notifies the judgment result of is stopped and displayed. The effect display 125 notifies the determination result of the special symbol determination according to the combination of lighting / extinguishing of each LED and the lighting color.

The first special figure holding indicator 126 is configured to have two LEDs, and is the same as the one displayed on the first special drawing holding indicator 44 depending on the combination of lighting and extinguishing of each LED. 1 Display the number of pending special symbol judgments. The second special figure holding indicator 127 is configured to have two LEDs, and is the same as that displayed on the second special drawing holding indicator 45 depending on the combination of turning on and off each LED. 2 Display the number of pending special symbol judgments.

[Structure example of input means provided in game machine 1]
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the front frame 31 is provided with a first effect button 35 and a second effect button 36 as input means that can be input by a player. The first effect button 35 is a push button for inputting operation information by being pressed by the player. The second effect button 36 is a push button for the player to input operation information by grasping the grip portion of the second effect button 36 and pressing the second effect button 36. In the game machine 1, the effect corresponding to the operation of the first effect button 35 and the second effect button 36 may be performed.

Further, the first effect button 35 has a built-in first effect button lamp 352 (see FIG. 4) composed of a plurality of LEDs that emit light of the first effect button 35, and the second effect button 36 has a second effect button 36. A second effect button lamp 362 (see FIG. 4) composed of a plurality of LEDs that emit the effect button 36 is built-in. In the game machine 1, in order to prompt the player to operate the first effect button 35 during the valid period in which the operation of the first effect button 35 is valid, the first effect button lamp 352 is one of a plurality of emission colors. It emits light with the emission color of. Further, the first effect button 35 has a built-in vibration motor 353 composed of an eccentric motor that vibrates the first effect button 35, and in the game machine 1, an effect symbol for notifying a jackpot is displayed on the display screen 70. The jackpot is notified by vibrating the first effect button 35 as it is displayed. Further, in the game machine 1, in order to prompt the player to operate the second effect button 36 during the valid period in which the operation of the second effect button 36 is valid, the second effect button lamp 362 has a plurality of emission colors. It emits light in either emission color.

The configuration of the input means is not limited to the one illustrated in this embodiment, and may be another one. That is, for example, in the present embodiment, the case where the game machine 1 includes two input means will be described, but the number of input means may be one or three or more. Further, not limited to push buttons, a touch panel capable of detecting a player's touch operation, for example, an optical sensor capable of detecting a player's hand held over a display screen 70, and moving it back and forth and left and right to specify a position and direction. It may be another input means such as a joystick, an input means that the player can grasp and change the posture.

[Configuration of control device included in game machine 1]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control device included in the game machine 1.
On the back side of the game board 2, a control device for controlling the operation of the game machine 1 is provided. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the control device of the game machine 1 is a main control board 80 that controls the progress of a game using a game ball, and a sub that comprehensively controls the effect based on information from the main control board 80. It is composed of a control board 90, an image / acoustic control board 100 that controls the effect of images and sounds, a lamp control board 120 that controls the effects of various lamps and movable members, and the like. In the present embodiment, the main control board 80 functions as a game control unit that controls the progress of the game, and the sub control board 90, the image / sound control board 100, and the lamp control board 120 function as the effect control unit that controls the effect. .. The configuration of the control device is not limited to this, and for example, the sub control board 90, the image / acoustic control board 100, and the lamp control board 120 may be composed of one board.

<Configuration example of main control board 80>
The main control board 80 includes a main CPU 81, a main ROM 82, and a main RAM 83. The main CPU 81 performs various arithmetic processes related to the determination and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the program or the like stored in the main ROM 82. The main RAM 83 is used as a storage area for temporarily storing various data used by the main CPU 81 when executing the program, or as a work area for data processing.

The main control board 80 includes a first start port sensor 211, a second start port sensor 221 and a gate sensor 251. A first large winning opening sensor 261 and a second large winning opening sensor 281. The mouth solenoid 222, the first prize-winning port solenoid 262, and the second prize-winning port solenoid 282 are connected. The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment includes four general winning opening sensors 241 corresponding to the four general winning opening 24, but in FIG. 4, for convenience of explanation, only one general winning opening sensor 241 is provided. It is written.

The first start port sensor 211 detects that the game ball has won a prize in the first start port 21, and outputs the detection signal to the main control board 80. The second start port sensor 221 detects that the game ball has won a prize in the second start port 22, and outputs the detection signal to the main control board 80. The gate sensor 251 detects the passage of the game ball through the gate 25 and outputs the detection signal to the main control board 80. The first large winning opening sensor 261 detects that a game ball has won a prize in the first large winning opening 26, and outputs the detection signal to the main control board 80. The second large winning opening sensor 281 detects that the game ball has won a prize in the second large winning opening 28, and outputs the detection signal to the main control board 80. The general winning opening sensor 241 detects that a game ball has won a prize in the general winning opening 24, and outputs the detection signal to the main control board 80.

The second starting port solenoid 222 is an electric solenoid that is connected to the opening / closing member 23 so as to be able to transmit a driving force, and operates the opening / closing member 23 based on a control signal from the main control board 80 to start the second start. Open and close the mouth 22. The first large winning opening solenoid 262 is an electric solenoid that is connected to the opening / closing member 27 so as to be able to transmit a driving force, and operates the opening / closing member 27 based on a control signal from the main control board 80 to operate the first opening / closing member 27. The large winning opening 26 is opened and closed. The second special winning opening solenoid 282 is an electric solenoid that is connected to the opening / closing member 29 so as to be able to transmit a driving force, and operates the opening / closing member 29 based on a control signal from the main control board 80 to operate the second opening / closing member 29. The grand prize opening 28 is opened and closed.

Although not shown in the figure, the game machine 1 controls a drive motor that sends out a game ball from a ball tank provided on the back surface side of the game board 2 to supply the game ball to the upper plate 33 or the lower plate 34. It is equipped with a payout control board. When the main CPU 81 receives a detection signal from the first starting port sensor 211, the second starting port sensor 221 or the first winning opening sensor 261 or the second winning opening sensor 281 or the general winning opening sensor 241, the main CPU 81 receives a detection signal. The payout control board is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won a prize, and the number of prize balls to be paid out is managed based on the information from the payout control board.

Further, the main CPU 81 acquires various random numbers as acquisition information at the timing when the detection signal from the first start port sensor 211 is input, and executes the first special symbol determination using the acquired random numbers. Further, the main CPU 81 acquires various random numbers as acquisition information at the timing when the detection signal from the second start port sensor 221 is input, and executes the second special symbol determination using the acquired random numbers. Here, the various random numbers are specifically a jackpot random number, a symbol random number, a reach random number, and a fluctuation pattern random number.

The jackpot random number is a random number for determining a jackpot or a loss. The symbol random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot (the number of rounds of the jackpot game, the game state after the jackpot game, etc.) when it is determined to be a jackpot. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether to perform the effect with reach or the effect without reach when it is determined that there is a loss. The variation pattern random number is a random number for determining the variation pattern of the special symbol when the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

The main CPU 81 acquires these random numbers at the timing when the game ball wins the first start port 21 (or the second start port 22), and first, the acquired jackpot random numbers are stored in the main ROM 82 as a predetermined random number. It is determined whether or not to execute the jackpot game based on whether or not it matches the numerical value (winning value). Here, when it is determined that the jackpot game is executed based on the fact that the jackpot random number matches the winning value, the symbol random number acquired together with the jackpot random number is stored in the main ROM 82 (compared with the symbol random number). ) The type of jackpot is determined based on which random number value of a predetermined random number matches.

Here, as the types of jackpots, "4R probability variation jackpot" in which the game is controlled in the probability variation game state after executing the jackpot game including four long opening round games, and the jackpot game including six long opening round games. "6R probability variation jackpot" in which the game is controlled in the probability variation game state after executing, "8R probability variation jackpot" in which the game is controlled in the probability variation game state after executing the jackpot game including eight long open round games, 10 An example is "10R probability variation jackpot" in which the game is controlled in the probability variation game state after executing the jackpot game including the long open round game.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 determines that the jackpot game is not executed based on the fact that the acquired jackpot random number does not match the winning value, the reach random number acquired together with the jackpot random number is stored in the main ROM 82. It is determined whether to perform the effect with reach or the effect without reach based on whether or not it matches a predetermined random number value (random number value corresponding to the presence of reach) (compared with the reach random number). Further, the main CPU 81 determines the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol when the special symbol is variablely displayed, based on the fluctuation pattern random number acquired together with the jackpot random number, regardless of the result of the determination based on the jackpot random number. As a result, the fluctuation time of the special symbol is determined.

When the main CPU 81 determines that the jackpot game is to be executed and determines the type of jackpot, the first jackpot 26 (or the second) via the first jackpot solenoid 262 (or the second jackpot solenoid 282). By controlling the opening and closing of the two major winning openings 28), the jackpot game according to the type of jackpot is executed.

Further, the main CPU 81 acquires a random number (ordinary symbol random number) at the timing when the detection signal from the gate sensor 251 is input, and executes the ordinary symbol determination using the acquired ordinary symbol random number. Then, when it is determined that the second starting port 22 is to be opened as a result of this normal symbol determination, the second starting port 22 is opened by controlling the opening and closing of the second starting port 22 via the second starting port solenoid 222. Perform an auxiliary game.

Further, on the main control board 80, a first special symbol display 41, a second special symbol display 42, a normal symbol display 43, a first special symbol hold indicator 44, a second special symbol hold indicator 45, and a general one are used. Figure Hold indicator 46, round indicator 47, game status indicator 48, launch direction indicator 49 are connected.

The main CPU 81 controls these indicators 41 to 49 constituting the main indicator 40 to execute the above-mentioned display process based on FIG.

<Configuration example of sub-control board 90>
The sub control board 90 includes a sub CPU 91, a sub ROM 92, a sub RAM 93, and an RTC (real time clock) 94. The sub CPU 91 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect based on the program stored in the sub ROM 92. The sub RAM 93 is used as a storage area for temporarily storing various data used by the sub CPU 91 when executing the program, or as a work area for data processing. The RTC94 measures the current date and time (date or time).

When the first effect button 35 (see FIG. 1) is operated (pressed) on the sub control board 90, the first effect button detection that outputs operation information (operation signal) indicating that effect to the sub control board 90. The sensor 351 is connected. For example, the operation member of the first effect button 35 pressed by the player is provided with a light-shielding piece, and the first effect button detection sensor 351 is described above when the operation member is arranged at the depressed operation position. It is composed of a photo interrupter that detects a light-shielding piece and outputs the detection signal (operation signal) to the sub-control board 90. The sub CPU 91 can identify that the first effect button 35 is "single pressed" based on the fact that the operation signal from the first effect button detection sensor 351 is input once during the valid period. Further, the sub CPU 91 can identify that the first effect button 35 is "continuously hit" based on the fact that the operation signal from the first effect button detection sensor 351 is intermittently input a plurality of times during the valid period. Is. Further, from the first effect button detection sensor 351, when the operation member of the first effect button 35 that has been operated (pressed) returns from the operation position to the initial position, operation information (return signal) indicating that fact is output. It is output to the sub control board 90. Therefore, the sub CPU 91 is based on the fact that the return signal is not input even after a predetermined time (for example, 0.8 seconds) has elapsed since the operation signal from the first effect button detection sensor 351 was input. 1 It is possible to specify that the effect button 35 is "long-pressed".

Further, when the second effect button 36 (see FIG. 1) is operated on the sub control board 90, the second effect button detection sensor that outputs operation information (operation signal) indicating that effect to the sub control board 90. 361 is connected. A light-shielding piece is provided on the operation member of the second effect button 36 pushed forward by the player, and the second effect button detection sensor 361 is said to block light when the operation member is arranged at the pushed operation position. It is composed of a photo interrupter that detects a piece and outputs the detection signal (operation signal) to the sub control board 90.

The sub CPU 91 sets the effect content based on the game information related to the special symbol determination, the normal symbol determination, the jackpot game, etc. transmitted from the main control board 80. At that time, there is a case where the input of the operation information from the first effect button 35 or the second effect button 36 is accepted and the effect content corresponding to the operation information is set. The sub CPU 91 transmits a command instructing the execution of the effect of the set effect content to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120.

<Structure example of image / sound control board 100>
The image / sound control board 100 controls the image display by the image display device 7 and the output of the effect sound by the speaker 38. In the present embodiment, the image / acoustic control board 100 includes an image / acoustic control CPU 101, a control ROM 102, a control RAM 103, a VDP (Video Display Processor) 104, a CGROM 105, a VRAM 106, an acoustic DSP (Digital Signal Processor) 107, an acoustic ROM 108, and a SDRAM 109. And an amplifier 110.

The control ROM 102 is composed of a mask ROM, and various tables such as a control program of the image / sound control CPU 101, a display list generation program for generating a display list, and a display list creation table used for a process of creating a display list. Is remembered. Here, the display list is composed of a group of commands for instructing the execution of drawing in frame units, and the type of the image to be drawn, the position (coordinates) to draw the image, the display priority, the display magnification, and the rotation. It includes various parameters such as angle and transmittance. The control RAM 103 is used as a storage area for temporarily storing various data used by the audiovisual control CPU 101 when executing the control program, and as a work area for data processing and the like.

The image / sound control CPU 101 transmits image data (effect data) stored in the CGROM 105 to the VDP 104 based on various tables such as the control program and the display list creation table, commands received from the sub control board 90, and the like. An instruction is given to display on the image display device 7. This instruction is mainly given by the output of the display list. Further, the image / acoustic control CPU 101 instructs the acoustic DSP 107 to output the acoustic data stored in the acoustic ROM 108 from the speaker 38.

The CGROM 105 stores the effect data necessary for executing the variation effect associated with the variation display of the special symbol, the effect associated with the jackpot game, and the like. The CGROM 105 is composed of a flash memory, EEPROM, EPROM, mask ROM, etc., and is composed of a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (for example, 32 × 32 pixels), sprite data (one image data), and a plurality of image data. Movie data, etc. consisting of a collection of pixels is compressed and stored. The pixel information is composed of color number information for designating a color number for each pixel and an α value indicating the transparency of the image. Further, the CGROM 105 stores the palette data or the like in which the color number information for designating the color number and the display color information for actually displaying the color are associated with each other without compression.

It should be noted that only a part of the image data stored in the CGROM 105 may be compressed. Further, as a method for compressing movie data, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.

The VRAM 106 is composed of an SRAM capable of writing and reading image data at high speed, and is not shown in the figure, but is configured to have a display list storage area, an expansion storage area, a frame buffer, and the like. ing.

The display list storage area temporarily stores the display list output from the image / sound control CPU 101. The expanded storage area stores image data that has been decompressed after being read from the CGROM 105. The frame buffer is a frame buffer that is also used for drawing and displaying the image data displayed on the display screen 70.

The VDP 104 decompresses the image data stored in the compressed state in the CGROM 105, and stores the decompressed image data in the expanded storage area. Further, the VDP 104 performs drawing processing on the frame buffer using the image data stored in the expansion storage area based on the display list stored in the display list storage area. Further, the VDP 104 generates an RGB signal as a video signal indicating the color of the image from the image data stored in the frame buffer, and outputs the generated RGB signal to the image display device 7.

An acoustic ROM 108, an SDRAM 109, and an amplifier 110 are connected to the acoustic DSP 107. The acoustic ROM 108 stores various acoustic data related to music, voice, sound effects, warning sounds, and the like. The SDRAM 109 is used as a work area for data processing by the acoustic DSP 107. The acoustic DSP 107 reads acoustic data corresponding to an instruction from the image acoustic control CPU 101 from the acoustic ROM 108 to the SDRAM 109, executes data processing, and outputs the acoustic data after the data processing to the speaker 38 (via the amplifier 110). The amplifier 110 adjusts the volume according to the instruction regarding the volume obtained from the image / sound control CPU 101 via the sound DSP 107, and outputs the sound data to the speaker 38.

In this embodiment, the case where the VDP is responsible for drawing management and the acoustic DSP is responsible for sound management will be described, but in other embodiments, a configuration is adopted in which the VDP is responsible for both drawing management and sound management. You may. In this case, it is not necessary to separately provide an acoustic DSP.

<Configuration example of lamp control board 120>
The lamp control board 120 includes a lamp CPU 121, a lamp ROM 122, and a lamp RAM 123, and includes a frame lamp 37, a board lamp 5, a movable decorative member 14, an effect indicator 125, an effect first special figure hold indicator 126, and an effect second special. Figure The hold indicator 127, the first effect button lamp 352, the second effect button lamp 362, and the vibration motor 353 are connected. The lamp ROM 122 stores a program executed by the lamp CPU 121, light emission pattern data, operation pattern data, vibration pattern data, and the like. Here, the light emission pattern data is data indicating each light emission pattern of the frame lamp 37, the board surface lamp 5, the LED built in the movable decorative member 14, and the like. The motion pattern data is data indicating an motion pattern of the movable decorative member 14 and the like. The vibration pattern data is data showing the vibration pattern of the first effect button 35 that vibrates by the driving force of the vibration motor 353.

Based on the program stored in the lamp ROM 122, the lamp CPU 121 includes a frame lamp 37, a board lamp 5, a movable decorative member 14, an effect indicator 125, an effect first special figure hold indicator 126, and an effect second special figure hold. Performs arithmetic processing when controlling the operation of the display 127 and the like.

The lamp CPU 121 reads the light emission pattern data corresponding to the command received from the sub-control board 90 from the light emission pattern data stored in the lamp ROM 122 into the lamp RAM 123, and reads the frame lamp 37, the board lamp 5, and the movable decorative member. It controls the light emission of the LED built in 14, the first effect button lamp 352, and the second effect button lamp 362. Further, the lamp CPU 121 reads the operation pattern data corresponding to the command received from the sub-control board 90 from the operation pattern data stored in the lamp ROM 122 into the lamp RAM 123, and operates the movable decorative member 14. Control the drive. Further, the lamp CPU 121 reads the vibration pattern data corresponding to the command received from the sub-control board 90 from the vibration pattern data stored in the lamp ROM 122 into the lamp RAM 123, and controls the driving of the vibration motor 353.

Further, the lamp CPU 121 controls the variation display and the stop display of the symbol on the effect display 125 based on the command from the sub control board 90. Further, the lamp CPU 121 displays the number of holds related to the first special symbol determination by the effect first special figure hold indicator 126, and the effect second special figure hold indicator 127, based on the command from the sub control board 90. 2 Control the display of the number of holds related to the special symbol determination.

[About game status]
Next, the game state and the game flow of the game machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the gaming state of the gaming machine 1. As illustrated in FIG. 5, in the present embodiment, the game machine 1 is played in any of the three game states of "normal game state", "probability variation game state", and "time saving game state". Is controlled.

The "normal game state" is a support function (so-called) in which a special symbol determination is performed in a low probability state in which the probability of determining that a jackpot game is executed is relatively low, and a game ball is awarded to the second starting port 22. It is a gaming state in which a function called "electric support" or the like) is not provided. In the normal game state, the probability that the jackpot game will be executed by the special symbol determination is set to a relatively low probability (for example, 1/200). Further, the probability that the second starting port 22 is determined to be opened by the normal symbol determination is set to a relatively low probability (for example, 1/11), and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is relatively long (for example, 20 seconds). The opening time of the second starting port 22 is set to a relatively short time (for example, 0.1 second × 1 time) when it is determined that the second starting port 22 is opened.

The "probability variation game state" is a game state in which the special symbol determination is performed in a high probability state in which the probability of being determined to execute the jackpot game is relatively high, and the above support function is provided. That is, in the probability variation game state, the probability that the jackpot game will be executed by the special symbol determination is set to a relatively high probability (for example, 1/80). Further, the probability that the second starting port 22 is determined to be opened by the normal symbol determination is set to a relatively high probability (for example, 11/11), and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is set to a relatively short time (for example, 1.5). The opening time of the second starting port 22 is set to a relatively long time (for example, 1.5 seconds x 3 times) when it is determined that the second starting port 22 is opened.

The "time saving game state" is a game state in which the special symbol determination is performed in the low probability state and the support function is provided. That is, in the time-saving game state, the probability that the jackpot game will be executed by the special symbol determination is set to a relatively low probability (for example, 1/200). Further, the probability that the second starting port 22 is determined to be opened by the normal symbol determination is set to a relatively high probability (for example, 11/11), and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is set to a relatively short time (for example, 1.5). The opening time of the second starting port 22 is set to a relatively long time (for example, 1.5 seconds x 3 times) when it is determined that the second starting port 22 is opened.

Comparing these gaming states with respect to the variation time of the special symbol, the variation time of the special symbol in the "probability variation game state" and the "short-time gaming state" is relative to the variation time of the special symbol in the "normal gaming state". It is easy to set a short time. In addition, the probability that it is determined to execute the special game (big hit probability), the probability that it is determined to open the second starting port 22 (the winning probability of the normal symbol determination), and the variation of the ordinary symbol shown in the explanation of each game state. It goes without saying that the time and the opening time of the second starting port 22 are merely examples, and may be other probabilities or times.

In the following description, a state in which the game ball can easily win a prize in the second starting port 22 due to the above support function is referred to as a "high base state", and the support function is not provided. A state in which it is difficult for a game ball to win a prize in the second starting port 22 is referred to as a "low base state".

[Game flow]
The game ball hit right by the player does not win the first start opening 21, but may win the second start port 22. However, in the low base state, it is difficult to open the second starting port 22, and even if it is opened, the opening time is extremely short. Therefore, when the game is controlled in a low base state (corresponding to the "normal game state" in the present embodiment), the player decides to play the game by left-handed aiming at the first starting port 21. Become.

When a left-handed game ball wins the first starting port 21 in the normal game state, the first special symbol determination is executed, and after the first special symbol is variablely displayed, the determination result of the first special symbol determination is displayed. As the first special symbol to be shown, the jackpot symbol or the lost symbol is stopped and displayed.

Here, when the lost symbol is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is not performed and the game state does not change. On the other hand, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, a jackpot game in which a predetermined number of long open round games are performed according to the jackpot symbol is executed, and after the jackpot game is completed, a probabilistic game state or a time-saving game state is executed. The game will be controlled by.

As the jackpot symbol (special symbol) for notifying that the judgment result of the special symbol determination is a jackpot, a "probability variation symbol" for notifying the probability variation jackpot and a "normal symbol" for notifying the normal jackpot are prepared. There is. Then, as a jackpot symbol for notifying that the determination result of the first special symbol determination in the normal game state is a jackpot, when the "probability variation symbol" is stopped and displayed, the game is controlled in the probability variation game state after the jackpot game ends. When the "normal symbol" is stopped and displayed, the game is controlled in the normal game state after the jackpot game ends (see FIG. 5).

In addition, when the game state shifts to the probabilistic game state or the time-saving game state when the jackpot game ends, that is, when the game state shifts from the low base state to the high base state, it is easy to win the game ball to the second starting port 22. With the above support function, the game ball is more likely to win in the second starting port 22 than in the first starting port 21. Therefore, when the game is controlled in the high base state (corresponding to the "probability variation game state" or the "time saving game state" in this embodiment), the player strikes right at the second starting port 22. Will play the game. Therefore, when the game is controlled in the probabilistic game state or the time-saving game state, the second special symbol determination is basically performed.

Further, the game machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured so that the probabilistic gaming state is substantially continued until the next big hit, and in this probabilistic gaming state, the "probability variation symbol" is stopped and displayed as the second special symbol. In that case, the game is controlled again in the probabilistic game state after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, when the "normal symbol" is stopped and displayed as the second special symbol in the probabilistic game state, the game is controlled in the time-saving game state after the jackpot game ends.

In addition, when the "probability variation symbol" is stopped and displayed as the second special symbol in the time-saving game state, the game is controlled in the probability variation game state after the jackpot game is completed, and when the "normal symbol" is stopped and displayed. After the jackpot game is over, the game is controlled again in the time-saving game state. On the other hand, if a big hit does not occur even if the second special symbol determination (or the first special symbol determination) is performed a specified number of times (100 times in this embodiment) in the time-saving game state, the game state is shortened. It will be returned from the game state to the normal game state.

[About variable production]
Next, a variation effect performed using the display screen 70 or the like will be described as the first special symbol is variablely displayed and then stopped and displayed in the normal gaming state.

In the game machine 1, when the game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 21 and the first special symbol determination is executed, the first special symbol is changed and displayed on the first special symbol display 41, and then the first special symbol is displayed. The first special symbol indicating the determination result of the symbol determination is stopped and displayed. The display screen 70 is provided with an effect symbol display area 73 (see FIG. 2) in which an effect symbol for notifying the determination result of the first special symbol determination is displayed, and the display screen 70 is provided with a variation of the first special symbol. Along with the display, a variable effect including a variable display of the effect symbol is performed (see FIG. 2). Then, when the first special symbol is fluctuated and displayed for the fluctuation time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern selected when the first special symbol determination is executed, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed. The effect symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode showing the determination result of the first special symbol determination.

A so-called reach effect may be performed during such a variable display of the effect symbol. Specifically, in the effect symbol display area 73 of the display screen 70, for example, a part of the effect symbol symbol sequence in which the numbers 1 to 9 are continuously written in the vertical direction from the bottom to the top is in the horizontal direction. Three columns are displayed, and when the variable display of the first special symbol is started, the variable display (scroll display) is performed so that these symbol columns scroll from top to bottom (see, for example, FIG. 7B). ). On the other hand, when the reach effect is performed, for example, the left column effect symbol (left symbol) and the right column effect symbol (right symbol) are displayed before all the effect symbols are stopped and displayed. Pseudo-stop so that they do not stop completely in order or at the same time. FIG. 2 illustrates a state in which three symbols are pseudo-stopped as the left symbol, the same three symbols are pseudo-stopped as the right symbol, and the symbol rows in the middle row continue scrolling. Note that the pseudo-stop is an effect of swinging the effect symbol on the spot with almost no movement, and in the following description, the main stop (sometimes referred to simply as "stop display") in which the effect symbol is completely stopped. ), It may be called a pseudo-stop.

When the same effect symbol as the left symbol and the right symbol is pseudo-stopped on the effective line, the reach is established, and the reach effect is performed to expect the player to have three identical effect symbols. This reach effect is different from, for example, the middle symbol that is common to the reach symbol or the reach symbol by scrolling the symbol row in the middle row while the reach symbols (left symbol and right symbol) are pseudo-stopped. It is a production that stops the middle symbol on the effective line and notifies the winning.

Although detailed description is omitted, other display objects such as characters and items are used for such a reach effect in addition to the effect symbol. Further, in the following description, in the variable effect in which the reach effect is performed, the effect performed until the reach is established may be referred to as "pre-reach effect".

The types of reach effects will be described in detail later, but when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "loss", three effect symbols indicating reach loss eyes (for example, "323") are pseudo-stopped in order to notify the loss. Then, as the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, these three effect symbols are stopped. On the other hand, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "missing" and the reach effect is not performed, the three effect symbols indicating the disparity (for example, "629") are pseudo-stopped in order to notify the loss. , As the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, these three effect symbols are stopped. In this way, when it is determined that the jackpot game is not executed, the reach loss eyes indicating the loss or the three effect symbols indicating the loose eyes are pseudo-stopped and then the main stop is performed to notify the loss (the jackpot game is not executed). Loss notification effect is executed.

When this loss notification effect is executed, the jackpot game is not executed, and if the right to determine the first special symbol is reserved, the first special symbol and the effect symbol are used for a predetermined fixed time (for example, 0.6 seconds). When is stopped and displayed, the first special symbol determination is performed, and the next variation display of the first special symbol is immediately started.

On the other hand, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "big hit", the reach effect is usually executed during the variable display of the first special symbol, and doublets (for example, "333") are shown to notify the jackpot. As the three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped and the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, these three effect symbols are finally stopped. In this way, when it is determined that the jackpot game is to be executed, the hit notification effect of notifying the jackpot (the jackpot game is executed) is performed by pseudo-stopping the three effect symbols in a manner indicating the jackpot and then stopping the game. Will be executed. When this hit notification effect is executed, the jackpot game is executed.

[Screen configuration of display screen 70]
FIG. 2 illustrates the screen configuration of the display screen 70 in the normal gaming state. When the game is controlled in the normal game state, the hold icon display area 71, the icon display area 72, and the effect symbol display area 73 are formed on the display screen 70, as illustrated in FIG. As described above, the effect symbol display area 73 displays the left symbol constituting the symbol row in the left column, the middle symbol constituting the symbol row in the middle row, and the right symbol constituting the symbol row in the right column. Display area.

<Hold icon display area 71>
The hold icon display area 71 (see FIG. 2) is a display area in which a hold icon indicating that the first special symbol determination is held is displayed. In the game machine 1, when the game ball wins the first starting port 21 in a situation where the special symbol determination and the special symbol variation display cannot be started immediately, such as during the special symbol variation display or the jackpot game, the first special The right to judge the symbol is reserved up to a predetermined number (4 in this embodiment).

In this way, when the right of the first special symbol determination is reserved, the same number of hold icons as the number of hold icons for the first special symbol determination indicated by the first special symbol hold indicator 44 are displayed in the hold icon display area 71. Will be done. FIG. 2 illustrates a state in which two hold icons are displayed in the hold icon display area 71 in order to suggest that the number of holds for the first special symbol determination is “2”.

If the hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71 when a highly reliable reach effect such as SPSP reach (see FIG. 6 (K)) described later is being performed, the display area used for the reach effect is displayed. Not only is it limited, but the display of the hold icon can reduce the appeal of the reach production. Therefore, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the display objects and the hold icons constituting the hold icon display area 71 are displayed during the pre-reach production and the normal short reach described later, while the normal long reach, the first SP reach, and the like. As the reach effect develops into the second SP reach and the SPSP reach, a configuration is adopted in which the display objects and the hold icons constituting the hold icon display area 71 are deleted from the display screen 70.

Further, when the game is controlled in the normal game state, basically, the game ball does not win the second starting port 22. Therefore, in the normal game state, basically, the right of the second special symbol determination is not reserved, and the hold icon related to the second special symbol determination is displayed on the display screen 70, or this hold icon is displayed. A display area for display is not formed.

<The icon display area 72>
The icon display area 72 is a display area for displaying the icon as a variation suggestion image suggesting that the first special symbol is variablely displayed. The icon is displayed in the icon display area 72 with the start of the variable display of the first special symbol, and is deleted from the icon display area 72 at the timing when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed, for example. However, the deletion timing of the icon is not limited to this, and the icon may be deleted during the variable display of the first special symbol. For example, the icon may be deleted at the time of SPSP reach development or during SPSP reach, which will be described later. You may want to erase the icon.

By the way, when the game ball wins the first starting port 21 in a state where the variable display of the special symbol is not performed and the right of the special symbol determination is not reserved, the variable display of the first special symbol is started. As a result, the icon is displayed in the icon display area 72. On the other hand, when the hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71 and the variable display of the symbol corresponding to the icon displayed in the icon display area 72 is completed, the hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71. The first special symbol determination corresponding to the earliest hold icon (hold icon displayed at the position closest to the icon display area 72) is executed. Then, as the variable display of the first special symbol is started in response to the execution of the first special symbol determination, the earliest hold icon shifts from the hold icon display area 71 to the icon display area 72. It will be displayed as a new icon. In this way, the hold icon (here, the icon) shifted to the icon display area 72 is displayed larger than when it is displayed in the hold icon display area 71 (see FIG. 2). Therefore, it is possible for the player to pay more attention to the icon displayed in the icon display area 72 than to the hold icon displayed in the hold icon display area 71.

When another hold icon different from the earliest hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71, the hold icon display area 71 is accompanied by the shift of the earliest hold icon to the icon display area 72. In, the other hold icon shifts toward the icon display area 72. As is clear from the description so far, in the game machine 1, the icon corresponding to the hold icon displayed in the hold icon display area 71 may be displayed in the icon display area 72, and thus the following description will be given. Then, when the hold icon and the icon are not distinguished, they may be collectively referred to as "icon".

(About icon change production)
By the way, the hold icon is usually displayed as a white hold icon (default hold icon). On the other hand, when the hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71, an icon change effect in which the color of the hold icon changes may be performed. When this icon change effect is performed, the white hold icon changes to a hold icon of a color suggesting jackpot reliability such as blue, green, and red. The colors suggesting the jackpot reliability illustrated here are arranged in order from the one with the lowest jackpot reliability to the one with the highest jackpot reliability. Red is when the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment corresponding to the red hold icon is "big hit" or when the fluctuation time of the special symbol is set to a relatively long time although it is "missing". Easy to be selected. Green is easy to select when it is a "big hit" or when it is a "miss" but the fluctuation time of the special symbol is set to a medium time. Blue is easily selected when it becomes "missing" or when it is "missing" and the fluctuation time of the special symbol is set to a relatively short time. In this embodiment, the jackpot reliability of the white hold icon is set to about 1%, the jackpot reliability of the blue hold icon is set to about 3%, and the jackpot reliability of the green hold icon is set to about 15%. It is set and the jackpot reliability of the red hold icon is set to about 45%.

Although the case where the icon change effect in which the display color changes only once is performed when the hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71 has been described here as an example, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment has been described. Then, other icon change effects may be performed. That is, for example, when the white hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71, the hold icon changes to a blue hold icon and then to a green hold icon. In some cases, an icon change effect is performed in which the display color of the hold icon changes a plurality of times. Further, when the white hold icon shifted from the hold icon display area 71 to the icon display area 72 is displayed as the icon, an icon change effect in which the display color changes may be performed.

Further, the display color of the hold icon displayed in the hold icon display area 71 changes, and then the display color changes when the hold icon shifts to the icon display area 72 and is displayed as the icon. In some cases, an icon change effect is performed in which the display color of the icon changes in both the hold icon display area 71 and the icon display area 72. In addition, there may be an icon change effect in which the hold icon is displayed in a display color other than white (for example, blue) from the beginning, or an icon change effect in which the display color of the hold icon whose initial color is other than white is changed. ..

As described above, the game machine 1 of the present embodiment can display the hold information indicating that the right to determine the special symbol is held on the display screen 70 and change the display mode of the hold information. .. In the following description, a hold icon or the icon whose display color is a color other than white may be referred to as a "special icon" to distinguish it from a normal hold icon or the icon whose display color is white.

[Modification example of display control of pending information]
The display control of the reserved information is not limited to the one illustrated in this embodiment, and may be as follows. That is, in the present embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the case where the display colors of the icons (holding icon and the icon) are four colors of white, blue, green, and red will be described as an example, but in other embodiments, the case where the display colors are four colors will be described. Other colors may be available, such as gold, which suggests that the jackpot reliability is even higher than red, or rainbow, which is selected only when the jackpot is "big hit."

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the icon change effect for changing the display color of the icon (holding icon or the icon) is performed will be described as an example, but the icon change effect is an effect for changing the display mode of the icon. The effect is not limited to the effect illustrated in the present embodiment, and may be an icon change effect that changes the shape and size of the icon, an icon change effect that changes the display color in addition to the shape and size of the icon, and the like.

Further, in the present embodiment, in addition to the icon change effect targeting the hold icon displayed in the hold icon display area 71, the icon change effect targeting the icon displayed in the icon display area 72 can be executed. However, in another embodiment, a configuration in which only the former icon change effect can be executed may be adopted without providing the icon display area 72 (without displaying the icon).

Further, in the present embodiment, a case where a hold icon as hold information is displayed on the display screen 70 and the display color of the hold icon is changed will be described as an example. On the other hand, in another embodiment, for example, four color LEDs whose emission colors can be changed are provided, and the same number of LEDs as the number of pending numbers of the first special symbol determination are turned on, and the emission color of any of the LEDs is set. By changing it, the display mode of the reserved information may be changed.

[Flow of production accompanying the variable display of the first special symbol]
Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the flow of the effect accompanying the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state will be described. Here, FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the flow of the effect accompanying the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state.

When the first special symbol determination is executed in the normal game state, the first special symbol is variablely displayed on the first special symbol display 41, and the first special symbol indicating the result of the first special symbol hit / fail determination is stopped and displayed. To. On the other hand, on the display screen 70, as the variation display of the first special symbol is started, the variation display of the three symbol strings in the effect symbol display area 73 is started (see FIG. 6 (A)). .. Specifically, in the effect symbol display area 73, for example, a part of the effect symbol symbol sequence in which the numbers "1" to "9" are continuously written in the vertical direction from the bottom to the top is 3 in the horizontal direction. The columns are displayed, and as the variable display of the first special symbol is started, the scroll display of the three symbol columns is started so that these symbol columns scroll from top to bottom.

Here, if the determination result of the first special symbol hit / fail judgment performed at the start of the variation display of the first special symbol is "missing" and it is determined not to execute the reach effect, the variation of the first special symbol At the end of the display, the three effect symbols that show the disparity (for example, "458") are pseudo-stopped, and as the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, the loss notification that these three effect symbols are actually stopped is stopped. The production is performed (see FIG. 6B).

On the other hand, when the result of the first special symbol winning / failing judgment is "big hit", or when it is decided to perform the reach effect of the "missing", for example, during the variable display of the first special symbol, the effect is produced. A pre-reach effect is performed in which the left symbol is pseudo-stopped on the effective line in the symbol display area 73, and the symbol row in the right column is scrolled and displayed at a low speed so that the right symbol common to the left symbol moves on the effective line. (See FIG. 6 (C)). Then, as a result of this pre-reach effect, when the common left symbol and right symbol are pseudo-stopped on the effective line, the reach is established (see FIG. 6 (D)).

In this way, when the effect symbols common to the left and right symbols stop in a pseudo manner and reach is established, the effect symbols common to these effect symbols (reach symbols) stop on the effective line in the middle row. A reach production that makes people expect is performed. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, as a reach effect that can be executed with the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state, normal short reach, normal long reach, first SP reach, and second SP reach. , And SPSP reach 5 types of reach effects are available.

The normal short reach (see FIG. 6E) is a reach effect having the lowest jackpot reliability among the above five types of reach effects (for example, jackpot reliability: about 2%). This normal short reach is a reach effect in which the effect execution time is shorter than that of the normal long reach described later, and when the reach is established, the normal short reach is usually performed. When this normal short reach is performed, when the reach is established, the scroll speed of the symbol row in the middle row gradually decreases, and the same middle symbol or reach symbol as the reach symbol is between the left symbol and the right symbol forming the reach. The scroll display of the middle symbol string that pseudo-stops the middle symbol different from is performed.

Here, when a variable effect pattern for notifying the winning is set in the normal short reach, the winning notification effect (hit notification effect or loss notification effect) is performed at the end of the normal short reach (see FIG. 6 (F)). .. Specifically, when the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment this time is "big hit", doublet (for example, "222") is doublet by pseudo-stopping the same medium symbol as the reach symbol on the effective line. After the effect symbols shown are pseudo-stopped, a hit notification effect is performed in which these effect symbols are stopped as they are. On the other hand, when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination this time is "missing", the effect of showing the reach losing eye (for example, "232") by pseudo-stopping the middle symbol different from the reach symbol on the effective line. After the symbols are pseudo-stopped, a loss notification effect is performed in which these effect symbols are stopped as they are.

On the other hand, when a variable effect pattern that develops from a normal short reach to another reach effect is set, the following effect is performed. For example, when the normal short reach (see FIG. 6 (E)) is developed to the normal long reach (see FIG. 6 (G)) and a variable effect pattern for notifying the winning is set in the normal long reach, the normal short is set. At the end of the reach, a predetermined development suggestion effect that suggests the development to the normal long reach is performed, and the high-speed scrolling of the symbol row in the middle row is resumed, and the reach effect develops to the normal long reach. In this normal long reach, for example, in the central region of the display screen 70, an effect display is performed in which a predetermined character expects a pattern alignment.

The normal long reach is the reach production with the lowest jackpot reliability next to the normal short reach among the above five types of reach effects (for example, the jackpot reliability: about 2%), and in most cases, the normal long reach. The loss notification effect (see Fig. 6 (F)) is performed in the normal long reach without developing into another reach effect, but if the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment this time is a big hit, it will be a normal long reach. In some cases, a hit notification effect (see FIG. 6 (F)) is performed. Further, when a variable effect pattern that develops from the normal long reach to another reach effect (in this embodiment, the first SP reach or the SPSP reach) is set, the normal long reach to the first SP reach (FIG. 6 (H)). )) Or SPSP reach (see FIG. 6 (K)).

Here, the 1st SP reach is a reach production having the lowest jackpot reliability next to the normal long reach (for example, jackpot reliability: about 11%), and when developing from the normal long reach to the 1st SP reach, it is as follows. Production is performed. That is, after the same middle symbol as the reach symbol passes on the effective line, high-speed scrolling of the middle row symbol row is restarted, and the reach symbol (left symbol and right symbol) that is pseudo-stopped on the effective line is in the reach state. It moves to the upper left area and the upper right area of the display screen 70, respectively, while being reduced while maintaining the above. Then, the first SP reach effect image is displayed in the central region of the display screen 70, and a predetermined effect display for expecting a big hit is performed.

On the other hand, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, there is a case where the normal short reach (see FIG. 6 (E)) develops to the above-mentioned first SP reach (see FIG. 6 (H)) without going through the normal long reach. When directly developing from the normal short reach to the second SP reach (see Fig. 6 (I)) without going through the normal long reach, or from the normal short reach to the SPSP reach without going through the normal long reach (Fig. 6 (K)) See) may develop directly.

Here, the second SP reach is a reach effect with a slightly higher jackpot reliability than the first SP reach (for example, jackpot reliability: about 12%), and when developing from a normal short reach to a second SP reach, it is as follows. Production is performed. That is, after the same middle symbol as the reach symbol passes on the effective line, high-speed scrolling of the middle row symbol row is restarted, and the reach symbol (left symbol and right symbol) that is pseudo-stopped on the effective line is in the reach state. It moves to the upper left area and the upper right area of the display screen 70, respectively, while being reduced while maintaining the above. Then, the second SP reach effect image is displayed in the central region of the display screen 70, and a predetermined effect display for expecting a big hit is performed.

By the way, the 1st SP reach and the 2nd SP reach are displayed with the same screen configuration to expect a big hit, but these reach effects are different from each other. Specifically, in the 1st SP reach, if the own character cannot prevent the enemy character from attacking, it becomes a big hit, and conversely, if the own character cannot prevent the enemy character from attacking, it becomes a loss. On the other hand, the second SP reach is configured as a mission production, and if the character succeeds in the mission, it becomes a big hit, and conversely, if the mission fails, a production display that becomes a loss is performed.

When it develops into the 1st SP reach or the 2nd SP reach, the jackpot reliability of these reach effects is relatively low, so the loss notification effect is the hit notification effect in the hit notification effect (see FIG. 6 (J)). Easier to execute than. Therefore, when it develops into the 1st SP reach or the 2nd SP reach, the player expects to develop into the SPSP reach (see FIG. 6 (K)) in the same manner as when it develops into the normal long reach. Become.

Here, the SPSP reach (FIG. 6 (K)) is the reach effect having the highest jackpot reliability among the above five types of reach effects. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, when the reach directly develops into the SPSP reach immediately after the reach is established (see FIGS. 6 (D) and 6 (K)), the normal short reach and the normal long reach are used. And develops into SPSP reach (see FIGS. 6 (E), (G), and (K)) and develops into SPSP reach via normal short reach and first SP reach (see FIG. 6 (E)). , (H), and (K)) and when developing to SPSP reach via normal short reach and second SP reach (see FIGS. 6 (E), (I), and (K)) and normal. There are cases where the short reach directly develops into the SPSP reach (see FIGS. 6 (E) and 6 (K)).

Although detailed explanation is omitted, in the SPSP reach, the SPSP reach effect image is displayed on the display screen 70, and the battle effect in which the own character and the enemy character battle is executed, but this time the first special symbol judgment If the judgment result is a big hit, the victory effect and the hit notification effect that the own character wins over the enemy character are executed, and if the judgment result is a loss, the defeat effect and the loss notification effect that the own character loses to the enemy character are executed. To.

On the other hand, when the variation display of the first special symbol and the three symbol sequences is started (see FIG. 6 (A)), it subsequently develops into a special variation effect (see FIG. 6 (L)) described later, and this At the end of the special variation effect, the winning notification effect (hit notification effect or loss notification effect: see FIG. 6F) may be executed.

(Specific example of variable production)
Next, a specific example of the variation effect in the normal gaming state will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIGS. 7 and 8 are screen views showing a specific example of the effect associated with the variation display of the first special symbol in the normal game state. Here, as the variation pattern of the first special symbol in the normal game state, the normal short reach (normal short reach) The effect executed when the variation pattern in which the loss notification effect is to be performed is selected in the SPSP reach (see FIG. 6K) directly developed from FIG. 6 (E) will be described.

FIG. 7A shows a first special symbol determination corresponding to the icon displayed in the icon display area 72 in a state where two hold icons are displayed in the hold icon display area 71 on the display screen 70. In order to notify that the judgment result of "missing" is "missing", the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, and the effect symbol indicating the disparity of "526" is stopped and displayed. Illustrated. In this way, when a predetermined fixed time (0.6 seconds in the present embodiment) elapses after the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, the earliest hold displayed in the hold icon display area 71 is held. The first special symbol determination corresponding to the icon (here, the green hold icon) is executed. Then, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "missing" and a variation effect pattern that directly develops from normal reach to SPSP reach is selected as the variation pattern of the first special symbol, the following effect is produced. Will be done.

That is, as the variable display of the first special symbol is started in response to the execution of the first special symbol determination corresponding to the earliest hold icon, the earliest displayed in the hold icon display area 71. The hold icon of is shifted to the icon display area 72, the remaining hold icons displayed in the hold icon display area 71 are shifted to the icon display area 72 side in the hold icon display area 71, and three symbol columns are displayed. Scroll display is started (see FIGS. 7A and 7B). When a predetermined time elapses after the scroll display of these three symbol strings is started, for example, a dialogue notice effect image showing a state in which a predetermined character emits dialogue is displayed on the display screen 70, and the dialogue is displayed from the speaker 38. The output dialogue notice is executed (see FIG. 7C). In this dialogue notice, the jackpot reliability is suggested by the type of character that emits the dialogue, the content of the dialogue, the character color of the dialogue, and the like.

Following the above-mentioned dialogue notice, a pseudo-continuous production may be executed. Here, the pseudo-continuous effect means that the effect symbol displayed in the effect symbol display area 73 is varied and displayed a plurality of times during the variable display of one special symbol (here, the first special symbol). It is a pretending production. Regarding this pseudo continuous effect, the following effect display is performed.

That is, the scroll speed of the symbol row in the left column is reduced and the left symbol (for example, 6 symbols) is pseudo-stopped, and then the scroll speed of the symbol row in the right column is reduced (the left symbol that is pseudo-stopped earlier). The right symbol (for example, 4 symbols) is pseudo-stopped, and then the scroll speed of the symbol row in the middle row is reduced, and 7 symbols are pseudo-stopped as the middle symbol that notifies the execution of the pseudo-continuous effect (FIG. 7). See (D)).

In this way, when seven symbols are pseudo-stopped in the middle row after the effect symbols that are different from each other as the left symbol and the right symbol are pseudo-stopped, the pseudo-second variation effect following the pseudo-first variation effect is started. .. Specifically, after the character "x2" suggesting the start of the pseudo-second variation effect is displayed large in the central area of the display screen 70, the character "x2" is displayed on the upper left of the display screen 70. It is displayed small in the square area, and accordingly, the scroll display of the three symbol strings is restarted in the effect symbol display area 73 (see FIGS. 7 (D) and 7 (E)). When this pseudo-second variation effect is being performed, for example, a dialogue notice may be executed as in the case of the pseudo first station variation effect (see FIG. 7 (F)).

As described above, when the dialogue notice is executed during the pseudo-second variation effect, the second pseudo-continuous effect during the variation display of the first special symbol is executed (see FIG. 7 (G)). ). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 7 (G), the scroll speed of the symbol row in the left column decreases, the left symbol (for example, two symbols) pseudo-stops, and then the symbol row in the right column. The scroll speed is reduced and the right symbol (for example, 5 symbols) is pseudo-stopped, and then the scroll speed of the symbol row in the middle row is reduced and 7 symbols are pseudo-stopped as the middle symbol.

When the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed during the variation display of the first special symbol, the pseudo-third consecutive variation effect following the pseudo-second variation effect is started. Specifically, after the character "x3" suggesting the start of the pseudo-third series of variation effects is displayed large in the central area of the display screen 70, the character "x3" is displayed on the upper left of the display screen 70. It is displayed small in the square area, and accordingly, the scroll display of the three symbol strings is restarted in the effect symbol display area 73 (see FIGS. 7 (G) and 7 (H)).

Then, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the pseudo-third consecutive variation effect in this way, the scroll speed of the symbol row in the left column decreases, the left symbol (for example, three symbols) pseudo-stops, and then. , The scroll speed of the symbol row in the right column decreases (same as the symbol on the left), the right symbol (3 symbols in this case) is pseudo-stopped, and reach is established (see FIG. 7 (I)).

Here, the case where the "pre-reach pseudo-ream" that restarts the scroll display of each symbol string is executed before the reach is established has been described as an example, but the "reach" that restarts the scroll display of each symbol string after the reach is established has been described. In some cases, "post-pseudo-ream" is executed. In addition, both the pre-reach pseudo-reach and the post-reach pseudo-reach may be executed.

As described above, when the same effect symbols as the left symbol and the right symbol are pseudo-stopped and the reach is established, the normal short reach (see FIG. 6 (E)) is executed (see FIG. 8 (A)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 8A, the scroll speed of the middle row of symbols gradually decreases after the reach is established, and the reach symbols (here, the left 3 symbols and the right 3 symbols) are used. An effect display is performed to show how the same middle symbol (here, the middle 3 symbols) approaches the effective line defined by the reach symbol.

Here, when developing from normal reach to SPSP reach, the following effect display is performed. That is, when the scroll display of the symbol row in the middle row is performed, the same middle symbol (3 symbols in this case) as the reach symbol passes on the effective line, and the scroll speed of the symbol row in the middle row is accompanied by this. Will rise, making it difficult to identify the middle symbol, and a development effect will be performed that suggests that it will develop into SPSP reach (see FIG. 8 (B)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 8B, in the process of moving to the upper left region of the display screen 70 while the left three symbols are reduced, one rotation is made clockwise with the scroll direction as the axial direction. In the process of moving from to the upper left area and at the same time moving to the upper right area of the display screen 70 while the three symbols on the right are reduced, one rotation clockwise with the scroll direction as the axis direction and then to the upper right area. Moving. After that, until the end of the variation display of the first special symbol this time, the left three symbols are pseudo-stop displayed in the upper left region, and the right three symbols are pseudo-stop displayed in the upper right region (FIGS. 8 (C) to (G). )reference).

Next, following the development effect (see FIG. 8 (B)) suggesting the development to SPSP reach as described above, for example, when a group announcement is performed as a notice effect for notifying the possibility of a big hit. (See FIG. 8 (C)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 8C, an effect display showing how a large number of characters move from right to left on the display screen 70 is performed. The jackpot reliability of this group notice changes depending on the types of characters that make up the group.

When the SPSP reach is started after the development effect and the group notice as described above, the SPSP reach effect image, which is an effect image related to the SPSP reach, is displayed on the display screen 70 (see FIG. 8D). As a result, for example, an effect display showing how the main character and the enemy character battle each other is performed. After that, when the final stage of the SPSP reach is approached, the first effect button operation promotion effect that prompts the player to operate the first effect button 35 is performed (see FIG. 8 (E)). Specifically, a first effect button image imitating the first effect button 35 and an effective period gauge indicating the remaining time of the effective period in which the operation of the first effect button 35 is effective are displayed.

In this first effect button operation promotion effect, a big hit is possible at the timing when the first effect button 35 is operated during the valid period or when the valid period ends without operating the first effect button 35. As a notice effect for notifying that there is a property, for example, a cut-in is performed in which a predetermined cut-in image is superimposed and displayed on the effect image (other than the reach symbol) displayed on the display screen 70 (FIG. 8 (F)). reference). This cut-in is an effect that suggests the degree of jackpot reliability, and there are cases where a green cut-in that superimposes a green cut-in image is performed and a red that superimposes a red cut-in image. There are cases where cut-in is performed and cases where gold cut-in is performed by superimposing a golden cut-in image.If these cut-ins are arranged in order from the one with the lowest jackpot reliability to the one with the highest reliability, the green cut-in, The order is red cut-in and gold cut-in.

When the cut-in occurs in this way and the end of the SPSP reach is reached, the second effect button operation promotion effect is performed to urge the player to operate the second effect button 36 (see FIG. 8 (G)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 8 (G), during the valid period of the second effect button operation promotion effect, the second effect button image imitating the second effect button 36 and "press!" A character indicating the operation content of the second effect button 36 and a valid period gauge indicating the remaining time of the valid period are displayed.

When the second effect button 36 is operated during the valid period of the second effect button operation promotion effect, the three effect symbols indicating the reach loss are pseudo-stopped and then the main stop is performed as an operation corresponding effect according to the operation. A loss notification effect is performed (see FIG. 8 (H)).

Here, since the judgment result of the first special symbol determination performed at the start of the variation display of the first special symbol is "loss", the loss notification effect is performed as the operation response effect. When the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "big hit", as an operation-corresponding effect, a hit notification effect is performed in which the three effect symbols showing doublets are pseudo-stopped and then finally stopped.

[About production data related to special fluctuation production]
In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a special variation effect (see FIG. 6 (L)) is executed using the display screen 70, the speaker 38, and the like along with the variation display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state. There is. In this special variation production, the jackpot reliability is suggested by the type of each composition production of the full-year production, the main character display production, the first half production, and the second half production that compose the special fluctuation production, and the main character appearing in the special fluctuation production is the final. It is configured as a production to notify the winner depending on whether or not the enemy character is defeated. Here, the full-year effect is a display effect that displays a predetermined effect image on the display screen 70 at least for the entire variation period from the start to the end of the variation display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state. Is. The hero character display effect is a display effect performed by superimposing the hero character (hero character) on the effect image related to the full-year effect during the full-year effect. The first half effect is a display effect performed in the first half of the variable period, and the second half effect is a display effect performed in the latter half of the variable period.

The CGROM 105 (an example of storage means) of the image / acoustic control control board 100 stores effect data (image data) for realizing a special variation effect in which various effect patterns exist. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the special variation effect / full-year effect data group, the character data group, the first half effect data group, the second half effect data group, and the like are stored in the CGROM 105. As will be described in detail later based on FIG. 27, when the sub CPU 91 determines to execute the special variation effect, the image / sound control CPU 101 is based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination and the variation pattern of the first special symbol. , In order to determine the effect pattern of the special variation effect, the full-year effect data selection process that selects one of the full-year effect data from the special variation effect / full-year effect data group, and any character from the character data group The character data selection process for selecting data, the first half effect data selection process for selecting one of the first half effect data from the first half effect data group, and the second half for selecting one of the second half effect data from the second half effect data group. Executes the effect data selection process. Then, the effect image based on the selected character data and the effect image based on the first half effect data (or the second half effect data) are combined with the effect image based on the selected full-year effect data, and these combined images are displayed on the display screen 70. Display in.

(For special fluctuation production / full-year production data group)
The special variation production / full-year production data group consists of three production data (full-year production data 1A, full-year production data 1B, full-year production data 1C) for realizing three types of full-year production performed as background change production of the main character. It is composed of. The full-year production data 1A is a display production in which the main character (displayed based on one of the character data 2A to 2C described later) moves from a predetermined starting point to a disadvantageous swamp and battles with an enemy character in the swamp. It is the production data to realize. In other words, the full-year production data 1A is production data for realizing a background change production that changes the background of the main character from a predetermined starting point to a swamp. The full-year production data 1B is production data for realizing a display production in which the main character moves from a predetermined starting point to a grassland where he can fight more advantageously than a swamp, and battles with an enemy character in the grassland. In other words, the full-year production data 1B is production data for realizing a background change production that changes the background of the main character from a predetermined starting point to a grassland. The full-year production data 1C is production data for realizing a display production in which the main character moves from a predetermined starting point to an enemy base where he / she can fight most advantageously and battles with the enemy character at the enemy base. In other words, the full-year production data 1C is production data for realizing a background change production that changes the background of the main character from a predetermined starting point to an enemy base.

In this way, when the special variation effect is executed, the starting point of the main character is the same regardless of which full-year effect data is selected, and the main character is in any place (in this embodiment, a swamp, An effect display is performed to move to the meadow or the enemy base and battle with the enemy character.

The image / sound control CPU 101 has the following features regarding the process of selecting one of the full-year effect data from the special variation effect / full-year effect data group. That is, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "big hit", the full-year effect data 1C is most likely to be selected, and the next most likely to be selected is the full-year effect data 1B. Therefore, it is difficult to select the full-year production data 1A. On the contrary, when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "miss", the full-year effect data 1A is most likely to be selected, and the next is the full-year effect data. It is 1B, and it is difficult to select the full-year production data 1C. Further, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively long (for example, when the variation time is 80 seconds), the full-year effect data 1C is used. The most easily selected, the next most easily selected is the full-year effect data 1B, and the full-year effect data 1A is not selected. On the contrary, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively short (for example, when the variation time is 20 seconds), the full-year effect data 1A Is most easily selected, and the next most easily selected is the full-year effect data 1B, and the full-year effect data 1C is not selected.

In addition, although detailed explanation is omitted, when the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment that triggered the execution of the special fluctuation effect is "big hit", it indicates that the main character defeats the enemy character and wins. While the effect display and the hit notification effect are executed, if the determination result is "miss", the effect display and the loss notification effect in which the main character is routed and returns to a predetermined starting point are executed.

In the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, when it is decided to execute the special variation effect, the battle between the main character and the enemy character occurs regardless of the judgment result of the first special symbol determination or the variation pattern of the first special symbol. Although the case where it is performed will be described as an example, the following configuration may be adopted in other embodiments. That is, the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "missing", and a fluctuation pattern having a relatively long fluctuation time (for example, a fluctuation pattern having a fluctuation time of 50 seconds or more) is selected as the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol. If this is the case, the effect display in which the main character and the enemy character battle is executed as described above, while the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol is a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time is relatively short (for example, the fluctuation time is 20 seconds). When the variable pattern) is selected, a configuration is adopted in which the main character moves from the predetermined starting point but returns to the predetermined starting point without being able to find the enemy character. You may. Further, when the jackpot reliability is relatively low (when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination is "missing" and the fluctuation pattern having a relatively short fluctuation time is selected as the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol). ), Since it is easy to select the full-year production data 1A, the full-year production data 1A is used to realize a display production in which the main character is moved from a predetermined starting point to a swamp, but no battle with an enemy character is performed. It may be data. Further, when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination is "missing" and a fluctuation pattern having an extremely short fluctuation time is selected as the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol, the main character moves from a predetermined starting point. It is also possible to prepare full-year production data and character data for performing production display without performing a battle with an enemy character.

(Character data group)
The character data group is composed of three production data (character data 2A, character data 2B, character data 2C) for realizing the main character character display production. The character data 2A is production data for realizing a hero character display effect in which a hero character wearing a blue aura is displayed. The character data 2B is production data for realizing a hero character display effect in which a hero character wearing a green aura is displayed. The character data 2C is production data for realizing a hero character display effect in which a hero character wearing a red aura is displayed.

For example, if the full-year production data 1B is selected and the character data 2A is selected, the main character wearing a blue aura moves from the predetermined starting point to the grassland and battles with the enemy character in the grassland. The display effect will be performed. Further, for example, when the full-year production data 1C is selected and the character data 2C is selected, the main character wearing a red aura moves from the predetermined starting point to the enemy base and becomes an enemy at the enemy base. A display effect that battles with the character will be performed.

The process in which the image / sound control CPU 101 selects any character data from the character data group has the following features. That is, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "big hit", the character data 2C is most likely to be selected, and the character data 2B is the next most easily selected. , Character data 2A is difficult to select. On the contrary, when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "missing", the character data 2A is most likely to be selected, and the character data 2B is the next easiest to be selected. Yes, it is difficult to select character data 2C. Further, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the fluctuation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special fluctuation effect is relatively long (for example, when the fluctuation time is 80 seconds), the character data 2C is the most. It is the character data 2B that is easy to be selected and then easily selected, and the character data 2A is not selected. On the contrary, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the fluctuation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special fluctuation effect is relatively short (for example, when the fluctuation time is 20 seconds), the character data 2A is used. The character data 2B is the easiest to select and the next to be selected, and the character data 2C is not selected.

(First half production data group)
The first half effect data group consists of three effect data (first half effect data) for realizing three types of first half effects performed in the first half of the fluctuation period of the first special symbol accompanied by execution of the full year effect based on any of the full year effect data. It is composed of 3A, the first half effect data 3B, and the first half effect data 3C). In the present embodiment, in the first half effect based on the first half effect data 3A, an effect display indicating that the crescent moon is visible in the sky, suggesting that the jackpot reliability is relatively low, is performed. Further, in the first half effect based on the first half effect data 3B, an effect display indicating that the half moon can be seen in the sky, suggesting that the jackpot reliability is medium, is performed. Further, in the first half production based on the first half production data 3C, an effect display indicating that the full moon can be seen in the sky, which suggests that the jackpot reliability is relatively high, is performed.

The image / sound control CPU 101 has the following features regarding the process of selecting one of the first half effect data from the first half effect data group. That is, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "big hit", the first half effect data 3C is most likely to be selected, and the first half effect data 3B is most likely to be selected next. Therefore, it is difficult to select the first half production data 3A. On the contrary, when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "miss", the first half effect data 3A is most likely to be selected, and the first half effect data is most likely to be selected next. It is 3B, and it is difficult to select the first half production data 3C. Further, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively long (for example, when the variation time is 80 seconds), the first half effect data 3C is used. The first half effect data 3B is the easiest to select, and the next most easily selected is the first half effect data 3A, which is not selected. On the contrary, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the fluctuation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special fluctuation effect is relatively short (for example, when the fluctuation time is 20 seconds), the first half effect data 3A Is most easily selected, and the next most easily selected is the first half effect data 3B, and the first half effect data 3C is not selected.

(Second half production data group)
The second half effect data group consists of three effect data (second half effect data) for realizing three types of second half effects performed in the latter half of the fluctuation period of the first special symbol accompanied by execution of the full year effect based on any of the full year effect data. It is composed of 4A, the latter half effect data 4B, and the second half effect data 4C). In this embodiment, in the second half production (and the main character display production) based on the second half production data 4A, a hordes of enemies appears in front of the main character, and the hordes of enemies battle with the main character as enemy characters. An effect display suggesting that the jackpot reliability is relatively low is performed. Also, in the second half production (and the main character display production) based on the second half production data 4B, a middle group of enemies appears in front of the main character, and the middle group of the enemies battles with the main character as an enemy character. , A production display suggesting that the jackpot reliability is medium is performed. Also, in the second half production (and the main character display production) based on the second half production data 4C, a small group of enemies appears in front of the main character, and the small group of enemies battles with the main character as an enemy character. , A production display suggesting that the jackpot reliability is relatively high is performed.

The image / sound control CPU 101 has the following features regarding the process of selecting one of the latter half effect data from the latter half effect data group. That is, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "big hit", the latter half effect data 4C is most likely to be selected, and the second half effect data 4B is most likely to be selected next. Therefore, it is difficult to select the latter half production data 4A. On the contrary, when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "miss", the latter half effect data 4A is most likely to be selected, and the second half effect data is most likely to be selected next. It is 4B, and it is difficult to select the latter half production data 4C. Further, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively long (for example, when the variation time is 80 seconds), the latter half effect data 4C is used. The second half effect data 4B is the easiest to select, and the second half effect data 4A is not selected. On the contrary, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the fluctuation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special fluctuation effect is relatively short (for example, when the fluctuation time is 20 seconds), the latter half effect data 4A Is most easily selected, and the second half effect data 4B is most easily selected, and the second half effect data 4C is not selected.

As is clear from the description so far, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, any character data is selected from the character data group, and any second half effect data is selected from the second half effect data group. By being selected and performing a special variation effect based on these selection results, the main character (the main character wearing a blue, green, or red aura) becomes an enemy character (hordes of enemies, middle group of enemies, Or a small group of enemies) is displayed to show how they are fighting.

In the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the game is controlled in the normal gaming state, for example, when the special variation effect is repeatedly executed over a period in which the variation display of the first special symbol is performed 15 times. There is. That is, the effect may be controlled in the special effect mode in which the special variation effect is repeatedly executed over a predetermined period. When controlling the effect in the special effect mode, the sub CPU 91 transmits a variation effect start command instructing the execution of the special variation effect to the image / sound control board 100. On the other hand, the image / sound control CPU 101 of the image / sound control board 100 that has received the variation effect start command instructing the execution of the special variation effect generally executes the following processing.

That is, the image / sound control CPU 101 first executes a full-year effect data selection process for selecting one of the full-year effect data from the special variation effect / full-year effect data group. Next, the character data selection process for selecting one of the character data from the character data group is executed. Then, the first half effect data selection process for selecting one of the first half effect data from the first half effect data group is executed, and the second half effect data selection process for selecting one of the second half effect data from the second half effect data group is executed. To do.

When the image / sound control CPU 101 executes these selection processes, the image / sound control CPU 101 sets the selection information indicating the result of these selection processes in the control RAM 103 as the setting information of the special variation effect. Then, based on the setting information set in the control RAM 103, it is determined how the effect image should be displayed on the display screen 70, a display list for controlling the drawing process of the VDP 104 is created, and a predetermined area of the control RAM 103 is created. The display list is set in the display list storage area of the VRAM 106. When the VDP 104 executes the drawing process based on the display list set in the display list storage area, a special variation effect of the effect pattern determined based on each selection process is realized. Specifically, in the first half of the special variation effect, the effect image representing the main character wearing the aura of a predetermined color and the effect image representing the moon of a predetermined shape are combined with the effect image representing the predetermined starting point. Then, a composite image of these effect images is displayed on the display screen 70. In the latter half of the special variation effect, the effect image showing the main character's movement destination (swamp, grassland, or enemy base) is compared with the effect image showing the main character wearing a predetermined color aura, and the enemy character (enemy). A large group of characters, a middle group of enemies, or a small group of enemies) are combined, and the combined image of these effects images is displayed on the display screen 70.

[Specific example of special fluctuation production]
FIG. 10 is a time chart for explaining the special variation effect. In FIG. 10, the “special symbol” indicates the fluctuating state of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state, and the “directing symbol” indicates the fluctuating state of the staging symbol. In addition, "full-year production" and "hero character display production" indicate the full-year production and the main character display production selected by the above-mentioned full-year production data selection processing and character data selection processing, and "half-year production" is the first half described above. The first half effect selected by the effect data selection process and the second half effect selected by the second half effect data selection process described above are shown.

In the present embodiment, none of the full-year effect data may be selected by the above-mentioned full-year data selection process. In this case, as illustrated in FIG. 10A, along with the variable display of the first special symbol, a full-year effect, a hero character display effect, a first half effect, and a special variable effect not including the second half effect are executed. In this case, only the variable display of the effect symbols is performed in a state where the three symbol sequences are superimposed and displayed on the black background image. It should be noted that such a special variation effect in which the full-year effect is not performed is not executed when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "big hit", and the determination result of the first special symbol is "missing". Moreover, it is executed when a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively short is selected as the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol.

In FIG. 10B, full-year production data 1B is selected from the special variation production / full-year production data group, character data 2A is selected from the character data group, and the first half production is selected from the first half production data group. An example is a special variation effect executed when the data 3A is selected and the latter half effect data 4A is selected from the latter half effect data group. As illustrated in FIG. 10B, when this special variation effect is executed, a crescent moon appears in the sky before the main character wearing a blue aura moves from a predetermined starting point and arrives at the meadow. A production display is performed that shows how the main character arrives in the meadow and battles with the enemy character (hordes of enemies).

In FIG. 10C, full-year production data 1C is selected from the special variation production / full-year production data group, character data 2C is selected from the character data group, and the first half production is selected from the first half production data group. An example is a special variation effect executed when the data 3C is selected and the latter half effect data 4C is selected from the latter half effect data group. As illustrated in FIG. 10C, when this special variation effect is executed, the full moon is in the sky before the main character wearing a red aura moves from a predetermined starting point and arrives at the enemy base. Appears, and a production display is performed showing how the main character arrives at the enemy base and battles with the enemy character (a small group of enemies).

As described above, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the full-year production data group in which the three full-year effects are grouped, the character data group in which the three character data are grouped, and the first half in which the three first half production data are grouped. The effect data group and the second half effect data group in which the three second half effect data are grouped are stored in the CGROM 105. Therefore, the game machine 1 of the present embodiment has at least three types of full-year production data, three types of character data, three types of first half production data, and three types of second half production data in combination. It is possible to execute a special variation effect having an effect pattern, and execute a special variation effect with abundant variations without storing a large amount of effect data related to the special variation effect that defines the entire flow of a series of effects in the CGROM 105. It is possible.

FIG. 11 is a screen view showing a specific example of the special variation effect. In FIG. 11, the full-year production data 1B (and the main character display production) for realizing the full-year production (and the main character display production) in which the hero character wearing a blue aura moves from a predetermined starting point to the meadow and battles with the enemy character in the meadow ( And character data 2A), the first half production data 3B to realize the production display showing the appearance of the half moon in the sky, and the production display showing the appearance of a hordes of enemies appearing in front of the main character and fighting with the main character. A specific example of the special variation effect performed when the latter half effect data 4A for realizing the above is selected is shown.

FIG. 11A shows a first special symbol determination corresponding to the icon displayed in the icon display area 72 in a state where one hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71 on the display screen 70. In order to notify that the determination result of is "missing", the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, and the effect symbol indicating the disparity of "215" is stopped and displayed. Illustrated. Here, the effect is controlled in the special effect mode described above, and the variation display and the stop display of the effect symbol are performed in the upper right region of the display screen 70 so as not to interfere with the visibility of the special variation effect. ..

Next, when a predetermined fixed time (0.6 seconds in the present embodiment) elapses after the lost symbol as the first special symbol (and the effect symbol showing the disparity of "215") is stopped and displayed, it is held. The first special symbol determination corresponding to the earliest hold icon (here, the green hold icon) displayed in the icon display area 71 is executed. Then, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "missing" and a variation pattern capable of executing the special variation effect is selected as the variation pattern of the first special symbol, the following effect is performed. Will be

That is, as the variable display of the first special symbol is started in response to the execution of the first special symbol determination corresponding to the earliest hold icon, the earliest displayed in the hold icon display area 71. The hold icon of is shifted to the icon display area 72, and the scroll display of the three symbol columns is started in the upper right area of the display screen 70 (see FIGS. 11A and 11B). In addition, here, since the special variation effect was executed even during the previous symbol change and the judgment result of the first special symbol determination was "missing", the effect display in which the main character returns to the predetermined starting point is displayed. It is done. For this reason, even after the variable display of the first special symbol (and the effect symbol) is started, the effect display indicating that the main character is located at the predetermined starting point is continuously displayed (Fig.). 11 (A) and (B)).

In this way, when the effect is controlled in the special effect mode, the non-variable display period in which the first special symbol (and the effect symbol) is not variablely displayed and the first special symbol (and the effect symbol) are variablely displayed. During both the variation display period and the variation display period, an effect image representing a predetermined starting point is displayed as an effect image related to the special variation effect. Further, when the special variation effect is started, the effect image of the main character selected based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination and the variation pattern of the first special symbol is combined with the effect image representing a predetermined starting point. It is displayed together with the production image showing the predetermined departure point, but it shows that the main character (not wearing an aura) has been located at the predetermined departure point since the end of the previous special fluctuation production. The effect image to be represented is displayed. For this reason, at the start of the special variation effect, the main character may be dressed in an aura, and a drawing process may be executed to realize an effect display showing how the main character picks up the falling sword and starts walking. Therefore, the processing load of the VDP 104 for realizing the special variation effect can be reduced, and the previous special variation effect and the current special variation effect can be made continuous, effectively improving the interest of the special variation effect. It is possible to make it.

When the variable display of the first special symbol (and the production symbol) is started, as is clear from the notations in FIGS. 11 (B) and 11 (C), the sword dropped by the main character is held in the grassland. An effect display showing the appearance of walking toward the sword is performed, and at that time, an effect display (first half effect) showing the appearance of the half moon in the upper middle is also performed (based on the first half effect data 3B). Here, since the character data 2A is selected, the main character wearing a blue aura is displayed, but for convenience of explanation, the illustration of the aura worn by the main character is omitted in FIG. Has been done.

Next, in the middle of the variable display of the first special symbol (and the production symbol) this time, the production display showing how the main character wearing a blue aura reaches the meadow and confronts the hordes of enemies is performed. (See FIG. 11 (D)). Along with this, the effect symbols displayed in the upper right area of the display screen 70 are in a state in which the middle row of symbol rows is scrolled while the reach symbols are pseudo-stopped (see FIG. 11 (D)). After that, although not shown in FIG. 11, an effect display showing a battle between the main character and a hordes of enemies is performed.

Here, since the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment performed at the start of the variable display of the first special symbol (and the production symbol) this time is "missing", the main character withdraws and the predetermined departure. Returning to the point, at that time, an effect display showing the state of dropping the sword in possession is performed (see FIGS. 11 (E) and 11 (F)). In addition, along with this withdrawal effect, at the final stage of the variable display of the first special symbol, three effect symbols indicating the reach loss of "343" are displayed in a pseudo-stop display in the upper right area of the display screen 70 (FIG. 11). (Refer to (E)), as the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, the three effect symbols indicating the reach loss of "343" are stopped (see FIG. 11 (F)).

By the way, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses after the special symbol (here, the first special symbol) is stopped and displayed in a state where the right to determine the special symbol is not reserved. , It is decided to perform a predetermined customer waiting production. On the other hand, even after the loss notification effect illustrated in FIG. 11F is executed, the game ball does not win the first starting port 21 even though the player continues to hit left. For this reason, if no variable effect is performed or if a customer waiting effect is performed after a predetermined time has elapsed, the player's irritation to the fact that the game ball does not win at the first starting port 21 increases, and on the contrary, There is a possibility that the interest of special fluctuation production will be reduced.

Therefore, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a predetermined fixed time (0.6 seconds in the present embodiment) elapses after the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, a predetermined prize waiting effect is performed. It is supposed to be. Specifically, from the time when the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol until the predetermined fixed time elapses, the main character and the sword (which the main character possessed) are shown in three productions that show the reach lost eyes. It is completely stationary together with the symbol (see FIG. 11 (F)). Then, when the predetermined fixed time has passed, the three production symbols that show the reach loss and the sword that the main character possessed remain stationary, and as a winning production, they are disappointed by losing the fight. An effect display is performed to show how the main character, who had been there, regains his energy and walks around a predetermined starting point (see FIG. 11 (G)). Then, when a specific time (for example, 10 seconds) elapses from the start of the prize-waiting production, as another prize-waiting production, a special training production showing that the main character is specially training in preparation for the next battle is performed. (See FIG. 11 (H)). The special training effect as the prize-waiting effect is continued for, for example, 5 seconds, and when the special training effect is completed, the prize-waiting effect similar to the prize-waiting effect illustrated in FIG. 11 (G) is performed again (FIG. 11 (I)). reference).

As described above, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the main character related to the special variable effect is displayed during the variable display period of the first special symbol (and the effect symbol), and the variable display period to the non-variable display period. When shifting to (waiting for winning), the main character will continue to be displayed even during the non-variable display period. Then, from the transition to the non-variable display period until the predetermined fixed time elapses, both the main character and the sword in possession are stopped and displayed, and after that, the main character is changed while the sword is stopped. It is decided to perform a winning-waiting production. In addition, in the present embodiment, when 10.6 seconds (= 0.6 seconds + 10 seconds) have elapsed since the transition to the non-variable display period, a production image (see FIG. 11 (G)) including the hero character walking around is displayed. , After changing to the effect image related to the special training effect (see FIG. 11 (H)) and displaying the effect image related to this special training effect for 5 seconds, the effect related to the prize-waiting effect displayed before the start of the special training effect. The image (see FIGS. 11 (G)) is to be displayed again (see FIGS. 11 (G) to 11 (I)).

In this way, by returning the special training production as the prize-waiting production to the original prize-waiting production, the appearance of the main character being located at the predetermined starting point is projected on the display screen 70, so that the first starting port 21 When the game ball wins a prize, it is possible to smoothly start the next special variation effect.

(Modification example related to special fluctuation production)
The following configuration may be adopted for the special variation effect.
That is, the case where the special variation effect / full-year effect data group stored in the CGROM 105 is one will be described, but in another embodiment, a plurality of special variation effect / full-year effect data groups are stored in the CGROM 105. You may try to keep it. In this case, one of the special variation production / full-year production data groups is selected from a plurality of special variation production / full-year production data groups, and one of the selected special variation production / full-year production data groups is selected. It is possible to further increase the variation of the special variation production by selecting the full-year production data of.

Further, when adopting a configuration in which a plurality of special variation effect / full-year effect data groups are stored in the CGROM 105, the following configurations may be adopted together. The configuration is, for example, three types of special variation production / full-year production data groups for the first special variation production / full-year production data group to the third special fluctuation production / full-year production data group, and the first first half production data group. -When the three types of first half effect data groups of the third first half effect data group are stored in the CGROM 105 and the full year effect data is selected from the first special variation effect / full year effect data group, the first first half effect If the first half effect data is selected from the data group and the full year effect data is selected from the second special variation effect / full year effect data group, the first half effect data is selected from the second first half effect data group. , When the full-year production data is selected from the third special variation production / full-year production data group, the first half production data is selected from the third first half production data group. Further, such a configuration may be similarly adopted for the latter half effect data group.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the effect data group including the effect data for drawing the effect image to be combined with the effect image based on the full-year effect data is divided into the first half effect data group and the second half effect data group. Let's take an example. On the other hand, in another embodiment, the production data group including the production data for drawing the production image to be combined with the production image based on the full-year production data is not divided into the first half and the second half, and is one production data. It may be configured as a group.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case where each effect data is grouped according to the type of effect data or the like will be described as an example, but in other embodiments, a configuration in which each effect data is not grouped is adopted. You may.

Hereinafter, the RAM configuration of the main control board 80 for realizing the effects described with reference to the drawings of FIGS. 6 to 11 and the processing performed on each control board will be described.

[Configuration example of main RAM 83]
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the storage area of the main RAM 83 and the information stored in each storage area. As illustrated in FIG. 12A, the main RAM 83 has a determination storage area 830 as a storage area for storing acquired information or the like acquired when the game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 21. 1st and 1st reserved storage areas 831, 1st and 2nd reserved storage areas 832, 1st and 3rd reserved storage areas 833, and 1st and 4th reserved storage areas 834 are provided. Further, in the main RAM 83, as storage areas for storing the acquired information and the like acquired when the game ball wins in the second starting port 22, the determination storage area 830 and the special figure 2 / first reserved storage area 835 are stored. , Special Figure 2 and 2nd Hold Storage Area 836, Special Figure 2 and 3rd Hold Storage Area 837, and Special Figure 2 and 4 Hold Storage Area 838 are provided.

The determination storage area 830 is a storage area in which various information used for the special symbol determination is stored when the special symbol determination is actually executed. The special figure 1 / 1st reserved storage area 831 to the special figure 1 / 4th reserved storage area 834 is a storage area for storing various information related to the 1st special symbol determination, and the special figure 2 / 1st reserved storage area. 835-Special Figure 2/4 Hold Storage Area 838 is a storage area in which various information related to the second special symbol determination is stored. Then, when both the first special symbol determination and the second special symbol determination are suspended, the second special symbol determination is preferentially digested over the first special symbol determination. Therefore, in the determination storage area 830, when the reserved special symbol determination is executed, if the second special symbol determination is suspended, it is stored in the special figure 2 / first reserved storage area 835. When various information is shifted and only the first special symbol determination is reserved, the various information stored in the special figure 1 / first reserved storage area 831 is shifted.

As illustrated in FIG. 12B, the reserved storage areas 831 to 838 are areas for storing information for holding the right of special symbol determination, and each is a jackpot random number acquired by the main CPU 81. It includes an area for storing a symbol random number, an area for storing a reach random number, an area for storing a variation pattern random number, an area for storing prior determination information which is information indicating a preliminary determination result, and the like.

Here, the jackpot random number, the symbol random number, the reach random number, and the fluctuation pattern random number are as described above. The pre-determination information is information obtained by a pre-determination process (see FIG. 15) described later based on a jackpot random number, a symbol random number, a reach random number, and a fluctuation pattern random number. The pre-judgment information is, specifically, winning start information, information indicating whether or not the judgment result of the special symbol judgment is a big hit, and if it is a big hit, information indicating what kind of big hit it is. It includes information indicating a variation pattern of a special symbol, information indicating a gaming state of the gaming machine 1, and the like. Here, the winning start opening information is acquired when the jackpot random number, the symbol random number, the reach random number, and the fluctuation pattern random number stored in the same hold storage area are won by the game ball in the first starting opening 21. This is information indicating whether or not the game ball was acquired when the game ball won a prize in the second starting port 22. The pre-determination information including such information is stored in the same reserved storage area as the jackpot random number, the symbol random number, the reach random number, and the fluctuation pattern random number used in the pre-determination process.

In the game machine 1, each time a game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 21, the five pieces of information explained based on FIG. 12B are displayed in order from the special figure 1 and the first reserved storage area 831. -It is stored in one of the first reserved storage area 831 to the special figure 1 and the fourth reserved storage area 834. In addition, each time the game ball wins a prize in the second starting port 22, the above five pieces of information are displayed in order from the special figure 2 and the first reserved storage area 835 in the special figure 2 and the first reserved storage area 835 to the special figure 2. It is stored in any of the fourth reserved storage areas 838.

For example, in a state where the information is stored in the determination storage area 830 and the information is not stored in any of the special figure 1 and the first reserved storage area 831 to the special figure 1 and the fourth reserved storage area 834, the first When the game ball wins the starting port 21, five pieces of information related to the first special symbol determination newly acquired according to the winning are stored in the special figure 1 / first reserved storage area 831. Further, for example, the first start port 21 has five pieces of information stored in each of the determination storage area 830, the special figure 1 / first reserved storage area 831, and the special figure 1/2 reserved storage area 832. When the game ball wins a prize, five pieces of information related to the first special symbol determination newly acquired according to the prize are stored in the special figure 1 and 3 reserved storage areas 833.

Further, when the information stored in the special figure 1 / 1st reserved storage area 831 is shifted to the determination storage area 830 when the first special symbol determination is executed, the special figure 1 / 2nd reserved storage area 832 or later The information stored in the reserved storage area related to the first special symbol determination is shifted to the special figure 1 / first reserved storage area 831 side. For example, the information stored in the special figure 1 and the first reserved storage area 831 is stored in the state where the information is stored in each of the special figure 1 and the first reserved storage area 831 to the special figure 1 and the third reserved storage area 833. When the determination storage area 830 is shifted, the information stored in the special figure 1 and 2 reserved storage areas 832 is shifted to the special figure 1 and 1 reserved storage area 831, and the special figure 1 and 3 reserved storage areas are shifted. The information stored in the area 833 is shifted to the special figure 1 and 2 reserved storage areas 832.

Such information shift processing is also performed in the special figure 2 / first reserved storage area 835 to the special figure 2 / 4th reserved storage area 838 in which the information related to the second special symbol determination is stored. In the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, when both the first special symbol determination and the second special symbol determination are reserved, that is, the special figure 1 / first reserved storage area 831 and the special figure 2 / 1st reserved When information is stored in both of the storage areas 835, the special figures 2 and 1 are prior to the shift processing for the special figures 1 and 1 reserved storage areas 831 to the special figures 1 and 4 reserved storage areas 834. 1 The shift process for the reserved storage area 835 to the special figure 2 and the fourth reserved storage area 838 is prioritized.

By the way, even if a game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 21 or the second starting port 22 and various random numbers are acquired during the variable display of the special symbol or the jackpot game, the special symbol determination and the variable display of the special symbol are displayed. It cannot be done immediately. Therefore, when various random numbers are acquired under such a situation, the main CPU 81 uses the acquired various random numbers and the like as information for retaining the right to determine the special symbol in the reserved storage area 831. It is supposed to be stored in any of the areas of ~ 838. On the other hand, when the special symbol is not displayed in a variable manner, the special symbol determination is not held, and the jackpot game is not in progress, the main CPU 81 receives various random numbers and the like acquired when the start opening prize is won. It is stored directly in the determination storage area 830.

[Interrupt processing by the main control board 80]
Next, the interrupt processing executed on the main control board 80 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the main control board 80. The main control board 80 repeatedly executes a series of processes illustrated in FIG. 13 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. .. The processing of the main control board 80 described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. 13 and 13 is performed according to an instruction issued by the main CPU 81 based on the program stored in the main ROM 82.

First, the main CPU 81 executes a random number update process for updating various random numbers such as a jackpot random number, a symbol random number, a reach random number, a variable pattern random number, and a normal symbol random number (step S1). The jackpot random number, the symbol random number, the reach random number, the variable pattern random number, and the ordinary symbol random number are added by "1" each time the process of step S1 is performed. A loop counter is used as the counter that performs the process of step S1, and each random number is returned to "0" and updated after reaching a preset maximum value.

Following the process of step S1, the main CPU 81 acquires various random numbers according to the input of the detection signals from the first start port sensor 211, the second start port sensor 221 and the gate sensor 251. The sensor detection process including the process is executed (step S2). This sensor detection process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

Following the process of step S2, the main CPU 81 executes a special symbol determination to cause the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42 to variablely display the special symbol, and then the determination result of the special symbol determination. A special symbol process including a process of stopping and displaying the special symbol indicating the above is executed (step S3). This special symbol processing will be described in detail later based on FIG.

Following the process of step S3, the main CPU 81 executes a normal symbol determination, causes the normal symbol display 43 to display the normal symbol in a variable manner, and then stops and displays the normal symbol indicating the result of the normal symbol determination. Ordinary symbol processing is executed (step S4).

Following the process of step S4, the main CPU 81 controls the second start port solenoid 222 to operate the opening / closing member 23 when it is determined that the second start port 22 is to be opened as a result of the normal symbol determination. 2 The second starting port opening / closing control process for opening / closing the starting port 22 is executed (step S5).

Following the process of step S5, when the main CPU 81 determines that the jackpot is a "big hit" in the jackpot determination process executed in the special symbol process of step S3, the first big prize opening solenoid 262 (or the second big prize) The large winning opening opening / closing control process for opening / closing the first large winning opening 26 (or the second large winning opening 28) is executed by controlling the mouth solenoid 282) (step S6).

Following the process of step S6, the main CPU 81 executes a prize ball process for controlling the payout of the prize ball according to the winning of the game ball (step S7).

Following the processing in step S7, the main CPU 81 transmits to the sub-control board 90 information necessary for determining various commands and effect contents set (stored) in the main RAM 83 in the processing steps prior to step S7. The process is executed (step S8).

[Sensor detection processing by the main control board 80]
FIG. 14 is a detailed flowchart of the sensor detection process in step S2 of FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 14, in the main CPU 81, following the random number update process in step S1, the gate sensor 251 passes the game ball through the gate 25 based on the presence / absence of the input of the detection signal from the gate sensor 251. It is determined whether or not it has been detected (step S201). Here, when it is determined that the gate sensor 251 has detected the passage of the game ball with respect to the gate 25 (step S201: YES), the hold number F for the normal symbol determination stored in the main RAM 83 is set in advance. It is determined whether or not it is less than the maximum number of reserved symbols Fmax (“4” in this embodiment) for symbol determination (step S202).

When the main CPU 81 determines that the hold number F is less than "4" (step S202: YES), the main CPU 81 updates the hold number F to a value obtained by adding "1" (step S203), and the random number update process in step S1 is performed. With respect to the ordinary symbol random number that is updated each time it is performed, the value of the timing at which the passage of the game ball to the gate 25 is detected is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 83 (step S204).

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 executes the process of step S204 and determines that the gate sensor 251 has not detected the passage of the game ball to the gate 25 (step S201: NO), the hold number F is less than "4". If it is determined that this is not the case (step S202: NO), the second start port sensor 221 detects that the game ball has won the second start port 22 based on the presence or absence of the input of the detection signal from the second start port sensor 221. It is determined whether or not this has been done (step S206). Here, when it is determined that the second start port sensor 221 has detected the winning of the game ball for the second start port 22 (step S206: YES), the number of hold numbers T2 for the second special symbol determination stored in the main RAM 83. Is less than the preset maximum hold number T2max (“4” in this embodiment) of the second special symbol determination (step S207).

When the main CPU 81 determines that the hold number T2 is less than "4" (step S207: YES), the main CPU 81 updates the hold number T2 to a value obtained by adding "1" (step S208), and the random number update process in step S1 is performed. With respect to the jackpot random number, the symbol random number, the reach random number, and the fluctuation pattern random number that are updated each time the game is performed, the value of the timing at which the winning of the game ball with respect to the second starting port 22 is detected is acquired (step S209).

In this way, various random numbers related to the second special symbol determination are generated according to the establishment of the acquisition condition that the winning of the game ball for the second starting port 22 is detected when the holding number T2 is less than the maximum holding number T2max. To be acquired. When various random numbers are acquired in a situation where the second special symbol determination and the variation display of the second special symbol can be immediately executed, these random numbers are directly stored in the determination storage area 830 and cannot be executed immediately. When various random numbers are acquired in the situation, these random numbers are stored in any of the special figure 2, the first reserved storage area 835, and the special figure 2, the fourth reserved storage area 838.

When the process of step S209 is executed, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the current state is the high base state (step S210). The time saving game flag is stored in the main RAM 83. At this time, the time saving game flag is set to "OFF" when controlling the operation of the opening / closing member 23 so that the game ball is in a low base state in which it is difficult for the game ball to win in the second start port 22, and the game ball is set in the second start port 22. Is a flag set to "ON" when controlling the operation of the opening / closing member 23 so as to be in a high base state in which is easy to win a prize. In step S210, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the current state is the high base state based on whether or not the time saving game flag is set to “ON”.

When the main CPU 81 determines that the current state is the high base state (step S210: YES), that is, when the time saving game flag is set to "ON", the pre-determination related to the hold of the second special symbol determination The process is executed (step S211). Specifically, the jackpot determination process (see FIG. 17) and the variation pattern selection process (see FIG. 18), which will be described later, are executed based on various random numbers acquired in response to the winning of the game ball in the second start port 22. Based on the various random numbers acquired in the process of step S209, it is determined in advance whether or not it will be a big hit, and the change of the second special symbol when the second special symbol determination is executed. A pre-determination process for predetermining which variation pattern is selected as a pattern is executed. The pre-determination information that is the result of this pre-determination process is stored in the same hold storage area in which the jackpot random numbers and the like used in the pre-determination process are stored.

If a game ball wins a prize in the second starting port 22 while the number of pending numbers T2 for determining the second special symbol is "0", neither during the jackpot game nor during the variable display of the special symbol, the winning amount is increased. The various acquired random numbers are directly stored in the determination storage area 830, and the second special symbol determination based on these random numbers is immediately executed. In this case, since the second special symbol determination is not suspended, the pre-determination process related to the second special symbol determination is not performed. Such a pre-determination process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

When the main CPU 81 executes the process of step S211 or determines that it is not in the high base state (step S210: NO), the main CPU 81 sets the hold command related to the second special symbol determination in the main RAM 83 (step S212). This hold command is a command for notifying that the second special symbol determination has been held, and is transmitted to the sub-control board 90 by the transmission process in step S8. If the process of step S212 is performed without the pre-determination process of step S211 being performed, a hold command that does not include the pre-determination information is transmitted to the sub-control board 90. On the other hand, when the process of step S212 is performed after the pre-determination process of step S211 is performed, a hold command including the pre-determination information is transmitted to the sub-control board 90.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 executes the process of step S212 and determines that the second start port sensor 221 has not detected the winning of the game ball for the second start port 22 (step S206: NO), the second When it is determined that the pending number T2 of the special symbol determination is not less than "4" (step S207: NO), the first starting port sensor 211 is based on the presence or absence of the input of the detection signal from the first starting port sensor 211. It is determined whether or not the winning of the game ball with respect to the first starting port 21 is detected (step S214). Here, when it is determined that the first start port sensor 211 has detected the winning of the game ball for the first start port 21 (step S214: YES), the number of hold numbers T1 for the first special symbol determination stored in the main RAM 83. Is less than the preset maximum hold number T1max (“4” in the present embodiment) of the first special symbol determination (step S215).

When the main CPU 81 determines that the hold number T1 is less than "4" (step S215: YES), the main CPU 81 updates the hold number T1 to a value obtained by adding "1" (step S216), and the random number update process in step S1 is performed. With respect to the jackpot random number, the symbol random number, the reach random number, and the fluctuation pattern random number that are updated each time the game is performed, the value of the timing at which the winning of the game ball with respect to the first starting port 21 is detected is acquired (step S217).

In this way, various random numbers related to the first special symbol determination are generated according to the establishment of the acquisition condition that the winning of the game ball for the first starting port 21 is detected when the holding number T1 is less than the maximum holding number T1max. To be acquired. When various random numbers are acquired in a situation where the first special symbol determination and the variation display of the first special symbol can be immediately executed, these random numbers are directly stored in the determination storage area 830 and cannot be executed immediately. When various random numbers are acquired in the situation, these random numbers are stored in any of the special figure 1 and 1st reserved storage areas 831 to the special figure 1 and 4 reserved storage areas 834.

When the process of step S217 is executed, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the current state is the high base state, as in the process of step S210 (step S218). Here, when it is determined that the current state is not the high base state (step S218: NO), that is, when the time saving game flag is set to "OFF", the pre-determination process relating to the suspension of the first special symbol determination Is executed (step S219). Specifically, the jackpot determination process (see FIG. 17) and the variation pattern selection process (see FIG. 18), which will be described later, are executed based on various random numbers acquired in response to the winning of the game ball in the first start port 21. Based on the various random numbers acquired in the process of step S217, it is determined in advance whether or not it will be a big hit, and when the first special symbol determination is executed, the fluctuation of the first special symbol is performed. A pre-determination process for predetermining which variation pattern is selected as a pattern is executed. The pre-determination information that is the result of this pre-determination process is stored in the same hold storage area in which the jackpot random numbers and the like used in the pre-determination process are stored.

If the game ball wins the first starting port 21 in a state where the number of pending numbers T1 of the first special symbol determination is "0", neither during the jackpot game nor during the variable display of the special symbol, the winning is performed. The various acquired random numbers are directly stored in the determination storage area 830, and the first special symbol determination based on these random numbers is immediately executed. In this case, since the first special symbol determination is not suspended, the pre-determination process related to the first special symbol determination is not performed. Such a pre-determination process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

When the main CPU 81 executes the process of step S219 or determines that it is in the high base state (step S218: YES), the main CPU 81 sets the hold command related to the first special symbol determination in the main RAM 83 (step S220). This hold command is a command for notifying that the first special symbol determination has been held, and is transmitted to the sub-control board 90 by the transmission process in step S8. If the process of step S220 is performed without performing the pre-determination process of step S219, a hold command that does not include the pre-determination information is transmitted to the sub-control board 90. On the other hand, when the process of step S220 is performed after the pre-determination process of step S219 is performed, a hold command including the pre-determination information is transmitted to the sub-control board 90.

[Preliminary determination processing by the main control board 80]
Hereinafter, the pre-determination process executed by the main control board 80 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 15 is a detailed flowchart of the pre-determination process in steps S211, 219 of FIG. Here, the pre-judgment process performed when the right of the first special symbol determination is reserved will be described as an example, but the right of the second special symbol determination is described except that the random numbers and tables used are different. Is suspended, the same pre-judgment process is performed.

When the main CPU 81 determines in the process of step S210 of FIG. 14 that it is in a high base state (step S210: YES), or when it determines that it is not in a high base state in the process of step S218 of FIG. 14 (step S218: NO), the jackpot determination process is executed (step S2191). Specifically, in the case of a low probability state (in this embodiment, the "normal game state" corresponds to this), the jackpot random number table for low probability is read from the main ROM 82 and set in the main RAM 83. On the other hand, in the case of a high probability state (in this embodiment, the "probability variation game state" corresponds to this), the jackpot random number table for high probability is read from the main ROM 82 and set in the main RAM 83. Then, whether or not the jackpot random number acquired in the process of step S209 of FIG. 14 (or the process of step S217 of FIG. 14) matches any of the winning values stored in the jackpot random number table set in the main RAM 83. Based on this, it is determined whether or not a jackpot will be determined at the start of the fluctuation.

Next, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not it is determined to be a big hit at the start of the fluctuation based on the determination result in step S2191 (step S2192). Here, when it is determined that the jackpot is determined at the start of the fluctuation (step S2192: YES), the jackpot fluctuation pattern selection table is read from the main ROM 82 and set in the main RAM 83 (step S2193).

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 determines that it is not a big hit at the start of the fluctuation (step S2192: NO), it determines whether or not the reach effect is performed during the fluctuation (step S2194). Specifically, based on whether or not the reach random number acquired together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process in step S2191 matches the winning value of the reach random number stored in the main ROM 82. It is determined whether or not the reach effect is performed during the fluctuation.

When the main CPU 81 determines that the reach effect is to be performed (step S2194: YES), the main CPU 81 reads the reach loss variation pattern selection table from the main ROM 82 and sets it in the main RAM 83 (step S2195).

By the way, if the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "missing" and the reach effect is not performed during the fluctuation, the first special symbol is based on the number of pending first special symbol determinations at the start of the fluctuation. Fluctuation pattern is determined. Then, the number of reserved first special symbol determinations may be different before and after the reserved first special symbol determination is digested. Therefore, the variation pattern of the special symbol acquired before the first special symbol determination is digested may be different from the variation pattern of the special symbol selected when the first special symbol determination is actually digested. is there. That is, for the right of the first special symbol determination in which the reach effect is not performed during the variation, it may not be possible to acquire an accurate variation pattern of the first special symbol prior to the first special symbol determination.

Therefore, when the main CPU 81 determines that the reach effect is not performed (step S2194: NO), the process proceeds to step S2197 without performing the variation pattern random number determination process of step S2196 described later.

When the main CPU 81 sets the variable pattern selection table for jackpot or the variable pattern selection table for reach loss, the main CPU 81 executes the variable pattern random number determination process (step S2196). Specifically, the variation pattern random number acquired at the time of winning the start opening together with the jackpot random number used in the process of step S2191 is among the random number values defined in the variation pattern selection table set in the main RAM 83. Based on which random number value of the throat matches, the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol to be selected in the special symbol determination performed at the start of the fluctuation is specified.

When the main CPU 81 executes the process of step S2196 or determines that the reach effect is not performed (step S2194: NO), the main CPU 81 generates pre-determination information and stores it in the main RAM 83 (step S2197). The area in which the pre-determination information is stored is as described above based on FIG.

In this way, the main CPU 81 is based on the acquisition information such as the jackpot random number acquired when the game ball wins the first start port 21 (or the second start port 22), and the jackpot based on this acquisition information. Prior to the determination process and the variation pattern selection process, the variation pattern (that is, the variation time) of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol) is acquired.

[Special symbol processing by the main control board 80]
Next, the details of the special symbol processing executed by the main control board 80 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 16 is a detailed flowchart of the special symbol processing in step S3 of FIG.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the jackpot game is in progress based on whether or not the jackpot game flag stored in the main RAM 83 is set to “ON” ( Step S301). This jackpot game flag is a flag indicating whether or not the jackpot game is being executed, and is set to "ON" at the start of the jackpot game and set to "OFF" at the end of the jackpot game. Here, if it is determined that the jackpot game is in progress (step S301: YES), the process proceeds to the normal symbol processing in step S4.

When the main CPU 81 determines that the jackpot game is not in progress (step S301: NO), the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (step S302). Here, when it is determined that the special symbol is not being displayed in a variable manner (step S302: NO), it is determined whether or not the hold number T2 of the second special symbol determination stored in the main RAM 83 is "1" or more. (Step S303). Here, when it is determined that the hold number T2 is "1" or more (step S303: YES), the hold number T2 is updated to a value subtracted by "1" (step S304).

When the main CPU 81 determines that the hold number T2 is not "1" or more (step S303: NO), whether or not the hold number T1 of the first special symbol determination stored in the main RAM 83 is "1" or more. (Step S305). Here, when it is determined that the hold number T1 is "1" or more (step S305: YES), the hold number T1 is updated to a value subtracted by "1" (step S306).

When the main CPU 81 executes the process of step S304 or the process of step S306, the main CPU 81 executes the information shift process (step S307). Specifically, when the process of step S307 is executed following the process of step S304, the shift process of shifting the information stored in the special figure 2 first reserved storage area 835 to the determination storage area 830 is executed. To do. At that time, if information is also stored in the reserved storage areas after the special figure 2 and the second reserved storage area 836, the shift process for shifting the information to the special figure 2 and the first reserved storage area 835 side. Is also executed. On the other hand, when the shift process is executed following the process of step S306, the shift process for shifting the information stored in the special figure 1 first reserved storage area 831 to the determination storage area 830 is executed. At that time, if information is also stored in the reserved storage areas after the special figure 1 and 2 reserved storage areas 832, the shift process for shifting the information to the special figure 1 and 1 first reserved storage area 831 side. Is also executed.

When the main CPU 81 stores the information necessary for the second special symbol determination (or the first special symbol determination) such as the jackpot random number and the symbol random number by the shift process in step S307 in the determination storage area 830, the main CPU 81 is based on these information. , The jackpot determination process in step S308 and the variation pattern selection process in step S309 are executed.

It should be noted that the game ball starts first with the number of holds T1 for the first special symbol determination and the number of holds T2 for the second special symbol determination both being "0", neither during the jackpot game nor during the variable display of the special symbol. When a prize is won in the mouth 21 (or the second starting mouth 22), information such as a jackpot random number and a symbol random number acquired in response to the prize is directly stored in the determination storage area 830. In such a case, the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process are executed without executing the shift process in step S307.

The main CPU 81 executes the jackpot determination process based on the random numbers stored in the determination storage area 830 (step S308). By executing this jackpot determination process, it is determined whether or not it is a jackpot, and if it is determined to be a jackpot, the type of jackpot (big hit symbol) is determined. Then, the setting information of the special symbol indicating the result of these processes is set in the main RAM 83. This jackpot determination process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

Following the jackpot determination process in step S308, the main CPU 81 executes a variation pattern selection process for selecting a variation pattern of a special symbol (step S309). This fluctuation pattern selection process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

Following the process of step S309, the main CPU 81 determines whether the special symbol setting information set in the process of step S308, the special symbol setting information is related to the first special symbol determination, or the second special symbol determination. A fluctuation start command including information indicating whether or not this is the case, setting information of the fluctuation pattern selected in the process of step S309, information on the game state of the game machine 1, and the like is set in the main RAM 83 (step S310). This variation start command is a command for instructing the start of the effect accompanying the variation display of the special symbol, and is transmitted to the sub-control board 90 by the transmission process in step S8. As a result, the variable effect including the variable display of the effect symbol on the display screen 70 is started.

Following the process of step S310, the main CPU 81 starts the variation display of the special symbol based on the variation pattern setting information included in the variation start command set in the process of step S310 (step S311). At that time, if the processes of steps S308 to S310 are performed with the information related to the first special symbol determination stored in the determination storage area 830, the first special symbol in the first special symbol display 41 Starts the variable display of. On the other hand, when the processes of steps S308 to S310 are performed with the information related to the second special symbol determination stored in the determination storage area 830, the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 42 Start variable display.

Next, the main CPU 81 starts measuring the elapsed time from the start of the variation display of the special symbol in step S311 (step S312). When the main CPU 81 executes the process of step S312 or determines that the special symbol variation is being displayed (step S302: YES), the elapsed time when the measurement is started in the process of step S312 is the variation of step S309. It is determined whether or not the fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern selected in the pattern selection process has been reached (step S313). Here, when it is determined that the elapsed time has not reached the fluctuation time (step S313: NO), the process proceeds to the normal symbol processing in step S4.

When the main CPU 81 determines that the elapsed time has reached the variation time (step S313: YES), the main CPU 81 sets a variation end command in the main RAM 83 to notify that the variation display of the special symbol ends (step S314). This variation end command is transmitted to the sub-control board 90 by the transmission process in step S8. As a result, a process of stopping and displaying the effect symbols that have been variablely displayed on the display screen 70 in a manner showing the determination result of the special symbol determination is performed.

Following the process of step S314, the main CPU 81 ends the variable display of the special symbol started in the process of step S311 (step S315). Specifically, the special symbol (big hit symbol or lost symbol) set in the process of step S308 is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display that has been variable-displaying the special symbol. The stop display of this special symbol is continued until at least a predetermined symbol confirmation time (for example, 0.6 seconds) has elapsed.

In this way, the main CPU 81 displays the special symbol on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42 in a variable manner, and then displays the special symbol (big hit symbol or lost symbol) indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination process. The first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42 is stopped and displayed.

Following the process of step S315, the main CPU 81 resets the elapsed time at which the measurement was started in the process of step S312 (step S316), and when the special figure is stopped including the process of starting the jackpot game when the jackpot is a big hit. The process is executed (step S317). This special figure stop processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 determines that the pending number T1 of the first special symbol determination is not "1" or more (step S305: NO), it is not in the jackpot game and the right to determine the special symbol is not reserved. In addition, a winning wait command for notifying that the special symbol has been changed and is in the winning waiting state is set in the main RAM 83 (step S318). Although not shown in FIG. 16, when the process of step S318 is executed, the winning waiting state flag stored in the main RAM 83 is set to “ON”. When the main CPU 81 determines that the hold number T1 of the first special symbol determination is not "1" or more (step S305: NO), it determines whether or not the winning waiting state flag is set to "ON". When the winning award waiting flag is set to "ON", since the winning award waiting flag has already been set, the process proceeds to the normal symbol processing of step S4 without executing the process of step S318.

[Big hit determination process by the main control board 80]
FIG. 17 is a detailed flowchart of the jackpot determination process in step S308 of FIG. First, the main CPU 81 executes a jackpot determination based on the jackpot random numbers stored in the determination storage area 830 (step S3081). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the jackpot random number stored in the determination storage area 830 is a jackpot based on whether or not it matches a preset winning value. The winning value here is a jackpot winning value defined in the high-probability jackpot random number table or the low-probability jackpot random number table. When the jackpot determination is executed in the high probability state (in the present embodiment, the "probability variation game state" corresponds to this), the winning value stored in the jackpot random number table for high probability is used. On the other hand, when the jackpot determination is executed in the low probability state (in this embodiment, the "normal game state" corresponds to this), the winning value stored in the jackpot random number table for low probability is used. To.

In this way, the main CPU 81 starts such that the acquisition information such as the jackpot random number acquired when the game ball wins in the first start port 21 or the second start port 22 is stored in the determination storage area 830. When the condition is satisfied, it is determined whether or not to execute the jackpot game advantageous to the player based on the jackpot random number.

Following the process of step S3081, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the determination result of the jackpot determination is "big hit" (step S3082). Here, when it is determined that the determination result of the jackpot determination is not "big hit" (step S3082: NO), that is, when the determination result of the jackpot determination is "missing", the setting information of the losing symbol is set in the main RAM 83. (Step S3083). As a result, during the process of step S315, the lost symbol set here is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. In this case, the jackpot game is not performed.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 determines that the determination result of the jackpot determination is "big hit" (step S3082: YES), the jackpot symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. The jackpot symbol selection process for selecting is executed (step S3084). Specifically, when the symbol random number stored in the determination storage area 830 together with the jackpot random number used for the jackpot determination in step S3081 is related to the first special symbol determination, the symbol random number is , One of the jackpot symbols is selected based on which jackpot symbol's random number value is specified in the symbol determination table for the first start opening winning. In addition, when the symbol random number is related to the second special symbol determination, which jackpot symbol random number value specified in the symbol determination table for the second start opening winning is matched with the symbol random number. Based on, select one of the jackpot symbols.

Then, the main CPU 81 sets the setting information of the selected jackpot symbol in the main RAM 83 (step S3085). As a result, during the process of step S315, the jackpot symbol set here is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42, and then the jackpot game according to the jackpot symbol. Will be done.

[Variation pattern selection process by main control board 80]
FIG. 18 is a detailed flowchart of the fluctuation pattern selection process in step S309 of FIG. After executing the jackpot determination process in step S308 of FIG. 16, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the determination result in step S3081 is a jackpot (step S3091). Here, when it is determined that the jackpot is a jackpot (step S3091: YES), the jackpot variation pattern selection table is read from the main ROM 82 and set in the main RAM 83 (step S3092).

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 determines that it is not a big hit (step S3091: NO), the reach random number stored in the determination storage area 830 is the winning value of the reach random number stored in the main ROM 82 (for the effect with reach). Based on whether or not it matches with the corresponding random number value), it is determined whether or not to perform a reach effect that makes the player expect a big hit (step S3093). Here, when it is determined that the reach effect is to be performed (step S3093: YES), the variation pattern selection table for reach loss is read from the main ROM 82 and set in the main RAM 83 (step S3094). On the contrary, when it is determined that the reach effect is not performed (step S3093: NO), the variation pattern selection table for loss without reach is read from the main ROM 82 and set in the main RAM 83 (step S3095).

The main CPU 81 executes the variation pattern random number determination process with reference to the variation pattern selection table set in the main RAM 83 by the process of step S3092, the process of step S3094, or the process of step S3095 (step S3096). Specifically, when the jackpot variation pattern selection table or the reach loss variation pattern selection table is set in the main RAM 83, the variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern random number stored in the determination storage area 830 is set. One variation pattern is selected by reading from the variation pattern selection table. Further, when the variation pattern selection table for loss without reach is set in the main RAM 83, it is based on the hold number T1 of the first special symbol determination (or the hold number T2 of the second special symbol determination) stored in the main RAM 83. One variation pattern is selected by specifying the number of holds and reading the variation pattern corresponding to the specified number of holds from the variation pattern selection table for loss without reach. By selecting the variation pattern of the special symbol in this way, the variation time of the special symbol is inevitably determined.

When the main CPU 81 selects a variation pattern, the main CPU 81 sets the setting information of the selected variation pattern in the main RAM 83 (step S3097). The fluctuation pattern setting information is included in the fluctuation start command and transmitted to the sub-control board 90 together with the symbol setting information set in the main RAM 83 by the jackpot determination process in step S308 described above.

[Processing when the special figure is stopped by the main control board 80]
FIG. 19 is a detailed flowchart of the special figure stop processing in step S317 of FIG. After resetting the elapsed time by the process of step S316, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not it is a big hit, as in the process of step S3082 (see FIG. 17), as illustrated in FIG. 19 (step). S3171). Here, when it is determined that the jackpot is a jackpot (step S3171: YES), the jackpot game flag stored in the main RAM 83 is set to "ON" (step S3172).

Next, the main CPU 81 sets the probability variation game flag stored in the main RAM 83 to "OFF" (step S3173), and sets the time saving game flag also stored in the main RAM 83 to "OFF" (step S3174). ). Here, the probability variation game flag is a flag indicating whether or not the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the special symbol determination is a relatively high probability state.

In the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the game state is controlled by setting the probability variation game flag and the time saving game flag. That is, when the game state is controlled to the "probability change game state", both the probability change game flag and the time saving game flag are set to "ON". Further, when the game state is controlled to the "normal game state", both the probability variation game flag and the time saving game flag are set to "OFF". Further, when the game state is controlled to the "time saving game state", the probability variation game flag is set to "OFF" and the time saving game flag is set to "ON".

Following the process of step S3174, the main CPU 81 sets an opening command in the main RAM 83 for notifying that the jackpot game is started (step S3175). This opening command includes information such as the type of big hit, the opening pattern of the first big winning opening 26 (or the second big winning opening 28) during the big hit game, and the sub-control board 90 by the transmission process in step S8. Will be sent to.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 determines that it is not a big hit (step S3171: NO), it determines whether or not the probability variation game flag is set to "ON" (step S3176). Here, when it is determined that the probability variation game flag is set to "ON" (step S3176: YES), that is, when the special symbol determination is performed in the high probability state, the high probability stored in the main RAM 83 is high. The remaining number of games K is updated to a value obtained by subtracting "1" (step S3177). The high-probability game remaining number K indicates the remaining number of times the special symbol determination is executed in the high-probability state.

Following the process of step S3177, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the high-probability game remaining number K is “0” (step S3178). Here, when it is determined that the high-probability game remaining number K is “0” (step S3178: YES), the probability variation game flag is set to “OFF” (step S3179). As a result, the special symbol determination is performed in a low probability state.

When the main CPU 81 executes the process of step S3179, it determines that the probability variation game flag is not set to "ON" (step S3176: NO), or the high probability game remaining number K is not "0". If it is determined (step S3178: NO), it is determined whether or not the time saving game flag is set to "ON" (step S3180). Here, when it is determined that the time saving game flag is set to "ON" (step S3180: YES), the time saving game remaining number J stored in the main RAM 83 is updated to a value subtracted by "1" (step). S3181). The time-saving game remaining number J indicates the remaining number of times that the special symbol determination is executed in the time-saving state (high base state).

Following the process of step S3181, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the time-saving game remaining number J is "0" (step S3182). Here, when it is determined that the time-saving game remaining number J is "0" (step S3182: YES), the time-saving game flag is set to "OFF" (step S3183). As a result, the support function that facilitates the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 22 is not provided.

[Game state setting process by the main control board 80]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a game state setting process executed at the end of the jackpot game on the main control board 80. In the game machine 1, the big hit game is executed by the big winning opening opening / closing control process in step S6, but when the ending period in this big hit game ends, the game state setting for setting the game state of the game machine 1 after the big hit game ends. The process is executed.

During the jackpot game, the main CPU 81 determines whether or not the ending period in the jackpot game has ended (step S631). Here, when it is determined that the ending period has ended (step S631: YES), for example, it is determined whether or not the current jackpot is a probabilistic jackpot based on the setting information of the symbol set in the main RAM 83 (step). S632). Here, when it is determined that the probability variation jackpot is (step S632: YES), the probability variation game flag is set to "ON" (step S633), and the high probability game remaining number K is set to, for example, "10000" (step S634). ). By performing the processing of step S633 and the processing of step S634, the high probability state will continue until 10000 special symbol determinations are executed.

Next, the main CPU 81 sets the time-saving game flag to "ON" (step S635), and sets the time-saving game remaining number J to, for example, "10000" (step S636). By performing the processing of step S635 and the processing of step S636, the high base state will continue until 10000 special symbol determinations are executed. By performing the series of processes from step S633 to step S636 in this way, the game is controlled in the probabilistic game state from the end of the jackpot game until the execution of 10,000 special symbol determinations.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 81 determines that the current jackpot is not a probabilistic jackpot (step S632: NO), that is, when the current jackpot is a normal jackpot, the time saving game flag is set to "ON" as in the process of step S635. (Step S637), and the time-saving game slashing number J is set to, for example, "100" (step S638). By performing the process of step S637 and the process of step S638 in this way, the game is controlled in the time-saving game state from the end of the jackpot game to the execution of 100 special symbol determinations.

[Interrupt processing by sub-control board 90]
When the power of the game machine 1 is turned on, the sub CPU 91 of the sub control board 90 sets an interrupt cycle, which is a cycle for performing interrupt processing described later. Then, the sub CPU 91 repeats a random number update process for updating the effect random number or the like used for determining the effect content in a predetermined cycle shorter than the interrupt cycle. That is, the sub CPU 91 repeats the interrupt process in the interrupt cycle while repeating the random number update process in a predetermined cycle while the game machine 1 is running.

Hereinafter, the interrupt processing executed on the sub-control board 90 will be described with reference to FIG. 21. Here, FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the sub-control board 90. The sub CPU 91 repeatedly executes a series of processes exemplified in FIG. 21 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds), similarly to the interrupt process (see FIG. 13) performed on the main control board 80. The processing performed by the sub-control board 90 described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. 21 and 21 is performed according to an instruction issued by the sub CPU 91 based on the program stored in the sub ROM 92.

First, when the sub CPU 91 receives a command from the main control board 80, the sub CPU 91 executes a command reception process that performs a process according to the command (step S10). This command reception process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

Following the process of step S10, the sub CPU 91 has the operation information shown in FIG. 1 based on the presence / absence of input of the operation information from the first effect button detection sensor 351 or the second effect button detection sensor 361 shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not the 1 effect button 35 or the second effect button 36 has been operated (step S40). Here, when it is determined that the first effect button 35 or the second effect button 36 has been operated (step S40: YES), an operation command for notifying that fact is set in the sub RAM 93 (step S41). By transmitting this operation command to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120, a process for realizing an effect on the effect corresponding to the operation of the first effect button 35 or the second effect button 36 is performed. ..

Following the process in step S41, the sub CPU 91 executes a command transmission process (step S50). Specifically, the command set in the sub RAM 93 by the command reception process in step S10 or the process in step S41 is transmitted to the image / sound control board 100 (and the lamp control board 120). By executing this command transmission process, the image / sound control board 100 is instructed to execute the effect by displaying an image, outputting an effect sound, or the like, and lighting various lamps or executing the effect by a movable accessory or the like is a lamp. Instructed to control board 120.

Following the process in step S50, the sub CPU 91 executes a data transfer process (step S60). Specifically, since the data related to the image / sound control is transmitted from the image / sound control board 100, the data is transferred to the lamp control board 120. As a result, the effect by the effect means such as the frame lamp 37, the board lamp 5, and the movable decorative member 14 is controlled by the lamp control board 120 so as to be synchronized with the effect performed by the image display device 7 (display screen 70) and the speaker 38. Will be done.

[Command reception processing by sub-control board 90]
FIG. 22 is a detailed flowchart of the command reception process in step S10 of FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 22, the sub CPU 91 first determines whether or not a command from the main control board 80 has been received (step S11). Here, if it is determined that the command has not been received (step S11: NO), the process proceeds to step S40 described above.

When the sub CPU 91 determines that the command from the main control board 80 has been received (step S11: YES), the command is transmitted from the main control board 80 in response to the process of step S212 or the process of step S220 of FIG. It is determined whether or not the command is on hold (step S12). Here, if it is determined that the command is not a hold command (step S12: NO), the process proceeds to step S15, which will be described later.

When the sub CPU 91 determines that the received command is a hold command (step S12: YES), the sub CPU 91 sets the hold icon display command instructing the display of the hold icon and the execution of the icon change effect in the sub RAM 93 (step S13). ..

When the sub CPU 91 determines that the received command is not a hold command (step S12: NO), is the command a variable start command transmitted from the main control board 80 in response to the process of step S310 of FIG. It is determined whether or not (step S15). Here, if it is determined that the received command is not the fluctuation start command (step S15: NO), the process proceeds to step S17, which will be described later.

When the sub CPU 91 determines that the received command is the variation start command (step S15: YES), the sub CPU 91 executes the variation start command reception process (step S16). This fluctuation start command reception process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 23.

When the sub CPU 91 determines that the received command is not the fluctuation start command (step S15: NO), the sub CPU 91 is a fluctuation end command transmitted from the main control board 80 in response to the process of step S314 of FIG. Whether or not it is determined (step S17). When the sub CPU 91 determines that the command is a variation end command (step S17: YES), the sub CPU 91 stops the effect symbol in a manner indicating the determination result of the special symbol determination executed at the start of the symbol variation after ending the variation display of the effect symbol. A variable effect end command instructing the execution of the process to be displayed is set in the sub RAM 93 (step S18).

By transmitting this variation effect end command to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120 by the command transmission process in step S50, a special symbol indicating the determination result of the first special symbol determination (or the second special symbol determination) is shown. Is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 (or the second special symbol display 42), and an effect symbol showing the determination result of the first special symbol determination (or the second special symbol determination) is displayed on the display screen. It will be stopped and displayed at 70.

When the sub CPU 91 determines that the received command is not the variable end command (step S17: NO), is the command an opening command transmitted from the main control board 80 in response to the process of step S3175 of FIG. It is determined whether or not (step S19). Here, when it is determined that the received command is an opening command (step S19: YES), an image shows the start of an opening effect such as notifying the type of jackpot or urging the player to hit right during the opening period of the jackpot game. An opening effect start command for instructing the acoustic control board 100 (and the lamp control board 120) is set in the sub RAM 93 (step S20).

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the received command is not the opening command (step S19: NO), the sub CPU 91 is a winning command waiting command transmitted from the main control board 80 in response to the process of step S318 of FIG. It is determined whether or not there is (step S21). Here, when it is determined that the received command is a winning command (step S21: YES), the winning waiting state notification is notified to the image / acoustic control board 100 (and the lamp control board 120) that the winning winning state has been entered. The command is set in the sub RAM 93 (step S22). On the contrary, when it is determined that the received command is not a winning command (step S21: NO), other processing is executed (step S23).

[Variation start command reception processing by sub-control board 90]
FIG. 23 is a detailed flowchart of the fluctuation start command reception process in step S16 of FIG. 22. When the sub CPU 91 determines that the command received from the main control board 80 is the fluctuation start command (step S15: YES), the sub CPU 91 executes a series of fluctuation start command reception processes exemplified in FIG. 23.

That is, the sub CPU 91 acquires the value at the time when the fluctuation start command is received from the main control board 80 with respect to the effect random number appropriately updated by the random number update process on the sub control board 90 and stores it in the sub RAM 93 (step S161). .. Then, the fluctuation start command analysis process for analyzing the received fluctuation start command is executed (step S162).

As described above, the fluctuation start command includes the setting information of the symbol indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination process, whether the setting information of this symbol is related to the first special symbol determination, or is related to the second special symbol determination. It includes information on the winning start port indicating whether the game is a game, information on setting a variation pattern of a special symbol, information indicating the game state of the game machine 1, and the like. Therefore, by analyzing the fluctuation start command, the type and result of the special symbol determination can be specified. That is, it is possible to specify whether it is a big hit or a loss, and if it is a big hit, what kind of big hit it is. Further, by specifying whether or not the fluctuation pattern is a fluctuation pattern for loss based on the fluctuation pattern setting information, it is possible to determine whether it is necessary to perform the effect with reach or the effect without reach. .. Similarly, the fluctuation time of the special symbol can be specified based on the fluctuation pattern setting information. In addition, the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1 can be specified based on the information indicating the gaming state.

When the sub CPU 91 analyzes the variation start command, the sub CPU 91 executes a variation effect pattern setting process for setting a variation effect pattern of the variation effect accompanying the variation display of the special symbol based on the analysis result (step S163). By executing this variable effect pattern setting process, the variation mode of the effect symbol, the presence / absence of the reach effect, the presence / absence of the pseudo continuous effect, the type of the effect symbol constituting the reach pattern, the type and content of the reach effect, and the pseudo continuous effect. The content of, the presence or absence of a special variation effect, the type of effect symbol to be stopped and displayed, etc. are determined. This variation effect pattern setting process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 24.

Following the process of step S163, the sub CPU 91 executes various advance notice effects (for example, step-up effect, dialogue advance notice, group advance notice) when the effect symbol is variably displayed in the variable effect pattern set in the process of step S163. , Cut-in, etc.) is executed (step S164).

Next, the sub CPU 91 subsubscribes the variation effect start command instructing the start of the variation effect in the variation effect pattern set in the process of step S163 and the execution of the advance notice effect in the advance notice effect pattern set in the process of step S164. It is set in the RAM 93 (step S166). When setting the variation effect start command for instructing the execution of the special variation effect, the variation effect start command including the judgment result of the first special symbol determination and the information indicating the variation pattern of the first special symbol is set. To do.

This variation effect start command includes information indicating the variation effect pattern set by the process of step S163 and information indicating the notice effect pattern set by the process of step S164, and includes the command transmission process of step S50. Is transmitted to the audiovisual control board 100 and the lamp control board 120. As a result, the variation effect in which the effect pattern is determined on the sub control board 90 and the advance notice effect are realized by the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120.

Following the process of step S166, the sub CPU 91 updates the number of holds stored in the sub RAM 93 to a value obtained by subtracting "1" (step S167). Specifically, when the fluctuation start command received from the main control board 80 notifies the start of the fluctuation display of the first special symbol, the value obtained by subtracting "1" from the number of pending first special symbol determinations. Update to. On the other hand, when the received variation start command notifies the start of the variation display of the second special symbol, the pending number of the second special symbol determination is updated to a value subtracted by "1".

[Variation effect pattern setting process by sub-control board 90]
FIG. 24 is a detailed flowchart of the variation effect pattern setting process in step S163 of FIG. 23. Following the process of step S162, the sub CPU 91 sets an effect symbol to be finally confirmed (mainly stopped) on the display screen 70 along with the stop display of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol) (step). S1631). Specifically, based on the symbol setting information included in the fluctuation start command received from the main control board 80, is the special symbol (big hit symbol) indicating the jackpot stopped and displayed at the end of the symbol variation? Identify whether the special symbol (missing symbol) indicating the loss is stopped and displayed. Then, when it is specified that the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed, an effect symbol for notifying the jackpot (for example, an effect symbol indicating doublet) is set as the effect symbol to be stopped, and the lost symbol is stopped and displayed. When it is specified that the case is specified, an effect symbol for notifying the loss is set. In addition, when setting the effect symbol for notifying the loss, if the loss is notified after the reach effect is performed, the reach loss eye is set as the effect symbol for notifying the loss, and the reach effect is performed. In the case of notifying the loss, a loose eye is set as an effect pattern for notifying the loss.

Next, whether or not the sub CPU 91 needs to perform the effect with reach in accordance with the variation display of the special symbol this time based on the setting information of the variation pattern of the special symbol included in the received variation start command. Is determined (step S1632). Here, when it is determined that it is not necessary to perform the effect with reach (step S1632: NO), a variable effect pattern for the effect without reach is set (step S1633). For example, from the reachless variation effect pattern selection table in which a plurality of types of reachless effect variation effect patterns are associated with each special symbol variation pattern, any one corresponding to the effect random number acquired in the process of step S161. The variation effect pattern is read out, and the information indicating the variation effect pattern is set in the sub RAM 93.

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that it is necessary to perform the effect with reach (step S1632: YES), the sub CPU 91 sets a variable effect pattern of the effect with reach (step S1634). For example, from the variation effect pattern selection table for reach, in which a plurality of types of variation effect patterns of reach effect are associated with each combination of the determination result of the special symbol determination and the variation pattern of the special symbol, step S161 is performed. Any one of the variation effect patterns corresponding to the effect random numbers acquired in the process is read out, and the information indicating the variation effect pattern is set in the sub RAM 93.

When the process of step S1633 or the process of step S1634 is performed, what kind of variation pattern the effect symbol is variablely displayed, which reach effect is performed when the reach effect is performed, and when the reach effect is developed. It will be decided how to develop the reach production.

[Interrupt processing by the image / sound control board 100]
Next, the interrupt processing executed on the image / sound control board 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 25. Here, FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the image / sound control board 100. The image / sound control board 100 repeatedly executes a series of processes illustrated in FIG. 25 at regular time intervals (for example, 33 milliseconds) during normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. ..

First, the image / sound control CPU 101 executes an image display control process for controlling the image display on the display screen 70 based on the command received from the sub control board 90 (step S71). This image display control process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

Following the process of step S71, the image / sound control CPU 101 determines whether or not the winning wait status notification command transmitted from the sub-control board 90 has been received in response to the process of step S22 in FIG. 22 (step S73). .. Here, if it is determined that the prize waiting status notification command has not been received (step S73: NO), the process proceeds to step S76, which will be described later.

On the other hand, when the image / sound control CPU 101 determines that the winning wait status notification command has been received (step S73: YES), for example, the variation effect end command received from the sub control board 90 immediately before receiving the winning waiting status notification command. It is determined whether or not the special variation effect is completed based on whether or not is the variation effect end command instructing the end of the special variation effect (step S74).

When the image / sound control CPU 101 determines that the special variation effect has been completed (step S74: YES), the image / sound control CPU 101 starts measuring the elapsed time from receiving the winning waiting state notification command (step S75).

When the image / sound control CPU 101 executes the process of step S75, determines that the winning wait status notification command has not been received (step S73: NO), and determines that the special variation effect has not been completed (step). S74: NO), it is determined whether or not the first time (0.6 seconds in the present embodiment) has elapsed after receiving the prize waiting status notification command (step S76). Specifically, when the measurement of the elapsed time from receiving the winning waiting status notification command is started by the process of step S75, the elapsed time information indicating the elapsed time is stored in the control RAM 103, and thus this elapsed time. Based on whether or not the elapsed time indicated by the time information matches the first time, it is determined whether or not the first time has elapsed since the winning wait status notification command was received. If the elapsed time information is not stored in the control RAM 103, the process of step S75 has not been executed. In this case, it is determined as "NO" in step S76.

When it is determined that the first time has elapsed after receiving the prize waiting status notification command (step S76: YES), the image / sound control CPU 101 starts the above-mentioned prize waiting effect based on FIG. 11 (G) (step S76: YES). Step S77). Specifically, the setting information related to the effect display (winning waiting effect) showing how the main character, who had lost the fight and was disappointed, regained his energy and walked around the predetermined starting point, was set in the control RAM 103, and this setting was made. Based on the information, it is determined how the effect image should be displayed on the display screen 70, a display list for controlling the drawing process of the VDP 104 is created, and the display list is stored in a predetermined area of the control RAM 103. Then, the display list is set in the display list storage area of the VRAM 106. On the other hand, the VDP 104 executes the necessary drawing process based on the display list set in the display list storage area, so that the winning effect is realized.

In the other embodiment, a winning command is transmitted from the main control board 80 to the sub control board 90 at the timing when a predetermined fixed time (0.6 seconds in the present embodiment) has elapsed, and the sub control board is used. A winning award waiting status notification command may be transmitted from the 90 to the audiovisual control board 100. In this case, the image / sound control CPU 101 immediately waits for a prize at the timing of receiving the prize waiting state notification command for notifying that the special variation effect is completed and the prize waiting state is entered without executing the process of step S76. All you have to do is start the production.

Returning to the description of FIG. 25, when the image / sound control CPU 101 executes the process of step S77, or determines that the first time has not elapsed since receiving the prize waiting status notification command (step S76: NO), it is determined whether or not the second time (10.6 seconds (= 0.6 seconds + 10 seconds) in this embodiment) has elapsed after receiving the prize waiting status notification command (step S78). Specifically, based on whether or not the elapsed time indicated by the elapsed time information coincides with the second time, it is determined whether or not the second time has elapsed since the winning wait status notification command was received. If the elapsed time information is not stored in the control RAM 103, the process of step S75 is not executed. In this case, it is determined as "NO" in step S78.

When the image / sound control CPU 101 determines that the second time has elapsed since receiving the prize waiting status notification command (step S78: YES), the above-mentioned special training effect (waiting for another prize) based on FIG. 11 (H). (Direction) is started (step S79). Specifically, the setting information related to the special training effect indicating that the main character is specially training in preparation for the next battle is set in the control RAM 103, and based on this setting information, how the effect image is displayed on the display screen 70. A display list for controlling the drawing process of the VDP 104 is created and stored in a predetermined area of the control RAM 103. Then, the display list is set in the display list storage area of the VRAM 106. On the other hand, the special training effect is realized by the VDP 104 executing the necessary drawing process based on the display list set in the display list storage area.

In the present embodiment, when 5 seconds have passed from the start of the special training effect (see FIG. 11 (H)), the winning effect waiting effect exemplified in FIG. 11 (G) is executed again, and FIG. 25 Although it is not shown in the above, whether or not the third time (15.6 seconds (= 0.6 seconds + 10 seconds + 5 seconds) in the present embodiment) has passed since the winning status notification command was received. If it is determined and it is determined that the third time has elapsed, the same process as in step S77 is executed.

When the image / sound control CPU 101 executes the process of step S79, or determines that the second time has not elapsed since receiving the prize waiting status notification command (step S78: NO), the display screen 70 is displayed. The effect sound output control process for outputting various effect sounds from the speaker 38 is executed so as to be synchronized with or asynchronously with the screen display to be performed (step S80).

Following the process in step S80, the image / sound control CPU 101 executes the data transmission control process (step S81). Specifically, data relating to the image / acoustic control performed on the image / acoustic control board 100 is transmitted to the sub control board 90. On the other hand, the sub control board 90 transfers the data received from the image / sound control board 100 to the lamp control board 120. As a result, the frame lamp 37, the board lamp 5, the movable decorative member 14, the first effect button lamp 352, the second effect button lamp 362, and the like are controlled so as to be synchronized with the effect executed by the display screen 70 and the speaker 38. The lamp.

[Image display control processing by the image / sound control board 100]
FIG. 26 is a detailed flowchart of the image display control process in step S71 of FIG. 25. The image / sound control CPU 101 first determines whether or not a command from the sub control board 90 has been received (step S711). Here, if it is determined that the command has not been received (step S7111: NO), the process proceeds to step S73 described above.

On the other hand, when the image / acoustic control CPU 101 determines that the command from the sub control board 90 has been received (step S711: YES), the command is transmitted from the sub control board 90 in response to the process of step S13 of FIG. It is determined whether or not the command is a hold icon display command (step S712). Here, when it is determined that the command received from the sub-control board 90 is the hold icon display command (step S712: YES), the setting information related to the display of the hold icon is set in the control RAM 103 (step S713).

When the audiovisual control CPU 101 determines that the command received from the sub control board 90 is not the hold icon display command (step S712: NO), the command is sent from the sub control board 90 in response to the process of step S166 of FIG. It is determined whether or not it is the transmitted variation effect start command (step S714). Here, when it is determined that the command is a variable effect start command (step S714: YES), the variable effect start process is executed (step S715). This variation effect start process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 27.

When the audiovisual control CPU 101 determines that the command received from the sub control board 90 is not the variation effect start command (step S714: NO), the command is sent from the sub control board 90 in response to the process of step S18 in FIG. It is determined whether or not it is the transmitted variable effect end command (step S716). Here, when it is determined that the command is the end of the variation effect (step S716: YES), the variation effect end process for ending the variation effect is executed (step S717). Specifically, the control RAM 103 is set with setting information for ending the variable effect and stopping various effect images including the effect symbol on the display screen 70.

When the audiovisual control CPU 101 determines that the command received from the sub control board 90 is not the variation effect end command (step S716: NO), the command is sent from the sub control board 90 in response to the process of step S20 in FIG. It is determined whether or not it is the transmitted opening effect start command (step S719). Here, when it is determined that the command is the opening effect start command (step S718: YES), the opening effect start process is executed (step S719). Specifically, setting information related to a predetermined opening effect performed during the opening period of the jackpot game is set in the control RAM 103.

On the other hand, when the image / sound control CPU 101 determines that the command received from the sub control board 90 is not the opening effect start command (step S718: NO), for example, the command is sub-corresponding to the process of step S41 in FIG. When the operation command is transmitted from the control board 90, the setting information of the operation correspondence effect is set in the control RAM 103 (step S720).

The audiovisual control CPU 101 executes the process of step S713, the process of step S715, the process of step S717, the process of step S719, or the process of step S720. If this is the case, a display for controlling the drawing process of the VDP 104 by determining how the effect image should be displayed on the display screen 70 based on the setting information set in the control RAM 103 by any of these processes. A list is created and stored in a predetermined area of the control RAM 103 (step S723), and the display list is set in the display list storage area of the VRAM 106 (step S724). When the VDP 104 executes the drawing process based on the display list set in the display list storage area, the effect display based on the command from the sub-control board 90 is realized.

[Variation effect start processing by the image / sound control board 100]
FIG. 27 is a detailed flowchart of the variation effect start process in step S715 of FIG. 26. When the image / sound control CPU 101 determines that the command received from the sub control board 90 is the variation effect start command (step S714: YES), for example, based on the information included in the variation effect start command, this time. It is determined whether or not it is necessary to execute the special variation effect (see FIG. 6 (L)) in accordance with the variation display of the special symbol (step S7151). Here, when it is determined that it is not necessary to execute the special variation effect with the variation display of the special symbol this time (step S7151: NO), that is, the variation effect that does not include the special variation effect (normal variation effect) is executed. If it is necessary to do so, the display content of the effect display on the display screen 70 is determined based on the information included in the received variation effect start command (step S7152), and based on the determination result, the normal variation effect is performed. The setting information is set in the control RAM 103 (step S7153).

On the other hand, when the image / sound control CPU 101 determines that it is necessary to execute the special variation effect (see FIG. 6 (L)) in connection with the variation display of the special symbol this time (step S7151: YES), the special variation effect is used. -The full-year effect data selection process for selecting one of the full-year effect data from the full-year effect data group (see FIG. 9) is executed (step S7154). Although not shown in the figure, the control ROM 102 stores a full-year effect data selection table that is referred to when selecting any of the full-year effect data from the special variation effect / full-year effect data group. .. In this full-year production data selection table, the judgment result of the first special symbol determination (“big hit” or “loss”), the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol, and the full-year production data type (no full-year production data, full-year production data 1A). , Full-year production data 1B, full-year production data 1C), and a random number value to be compared with the full-year production data selection random number described later are associated with each other.

In step S7154, the image / sound control CPU 101 reads out the full-year effect data selection table stored in the control ROM 102 and sets it in the control RAM 103. Then, the full-year effect data selection random number is acquired and stored in the control RAM 103. This full-year effect data selection random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the image / sound control board 100, and the image / sound control CPU 101 counts the value at the time when the variation effect start command related to the special variation effect is received. Acquired as a full-year production data selection random number. Then, the determination result of the first special symbol determination specified based on the information included in the variation effect start command, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, and the full-year effect data type corresponding to the acquired full-year effect data selection random number are determined. One of the full-year production data (or no full-year production data) is selected by reading from the full-year production data selection table.

The full-year production data selection table has the following characteristics. That is, regarding the "big hit" of the judgment result of the first special symbol determination, the random number value is not associated with the full-year effect data, and the most random value is associated with the full-year effect data 1C. The next most random value is associated with the full-year production data 1B, and the random number associated with the full-year production data 1A is the smallest (excluding no full-year production data). .. Therefore, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "big hit", the full-year effect data 1C is most likely to be selected, and the next most likely to be selected is the full-year effect data. It is 1B, and it is difficult to select the full-year production data 1A, and no full-year production data is not selected.

Further, regarding the "loss" of the judgment result of the first special symbol determination, the largest number of random values are associated with the full-year effect data 1A, and the next largest number of random values are associated with each other. It is the full-year effect data 1B, and the random number value associated with the full-year effect data 1C without the full-year effect data is the smallest. Therefore, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "missing", the full-year effect data 1A is most likely to be selected, and the next is the full-year effect data. It is 1B, and it is difficult to select full-year production data 1C and no full-year production data.

Further, regarding the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively long, the random value is not associated with the full-year effect data and the ventilation effect data 1A, and the most is the full-year effect data 1C. A large number of random value values are associated with each other, and the next largest number of random value values are associated with the full-year effect data 1B. Therefore, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively long, the full-year effect data 1C is most likely to be selected, and then is most likely to be selected. Is full-year production data 1B, and full-year production data 1A and no full-year production data are not selected.

On the contrary, for the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively short, the random number value is not associated with the full-year effect data 1C, and the largest number of random values are associated with the full-year effect data 1A. Is associated, and the next largest number of random value is associated with the full-year effect data 1B, and the number of random value associated without the full-year effect data is the smallest. Therefore, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively short, the full-year effect data 1A is most likely to be selected, and then is most likely to be selected. Is the full-year production data 1B, and it is difficult to select without the full-year production data, and the full-year production data 1C is not selected.

Following the process in step S7154, the image / sound control CPU 101 executes a character data selection process for selecting any character data from the character data group (see FIG. 9) (step S7155). Although not shown in the figure, the control ROM 102 stores a character data selection table that is referred to when selecting any character data from the character data group. In this character data selection table, the judgment result of the first special symbol determination (“big hit” or “loss”), the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol, and the character data type (character data 2A, character data 2B, character data 2C). ) And a random number value to be compared with the character data selection random number described later are associated with each other.

In step S7155, the image / sound control CPU 101 reads out the character data selection table stored in the control ROM 102 and sets it in the control RAM 103. Then, the character data selection random number is acquired and stored in the control RAM 103. This character data selection random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the image / sound control board 100, and the image / sound control CPU 101 counts the value at the time when the variation effect start command related to the special variation effect is received. Character data selection Obtained as a random number. Then, the character data of the determination result of the first special symbol determination specified based on the information included in the variation effect start command, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, and the character data type corresponding to the acquired character data selection random number. Select any character data by reading from the selection table.

The character data selection table has the following characteristics. That is, regarding the "big hit" of the determination result of the first special symbol determination, the character has the largest number of random values associated with the character data 2C, and the next largest number of random values is associated with the character. It is data 2B, and the random number value associated with the character data 2A is the smallest. Therefore, when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "big hit", the character data 2C is most likely to be selected, and the character data 2B is the next easiest to be selected. Yes, character data 2A is difficult to select.

Further, regarding the "loss" of the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment, the character has the largest number of random values associated with the character data 2A, and the next largest number of random values is associated with the character. It is data 2B, and the random number value associated with the character data 2C is the smallest. Therefore, when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "missing", the character data 2A is most likely to be selected, and the character data 2B is the next most easily selected. Yes, it is difficult to select character data 2C.

Further, with respect to the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively long, the most random value is associated with the character data 2C, and the next largest random value is associated with it. Is the character data 2B, and a random number value is not associated with the character data 2A. For this reason, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively long, the character data 2C is most likely to be selected, and then the character data 2C is most likely to be selected. It is the character data 2B, and the character data 2A is not selected.

On the contrary, for the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively short, the random value is not associated with the character data 2C, and the largest number of random values correspond to the character data 2A. The character data 2B is attached, and the next most random value is associated with it. Therefore, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively short, the character data 2A is most likely to be selected, and then the character data 2A is most likely to be selected. It is the character data 2B, and the character data 2C is not selected.

Following the process of step S7155, the image / sound control CPU 101 executes the first half effect data selection process of selecting one of the first half effect data from the first half effect data group (see FIG. 9) (step S7156). Although not shown in the figure, the control ROM 102 stores a first half effect data selection table that is referred to when selecting any first half effect data from the first half effect data group. In this first half effect data selection table, the judgment result of the first special symbol determination (“big hit” or “loss”), the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol, and the first half effect data type (first half effect data 3A, first half effect data 3B). , First half effect data 3C) and a random number value to be compared with the first half effect data selection random number described later are associated with each other.

In step S7156, the image / sound control CPU 101 reads out the first half effect data selection table stored in the control ROM 102 and sets it in the control RAM 103. Then, the first half effect data selection random number is acquired and stored in the control RAM 103. This first half effect data selection random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the image / sound control board 100, and the image / sound control CPU 101 is a count value at the time when the variation effect start command related to the special variation effect is received. Is acquired as the first half effect data selection random number. Then, the determination result of the first special symbol determination specified based on the information included in the variation effect start command, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, and the first half effect data type corresponding to the acquired first half effect data selection random number are determined. By reading from the first half effect data selection table, one of the first half effect data is selected.

The first half effect data selection table has the following features. That is, regarding the "big hit" of the judgment result of the first special symbol determination, the largest number of random values are associated with the first half effect data 3C, and the next largest number of random values are associated with each other. It is the first half effect data 3B, and the random number value associated with the first half effect data 3A is the smallest. Therefore, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "big hit", the first half effect data 3C is most likely to be selected, and the first half effect data is most likely to be selected next. It is 3B, and it is difficult to select the first half production data 3A.

Further, regarding the "loss" of the determination result of the first special symbol determination, the most random values are associated with the first half effect data 3A, and the next most random values are associated with each other. It is the first half effect data 3B, and the random number value associated with the first half effect data 3C is the smallest. Therefore, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "missing", the first half effect data 3A is most likely to be selected, and the first half effect data is most likely to be selected next. It is 3B, and it is difficult to select the first half production data 3C.

Further, regarding the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively long, the largest number of random values are associated with the first half effect data 3C, and the next largest number of random values are associated with each other. Is the first half effect data 3B, and a random number value is not associated with the first half effect data 3A. Therefore, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively long, the first half effect data 3C is most likely to be selected, and then is most likely to be selected. Is the first half effect data 3B, and the first half effect data 3A is not selected.

On the contrary, regarding the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively short, the random number value is not associated with the first half effect data 3C, and the largest number of random values with respect to the first half effect data 3A. Is associated with each other, and the next most random value is associated with the first half effect data 3B. Therefore, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively short, the first half effect data 3A is most likely to be selected, and then is most likely to be selected. Is the first half effect data 3B, and the first half effect data 3C is not selected.

Following the process in step S7156, the image / sound control CPU 101 executes a second half effect data selection process for selecting one of the second half effect data from the second half effect data group (see FIG. 9) (step S7157). Although not shown in the figure, the control ROM 102 stores a second half effect data selection table that is referred to when selecting any second half effect data from the second half effect data group. In this second half effect data selection table, the judgment result of the first special symbol determination (“big hit” or “miss”), the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol, and the second half effect data type (second half effect data 4A, second half effect data 4B). , Second half effect data 4C) and a random number value to be compared with the second half effect data selection random number described later are associated with each other.

In step S7157, the image / sound control CPU 101 reads out the latter half effect data selection table stored in the control ROM 102 and sets it in the control RAM 103. Then, the second half effect data selection random number is acquired and stored in the control RAM 103. This second half effect data selection random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the image / sound control board 100, and the image / sound control CPU 101 is a count value at the time when the variation effect start command related to the special variation effect is received. Is acquired as the second half effect data selection random number. Then, the determination result of the first special symbol determination specified based on the information included in the variation effect start command, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, and the latter half effect data type corresponding to the acquired second half effect data selection random number are determined. By reading from the second half effect data selection table, one of the second half effect data is selected.

The latter half effect data selection table has the following characteristics. That is, regarding the "big hit" of the determination result of the first special symbol determination, the largest number of random values are associated with the latter half effect data 4C, and the next largest number of random values are associated with each other. It is the latter half effect data 4B, and the random number value associated with the latter half effect data 4A is the smallest. Therefore, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "big hit", the latter half effect data 4C is most likely to be selected, and the second half effect data is most likely to be selected next. It is 4B, and it is difficult to select the latter half production data 4A.

Further, regarding the "loss" of the determination result of the first special symbol determination, the largest number of random values are associated with the latter half effect data 4A, and the next largest number of random values are associated with each other. It is the latter half effect data 4B, and the random number value associated with the latter half effect data 4C is the smallest. Therefore, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination that triggered the execution of the special variation effect is "missing", the latter half effect data 4A is most likely to be selected, and the second half effect data is most likely to be selected next. It is 4B, and it is difficult to select the latter half production data 4C.

Further, with respect to the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively long, the largest number of random values are associated with the latter half effect data 4C, and the next largest number of random values are associated with each other. Is the latter half effect data 4B, and a random number value is not associated with the latter half effect data 4A. Therefore, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively long, the latter half effect data 4C is most likely to be selected, and then is most likely to be selected. Is the latter half effect data 4B, and the latter half effect data 4A is not selected.

On the contrary, for the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is relatively short, the random number value is not associated with the latter half effect data 4C, and the largest number of random values with respect to the latter half effect data 4A. Is associated, and the second half effect data 4B is associated with the next largest number of random values. Therefore, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the special variation effect is relatively short, the latter half effect data 4A is most likely to be selected, and then is most likely to be selected. Is the latter half effect data 4B, and the latter half effect data 4C is not selected.

When the image / sound control CPU 101 executes the selection processes of steps S7154 to S7157, the image / sound control CPU 101 sets the selection information indicating the result of these selection processes in the control RAM 103 as the setting information of the special effect (step S7158). When the process of step S7158 is executed, the process proceeds to step S723 (see FIG. 26) described above, and a special variation effect of the effect pattern according to the selection process of steps S7154 to S7157 is realized. Become.

[Structure and action of game machine 1]
The game machine 1 of the present embodiment has the following configurations, and by having the configurations, the following effects are exhibited.

Game machine 1
A determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player (for example, the main CPU 81 performing the jackpot determination process in step S308 of FIG. 16)
When the determination is made, the symbol display control means (for example, the symbol) that causes the predetermined symbol display means (for example, the first special symbol display 41) to display the symbol in a variable manner and then stops and displays the symbol indicating the result of the determination. The main CPU 81) that performs the processing of steps S311 and S315 in 16.
An effect control means (for example, a sub CPU 91, an image / sound control CPU 101, a lamp CPU 121) that controls the execution of the effect based on the result of the determination is provided.
The effect control means
During both the variable display period in which the symbol is variablely displayed and the non-variable display period in which the symbol is not variablely displayed, the first effect image (for example, the special variable effect / full-year effect data shown in FIG. 9). The first display control that can display the production image) based on any of the full-year production data included in the group,
A second effect image set based on the variation pattern of the symbol during the variation display period (for example, an effect image based on any character data included in the character data group shown in FIG. 9, shown in FIG. 9). An effect image based on any of the first half effect data included in the first half effect data group and an effect image based on any of the second half effect data included in the second half effect data group shown in FIG. 9) are combined with the first effect image. Then, it is possible to execute the second display control to be displayed together with the first effect image.

According to this configuration, during the variable display period, the second effect image set based on the variation pattern of the symbol is combined with the first effect image that is also displayed during the non-variable display period, and this first effect image is combined. It is displayed together with the production image. In this way, since both the first effect image and the second effect image are displayed during the variable display period, it is possible to effectively improve the interest of the effect by the synergistic effect of these effect images. Is.

In addition, the game machine 1
The effect control means
From the variable display period to the non-variable display period in a state where the second effect image (for example, an effect image based on any character data included in the character data group: the main character) is displayed during the variable display period. In the case of the transition, the second effect image can be continuously displayed even during the non-variable display period (see, for example, FIGS. 11F to 11G).

According to this configuration, when the second effect image is displayed and the variable display period is changed to the non-variable display period, the second effect image is continuously displayed even during the non-variable display period. Therefore, as compared with the case where the second effect image is erased with the transition to the non-variable display period, the effect change due to the transition from the variable display period to the non-variable display period is reduced, and as a result, the non-variable display is displayed. It is possible to effectively suppress the problem that the player feels uncomfortable with the transition to the non-variable display period because it becomes difficult to understand that the transition to the period has occurred.

In addition, the game machine 1
The effect control means
During the variation display period, the effect display using the second effect image (for example, the main character holding the sword) is performed (see, for example, FIGS. 11B to 11E), and the variation display period is followed. After the first time has passed since the transition to the non-variable display period, the third display control that performs the effect display using a part of the second effect image (for example, the hero character and the hero character of the sword). Is further feasible.

According to this configuration, when the first time elapses after the transition to the non-variable display period, the effect display using a part of the second effect image is performed. In this way, during the non-variable display period, it is difficult to understand that the non-variable display period is in effect because the effect display is performed using a part of the second effect image that is also used for the effect display during the variable display period. Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the problem that the player feels uncomfortable when the non-variable display period continues for a long time.

In addition, the game machine 1
The effect control means
When the second time elapses after the transition to the non-variable display period following the variable display period, the first effect image (see, for example, FIG. 11 (G)) is changed to the third effect image (for example, FIG. 11 (H)). ), And after displaying the third effect image for the third time, the first effect image (see, for example, FIG. 11 (I)) can be displayed again.

According to this configuration, when the second time elapses after the transition to the non-variable display period, the first effect image is changed to the third effect image, and when the third effect image is displayed for the third time, the first effect image is displayed. The effect image is displayed again. Therefore, compared to the case where the first effect image is continuously displayed for more than the second time during the non-variable display period, it is possible to effectively improve the interest of the effect performed during the non-variable display period. is there.

In addition, the game machine 1
A storage means (for example, CGROM 105: see FIG. 9) for storing a plurality of the second effect images is provided.
The effect control means
Based on the variation pattern of the symbol, any second effect image is selected from the plurality of second effect images, and the selected second effect image is combined with the first effect image.

According to this configuration, any second effect image is selected based on the variation pattern of the symbol, so that the player can play the game while guessing the variation pattern of the symbol based on the displayed second effect image. It is possible to enjoy.

[Other variants]
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and may be, for example, the following embodiment. That is, in the above embodiment, the case where the main character is continuously displayed in a variable manner from the start to the end of the variable display period in which the special variable effect is performed has been described as an example, but in other embodiments, for example, A configuration may be adopted in which the main character is temporarily hidden during the variable display period and the main character is intermittently displayed in a variable manner.

Further, in the above embodiment, when the variable display period in which the special variable effect is performed shifts to the non-variable display period, the main character and the sword of the main character and the sword until 0.6 seconds have elapsed after the transition to the non-variable display period. The case where both are stopped and displayed, and then only the main character is displayed in a variable manner has been described as an example. On the other hand, in other embodiments, both the main character and the sword are displayed in a variable manner, a production image different from the main character (for example, the background of the main character) is displayed in a variable manner, or the character and the main character are displayed. Both of the different effect images may be displayed in a variable manner.

Further, in the above embodiment, when the main character is displayed during the variable display period and the variable display period is changed to the non-variable display period, the main character is continuously displayed during this non-variable display period. The case of doing this was explained as an example. On the other hand, in another embodiment, when the non-variable display period is entered, a production image different from the main character may be displayed, or the main character may be deleted from the display screen 70. Good.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case of executing the prize waiting effect (see FIG. 11 (G)) in which the main character is displayed in a variable manner has been described as an example. However, regarding this prize waiting effect, in other embodiments, it is as follows. The configuration may be adopted. That is, for example, when a reach is established with 4 symbols during a special variation effect, the left 4 symbols with the main character attached to the number "4" and the right 4 with the enemy character attached to the number "4". It is also possible to display the symbols and display the effect showing how the main character and the enemy character attached to each number battle with the numbers of these reach symbols stopped in a pseudo manner. Then, when the special variation effect accompanied by such an effect display is completed and the state shifts to the winning state, for example, the number "4" of the left four symbols is attached to the number "4" in a stationary state. You may execute a winning-waiting effect that fluctuates and displays the hero character that is being played, or you may execute a winning-waiting effect that fluctuates and displays the hero character separately from the number "4". By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to effectively improve the interest of the production using the production design, and even after the production design is stopped and displayed, the production image constituting the production design is used. It is possible to obtain a high production effect by performing the winning effect.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the main processing related to the special variation effect is executed on the image / acoustic control board 100 has been described as an example, but in other embodiments, a part of the process related to the special variation effect is sub-controlled. It may be executed on the board 90, or the sub-control board 90 and the image / acoustic control board 100 may be configured by one control board, and all the processes related to the special variation effect may be executed on this control board. Good.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to a one-type pachinko gaming machine called a so-called probabilistic loop type has been described, but the present invention has been described as a one-type pachinko gaming machine called a so-called ST machine. It may be applied to other gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines, which are so-called one-kind and two-kind mixed types.

Further, it is needless to say that the configuration of the game machine 1 and the operation mode of each member described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and the present invention can be realized even with other configurations and operation modes. Further, the processing order, set value, random value, threshold value used for determination, etc. in the above-mentioned flowchart are merely examples, and the present invention may have other orders or values as long as they do not deviate from the scope of the present invention. Needless to say, it can be realized. The drawings and the like illustrated in the above embodiment are merely examples, and may be in other embodiments.

1 game machine (pachinko game machine), 7 image display device, 21 1st start port, 22 2nd start port, 23 opening / closing member, 26 1st big prize opening, 28 2nd big prize opening, 35 1st production button, 36 2nd effect button, 41 1st special symbol display, 42 2nd special symbol display, 70 display screen, 80 main control board, 81 main CPU, 90 sub control board, 91 sub CPU, 100 audiovisual control board, 101 Audiovisual control CPU, 120 lamp control board, 121 lamp CPU, 211 1st start port sensor, 221 2nd start port sensor, 351 1st effect button detection sensor, 352 1st effect button lamp, 353 vibration motor, 361st 2 effect button detection sensor, 362 second effect button lamp.

Claims (1)

Judgment means for determining whether or not to execute a special game that is advantageous to the player,
When the determination is made, a symbol display control means for causing a predetermined symbol display means to display the symbol in a variable manner and then stopping and displaying a symbol indicating the result of the determination.
A gaming machine including an effect control means for controlling the execution of an effect based on the result of the determination.

Images