JP2021159709A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of executing a highly amusing performance.SOLUTION: A game machine 1 may display a plurality of performance patterns by a first combination for showing that execution of a special game is determined by determination means, or may display a plurality of performance patterns by a second combination that differs from the first combination and allows identification information on each performance pattern to be in a specific combination. The game machine 1 executes changing performance display for showing the situation in which a predetermined performance image becomes longer in a predetermined direction so as to suggest that a plurality of performance patterns are displayed in the second combination.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 18

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine provided with effect control means for controlling the execution of effect.

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. In this type of gaming machine, there is one that executes a chance eye effect of stopping and displaying three decorative symbols called chance eyes in association with the stop display of the special symbol (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-1985333

By the way, it cannot be said that the production performed by the conventional gaming machine has sufficient interest, and further improvement of the interest is required.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing a highly entertaining effect.

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, the symbol display control means for causing the predetermined symbol display means to display the special symbol in a variable manner and then stopping and displaying the special symbol indicating the result of the determination.
It is characterized in that it is provided with an effect control means for controlling the execution of the effect.

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

Front view of gaming 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 gaming machine 1. Explanatory drawing for explaining game state of game machine 1 Explanatory drawing for explaining the flow of production in a normal game state Explanatory drawing for explaining pseudo-continuous production Screen view showing a screen configuration example of the display screen 70 in the 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) Screen diagram for explaining the remaining short change number notice effect Screen diagram showing a specific example of the remaining short fluctuation number notice effect related to the short fluctuation display (Part 1) Screen diagram showing a specific example of the remaining short fluctuation number notice effect related to the short fluctuation display (Part 2) Screen view showing a concrete example of special fluctuation production (Part 1) Screen view showing a concrete example of special fluctuation production (Part 2) Screen view showing a concrete example of special fluctuation production (Part 3) Explanatory drawing for explaining stage production Screen view showing a concrete example of the order effect effect Screen view showing a specific example of the first button effect Time chart to explain the 1st button production Screen view showing a specific example of the second button effect Explanatory drawing for explaining the storage area of a main RAM 83 and the information stored in each storage area. A flowchart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the main control board 80 Detailed flowchart of the sensor detection process in step S2 of FIG. 23. Detailed flowchart of the pre-determination process in steps S211, 219 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of special symbol processing in step S3 of FIG. 23 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. 26. Detailed flowchart of special figure stop processing in step S317 of FIG. 26 A flowchart illustrating a game state setting process executed at the end of a jackpot game on the main control board 80. A flowchart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the sub-control board 90 Detailed flowchart of command reception processing in step S10 of FIG. 31 Detailed flowchart of the hold command reception process in step S13 of FIG. 32. Detailed flowchart of the icon change effect pattern setting process in step S135 of FIG. 33. Detailed flowchart of the remaining short change number advance notice effect pattern setting process in step S136 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of the order effect effect pattern setting process in step S137 of FIG. 33. Detailed flowchart of the fluctuation start command reception process in step S16 of FIG. 32. Detailed flowchart of the variation effect pattern setting process in step S163 of FIG. 37. Detailed flowchart of the advance notice effect pattern setting process in step S164 of FIG. 37. Detailed flowchart of the button effect pattern setting process in step S166 of FIG. 37. Detailed flowchart of the operation acceptance process in step S40 of FIG. 31 A flowchart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the image / sound control board 100. Detailed flowchart of the image display control process in step S71 of FIG. 42.

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 gaming machine 1]
First, a configuration example of the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. Here, FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1, and FIG. 2 is a front view of the gaming board 2. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the gaming machine 1 includes a gaming machine frame 30 and a gaming board 2 mounted in the gaming machine frame 30. The gaming machine frame 30 includes a front frame 31 having a decorative surface, a main body frame for attaching the gaming board 2 and the like, and an outer frame for fixing the gaming 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 interval, 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 launching device (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 corresponding 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 launch handle 32 by a large rotation angle, the game ball is launched with a relatively strong firing intensity, and the game ball is located above the right upper 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 ball that has not won any prize is 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. The 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. A guide groove is formed at the center of the left and right sides of the stage portion 11 to drop the game ball rolling on the stage portion 11 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 gaming machine 1, when the gaming ball wins the first starting opening 21 (or the second starting opening 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, the 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 port 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 port 22. The determination 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 an open posture (see FIG. 2) that opens the first prize opening 26 and then returns to a closed posture that closes the first prize opening 26. It is done once. In each long open round game in which the first large winning opening 26 is opened, in the present embodiment, 10 game balls win 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 large winning 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-opening 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 opening / closing member 23 opens the second starting port 22 (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 winning 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 gaming machine 1, a plurality of jackpot symbols that differ from each other depending on the type of jackpot are prepared, 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 jackpot game that opens the second prize 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 determination result of the normal symbol determination is notified. Specifically, for example, by alternately lighting the above two LEDs, a variable display of the symbol is performed, and each LED is turned on for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) in a lighting mode according to the determination 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 status display 48 is configured to have three LEDs indicated by “a1 to a3”, and displays the game status of the gaming 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 is displayed whether the player should hit left or right.

[Structure example of the production means included in the gaming 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 hold indicator 127 is configured to have two LEDs, and is the same as that displayed on the second special figure hold indicator 45 depending on the combination of lighting and extinguishing of each LED. 2 Display the number of pending special symbol judgments.

[Structure example of input means included in gaming 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 gaming 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 for emitting 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 gaming 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 set to any 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 gaming 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 gaming 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 gaming 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 the push button, a touch panel capable of detecting the player's touch operation, for example, an optical sensor capable of detecting the player's hand held over the display screen 70, and moving it back and forth and left and right to specify the 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 gaming machine 1]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control device included in the gaming 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 production based on information from the main control board 80. It is composed of a control board 90, an image / sound control board 100 that controls an effect by an image or sound, a lamp control board 120 that controls an effect by various lamps or 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 / sound control board 100, and the lamp control board 120 may be composed of one board.

<Structure 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. 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 the 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 big winning opening sensor 281 detects that the game ball has won a prize in the second big winning opening 28, and outputs the detection signal to the main control board 80. The general winning opening sensor 241 detects that the 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 large winning opening 28 is opened and closed.

Although not shown in the figure, the gaming machine 1 controls a drive motor that sends out a gaming ball from a ball tank provided on the back surface side of the gaming board 2 to supply the gaming 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, jackpot random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random numbers, and fluctuation pattern random numbers.

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). ) Determine the type of jackpot based on which random number value of a predetermined random number matches.

Here, as the types of jackpots, "4R probabilistic jackpot" in which the game is controlled in the probabilistic game state after executing the jackpot game including four long-open round games, and the jackpot game including six long-open 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. Based on whether or not it matches a predetermined random number value (random number value corresponding to with reach) (compared with the reach random number), it is determined whether to perform the effect with reach or the effect without reach. Further, the main CPU 81 determines the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol when displaying the special symbol in a variable manner 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), a 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, the main control board 80 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, a second special symbol hold indicator 45, and a general one. 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, the input of the operation information from the first effect button 35 and the second effect button 36 may be accepted, and the effect content corresponding to the operation information may be 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 an 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 on a frame-by-frame basis, and includes the type of 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 the image 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. The movie data, etc., which consists of a collection of images, is compressed and stored. The pixel information is composed of color number information that specifies a color number for each pixel and an α value that indicates 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 compression method of 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 decompressed 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 and the like by the acoustic DSP 107. The acoustic DSP 107 reads the acoustic data corresponding to the 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.

<Structure 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 display 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 display 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 controls the driving of the vibration motor 353 by reading 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.

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 Controls the display of the number of holds related to the special symbol determination.

[About game status]
Next, the gaming state and the game flow of the gaming 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 gaming machine 1 is played in one of the three gaming states of "normal gaming state", "probability variation gaming state", and "time saving gaming state". Is controlled.

The "normal game state" is a support function (so-called) that supports a winning of a game ball for the second starting port 22 while performing a special symbol determination in a low probability state in which the probability of being determined to execute a jackpot game is relatively low. 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 a relatively long time (for example, 20 seconds). And when it is determined that the second starting port 22 is to be opened, the opening time of the second starting port 22 is set to a relatively short time (for example, 0.1 second × 1 time).

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 probabilistic 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 × 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 × 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 of being determined to execute the special game (big hit probability), the probability of being determined to open the second starting port 22 (probability of winning the normal symbol determination), and the variation of the normal symbol shown in the explanation of each game state. Needless to say, 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 starting port 21, but may win the second starting 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 the 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 the present 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 gaming 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 is completed. 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. 9B). ). 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 row in the middle row continues the scroll display. In addition, 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 for 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 a prize in the first starting port 21 in a situation where the special symbol determination and the variable display of the special symbol cannot be started immediately, such as during the variable display of the special symbol or the big hit 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 reach production. Therefore, in the gaming 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 a prize in 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 erasure timing of the icon is not limited to this, and the icon may be erased during the variable display of the first special symbol. 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 variation 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 to make the player 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 above description, in the gaming 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 in 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 gaming 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, and 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. NS. 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. 6A). .. Specifically, in the effect symbol display area 73, for example, a part of the pattern sequence of the effect symbols 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 hit / fail 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 performing 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 in association with the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state, a normal short reach, a normal long reach, a first SP reach, and a 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 1%). 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 and right symbols forming the reach. The scroll display of the middle symbol string that pseudo-stops the middle symbol different from the above 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, the 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 gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when 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, or 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, the 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 the contents of 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 and the 2nd SP reach, the jackpot reliability of these reach effects is relatively low. 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 is a case where the short reach directly develops into the SPSP reach (see FIGS. 6 (E) and 6 (K)).

Although detailed explanation is omitted, in SPSP reach, the SPSP reach effect image is displayed on the display screen 70, and a battle effect in which the own character and the enemy character battle is executed. 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 is defeated by the enemy character are executed. NS.

When the pre-reach effect (see FIG. 6C) is being performed, the effect symbols of the three symbol rows such as "111", "222", "333", and "444" are aligned. In some cases, a full rotation effect (see FIG. 6 (L)) for scrolling and displaying each symbol row may be started. This full rotation effect is executed when the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment performed at the start of the variation display of the first special symbol this time is "big hit", while when it is "missing", it is executed. Since it is an effect that is not executed, when it develops into a full rotation effect, a hit notification effect (see FIG. 6M) is always executed after that.

Further, FIG. 6 illustrates a case where the pre-reach effect develops into a full rotation effect, but in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the effect symbol is in a state where the reach is not established. When the step-up effect executed while the variable display of is developed to the final stage, the full rotation effect may be executed following the effect of the final stage. In addition, at the end of the normal long reach (see FIG. 6 (G)), when a similar loss effect that pretends to be a loss is executed by displaying three effect symbols indicating the disjointed eyes in a pseudo-stop display, this similar loss effect is performed. In some cases, a full rotation effect is executed following. In addition, when the pseudo-ream effect described later is executed three times during the one-time variation display of the first special symbol and develops into the pseudo-fourth variation effect (fourth short variation display), the pseudo-series effect is generated. In some cases, the full rotation effect may be started immediately after the development of the eye variation effect.

[Pseudo-continuous production and short fluctuations in the production design]
Next, with reference to FIG. 7, the pseudo continuous effect and the short variation of the effect symbol will be described. Here, FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the pseudo-continuous production. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the pseudo continuous effect may be executed before the reach is established or after the reach is established. The pseudo-continuous effect is an effect for pretending that the variable display of the effect symbol has been performed a plurality of times during one special symbol variation display. An effect of pseudo-stop display of three effect symbols including (a middle row effect symbol having a number of 7) is performed (see, for example, FIG. 9 (D)).

In FIG. 7, the "variation" of the special symbol means the variation display of the first special symbol performed in the normal gaming state, and the "stop" of the special symbol follows the variation display of the first special symbol. It shall mean the stop display of the first special symbol performed in the above. Further, the "variation" of the effect symbol means the variation display of the effect symbol accompanying the variation display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state, and the "pseudo stop" of the effect symbol is the pseudo stop display of the effect symbol (here, the pseudo stop display of the effect symbol). , Pseudo-continuous production), and "stop" of the production symbol means the main stop of the production symbol.

(When the pseudo-continuous production is not executed)
FIG. 7A illustrates a variable display of the effect symbol when the pseudo-continuous effect is not executed. When the pseudo continuous effect is not executed, as illustrated in FIG. 7A, the variation display of the effect symbol is performed once during the variation display of one special symbol. In this way, when the pseudo continuous effect is not executed, the jackpot reliability is relatively low, and in most cases, the reachless effect (variable effect not including the reach effect) is performed and the loss notification effect is executed, or , Even if the reach effect is executed, only the normal short reach and the normal long reach, which have low jackpot reliability, are executed, and the loss notification effect is executed with these low reliability reach.

(When a pseudo-ream effect that develops to the pseudo-second station is executed)
FIG. 7B exemplifies the variation display of the effect symbol when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed only once during the variation display of one special symbol. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the jackpot reliability when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed only once during one special symbol variation display is higher than that when the pseudo-continuous effect is not executed, but 10 It is set to a relatively low probability of%.

When one pseudo-continuous effect is executed during one variation display of the special symbol, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, after the variation display of the first special symbol is started (first). The first short variation, which is the pseudo-first variation effect related to the effect symbol, is performed over a predetermined time (shorter than the variation time of the special symbol), and the pseudo-continuous effect is executed following the first short variation. NS. In the present embodiment, this pseudo-continuous effect is configured as an effect of displaying three effect symbols including the middle 7 symbols in a pseudo-stop display for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds), and a predetermined time elapses from the start of the pseudo-continuous effect. Then, the variation display (for example, scroll display) of the three symbol strings is restarted, and the second short variation, which is the pseudo second variation effect related to the effect symbol, is started.

As illustrated in FIG. 7B, if the variation effect does not develop after the pseudo third station, the second short variation becomes the final short variation, so from the middle of the variation display of the first special symbol. The second short variation will continue for a period until the variation display of the first special symbol is completed.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the reach effect is not executed (the non-reach effect is executed) with respect to the variable display of the first special symbol that is performed when the game is controlled in the normal gaming state. When the variation pattern of the special symbol is selected, the reach effect is executed without executing the pseudo continuous effect (the effect with reach is executed). One when the variation pattern of the first special symbol is selected. For the part, a configuration is adopted such as executing a pseudo-continuous production. Therefore, when the pseudo continuous effect is executed during the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal game state, at least the reach is established and some kind of reach effect is executed.

As illustrated in FIG. 7B, when the second short variation is the final short variation, the reach effect is performed in the second short variation. Therefore, the time required for the second short variation, which is the pseudo second variation effect, tends to be longer than the time required for the first short variation, which is the pseudo first variation effect (Fig.). 7 (B)).

(When a pseudo-ream effect that develops to the pseudo-third station is executed)
FIG. 7C exemplifies the variation display of the effect symbol when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed twice during the variation display of one special symbol. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the jackpot reliability when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed twice during one special symbol variation display is set to a relatively high probability of 20%.

When two pseudo-continuous effects are executed during one special symbol variation display, first, as in the case where the above-mentioned one pseudo-continuous effect is executed based on FIG. 7B. The first short variation is performed, and following the first short variation, the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed (see FIG. 7C). This first pseudo-continuous effect is the same pseudo-continuous effect as described above based on FIG. 7B, and when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the first pseudo-continuous effect, the three symbol sequences fluctuate. The display (for example, scroll display) is restarted, and the second short variation, which is a pseudo second variation effect related to the effect symbol, is started.

As illustrated in FIG. 7C, when the variation effect finally develops to the pseudo-third station, the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed following the second short variation. Then, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the second pseudo continuous effect, the variation display (for example, scroll display) of the three symbol strings is restarted, and the pseudo third variation effect related to the effect symbol is performed. 3 Short fluctuations are started (see FIG. 7 (C)). As illustrated in FIG. 7C, this third short variation is continued from the middle of the variation display of the first special symbol to the end of the variation display of the first special symbol.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, as the number of pseudo-continuous effects executed during one special symbol variation display increases, the jackpot reliability is relatively high (for example, the first SP reach). , 2nd SP reach, SPSP reach). Therefore, when the pseudo continuous effect is executed twice during the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal game state, for example, the normal short reach (see FIG. 6 (E)) to the first SP reach (FIG. 6 (FIG. 6 (E)). There is a high possibility that it will develop into (see H)) or from normal short reach to SPSP reach (see FIG. 6 (K)) via normal long reach (see FIG. 6 (G)).

Therefore, the time required for the third short variation (see FIG. 7 (C)) tends to be longer than the time required for the second short variation described above based on FIG. 7 (B), and within the same variation. It is characterized in that it is longer than the time required for the first short fluctuation and the second short fluctuation to be performed (see FIGS. 7B and 7C).

(When a pseudo-ream effect that develops to the pseudo-fourth station is executed)
FIG. 7D exemplifies the variation display of the effect symbol when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed three times during the variation display of one special symbol. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, since the jackpot reliability when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed three times during one special symbol variation display is set to 100%, it is the third time within the same variation. The pseudo-continuous effect functions as a definite notification effect that definitively notifies the "big hit".

When three pseudo-continuous effects are executed during one special symbol variation display, two pseudo-continuous effects are performed during one special symbol variation display described above based on FIG. 7 (C). As in the case of execution, the first short variation, the first pseudo-continuous effect, the second short variation, the second pseudo-continuous effect, and the third short variation are performed in order (FIGS. 7 (C) and 7 (D)). )reference).

However, if two pseudo-continuous effects are executed during one special symbol variation display, the reach effect is executed in the third short variation, whereas one special symbol variation display is in progress. When the pseudo-continuous effect is executed three times, the reach effect (or full rotation effect: see FIG. 6 (L)) is executed in the fourth short variation instead of the third minor variation. That is, when three pseudo-continuous effects are executed during one special symbol variation display, the third pseudo-continuous effect is executed following the third short variation, and the pseudo-continuous effect following this pseudo-continuous effect 4 In the fourth short variation, which is a continuous variation effect, a reach effect or a full rotation effect is executed.

As described above, in the present embodiment, since the jackpot reliability is set to 100% when the pseudo-continuous production is performed three times within the same fluctuation, the reach production performed in the fourth short fluctuation is performed. In (or full rotation effect), the hit notification effect is always executed.

The fourth short variation effect in the present embodiment finally develops into a reach effect of any of the five types of reach effects illustrated in FIG. 6, and a hit notification effect is executed at the end of the reach effect. Fluctuation production such as An example is a variable effect such as executing a full rotation effect.

In this way, when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed three times during the one-time variation display of the special symbol, the reach effect and / or the full rotation effect are executed in the fourth short variation. , The time required for the fourth short fluctuation is longer than the time required for the first short fluctuation to the third short fluctuation performed within the same fluctuation (see FIG. 7 (D)).

As is clear from the explanations so far, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, during one special symbol variation display, a plurality of effect symbols are variablely displayed over a period shorter than the variation time of the special symbol. The short-variable display of times may be executed, and the larger the number of short-variable displays executed during one special symbol variation display, the easier it is for the jackpot game to be executed. Therefore, the player can enjoy the game while expecting that the number of short-variable displays performed within the same variation is larger, and recognizes the jackpot reliability based on the number of short-variable displays. It is possible.

[Screen configuration example of display screen 70]
Next, a screen configuration example of the display screen 70 in the normal gaming state will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 8 is a screen view showing a screen configuration example of the display screen 70 in the normal gaming state. As described above based on FIG. 2, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the holding icon display area 71 in which the holding icon is displayed and the icon are displayed when the game is controlled in the normal gaming state. The icon display area 72 and the effect symbol display area 73 on which the effect symbol is displayed are formed on the display screen 70. Then, in a state where such a screen configuration is formed, the short variation number 74 and the remaining short variation number advance notice image 75 illustrated in FIG. 8 may be displayed.

(About the number of short fluctuations 74)
The number of short fluctuations 74 is displayed in the upper left display area on the display screen 70 when at least one pseudo-continuous effect is executed during the fluctuation display of one special symbol, and is being executed. It shows how many times the short fluctuation display is within the same fluctuation. In FIG. 8, the number of short fluctuations 74 indicating the character “x2” is displayed to indicate that the second short fluctuation display (the second short fluctuation described above based on FIG. 7) is being executed. The state of being done is illustrated.

Since the number of short fluctuations 74 indicates the number of short fluctuations displayed within the same fluctuation, the short fluctuation display being executed is displayed during the fluctuation display of the effect symbol in which the pseudo-continuous effect is not executed. There is a feature that it is not done. Further, even during the variable display of the effect symbol in which the pseudo continuous effect is executed, it is not displayed during the execution of the pseudo first continuous variable effect (the first short variation described above based on FIG. 7) (FIG. 7). 9 (B) to (C)), and it is not displayed after it has developed into a predetermined reach effect (see FIGS. 9 (I) and 10 (A)).

Note that FIG. 8 illustrates a state in which the number of short fluctuations 74 indicating the character “x2” is displayed because the second short fluctuation is being executed, but during the execution of the third short fluctuation, , As illustrated in FIGS. 9 (H) to 9 (I), the number of short fluctuations 74 indicating the character “x3” is displayed. Further, although not shown in the figure, during the execution of the fourth short variation display described above based on FIG. 7 (D), "x4" is obtained until a predetermined reach effect or full rotation effect is developed. The number of short fluctuations 74 indicating the character of is displayed.

(About the remaining short change number preview image 75)
The remaining short variation number preview image 75 is a suggestion image suggesting the number of short variation displays executed during one special symbol variation display, and in the present embodiment, the short variation display that has not yet been executed. It functions as a notice effect that announces the number of executions. In FIG. 8, under the condition that the second short variation (pseudo second consecutive variation effect) is executed, at least one short variation display is executed within the same variation after the second short variation is completed. An example is shown in which the residual short-variable number of times advance notice image 75 including the number "1" is displayed in order to give notice of the fact.

The remaining short variation number preview image 75 will be described in detail later, but even when the short variation display is executed according to the execution of the pseudo continuous effect as described above based on FIG. 7, the remaining short variation number There are cases where the preview image 75 is displayed and cases where it is not displayed. First, a specific example of the variation effect when the preview image 75 of the remaining short variation number is not displayed will be described.

(Specific example of variation effect without displaying the remaining short variation number preview image 75)
With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, a specific example of the variation effect without displaying the remaining short variation number advance notice image 75 in the normal gaming state will be described. FIGS. 9 and 10 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. 6 (K)) directly developed from (FIG. 6 (E)) will be described.

FIG. 9A 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 determination 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 the normal short reach to the SPSP reach is selected as the variation pattern of the first special symbol, the following The production is performed.

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. 9A and 9B). When a predetermined time elapses after the scroll display of these three symbol strings is started, for example, a dialogue notice effect image showing how the 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. 9C). 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 (7 symbols in the middle) are simulated as the middle symbols that notify the execution of the pseudo-continuous effect. Stop (see FIG. 9D).

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 two-series following the pseudo-first variation effect (the first short variation described above). The eye variation effect (the second short variation described above) 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. The number of short fluctuations 74 is displayed small in the square area, and the scroll display of the three symbol strings is restarted in the effect symbol display area 73 (see FIGS. 9D and 9E). When this pseudo second variation effect (that is, the second short variation) is performed, for example, when a dialogue notice is executed as in the case of the pseudo first station variation effect (during the first short variation). (See FIG. 9 (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. 9 (G)). ). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 9 (G), the scroll speed of the symbol row in the left column is reduced, the left symbol (for example, two symbols) is pseudo-stopped, and then the symbol row in the right column is displayed. 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 (that is, the above-mentioned third short variation) starts. Will be done. Specifically, after the character "x3" suggesting the start of the pseudo-third consecutive variation effect is displayed large in the central area of the display screen 70, the character "x3" is the number of short fluctuations 74. Is displayed small in the upper left area of the display screen 70, and the scroll display of the three symbol columns is resumed in the effect symbol display area 73 (see FIGS. 9 (G) and 9 (H)).

Then, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the pseudo-third consecutive variation effect (third short variation) in this way, the scroll speed of the symbol string in the left column decreases, and the left symbol (for example, three symbols) becomes Pseudo-stop, then the scroll speed of the symbol row in the right column decreases (same as the symbol on the left), and the right symbol (3 symbols in this case) pseudo-stops to establish reach (see FIG. 9 (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. 10 (A)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 10A, 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.

As is clear from the notation of FIGS. 9 (I) and 10 (A), in the present embodiment, a short variation is made before the start of the reach effect so as not to reduce the visibility of the reach effect image related to the reach effect. When the number of times 74 is displayed, the case where the number of short fluctuations 74 is deleted with the start of the reach effect will be described as an example regardless of the type of the reach effect to be started. , The following configuration may be adopted. That is, for example, during the execution of a reach effect having a relatively low jackpot reliability such as a normal short reach or a normal long reach, the display of the number of short fluctuations 74 is continued, while the first SP reach, the second SP reach, the SPSP reach, etc. A configuration may be adopted in which the number of short fluctuations 74 is not displayed during the execution of the reach effect having a relatively high jackpot reliability. In addition, even if a configuration is adopted in which the display of the short fluctuation number 74 is continued only during the normal short reach with the lowest jackpot reliability, and the short fluctuation number 74 is deleted when the reach effect other than the normal short reach is started. good.

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 10, when developing from the normal short reach to the 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. 10 (B)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 10B, in the process of moving to the upper left region of the display screen 70 while the three symbols on the left 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. 10 (C) to (G). )reference).

Next, following the development effect (see FIG. 10B) that suggests the development to SPSP reach as described above, for example, when a group advance notice is performed as a notice effect that announces the possibility of a big hit. (See FIG. 10 (C)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 10C, 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. 10D). 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 for urging the player to operate the first effect button 35 is performed (see FIG. 10 (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. 10 (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-ins are performed and cases where gold cut-ins are performed in which a golden cut-in image is superimposed and displayed. The order is red cut-in and gold cut-in.

When the cut-in is generated in this way and the end of the SPSP reach is reached, the second effect button operation promotion effect for urging the player to operate the second effect button 36 is performed (see FIG. 10 (G)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 10 (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. 10 (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 indicating doublets are pseudo-stopped and then finally stopped.

Further, here, one right for determining the first special symbol is reserved. Therefore, when a predetermined fixed time elapses from the start of the stop display of the lost symbol as the first special symbol and the main stop of the three effect symbols showing the reach loss eyes exemplified in FIG. 10 (H). , As illustrated in FIG. 10 (I), the hold icon display area 71 is formed again, and the earliest hold icon displayed in the hold icon display area 71 is shifted to the icon display area 72. The next symbol change is started with.

[About the notice production of the number of remaining short fluctuations]
Next, with reference to FIG. 11, the residual short variation number advance notice effect performed using the residual short variation number advance notice image 75 will be described. Here, FIG. 11 is a screen view for explaining the remaining short variation number advance notice effect. As illustrated in FIG. 11A, when a game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 21 while the variable display of the symbol corresponding to the icon displayed in the icon display area 72 is performed. At about the same time that a special icon (for example, a green hold icon) is displayed as a hold icon based on the result of the preliminary determination executed by the main CPU 81 in response to this winning, for example, the number "1". The remaining short change number of times notice effect of displaying the remaining short change number of times notice image 75 indicating the above may be executed.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a variation effect pattern selection table in which the variation pattern of the special symbol and the variation effect pattern of the effect symbol are associated with each other is stored in the sub ROM 92 (see FIG. 4) of the sub control board 90. .. Therefore, when the sub CPU 91 receives the hold command including the preliminary determination information indicating the result of the preliminary determination processing by the main CPU 81 from the main control board 80, the determination result of the special symbol determination specified by the preliminary determination information, And, by reading the variation effect pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol from the variation effect pattern selection table, whether or not the short variation display of the effect symbol is executed in the look-ahead target variation, when the short variation display is executed. It is possible to specify how many times the short variation display is executed before the start of the look-ahead target variation.

In the present embodiment, when the sub CPU 91 receives the hold command related to the first special symbol determination including the prior determination information, the variation effect pattern selection table can be referred to and the remaining short variation number advance notice effect can be executed. Whether or not (that is, whether or not the short variation display of the effect symbol is executed in the look-ahead target variation) is determined. Here, when it is determined that the remaining short variation number advance notice effect can be executed, the effect lottery is executed, and based on the lottery result, it is determined whether or not to execute the remaining short change number advance notice effect. Then, when it is decided to execute the residual short variation number advance notice effect, one of the effect patterns (change patterns) of the predetermined residual short variation number advance notice image 75 is selected and selected. The remaining short variation number advance notice effect that changes the residual short variation number advance image 75 with the effect pattern is executed.

(Preliminary effect of remaining short variation number to display image 75)
Returning to the explanation of FIG. 11, when the special icon is displayed as the hold icon and the remaining short change number preview image 75 indicating the number "1" is displayed, the player has the first special symbol corresponding to the special icon. It is possible to recognize that the short variation display of the effect symbol is performed at least once when the variation display (look-ahead target variation) is performed before the start of the look-ahead target variation.

As is clear from the notation of FIG. 7A, when the pseudo-continuous effect is not executed, a variable effect is performed in which the effect symbol is variablely displayed over the same time as the variable time of the special symbol. (The effect symbol is displayed in a variable manner over a period of time shorter than the time) The effect symbol is not displayed in a short variation. Further, as is clear from the notations of FIGS. 7B to 7D, when the pseudo continuous effect is executed, the short variation display of the effect symbol is displayed at least twice during the variation display of one special symbol. Will be done. As is clear from these facts, the number "1" indicated by the residual short-time fluctuation number preview image 75 illustrated in FIG. 11 (A) is one of the short-variable display of the effect symbol performed in the look-ahead target change. It suggests a part of the short-variable display, and in reality, the short-variable display is executed two or more times in the look-ahead target variation.

Therefore, regardless of whether the number is "1" or not, if the residual short-time change number preview image 75 is displayed prior to the start of the look-ahead change, at that time, the look-ahead change is at least twice. It will be confirmed that the short-variable display of the production symbol will be performed, and the higher the number of short-variable displays, the higher the reliability of the jackpot, so it is possible to effectively improve the player's expectation for the jackpot. be.

(Preliminary notice of the number of remaining short fluctuations) Increase the number of the remaining short fluctuation number of images 75.
In FIG. 11B, a special icon displayed in the hold icon display area 71 as the earliest hold icon after the symbol variation illustrated in FIG. 11A ends and a predetermined fixed time elapses. The state immediately after the start of the symbol variation (pre-reading target variation) corresponding to is illustrated. As is clear from the notation of FIGS. 11 (A) and 11 (B), when the notice image 75 of the number of residual short-term fluctuations is displayed before the start of the pre-reading target variation, the residual short-circuit variation is accompanied by the start of the pre-reading target variation. The number-of-times advance notice effect (hereinafter, also referred to as “increase effect”) may be executed to increase the number indicated by the number-of-times advance image 75.

As illustrated in FIG. 11B, immediately after the pre-reading target variation (where the pseudo-continuous effect is executed) is started, the first short variation display (first short variation) of the effect symbol is executed. In the middle, the number "2" shown by the remaining short change number preview image 75 does not suggest this first short change, and the short change of the effect symbol is at least two times after the first short change is completed. It is foretold that the display will be done. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, as is clear from the notation of FIG. 7 (D), the short variation display of the effect symbol more than four times within the same variation is not performed, so that the player can display the short variation of the effect symbol in FIG. Looking at the remaining short variation number preview image 75 exemplified in (B), it is recognized in advance that the short variation display of the effect symbol is executed two or three times after the first short variation being executed. Is possible.

As described above, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the number of executions of the short variation display announced by the remaining short variation number notice image 75 being displayed is changed from the first number to the second number (more than the first number). An increase effect may be executed to update the display of the remaining short change number preview image 75 so as to increase.

Up to this point, the increase effect of increasing the number indicated by the remaining short change number of times advance notice image 75 by one with the start of the look-ahead target change has been described. In some cases, an increase effect is performed in which the indicated numbers increase by two or more. For example, before the start of the look-ahead change target variation, the remaining short change number preview image 75 indicating "0" is displayed, and with the start of the look-ahead target change, the number indicated by the remaining short change count notice image 75 is set to "0". In some cases, an increase effect that increases by 2 from to "2" is executed. Further, for example, before the start of the look-ahead change target variation, the remaining short variation number notice image 75 indicating "0" is displayed, and with the start of the look-ahead target change, the number indicated by the remaining short change number notice image 75 is changed to ". In some cases, an increase effect that increases by 3 from "0" to "3" may be executed. In this case, the second short change ~ Since it is confirmed that the fourth short variation will be performed, the residual short variation number advance notice effect that displays the residual short variation number advance notice image 75 indicating "3" during the execution of the first short variation deterministically notifies the jackpot. It will function as a definite notification effect.

Further, the execution timing of the increase effect for increasing the number indicated by the residual short-time change number preview image 75 is not limited to the start of the look-ahead target change illustrated here, and may be executed at the following timing. That is, the increase effect is executed when the increase effect is executed at the timing immediately before the end of the first short change in the look-ahead target variation, or when the first pseudo continuous effect following the first short change is performed. May be done. In addition, the increase effect may be executed when the second and subsequent pseudo-continuous effects are being performed, or the increase effect may be executed during the short change display of the effect symbols after the second short change.

On the other hand, for example, before the pre-reading target variation is started, the residual short-change number-preliminary effect of displaying the residual short-change number-preliminary image 75 indicating the number "2" is executed, and in the pre-reading target variation, the effect symbol is displayed. Since the short variation display is performed only twice, the number indicated by the residual short variation number preview image 75 may not increase. That is, if the number indicated by the remaining short variation number preview image 75 matches the execution number of the short variation display of the effect symbol executed in the look-ahead target variation, the increase effect is not executed.

FIG. 11C exemplifies a state in which the first pseudo-continuous effect following the first short variation in the look-ahead target variation is executed. Here, as is clear from the notations of FIGS. 11 (B) and 11 (C), when the first pseudo-continuous production is executed, the number indicated by the residual short variation number preview image 75 does not increase. It remains the same "2" as during the first short fluctuation. Therefore, the player can recognize that at least the second short variation and the third short variation are executed after the first pseudo continuous effect is completed.

(Preliminary effect of the number of remaining short fluctuations)
FIG. 11D exemplifies a state immediately after the start of the pseudo-second variation effect (second short variation) following the first pseudo-continuous effect in the look-ahead target variation. When this second short variation is being performed, the number of short variation 74 indicating the character "x2" is displayed in the upper left display area of the display screen 70. This is as described above based on FIG. The remaining short variation number preview image 75 (see FIG. 11C) displayed during the execution of the first pseudo continuous effect is at least after the first short variation and the first pseudo continuous effect are completed. It is foretold that the short variation display of the effect symbol will be performed twice, but if one of them corresponds to the second short variation, the notation shown in FIGS. 11 (C) and 11 (D). As is clear from the above, with the start of the pseudo-second variation effect (that is, the second short variation), the remaining short is reduced from "2" to "1" by the number indicated by the residual short variation number preview image 75. The fluctuation number advance notice effect (hereinafter, also referred to as "decrease effect") is executed.

FIG. 11 (E) illustrates a state immediately after the start of the pseudo-third consecutive variation effect (third short variation) following the second pseudo-continuous effect (not shown) in the look-ahead target variation. When this third minor variation is being performed, the number of minor variation 74 indicating the character "x3" is displayed in the upper left display area of the display screen 70. This is as described above based on FIG. The remaining short variation number preview image 75 (see FIG. 11 (D)) displayed during the execution of the second short variation is at least once after the second short variation and the second pseudo-continuous production are completed. Although it is foretold that the short variation display of the effect symbol of is further performed, if this one time corresponds to the third short variation, it is clear from the notation of FIGS. 11 (D) and 11 (E). In addition, with the start of the pseudo-third consecutive variation effect (that is, the third minor variation), a reduction effect of reducing the number indicated by the remaining short variation number preview image 75 from "1" to "0" is executed. ..

Since the short variation display of the effect symbol is performed once with the pseudo continuous effect in between, the reduction effect of reducing the number indicated by the remaining short change number preview image 75 by 1 may be executed, but remains. The reduction effect of reducing the number indicated by the short fluctuation number preview image 75 by 2 or more is not executed.

In the present embodiment, as is clear from the notation of FIGS. 11 (B) to 11 (D) and the notation of FIGS. 11 (D) to 11 (E), the reduction effect is executed with the start of the short variation display of the effect symbol. In other embodiments, for example, the reduction effect may be performed during the execution of the pseudo-continuous effect (for example, at the end of the pseudo-continuous effect). That is, when the short variation display of the effect symbol included in the number indicated by the remaining short variation number notice image 75 is started, the remaining short change number notice image 75 is started before the short variation display is started. The number indicated by may be reduced by "1".

(Direction when reaching 0)
In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the remaining short variation number warning image 75 is being displayed as the last short variation display in the variation display of one special symbol is started in the state of being displayed. The specific effect based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination performed at the start of the variation display of the first special symbol this time is to be executed by using the residual short variation number preview image 75 of the above. In FIG. 11 (E), while the short variation display of the effect symbol is executed three times during the variation display of the first special symbol this time, the final short variation display (here, the third short variation) is executed. ) Is started, and the number reaches "0". The character "Super hot!" Pops out from the notice image 75 of the number of remaining short-term fluctuations. It is also illustrated that) is executed.

Since the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment adopts a configuration in which the jackpot reliability increases as the number of short-variable display of the effect symbol performed during one special symbol variation display increases, the increase effect is increased. By executing this, it is possible to effectively improve the player's expectation for the jackpot. On the other hand, since the reduction effect is an effect that suggests that the number of executions of the remaining short-variable display is reduced, it can be considered that it is not necessarily a desirable effect for the player.

However, in the present embodiment, when the number indicated by the remaining short change number preview image 75 reaches "0" in response to the execution of the reduction effect, when the number reaches "0", which informs the player of useful information. Since the configuration of executing the effect is also adopted, the decrease effect can be a preferable effect for the player, and an effective effect that makes the player expect both the increase effect and the decrease effect can be realized. Is possible.

In addition, in FIG. 11 (E), on condition that the judgment result of the first special symbol determination this time is "big hit", the character "super hot!" That definitely notifies the big hit is displayed. Although the state in which the effect at the time of arrival is executed is illustrated, another effect may be executed as the effect at the time of reaching 0. That is, for example, when the group notice is executed as a notice effect suggesting that the jackpot reliability is relatively high after the number indicated by the remaining short change number notice image 75 reaches "0", this group In order to suggest the occurrence of a notice, a production at the time of reaching 0 may be executed, which shows a state in which the characters "group !!" See C)). Further, although not shown in the figure, for example, after the number indicated by the residual short-time fluctuation number preview image 75 reaches "0", the jackpot reliability is among the five types of reach effects (excluding the full rotation effect). When develops to the highest SPSP reach, an effect at the time of reaching 0 may be executed, which indicates that the characters “SPSP!” Pop out from the residual short variation number preview image 75 showing the number “0”.

As is clear from the explanations so far, the effect at the time of reaching 0 is an effect executed only when the judgment result of the first special symbol determination performed at the start of the variation display of the first special symbol is a "big hit". However, any effect may be used as long as it is an effect based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination.

Further, the effect at the time of reaching 0 does not necessarily have to be an effect based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination as long as it is an effect that notifies the player of useful information. For example, if a configuration is adopted in which the jackpot probability in the normal game state can be set to any of the six stages, the effect at the time of reaching 0, which suggests (suggests) the current setting, is executed. You may.

(Preliminary notice of the number of remaining short fluctuations) The notice of the number of remaining short fluctuations that maintains the number in the image 75)
FIG. 11F exemplifies a state immediately after the start of the pseudo-second variation effect (second short variation) following the first pseudo-continuous effect in the look-ahead target variation. When the second short variation is performed, the number of short variation 74 indicating the character "x2" is displayed, which is the same as described above based on FIG. 11 (D). On the other hand, the number "2" shown by the residual short variation number preview image 75 illustrated in FIG. 11 (C) does not foretell the execution of the second short variation exemplified in FIG. 11 (F). In the case where the execution of the third short variation and the fourth short variation to be performed after the second short variation is foretold, the above-mentioned reduction effect is performed based on FIGS. 11 (B) to 11 (D). Not preferred. Therefore, when the number "2" shown in the image 75 for the number of remaining short fluctuations illustrated in FIG. 11C corresponds to the third short variation and the fourth short variation, the number of remaining short fluctuations is announced. A notice effect of the number of remaining short fluctuations (hereinafter, also referred to as “hold effect”) that maintains the number shown in the image 75 is executed.

In FIG. 11 (F), as this hold effect, the “HOLD” is shown together with an effect image showing how the remaining short change number preview image 75 is bound by a chain that is crossed so that the number “2” does not change. Although the appearance of the characters being displayed is illustrated, the effect display related to the hold effect is such that the player can recognize that the number indicated by the residual short variation number preview image 75 is maintained without decreasing. For example, the effect display is not limited to the effect display illustrated in FIG. 11 (F), and other effect displays may be used.

In addition, the number "2" shown by the residual short change number notice image 75 exemplified in FIG. 11 (F) corresponds to the 3rd short change and the 4th short change, respectively. Therefore, after the second pseudo continuous effect following the second short variation illustrated in FIG. 11 (F) is executed, the hold effect ends with the start of the third short variation, and the number of remaining short variations A reduction effect of reducing the number indicated by the preview image 75 from "2" to "1" is executed. After that, after the third pseudo-continuous production following the third short variation is executed, the number indicated by the remaining short variation number preview image 75 is reduced from "1" to "0" with the start of the fourth short variation. The reduction effect is executed, and finally, the effect when reaching 0 as described above is executed based on FIG. 11 (E).

(Specific example of variation effect accompanied by display of the remaining short variation number preview image 75)
Next, with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, a specific example of the variation effect accompanied by the display of the remaining short variation number advance notice image 75 in the normal gaming state will be described. Here, FIGS. 12 and 13 are screen views showing a specific example of the remaining short variation number advance notice effect related to the short variation display. Here, a game ball wins a prize at the first starting port 21 when the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol is performed with one right of the first special symbol determination reserved, and this prize is won. A specific example of the remaining short variation number advance notice effect will be described by taking as an example a case where it is determined to execute the residual short change number advance notice effect accordingly. Further, the points in common with the variation effect (FIGS. 9 and 10) without the display of the residual short variation number advance notice image 75 are omitted, and the points different from the variation effect without the display of the residual short variation number advance notice image 75. The explanation will be centered on.

FIG. 12A shows a variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol 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. Is being performed, a special icon is displayed in the icon display area 72 as the second hold icon, and a state immediately after the remaining short change number preview image 75 indicating the number "1" is displayed. Is illustrated. Further, FIG. 12A exemplifies a state in which the scroll display of the symbol rows in the middle row is continued with the two symbols on the left and the one symbol on the right pseudo-stopped.

In this way, after the remaining short change number preview image 75 is displayed together with the special icon related to the right to determine the first special symbol to be read ahead, when the fluctuation time of the first special symbol corresponding to the icon ends, the first 1 In a mode of notifying the determination result of the first special symbol determination performed at the start of the variation display of the special symbol, the three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped and then the main stop is performed. In FIG. 12B, in order to notify that the judgment result of the first special symbol determination this time is "missing", three effects showing the left 2 symbols, the middle 8 symbols, and the right 1 symbol are scattered. The state in which the symbol is finally stopped is illustrated.

When a predetermined fixed time elapses from the start of the stop display of the lost symbol as the first special symbol and the start of the main stop of the three effect symbols indicating the disparity of "281", the hold icon display area 71 The symbol variation corresponding to the earliest hold icon displayed in is started (see FIGS. 12B to 12C). Specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 (B) to 12 (C), the scroll display of the three symbol columns is started, and the earliest hold icon shifts to the icon display area 72. The special icon that is displayed as an icon and is the read-ahead target is shifted within the hold icon display area 71 and displayed as the earliest hold icon. At that time, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 (B) to 12 (C), an increase effect is executed in which the number indicated by the residual short variation number preview image 75 is increased by 1 from "1" to "2". be.

Next, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination corresponding to the icon illustrated in FIG. 12C is a loss, for example, the left 4 symbols, the right 5 symbols, and the middle 2 symbols are simulated in a predetermined order. When the symbol is stopped and the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, the three effect symbols showing the disparity of these "425" are finally stopped (see FIGS. 12 (C) to 12 (D)). .. When the loss notification effect illustrated in FIG. 12 (D) is being performed, the number indicated by the remaining short change number notice image 75 has not changed, and the remaining short change number notice indicating the number "2" has not changed. Image 75 is still displayed.

On the other hand, when the lost symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol and a predetermined fixed time elapses after the three effect symbols indicating the disparity of "425" are stopped, the hold icon display area 71 The symbol variation corresponding to the special icon displayed as the earliest hold icon is started (see FIGS. 12 (D) to (E)). Specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 (D) to 12 (E), the scroll display of the three symbol columns is started, and the special icon as the earliest hold icon is displayed in the icon display area 72. It shifts and is displayed as the icon. At that time, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 (D) to 12 (E), a reduction effect is executed in which the number indicated by the residual short variation number preview image 75 is reduced by 1 from "2" to "1". be. Here, since the number "2" indicated by the remaining short variation number preview image 75 foretells the two short variation display including the first short variation in the look-ahead target variation, the remaining short variation number preview image 75 is used. A reduction effect is performed to reduce the indicated number from "2" to "1".

In FIG. 12 (F), when the look-ahead target variation illustrated in FIG. 12 (E) is started and the first short variation is executed, the right three symbols are pseudo-stopped, and the left column shows. It is illustrated that the scroll display of the symbol row and the symbol row in the middle row is continued.

In this way, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the first short variation in the look-ahead target variation, for example, the first pseudo-continuous effect in which the left 5 symbols, the right 3 symbols, and the middle 7 symbols are pseudo-stopped in order is performed. It is executed (see FIG. 12 (G)). As illustrated in FIG. 12 (G), when the first pseudo continuous effect is being executed, a hold effect that maintains the number indicated by the residual short variation number preview image 75 may be executed.

Next, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the first pseudo continuous effect, the scroll display of the three symbol strings is restarted, and the second short variation (pseudo second continuous effect) is started ( (See FIGS. 12 (G) and 12 (H)). In addition, in FIGS. 12 (H) to 12 (I), the number “1” indicated by the remaining short change number preview image 75 whose display is maintained by the hold effect is lined after the second short change being executed. It is illustrated that the hold effect is still being continued because it corresponds to the short-variable display of the effect pattern.

FIG. 13 (A) illustrates how the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed following the second short variation of FIG. 12 (I). In addition, in FIG. 13 (A), since the number "1" shown by the remaining short change number preview image 75 corresponds to the third short change, the hold effect is generated during the execution of the second pseudo continuous effect. An example shows a state in which the remaining short variation number preview image 75 in the normal display mode indicating the number "1" is displayed after the end.

When a predetermined time elapses from the start of the second pseudo continuous effect, the third short variation, which is the pseudo third variation effect, is started (see FIG. 13B). At that time, as described above, since the number "1" indicated by the remaining short change number notice image 75 corresponds to the third short change, the remaining short change number notice is given with the start of the third short change. A reduction effect is performed in which the number shown in the image 75 is reduced from "1" to "0" (see FIGS. 13A to 13B). Then, after the number indicated by the residual short variation number advance notice image 75 reaches "0" in the third short variation, the effect at the time of reaching 0 using the residual short variation number advance notice image 75 is executed (FIG. 13 (C). )reference). In FIG. 13 (D), in order to foretell that a group notice similar to the group notice illustrated in FIG. An example is shown in which the effect of reaching 0, which indicates how the characters "!!" pop out, is executed.

In this way, after the effect at the time of reaching 0 is executed in the third short variation, the remaining short variation number notice image 75 is deleted, and the character appearing in the group notice is displayed instead of the remaining short change number notice image 75. (See FIGS. 13C and 13D).

By the way, after the number indicated by the remaining short variation number notice image 75 reaches "0", further short change display is not performed, so that the remaining short change number notice image 75 is displayed after the end of the effect at the time of reaching 0. It is preferable to erase it. However, in the configuration of simply erasing the remaining short change number of times advance notice image 75, the player cannot recognize which effect is the effect suggested to be executed by the effect when 0 is reached. Therefore, in the present embodiment, by displaying the character appearing in the group notice instead of the remaining short change number notice image 75, even after the remaining short change number notice image 75 is erased, it is suggested by the effect when 0 is reached. The player can recognize the produced effect.

Next, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the third short variation, for example, in the same third short variation, the left 7 symbols are pseudo-stopped (see FIG. 13 (D)), and then the right 7 symbols are pseudo-stopped. Then, the reach by 7 symbols is established (see FIG. 13 (E)). Here, the case where the reach by 7 symbols is established will be described as an example, but there are cases where the reach by other production symbols such as 1 symbol and 2 symbols is established.

As illustrated in FIG. 13 (E), when the reach is established during the execution of the third short variation, immediately after that, the character displayed in place of the remaining short variation number notice image 75 is displayed in the center of the display screen 70. The trigger effect of the group notice is executed (see FIGS. 13 (E) to 13 (F)). In this way, when the trigger effect of the group notice is executed, the group notice is executed (see FIG. 13 (G)). This group notice is the same group notice as the group notice described above based on FIG. 10C, except that the execution timing is different.

After the group notice is executed in this way, after the reach is established, a development effect suggesting that the SPSP reach is directly developed without going through another reach effect is executed (see FIG. 13 (H)), and then the development effect is executed. Will start the SPSP reach (see FIG. 13 (I)) and will be notified of the win at the end of the SPSP reach. Since the effects after the development of SPSP reach are the same as the effects illustrated in FIGS. 10 (D) to 10 (H), detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

Up to this point, the case where the remaining short change number notice effect is executed with the icon change effect for the hold icon (or the icon) has been described as an example, but the icon change effect is not executed without the remaining short change number notice effect. In some cases, only the effect is executed, or in some cases, the effect of notifying the number of remaining short changes is executed without the effect of changing the icon. In addition, based on the pre-judgment result for the reserved first special symbol judgment right, the case where the remaining short change number advance notice effect is started before the start of the look-ahead target change has been described as an example, but it is not during the jackpot game. If a game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 21 in a situation where the variable display of the special symbol is not performed, this is accompanied by the start of the variable display of the first special symbol that is started in response to this winning. In some cases, the same effect as described above for the number of remaining short fluctuations is announced.

(Characteristics of the notice production of the number of remaining short fluctuations)
In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the larger the number of short variation displays executed during one variation display of the first special symbol, the easier it is for the jackpot game to be executed, whereas the one special symbol variation As a suggestion image suggesting the number of times of the short variation display executed during the display, the residual short variation number preview image 75 is displayed. By displaying such a residual short change number of times advance notice image 75, it is possible to effectively improve the player's expectation that the jackpot game will be executed. Further, the display of the remaining short variation number notice image 75 may be updated so that the number of executions of the short change display suggested by the remaining short change number notice image 75 changes due to the above-mentioned increase effect or decrease effect. As compared with the case where the number of times of execution of the short variation display suggested by the notice image 75 of the number of remaining short fluctuations is fixed, it is possible to execute a highly interesting effect, and a high effect can be obtained.

Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, there is a case where the remaining short variation number preview image 75 suggesting the number of executions of all the short variation displays executed during one variation display of the first special symbol is displayed. , The remaining short variation number preview image 75 suggesting the number of executions of a part of the short variation display may be displayed. In the latter case, the short variation display is actually executed more times than the number of executions suggested by the residual short variation number preview image 75, which is suggested by the residual short variation number preview image 75. It is possible to make the player who thought that the same number of short-variation display as the number of executions is executed feel unexpected, and improve the effect of the effect performed by displaying the remaining short-variable number preview image 75. It is possible.

Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, as the short variation display is started in the state where the residual short variation number advance notice image 75 is displayed, the execution suggested by the residual short variation number advance notice image 75 being displayed. In addition to the case where the display of the remaining short variation number preview image 75 is updated so that the number of times decreases (see, for example, FIGS. 12 (D) and (E)), the remaining short variation number preview image 75 being displayed suggests The display of the remaining short variation number preview image 75 may be maintained so that the number of executions to be performed does not change (see, for example, FIGS. 12F to 12H). In this latter case, a further short-variable display will be executed after the started short-variable display. In this way, since the short variation display that is not suggested by the residual short variation number preview image 75 may be executed, it is possible to make the player feel unexpected, and the residual short variation number preview image 75 can be displayed. It is possible to improve the effect of the displayed effect.

Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the number of executions suggested by the remaining short-time fluctuation number preview image 75 being displayed is left to be increased from the first number to the second number (more than the first number). The display of the short fluctuation number preview image 75 may be updated (see, for example, FIGS. 12B to 12C). Therefore, based on the remaining short-variable number of times advance notice image 75, the player who thinks that the jackpot game is unlikely to be executed because the number of times of executing the short-variable display is small may be made to feel unexpected. It is possible to effectively improve the player's expectation that the jackpot game will be executed.

Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the last short variation display in the variation display of the first special symbol is started in the state where the remaining short variation number preview image 75 is displayed. A specific effect (effect at the time of reaching 0) based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination is executed by using the remaining short variation number preview image 75 being displayed. As described above, since the remaining short variation number advance notice image 75 has both a function of suggesting the number of executions of the short variation display and a function of executing a specific effect, the effect of displaying the remaining short change number advance notice image 75 is displayed. It is possible to further improve the effect of the effect, and it is possible to effectively improve the player's expectation that the jackpot game is executed by the specific effect.

(Modification example related to the notice production of the number of remaining short fluctuations)
It should be noted that the following configurations may be adopted for various effects related to the remaining short variation number advance notice effect and the remaining short change number advance notice effect.
That is, in the present embodiment, as an effect image for notifying the number of executions of the short variation display of the effect symbol, a case where the remaining short variation number notice image 75 representing a pentagonal display object including a number is displayed will be described as an example. It goes without saying that the display mode (shape, size, etc.) and display position of the effect image are not limited to those illustrated in the present embodiment, and can be changed as appropriate.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case where the remaining short-variable number of times notice image 75 for notifying the execution number of the remaining short-variable display of the effect symbol is displayed separately from the hold icon and the icon has been described as an example. In the embodiment, instead of displaying the remaining short variation number notice image 75, a hold icon or the icon including a number that can change like the number shown by the remaining short change number notice image 75 is displayed, thereby displaying the hold icon or the icon. The icon may be provided with the same function as the residual short change number preview image 75. In this case, the player determines how likely it is that the jackpot game will be executed based on the display color of the hold icon or the icon and the number displayed inside the hold icon or the icon. It is suitable because it can be recognized.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case of displaying the remaining short-variable number preview image 75 indicating the number of executions of the unexecuted short-variable display, which does not include the short-variable display being executed, will be described as an example, but other embodiments will be described. In the embodiment, the remaining short-variable number of times advance notice image 75 indicating the number of times the short-variable display is executed, including the short-variable display during execution, may be displayed.

Further, in the present embodiment, the remaining short variation number advance notice effect described so far is executed when the game is controlled in the normal game state, while the game is controlled in the probabilistic game state or the time saving game state. An example will be described in which the remaining short change number advance notice effect is not executed, but in other embodiments, the game is controlled in the normal game state even when the game is controlled in the probabilistic game state or the time-saving game state. It is also possible to execute the same residual short change number of times advance notice effect as when it is done.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case of executing the pseudo-continuous effect in which the three effect symbols including the middle 7 symbols and showing the disparity are displayed in a pseudo-stop manner has been described as an example, but the pseudo-continuous effect is illustrated in the present embodiment. It is not limited to the one, and may be another one. That is, in other embodiments, there are three types: a pseudo-continuous effect that displays a pseudo-stop display of an effect symbol that shows three different stitches including a special symbol that is different from the middle 7 symbols, and a specific combination that suggests execution of the pseudo-continuous effect. It is also possible to execute a pseudo continuous effect that displays the effect symbol in a pseudo stop. Further, instead of displaying the effect symbols such as the 7 symbols in the pseudo-stop display for notifying that the pseudo continuous effect is executed, for example, the pseudo continuous effect is executed during the period when the effect symbols are hidden. A specific effect image (different from the effect pattern) that makes the person feel as if he / she is present may be displayed to realize an effect similar to the pseudo-continuous effect.

Further, in the present embodiment, as described above based on FIG. 7, a case where a plurality of short-variable display of the effect symbols is executed in a form of sandwiching a pseudo continuous effect of displaying the effect symbols in a pseudo-stop manner will be described as an example. In another embodiment, during the period in which the pseudo-continuous effect is executed in the present embodiment, the pseudo-continuous effect is not executed and the effect symbol is hidden so that the short-variable display of the effect symbol is intermittently performed. You may do it. Further, a plurality of short fluctuation displays such as the first short fluctuation, the second short fluctuation, and the third short fluctuation may be continuously executed without providing such a period.

[Specific example of special fluctuation production]
Next, the special variation effect executed by the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16. Here, FIGS. 14 to 16 are screen views showing a specific example of the special variation effect. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the variation patterns of the first special symbol selected when the first special symbol determination in the normal gaming state is executed are exemplified in FIGS. 9 to 10 and 12 to 13. In addition to the fluctuation pattern for the normal fluctuation in which the normal fluctuation effect is performed, a fluctuation pattern for the special fluctuation effect in which the special fluctuation effect is performed is prepared, and the fluctuation pattern for the special fluctuation effect is selected by the main CPU 81. In this case, the special variation effect illustrated in FIGS. 14 to 16 is executed. In other words, when a variation pattern corresponding to the normal variation effect is selected as the variation pattern of the first special symbol, the normal variation effect is executed and the variation time (not corresponding to the normal variation effect). ) When the variation pattern corresponding to the special variation effect is selected, the special variation effect is executed.

Although not shown in FIGS. 9 to 10 and 12 to 13, when a normal variation effect is performed, for example, identification information indicating any number 1 to 9 and identification information unique to each identification information are used. An effect pattern composed of a decorative image representing a predetermined character is displayed. For example, in the case of 1 symbol, an effect symbol in which a decorative image representing character A is added to the number "1" is displayed, and in the case of 3 symbols, a decorative image representing character C is added to the number "3". The produced design is displayed. On the other hand, in the special variation effect, as will be described in detail later, the variation display of the effect symbol is performed using a cut-in image (an example of a specific effect image) different from the cut-in image described above based on FIG. 10 (F). Therefore, the effect pattern configured by having the identification information without having the above-mentioned decorative image is displayed.

In FIG. 14A, in order to notify that the determination result of the first special symbol determination corresponding to the icon displayed in the icon display area 72 is “missing”, the “653” stitches are shown. An example shows a state in which the three production symbols shown are actually stopped. On the other hand, the main CPU 81 executes the first special symbol determination corresponding to the earliest hold icon displayed in the hold icon display area 71, and further, the above-mentioned special variation as the variation pattern of the first special symbol. When a pattern is selected, the following effects are performed.

That is, when the first special symbol determination corresponding to the earliest hold icon is executed and the above-mentioned variation pattern for special variation effect is selected as the variation pattern of the first special symbol, the small symbol is displayed on the display screen 70. At the same time as the variable display of the above is started, a shift process of shifting the earliest hold icon from the hold icon display area 71 to the icon display area 72 is performed (see FIGS. 14A and 14B).

The small symbol here informs whether or not the first special symbol and the effect symbol are being displayed in a variable manner, and the small symbol changes with the start of the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol. As the display is started and the first special symbol and the effect symbol are stopped and displayed, the small symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner of notifying the determination result of the first special symbol determination. In addition, as for the small symbols, the symbol sequence consisting of a sequence of numbers in which the numbers 1 to 9 are continuously written in the vertical direction from the bottom to the top is displayed so that some of the symbols constituting the symbol sequence are displayed. In that it is displayed in three columns in the horizontal direction, it is common with the effect symbols that are normally displayed when the variable effect is performed. On the other hand, in the small symbol, the point that the decorative image representing the above-mentioned character is not added, and the scroll display is continued from the start to the end of the variable display of the first special symbol, and the reach effect is performed. It is different from the effect symbol that is normally displayed when the variable effect is performed, in that it is not scrolled and the display area is fixed.

Further, when the special variation effect is started, the background image displayed in full screen on the display screen 70 is changed (see FIGS. 14A and 14B). Although not shown in FIG. 14A, the background image for the so-called normal effect mode is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70 before the special variation effect is started. On the other hand, when the special variation effect is executed, the background image for the normal effect mode is changed to the background image for the first stop symbol (see FIG. 14B) with the start of the special variation effect. The display control is executed by the image / sound control CPU 101.

The special variation effect is a first stop symbol that is displayed as a pseudo stop first among the three effect symbols, a second stop symbol that is displayed as a pseudo stop second among the three effect symbols, and three effect symbols. It is configured as a series of display effects in which the third stop symbol, which is displayed as a pseudo stop at the end, is displayed in order as a pseudo stop, and the background image for the first stop symbol is the first after the special variation effect is started. 1 This is a background image that is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70 until the stop symbol is displayed as a pseudo stop. When the series of display effects illustrated in FIGS. 14 (B) to 14 (F) are being executed, the background image for the first stop symbol is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70, but for convenience of explanation, FIG. In 14 (C) to (F), the illustration of the background image for the first stop symbol is omitted.

(1st stop symbol cut-in)
When the special variation effect is started, first, a display effect called a first stop symbol cut-in is performed as a series of variation effects until the first stop symbol is displayed as a pseudo stop. The first stop symbol cut-in includes a display effect of the first step (see FIG. 14 (C)), a display effect of the second step following the display effect of the first step (see FIG. 14 (D)), and a first. It is configured to have a display effect of a third step (see FIGS. 14 (E) and 14 (F)) following the display effect of two steps.

In the display effect of the first step in the first stop symbol cut-in, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 14C, a cut-in image including 2 symbols (2 symbol cut-in image) and a cut including 5 symbols Two cut-in images (five symbol cut-in images) are superimposed and displayed on the background image for the first stop symbol which is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70. Then, an effect display showing how the 2 symbols rotate in the direction indicated by the arrow in the 2 symbol cut-in image, and an effect display showing how the 5 symbols rotate in the direction indicated by the arrow in the 5 symbol cut-in image. And are done at the same time.

When such a display effect of the first step is performed over a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds), the display effect of the second step following the display effect of the first step is started (see FIG. 14 (D)). ). When the display effect of the second step is started, the 2 symbol cut-in image and the 5 symbol cut-in image are instantly erased from the display screen 70 as illustrated in FIGS. 14 (C) and 14 (D). Will be done. Immediately after that, two new cut-in images, a cut-in image including 4 symbols (4 symbol cut-in image) and a cut-in image including 6 symbols (6 symbol cut-in image), are displayed on the display screen 70. It is superimposed and displayed on the background image for the first stop symbol displayed in full screen. With these two cut-in images displayed, there is an effect display showing how the four symbols rotate in the direction indicated by the arrow in the four symbol cut-in image, and six symbols in the six symbol cut-in image. At the same time, an effect display showing the state of rotation in the direction indicated by the arrow is performed.

The 2 symbol cut-in image and 5 symbol cut-in image displayed in the display effect of the 1st step, and the 4 symbol cut-in image and 6 symbol cut-in image displayed in the display effect of the 2nd step are There are the following differences. That is, the 2 symbol cut-in image and the 5 symbol cut-in image are production images showing the appearance of different predetermined places, respectively, whereas the 4 symbol cut-in image and the 6 symbol cut-in image are, respectively. These cut-in images differ in that they are production images that represent different characters. Further, as is clear from the notation of FIGS. 14 (C) and 14 (D), the 4 symbol cut-in image and the 6 symbol cut-in image are cut when compared with the 2 symbol cut-in image and the 5 symbol cut-in image. The shape and size of the in-image are different.

In this way, when the display effect of the second step following the display effect of the first step is performed over a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds), the display effect of the third step following the display effect of the second step starts. (See FIG. 14 (E)). When the display effect of the third step is started, the 4 symbol cut-in image and the 6 symbol cut-in image are instantly erased from the display screen 70 as illustrated in FIGS. 14 (D) and 14 (E). Will be done. Immediately after that, one cut-in image (special symbol cut-in image) including the diamond-shaped special symbol is superimposed and displayed on the background image for the first stop symbol displayed in full screen on the display screen 70. NS. In the state where one such special symbol cut-in image is displayed, an effect display is performed to show how the special symbol rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow in the special symbol cut-in image.

In the display effect of the first step (see FIG. 14 (C)) and the display effect of the second step (see FIG. 14 (D)), the two cut-in images displayed during these display effects While the size and shape do not change, when the display effect of the third step is being performed, the special symbol cut-in image is expanded to the left and right at the same time as the special symbol rotates (Fig. 14 (E)). And (F)), and finally, the special symbol cut-in image is displayed in full screen (see FIG. 14 (G)).

As illustrated in FIG. 14 (G), by displaying the special symbol cut-in image in full screen, the first stop that was displayed in full screen on the display screen 70 until the middle of the display effect in the third step. The background image for the symbol is no longer displayed, and instead the special symbol cut-in image displayed in full screen is used as the background image for the second stop symbol until the end of the display effect of the third step in the second stop symbol cut-in described later. The display screen 70 will be displayed in full screen. Specifically, when the display effects illustrated in FIGS. 14 (G) to 14 (I) are being performed and when the display effects exemplified in FIGS. 14 (A) to 14 (D) are being performed, The background image for the second stop symbol is displayed in full screen.

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 14 (G), at the end of the display effect of the third step in the first stop symbol cut-in, the special symbol cut-in image is displayed in full screen and is represented by the special symbol cut-in image. The diamond-shaped special symbol is temporarily enlarged (see FIG. 14 (G)), and this enlarged display definitively informs that the diamond-shaped special symbol is pseudo-stop-displayed as the first stop symbol. Will be done.

In this way, when the display effect of the third step in the first stop symbol cut-in is completed in the form of displaying the special symbol cut-in image in full screen and enlarging the diamond-shaped special symbol, the diamond-shaped special symbol is displayed. , A movement effect display showing a state of moving to the upper right display area on the display screen 70 while returning to the original size is performed (see FIGS. 14 (G) to 14 (I)), and when this movement effect display is completed. After that, a pseudo-stop display is displayed in the upper right display area so that the diamond-shaped special symbol swings up and down, for example (see FIGS. 14 (I) and 15 (A) to (I)).

(2nd stop symbol cut-in)
As illustrated in FIG. 14 (I), when the diamond-shaped special symbol as the first stop symbol is superimposed and displayed on the background image for the second stop symbol, the second stop symbol is next to be pseudo-stop displayed. As a series of variable effects up to, a display effect called a second stop symbol cut-in is performed. The second stop symbol cut-in includes the display effect of the first step (see FIGS. 15A and 15B) and the display effect of the second step following the display effect of the first step (see FIG. 15C). ) And the display effect of the third step (see FIG. 15 (D)) following the display effect of the second step.

In the display effect of the first step in the second stop symbol cut-in, as illustrated in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the background image for the second stop symbol is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70. For example, a movement showing a cut-in image including one symbol (one symbol cut-in image) appears at the back right of the display screen 70, and the one symbol cut-in image moves to the left while approaching the front. The production display is performed. When the movement effect display of the one symbol cut-in image is performed, the effect display indicating how the one symbol included in the one symbol cut-in image is rotated is not performed. This is because if one symbol is rotated while moving one symbol cut-in image at a relatively high speed, the visibility of one symbol is significantly reduced.

When such a movement effect display of the one-symbol cut-in image is performed and an effect display showing how the one-symbol cut-in image disappears from the display screen 70 to the left is performed, the display effect of the first step is performed. After the end, the display effect of the second step is performed.

In the display effect of the second step in the second stop symbol cut-in, as illustrated in FIG. 15C, the background image for the second stop symbol is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70, for example, 2 An effect display is performed in which a cut-in image including a symbol (two symbol cut-in images) appears at the back right of the display screen 70. Then, a movement effect display is performed to show how the two symbol cut-in images move in the same manner as the one symbol cut-in image in the display effect of the first step.

When such a movement effect display of the two-symbol cut-in image is performed and an effect display showing how the two-symbol cut-in image disappears from the display screen 70 to the left is performed, the display effect of the second step is performed. After the end, the display effect of the third step is performed.

In the display effect of the third step in the second stop symbol cut-in, as illustrated in FIG. 15 (D), the background image for the second stop symbol is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70, for example, a rhombus. An effect display is performed in which a cut-in image (special symbol cut-in image) including a special symbol of the shape appears at the back right of the display screen 70. Then, a moving effect display showing how this special symbol cut-in image moves in the same direction as the one symbol cut-in image in the display effect of the first step and the two symbol cut-in image in the display effect of the second step. Is done.

In the display effect of the third step, the special symbol cut-in image moves at a lower speed than the one symbol cut-in image in the display effect of the first step and the two symbol cut-in image in the display effect of the second step. Further, as the special symbol cut-in image approaches the center of the display screen 70, the moving speed of the special symbol cut-in image gradually decreases. In this way, in the display effect of the third step, since the special symbol cut-in image moves at a low speed, even if the diamond-shaped special symbol included in the special symbol cut-in image is rotated, this special symbol is used. The visibility of the is not significantly reduced. For this reason, in the display effect of the third step, along with the movement effect display of the special symbol cut-in image, an effect display showing how the special symbol rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow in the special symbol cut-in image is also performed. (See FIG. 15 (D)).

In the display effect of the third step, the special symbol cut-in image is gradually enlarged as it approaches the center of the display screen 70, and finally, the special symbol cut-in image is displayed in full screen. (See FIGS. 15 (D) to (E)).

As illustrated in FIG. 15 (E), when the special symbol cut-in image as the second stop symbol is displayed in full screen, it is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70 until the middle of the display effect of the third step. The background image for the second stop symbol is no longer displayed, and instead the special symbol cut-in image displayed in full screen is used for the third stop symbol until the end of the display effect of the third step in the third stop symbol cut-in, which will be described later. It will be displayed in full screen on the display screen 70 as a background image. Specifically, when the display effects exemplified in FIGS. 15 (E) to 15 (I) are performed and when the display effects exemplified in FIGS. 16 (A) to 16 (E) are performed. , The background image for the third stop symbol is displayed in full screen.

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 15 (E), at the end of the display effect of the third step in the second stop symbol cut-in, the special symbol cut-in image is displayed in full screen and is represented by the special symbol cut-in image. The diamond-shaped special symbol is temporarily enlarged (see FIG. 15 (E)), and this enlarged display definitively informs that the diamond-shaped special symbol is pseudo-stop-displayed as the first stop symbol. Will be done.

In this way, when the display effect of the third step in the second stop symbol cut-in is completed in the form of displaying the special symbol cut-in image in full screen and enlarging the diamond-shaped special symbol, the diamond-shaped special symbol is displayed. , A movement effect display showing a state of moving to the lower left display area on the display screen 70 while returning to the original size is performed (see FIGS. 15 (E) to 15 (F)), and when this movement effect display is completed. After that, a pseudo-stop display is displayed in the lower left display area so that the diamond-shaped special symbol swings up and down, for example (FIGS. 15 (G) to (I), FIGS. 16 (A) to (E)). reference).

In FIG. 15 (G), with the background image for the third stop symbol displayed in full screen on the display screen 70, a diamond-shaped special symbol as the first stop symbol is displayed in the upper right display area on the display screen 70. In addition to the pseudo stop display, a state in which a diamond-shaped special symbol as the second stop symbol is displayed in the pseudo stop display in the lower left display area on the display screen 70 is illustrated.

(3rd stop symbol cut-in)
As illustrated in FIG. 15 (G), when the diamond-shaped special symbol as the second stop symbol is superimposed and displayed on the background image for the third stop symbol, the third stop symbol is next to be pseudo-stop displayed. As a series of variable effects up to, a display effect called a third stop symbol cut-in is performed. This third stop symbol cut-in is configured as a series of display effects that do not change stepwise, unlike the first stop symbol cut-in and the second stop symbol cut-in, which are composed of three-step display effects. Has been done.

In the third stop symbol cut-in, as illustrated in FIGS. 15 (H) to 15 (I), for example, from left to right, 2 symbols, a diamond-shaped special symbol, 4 symbols, 5 symbols, 6 symbols, and a rhombus. A horizontally long strip-shaped cut-in image (strip-shaped cut-in image) in which special patterns of the shape are written in order appears in the right end region of the display screen 70, and the strip-shaped cut-in image is gradually enlarged while moving to the left. A magnified scroll display is performed. When the enlarged scroll display of the strip-shaped cut-in image is being performed, the moving speed of the strip-shaped cut-in image gradually decreases with the passage of time. Further, when the enlarged scroll display of the band-shaped cut-in image is performed, the rotation effect display in which each effect symbol represented by the band-shaped cut-in image is rotated in the direction of the arrow is also executed (FIG. 15 (FIG. 15). H)-(I)).

In FIG. 16A, the moving speed of the strip-shaped cut-in image is significantly reduced, and the six symbols and the diamond-shaped special symbols shown in the strip-shaped cut-in image are displayed large in the center of the display screen 70. Is illustrated. From this state, when the enlarged scroll display of the strip-shaped cut-in image further progresses, the strip-shaped cut-in image is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70, and only the diamond-shaped special symbol included in the strip-shaped cut-in image is displayed. (See FIG. 16 (B)).

At the end of the enlarged scroll display of the strip-shaped cut-in image in the third stop symbol cut-in, only the diamond-shaped special symbol is displayed on the display screen 70 as described above, and further, this diamond-shaped special symbol is displayed. It is temporarily enlarged (see FIG. 16C). By this enlarged display, it is definitively notified that the diamond-shaped special symbol is pseudo-stop-displayed as the third stop symbol.

16 (D) to 16 (E) show a diamond-shaped special symbol that is pseudo-stopped and displayed by the first stop symbol cut-in and a pseudo-stop symbol cut-in by the second stop symbol cut-in with the end of the third stop symbol cut-in. An example shows that three special symbols, a diamond-shaped special symbol that is stopped and displayed and a diamond-shaped special symbol that is pseudo-stopped by the third stop symbol cut-in, are all displayed as pseudo-stop.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the effect display in which the three common special symbols are aligned is performed in the special variation effect in this way, the effect is subsequently developed into a high-expectation effect. Specifically, it will directly develop into the SPSP reach with the highest jackpot reliability among the five types of reach effects excluding the full rotation effect, without going through other reach effects.

In this embodiment, a case where the high expectation effect is directly developed into SPSP reach will be described as an example. However, if the high expectation effect is an effect suggesting that the jackpot reliability is relatively high, the SPSP It is not limited to the reach, and a configuration that develops into a group notice may be adopted as a high expectation effect, for example, as a notice effect suggesting that the jackpot reliability is relatively high.

(Characteristics related to special fluctuation production)
In the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, identification information (for example, an effect symbol having a numerical value) for notifying the determination result of the first special symbol determination is accompanied by the variation display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state. ) In addition to the first display control (for example, the display control for realizing a series of normal fluctuation effects exemplified in FIGS. 9 and 10), along with the fluctuation display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state. Then, a specific effect image (for example, various cut-in images described above based on FIGS. 14 to 16) including identification information is used as a predetermined effect image (for example, a background image for a first stop symbol and a background for a second stop symbol). A second display control (for example, a series of special variations exemplified in FIGS. 14 to 16) that displays the identification information in a variable manner by superimposing the image and the background image for the third stop symbol on the specific effect symbol. Display control to realize the effect) is executed.

In this way, in addition to the normal variation effect of displaying the identification information in a variable manner, the identification information may be displayed in a variable manner due to the variation of the cut-in image superimposed on the background image for the stop symbol. Therefore, the variation effect pattern of the identification information becomes abundant, and the synergistic effect of the background image for the stop symbol and the cut-in image makes it possible to improve the interest of the effect of variable display of the identification information.

Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the second display control for changing the identification information in the specific effect image may be executed while the specific effect image is changing. For example, while the special symbol cut-in image illustrated in FIG. 15D is fluctuating, display control for rotating the special symbol inside the special symbol cut-in image may be executed. For this reason, the movement of the identification information with respect to the background image for the stop symbol is rich in variation as compared with the case where the special symbol cut-in image is changed with the special symbol fixed to the special symbol cut-in image. It is possible to further improve the interest of the effect of displaying the identification information in a variable manner.

[About stage production]
Next, with reference to FIG. 17, the stage effect executed in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. Here, FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the stepwise effect. In this embodiment, this stage production is a preliminary production that can be developed step by step from the fourth stage to any of the fourth and lower stages, and is a big hit as it develops to a higher stage. It is configured to be highly reliable.

When the stage effect is executed, first, the first stage effect of displaying a predetermined first stage effect image (see FIG. 17A) in the central area of the display screen 70 is performed, and the first stage effect is performed. When the effect of is being performed, if the stage effect develops from the first stage to the second stage, the stage effect image may be displayed in the central area of the display screen 70 instead of the first stage effect image. As a result, two types of second-stage production images (see FIGS. 17B and 17C) are displayed together.

Although not shown in FIG. 17, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the first stage production is performed, two types of second stage production images representing the Roman numeral “II” are displayed on the display screen 70. The first-stage effect image representing the Roman numeral "I" is displayed large in the central area of the display screen 70 in a state of being displayed small in the peripheral area of the above. Therefore, the player who sees these first-stage production images and the two types of second-stage production images can perform the first stage based on the magnitude relationship of the stage production images and the Roman numerals represented by the stage production images. It is possible to easily recognize that the production is being executed.

Here, when the stage effect is completed in the first stage, the first stage effect image is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70, and the two types of second stage effect images are hidden. On the other hand, when the stage effect develops into the second stage, one of the two types of second stage effect images is displayed in a large size in the central region of the display screen 70. These two types of second-stage production images are common in that they represent the Roman numeral "II", but one of the second-stage production images (see FIG. 17 (C)) is gold on the periphery. While the decoration is applied so as to wear the aura of the above, the other second stage production image (see FIG. 17B) is not provided with such decoration.

In this way, since the gold decoration is applied only to the second stage production image of one of the two types of second stage production images, the player can perform the stage production from the first stage to the second stage. When the second stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (B) is displayed in the central area of the display screen 70, the second stage effect image exemplified in FIG. 17 (C) is displayed. It is possible to easily recognize that the jackpot reliability is higher on the other side, which is displayed in the central area of the display screen 70.

Here, when the stage effect ends in the second stage, the second stage effect image displayed in the central area of the display screen 70 is enlarged, and the second stage effect image is displayed in full screen on the display screen 70. Will be.

On the other hand, when the stage production develops from the second stage to the third stage, the following production is performed. That is, in the second stage effect, when the second stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17B is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70, two types of second types representing the Roman numeral "III" are displayed. A three-stage effect image (see FIGS. 17 (D) and 17 (E)) is displayed small in the peripheral region of the display screen 70. Of these two types of third-stage production images, only the third-stage production image exemplified in FIG. 17 (E) has a gold aura common to the above-mentioned second-stage production image based on FIG. 17 (C). When the decoration is applied and the effect is developed into the third stage effect, one of the two types of the third stage effect images is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70. At that time, the third-stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (E) is displayed on the display screen 70 rather than the third-stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (D) being displayed larger in the central region of the display screen 70. The larger the display in the central area of, the higher the jackpot reliability.

Further, in the second stage production, when the second stage production image illustrated in FIG. 17C is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70, two types of second types representing the Roman numeral "III" are displayed. A three-stage effect image (see FIGS. 17H and 17I) is displayed small in the peripheral region of the display screen 70. Of these two types of third-stage production images, only the third-stage production image exemplified in FIG. 17 (I) has a gold aura common to the above-mentioned second-stage production image based on FIG. 17 (C). When the decoration is applied and the effect is developed into the third stage effect, one of these two types of the third stage effect images is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70. At that time, the third-stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (I) is displayed on the display screen 70 rather than the third-stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (H) being displayed larger in the central region of the display screen 70. The larger the display in the central area of, the higher the jackpot reliability.

Although the stage effect has evolved to the third stage and one of the four types of third stage effect images illustrated in FIG. 17 is displayed large in the central area of the display screen 70, the stage effect is in the fourth stage. If it does not develop, the third-stage effect image displayed large in the central area of the display screen 70 is enlarged and displayed in full screen on the display screen 70.

On the other hand, when the stage production is further developed from the third stage, the following production is performed. That is, in the third stage effect, when the third stage effect image exemplified in FIG. 17 (D) is displayed in a large size in the central region of the display screen 70, it is subsequently exemplified in FIG. 17 (F). When the effect image is displayed in the central area of the display screen 70 and then displayed in full screen, and when the fourth stage effect image representing the Roman numeral "IV" illustrated in FIG. 17 (G) is displayed on the display screen 70. It may be displayed in full screen after being displayed large in the center area. Here, the effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (F) represents 7 symbols in common with the 7 symbols displayed in the middle row when the pseudo continuous effect is executed (see, for example, FIG. 9 (D)). When the effect image representing the seven symbols is displayed in full screen and the stage effect is completed, the pseudo continuous effect is executed following the stage effect.

It should be noted that the effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (F) is displayed large in the central area of the display screen 70, and the fourth stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (G) is displayed in the center area of the display screen 70. When it is displayed in a large size, the jackpot reliability is higher in both cases than when the stage effect ends in the third stage. Therefore, both the effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (F) and the fourth stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (G) are decorated with a gold aura.

Further, in the third stage effect, when the third stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (E) is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70, the third stage effect image is displayed in full screen. As a result, when the stage effect ends in the third stage, and instead of the third stage effect image, the effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (F) is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70, and then the full screen is displayed. After that, there are times when a pseudo-continuous production is executed.

Further, in the third stage effect, when the third stage effect image exemplified in FIG. 17 (H) is displayed in a large size in the central region of the display screen 70, it is subsequently exemplified in FIG. 17 (J). When the effect image is displayed in the central area of the display screen 70 and then displayed in full screen, and when the fourth stage effect image representing the Roman numeral "IV" illustrated in FIG. 17 (K) is displayed on the display screen 70. It may be displayed in full screen after being displayed large in the center area. Here, the effect image exemplified in FIG. 17 (J) is an effect image common to the effect image exemplified in FIG. 17 (F), and when this effect image is displayed in full screen and the step stage effect is completed. Will execute a pseudo-continuous production following the stage production.

It should be noted that the effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (J) is displayed large in the central area of the display screen 70, and the fourth stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (K) is displayed in the center area of the display screen 70. When it is displayed in a large size, the jackpot reliability is higher in both cases than when the stage effect ends in the third stage. Therefore, both the effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (J) and the fourth-stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (K) are decorated with a gold aura.

Further, in the third stage effect, when the third stage effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (I) is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70, the third stage effect image is displayed in full screen. As a result, when the stage effect ends in the third stage, and instead of the third stage effect image, the effect image illustrated in FIG. 17 (J) is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70, and then the full screen is displayed. After that, there are times when a pseudo-continuous production is executed.

As described above, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, after any one of the four types of the third stage effect images is displayed in a large size in the central area of the display screen 70, seven symbols suggesting the execution of the pseudo continuous effect are displayed. A production image including the effect image may be displayed. Therefore, it is possible to make the player feel unexpected, and it is possible to obtain a high effect by the synergistic effect of the stepwise effect and the pseudo-continuous effect.

In addition, in order to realize the effect display of FIGS. 17 (F) and 17 (J), the effect symbols may be hidden and the 7 symbols themselves may be displayed, or the 7 symbols themselves may be displayed. Instead, the above-mentioned effect display may be realized by displaying an effect image imitating 7 symbols.

Further, the effect images exemplified in FIGS. 17 (F) and 17 (J) are not limited to the effect images representing the effect symbols suggesting the execution of the pseudo-continuous effect, and are, for example, "246" and "135". It may be an effect image representing three effect symbols suggesting the execution of the chance eye effect, and in this case, the chance eye effect may be executed after such an effect image is displayed in full screen.

[Sequential effect production]
Next, with reference to FIG. 18, a sequential effect effect (an example of a change effect display) executed by the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. Here, FIG. 18 is a screen view showing a specific example of the order effect effect. In FIG. 18A, a game ball wins a prize at the first starting port 21 when the symbol corresponding to the icon displayed in the icon display area 72 is changed, and in response to this winning. A state in which a special icon (for example, a green hold icon) is newly displayed as the fourth hold icon is illustrated. The icon change effect of displaying the special icon as the hold icon is executed based on the pre-judgment information related to the right of the first special symbol judgment corresponding to the fourth hold icon, but based on this pre-judgment information. , The sequential effect effect described below may be executed by utilizing the variation effect of the reachless loss that is performed before the change of the look-ahead target is started. Specifically, it is as follows.

That is, as the variable display of the first special symbol corresponding to the icon illustrated in FIG. The loss notification effect to be stopped may be executed. Along with the stop display of the lost symbol as the first special symbol, when a predetermined fixed time elapses after the start of such a lost notification effect, the earliest hold icon displayed in the hold icon display area 71 (FIG. The first special symbol determination corresponding to 18 (B)) is executed. Here, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is "missing" and the variation pattern for the non-reach effect in which the reach effect is not executed is selected as the variation pattern of the first special symbol, it is as follows. Three effect symbols indicating the order may be displayed as a pseudo stop.

Specifically, as the first special symbol determination corresponding to the earliest hold icon (see FIG. 18B) is executed, the variable display of the first special symbol is started. On the display screen 70, the scroll display of the three symbol strings is started (see FIG. 18C). In this way, when a predetermined time elapses after the scroll display of the three symbol rows is started, for example, three effects indicating the order of "123" in the order of the right 3 symbols, the middle 2 symbols, and the left 1 symbol. The symbol is pseudo-stopped (see FIGS. 18D to 18F).

In this way, when the three effect symbols indicating the order (an example of the second combination) such as "123" are pseudo-stopped, the effect image (first effect image) of a predetermined color is generated for these three effect symbols. Will be added. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 18 (F), for each of the left 1 symbol, the middle 2 symbol, and the right 3 symbol, the player feels that these effect symbols wear a red aura. , The red first effect image is added.

Then, when a red first effect image is added to each of the three effect symbols, immediately after that, a second effect image, which is an effect image representing a red ray, is displayed in the upper left display area on the display screen 70. Will be done. Then, the red light ray represented by this second production image extends, and the tip of this light ray moves in order on the left 1 symbol, the middle 2 symbol, and the right 3 symbol in a form of bending in the middle. A sequential effect effect (an example of a moving effect display) showing the state is performed (see FIGS. 18 (G) to 18 (I)). More specifically, while the base end of the second effect image is located in the upper left display area on the display screen 70, the tip of the second effect image is centered on the left 1 symbol and the center of the middle 2 symbols. It moves linearly diagonally downward to the right so as to pass through (see FIGS. 18 (G) and 18 (H)). Since the right three symbols are located above the middle two symbols, the tip of the second effect symbol changes its moving direction when it passes through the center of the middle two symbols, and the center of the right three symbols is moved. It moves linearly diagonally upward to the right so as to pass (see FIGS. 18H and 18I). As a result, the tip end portion of the second effect image moves as if tracing the character "he" of the hiragana inverted upside down, and the second effect image is stretched.

(Characteristics related to order effect production)
As is clear from the explanation based on FIG. 18, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the first combination (for example, "777" indicating that it is determined to execute the jackpot game during the variable display of the first special symbol is performed. In the second combination (here, in order), which is different from "doublet" and the numbers of each effect symbol are a specific combination, a plurality of effect symbols may be displayed in a pseudo-stop manner, and this second combination When a plurality of effect symbols are pseudo-stopped, an effect image representing a red ray (the above-mentioned second effect image) is displayed as a predetermined effect image, and the tip of the second effect image is viewed from the front. A sequential effect effect indicating a state of moving on a plurality of effect symbols in a predetermined order may be executed (see FIGS. 18 (G) to 18 (I)).

By the way, when a plurality of effect symbols are displayed as pseudo-stops in the first combination for notifying that the jackpot game is executed, it is considered that the player is likely to pay attention to these effect symbols. On the other hand, when a plurality of effect symbols are displayed in a pseudo-stop manner in another combination different from the first combination, it is considered unlikely that the player pays attention to these effect symbols.

On the other hand, according to the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a plurality of effect symbols are pseudo-stop displayed in the second combination (here, in order), the tip of the second effect image is in front. A sequential effect effect is executed, which shows how the images are visually moved on a plurality of effect symbols in a predetermined order. Therefore, even when a plurality of effect symbols are displayed in a pseudo-stop manner in the second combination, which is unlikely to be watched by the player, the player's line of sight can be easily guided to the plurality of effect symbols.

Further, while each of the plurality of effect symbols has a number that can be distinguished from the other effect symbols, the tip of the second effect symbol representing the red ray has a small number. A sequential effect effect is executed, which shows how the effect symbols move in order (in ascending order) over a plurality of effect symbols in descending order of the number from. That is, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the sequential effect effect is executed, the tip of the second effect image is moved on the three effect symbols indicating the order from the smallest number to the largest number. By moving the tip end portion of the second effect image according to the predetermined rule, as a result, an effect display in which the second effect image is stretched is realized. In this way, since the tip of the second effect image moves in order from the effect symbol with the smallest number, the player can easily create a plurality of effect symbols by following the tip of the second effect image with his / her eyes. When the second combination is in order as illustrated in FIG. 18, there is an advantage that the order can be easily recognized.

Here, based on FIG. 18, a red first effect image is added to the three effect symbols indicating the order, and a second effect image using the second effect image also representing a red ray is used. Although the case of performing this has been described as an example, the following sequential effect effects may be performed. That is, when a blue first effect image is added to the three effect symbols indicating the order and a second effect image using the second effect image also representing a blue ray is performed, or when the order is indicated. In some cases, a green first effect image is added to the three effect symbols, and a sequential effect effect using a second effect image that also represents a green ray is performed. When comparing these three types of order effect effects, the order effect effects are performed in the same manner except that the display colors of the two effect images are different from each other, but the jackpot reliability is different from each other, and the jackpot reliability is different. When arranged in order from the lowest degree to the highest degree, the order effect effect using the second effect image representing the blue ray, the order effect effect using the second effect image representing the green ray, and the second effect effect representing the red ray. The order of using the effect image is the order of the effect effect.

Further, as an example of the second combination, FIG. 18 illustrates a case where the order effect effect is performed when the three effect symbols indicating the order of "123" are displayed in a pseudo stop manner. For example, when three effect symbols of a combination indicating another order such as "234" and "567" are displayed in a pseudo-stop display, the same order effect effect is performed. Further, for example, even when three effect symbols indicating the reverse order such as "321" are displayed in a pseudo-stop manner, it is possible to execute the same change effect display as the order effect effect. In this case, a predetermined effect is displayed. The third effect image is displayed in the upper right display area on the display screen 70, and the tip of the third effect image moves so as to follow a path opposite to the path followed by the tip of the second effect image.

Further, only when the pre-judgment information related to the pre-reading target variation is the information indicating that the reserved first special symbol determination is a "big hit", for example, the rainbow-colored ones for the three production symbols. In some cases, a moving effect display is performed by adding a first effect image and using a second effect image that also represents a rainbow-colored ray.

(Modification example of order effect production)
In addition, the following configuration may be adopted in relation to the sequential effect effect described with reference to FIG. That is, in the present embodiment, the case where the sequential effect effect is executed during the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state will be described as an example, but in other embodiments, the probabilistic gaming state (or the time saving gaming state) will be described. The sequential effect effect may be executed during the variable display of the second special symbol in. Further, the sequential effect effect is effective when the fluctuation time of the special symbol and the effect symbol is short and the player cannot always secure a sufficient time to recognize the sequence. Therefore, for example, ( (It is easy to select a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the special symbol is shorter than that in the normal gaming state.) A configuration may be adopted in which the forward effect effect is not executed during the variable display of the first special symbol in.

Further, in the present embodiment, the sequential effect effect is performed by utilizing the variation effect performed before the pre-reading target variation based on the pre-judgment information corresponding to the right of the first special symbol determination which is the pre-reading target. Although the case will be described as an example, for example, the same order effect effect may be executed based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination performed at the start of the variation display of the first special symbol. In this way, when the sequential effect effect is executed based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination instead of the preliminary determination result, for example, the first is performed in response to the execution of the first special symbol determination. During the variation display of the special symbol, the short variation display of the effect symbol and the pseudo stop display of the three effect symbols indicating the order are alternately repeated, and when each pseudo stop display is performed, the order effect is performed. An example is a configuration in which a production is executed. In this way, when the sequential effect effect is executed a plurality of times within the same fluctuation, for example, each time the sequential effect effect is executed, the first effect image and the first effect used for the sequential effect effect are executed. 2. The display color of the effect image may be changed in the order of blue, green, and red.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case where the tip end portion of the second effect image moves in order on the three effect symbols displayed in the pseudo-stop display will be described as an example, but three It suffices if it can be effectively suggested that the effect symbols have stopped in a pseudo-stop manner. It is also possible to perform a sequential effect effect that moves to.

Further, in the present embodiment, as an example of the second combination, the case where the order effect effect is performed when the three effect symbols indicating the order are displayed in a pseudo-stop manner has been described as an example, but the second combination is in order. Not limited to the eyes, for example, a combination of three production symbols consisting of only odd numbers such as "135", a combination of three production symbols consisting of only even numbers such as "246", and "224" and "466". It may be a combination of three effect symbols having two common effect symbols. However, it is preferable that the combination that simply notifies the loss, such as "213", is excluded from the second combination.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case where the display colors of the first effect image added to the effect symbol and the second effect image representing the light beam are changed according to the jackpot reliability will be described as an example, but other embodiments will be described. In the form, for example, when three effect symbols are displayed in a pseudo-stop manner in the second combination having a relatively low jackpot reliability, the order effect effect is not executed, and the jackpot reliability is relatively high. A configuration may be adopted in which a sequential effect effect is executed when three effect symbols are displayed in a pseudo-stop manner in combination with.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the second effect image representing the light beam is used in order to realize the order effect effect will be described as an example, but the second effect image used for the order effect effect will be described. Any effect image that can realize the movement effect display may be used. For example, a second effect image representing a snake is displayed, and the head of the snake is sequentially placed on the three effect symbols. It is also possible to perform a sequential effect effect that moves.

Further, in the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 18 (G) to 18 (I), the second effect symbol is displayed so that the base end portion of the second effect image overlaps the left one symbol. The order effect effect showing how the tip of the second effect image moves in the order of the middle 2 symbols and the right 3 symbols, and as a result, the second effect image is extended so as to extend will be described. On the other hand, in another embodiment, the entire second effect image moves in the order of the left 1 symbol, the middle 2 symbol, and the right 3 symbol. For example, the tip of the second effect image is the right 3 symbol. When the second effect symbol is reached, the second effect image may be moved in such a manner that the second effect symbol does not overlap with the left one symbol.

Further, in the present embodiment, the order effect is shown in which the tip of the second effect image moves from the effect symbol with the smaller number to the effect symbol with the larger number so that the player can easily recognize the order. Although the effect is performed, the movement order of the edges of the second effect image (an example of a predetermined rule for changing the second effect image) is not necessarily limited to this, and in other embodiments, for example, It is also possible to perform a sequential effect effect indicating how the end portions of the second effect symbols move in the order in which the three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 18 (D) to 18 (F), when three effect symbols are displayed in the order of three symbols on the right, two symbols in the middle, and one symbol on the left, the three symbols on the right, The end portion of the second effect image may be moved in the order of the middle 2 symbol and the left 1 symbol.

Further, in the present embodiment, in the case where the three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped in order, the case where the sequential effect effect is started immediately after the third effect symbol is pseudo-stopped will be described as an example. The start timing of the eye effect effect is not limited to this. For example, the order effect effect is performed during the period from the pseudo stop of the second effect symbol to the pseudo stop of the third effect symbol. The sequential effect effect may be started before all three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped, such as starting. In order to realize these sequential effect effects, the display of the second effect image may be started before all three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case where one second effect image is used in order to realize a sequential effect effect as an example of the change effect display will be described as an example, but for example, three effect images will be used. The change effect display may be performed. For example, to explain the case where the three effect symbols indicating the order of "123" shown in FIG. 18 (F) are pseudo-stopped, the left 1 symbol is immediately below the display position where the pseudo-stop is performed. The left pedestal image that will be the pedestal of the symbol is displayed, the middle pedestal image that will be the pedestal of the middle 2 symbol is displayed just below the display position where the middle 2 symbols will be pseudo-stopped, and the right 3 symbols are pseudo. The image of the right pedestal, which is the pedestal of the three symbols on the right, is displayed immediately below the display position where the stop is to occur. Then, when the left 1 symbol moving from above is pseudo-stopped, the first effect display showing how the left pedestal image changes due to the impact of the left 1 symbol abutting is performed, and the middle 2 moving from above is performed. When the symbols are pseudo-stopped, a second effect display is performed to show how the middle pedestal image changes due to the impact of the middle 2 symbols touching, and when the right 3 symbols moving from above are pseudo-stopped, the right A third effect display is performed to show how the right pedestal image changes due to the impact of the three symbols coming into contact with each other. As is clear from these explanations, the change effect display is not limited to the one in which the effect image (in the present embodiment, the second effect image) changes so as to extend, and the effect image changes in other modes. Is also feasible.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case where a change effect display (in this embodiment, a sequential effect effect) is performed when three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped will be described as an example. For example, three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped. Then, in the process of the main stop, the change effect display may be performed when the three effect symbols are finally stopped. In addition, the change effect display is performed over both the first period in which the three effect symbols are pseudo-stopped and the second period in which the three effect symbols following the first period are actually stopped. You may do so. That is, the change effect display may be an effect display that starts during the first period and ends during the second period.

[1st button production]
Next, the first button effect executed by the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. Here, FIG. 19 is a screen view showing a specific example of the first button effect, and FIG. 20 is a time chart for explaining the first button effect. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the first button effect that causes the player to operate the first effect button 35 may be executed during the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state.

When this first button effect is executed, a plurality of effective operations of the first effect button 35 are performed during the execution period (see FIG. 20) in which the operation promotion effect for prompting the player to operate the first effect button 35 is executed. Is generated intermittently, and it is notified that the player develops into the 1st SP reach or the 2nd SP reach depending on the success of the player operating the 1st effect button 35 during either of the valid periods. (For example, an effect of stopping and displaying a specific pattern) is performed.

When this first button effect is executed, characters such as "Aim at ◆ to the left" are displayed on the display screen 70 before the operation promotion effect for prompting the player to operate the first effect button 35 is started. The explanatory effect is started (see FIG. 19 (A)). This explanatory effect is continuously performed during the execution period of the operation promotion effect described later (see FIGS. 19 (A) to 19 (I) and FIG. 20).

By the way, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the first button effect is executed, as the operation promotion effect, as illustrated in FIGS. 19C to 19I and FIG. 20, the first effect button 35 A button image display effect (“stationary button” and “operation button” in FIG. 20) that displays a button image imitating the above, an operation content suggestion effect that suggests the player's operation content such as “press!”, And an operation promotion effect. A gauge image showing the remaining time until the end of is displayed, and a gauge reduction effect is performed to change the display of the gauge image in order to express how the remaining time is decreasing.

On the other hand, if the button image or gauge image is displayed for the first time after the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts, the player will be the first if the player is late in noticing that the operation promotion effect is started. 1 It is conceivable that the operation timing of the effect button 35 is missed. In order to solve such a problem, for example, it is conceivable to start the display of the button image and the gauge image before the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts. 1 There is a concern that other problems may occur, such as the player misunderstanding that the valid period of the effect button 35 has started.

Therefore, in order to suppress the occurrence of these problems, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the button image appearance effect and the gauge increase effect illustrated in FIG. 20 are executed before the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts. It is supposed to be. Here, the button image appearance effect is, for example, a display effect showing how the button image is materialized by displaying a semi-transparent button image and then gradually increasing the brightness of the button image. be. Further, the gauge increase effect is a display effect that changes the display of the gauge image so as to express how the remaining time increases from the state where the remaining time until the operation promotion effect ends is "0". .. In FIGS. 19 (A) to 19 (B), with respect to the gauge image displayed immediately below the button image, the black-painted area indicating the remaining time until the operation promotion effect is completed does not decrease, but is reversed. It is illustrated that a gauge increase effect is being performed to show how the image is increasing.

In this way, by starting the explanation effect and executing the button image appearance effect and the gauge increase effect before the operation promotion effect is executed, the player becomes the operation promotion effect execution period. It is possible to prepare to operate the first effect button 35 from the front, and as a result, the player can perform any of a plurality of valid periods (first valid period to fifth valid period exemplified in FIG. 20). It is possible to improve the possibility of succeeding in the operation of the first effect button 35.

In addition, the first button effect in this embodiment expresses the rotation of the left reel on which a specific pattern (here, a diamond-shaped pattern) is written on the peripheral surface, which is provided in a rotating machine. The left reel fluctuation effect (see FIGS. 19C to 19I) is performed, and the player operates the first effect button 35 in a timely manner in order to stop a specific pattern on the effective line. There is. For this reason, it is preferable to make the player recognize that the button effect in which the player operates the first effect button 35 is started in a form similar to the so-called push-push in the rotating body type gaming machine. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a three-reel variation effect is performed in parallel with the above-mentioned explanatory effect, the button image appearance effect, and the gauge increase effect (FIGS. 19A to 19B). , See FIG. 20). This three-reel variation effect is an effect that expresses how the left reel, the middle reel, and the right reel of the spinning machine are rotating. When the 3-reel variation effect is started, three display areas arranged horizontally below the display screen 70 are formed. Then, the left reel fluctuation effect expressing the state in which the left reel is rotating is executed in the left display area, and the middle reel variation effect expressing the state in which the middle reel is rotating is executed in the center display area. A right reel fluctuation effect that expresses how the right reel is rotating is executed in the display area on the right side.

By performing such a three-reel variable effect prior to the execution period of the operation promotion effect, the player enjoys the operation of the first effect button 35 as if he / she operates a button on the rotating body type gaming machine. It is possible.

However, in the first button effect in the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 19A, the player operates the first effect button 35 at the right time, so that the left reel has a specific pattern (diamond-shaped pattern). ) Is displayed and the operation-compatible effect (the effect performed in response to the operation) is intended to be executed, so it imitates the rotation of the middle reel and the right reel. There is little need to display the effect, and for example, when a player who is unfamiliar with the operation of the spinning machine plays a game on the game machine 1, it imitates the rotation of the middle reel and the right reel. It is also conceivable that the effect display may interfere with the operation of the first effect button 35.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, before the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts, the 3-reel variable effect is executed (see FIGS. 19A to 19B, 20), and during the execution period of the operation promotion effect. (See FIGS. 19 (C) to 19 (I) and FIG. 20), the left reel variation effect that imitates the state in which only the left reel is rotating is executed.

Up to this point, various effects performed before the execution period of the operation promotion effect related to the first button effect has been described, but in the following, the effects performed during the execution period of the operation promotion effect and the execution of the operation promotion effect have been described. A plurality of valid periods that occur during the period will be described.

(Validity period and invalidity period)
By the way, in a conventional gaming machine, for example, when an operation means such as an effect button is operated only once during an effective period, the execution period of the operation promotion effect and the effective period in which the operation on the operation means is effective are one. It is common to do it.

On the other hand, the first button effect executed by the game machine 1 of the present embodiment is among a large number of patterns written on the peripheral surface of the left reel under the condition that the left reel variation effect is performed. The player presses the first effect button 35 at the right time based on the left reel fluctuation effect in order to generate an operation-responsive effect indicating that the left reel is stopped with the specific pattern (diamond pattern) facing the front. It is a production to operate. For this reason, if the execution period of the operation promotion effect and the valid period in which the operation of the first effect button 35 is effective are completely matched, the second effect occurs when the specific pattern is not facing the front in the left reel variation effect. Since there is a high possibility that the 1 effect button 35 will be operated, the probability of occurrence of the above-mentioned operation-compatible effect will be low, and the first button effect should improve the interest, but on the contrary, the interest will be reduced. There is a possibility that it will end up.

Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the specific pattern is periodically turned to the front by the left reel fluctuation effect (specifically, the specific pattern is displayed in the lower left display area). Five validity periods of the first validity period to the fifth validity period exemplified in FIG. 20 so that each validity period includes the timing when the specific pattern faces the front (that is, the timing when the specific pattern is displayed). Is to be generated. In addition, even if the player operates the first effect button 35 between immediately before the first valid period and between the two valid periods that are close to each other in time, the effect corresponding to the operation is not performed. , The first invalid period to the fifth invalid period are set to be provided.

During each of the 1st to 5th valid periods, a specific pattern (with a diamond mark) appears in the lower left display area of the display screen 70 on which the left reel fluctuation effect is performed. Is displayed. FIG. 19 (E) exemplifies the display state immediately after the start of the first valid period, and exemplifies the state in which the lower end portion of a specific pattern moving downward due to the left reel fluctuation effect is displayed. .. Further, FIG. 19 (G) exemplifies the display state immediately after the start of the second valid period, and as in FIG. 19 (E), the lower end of a specific pattern moving downward due to the left reel fluctuation effect. The state in which the part is displayed is illustrated.

On the other hand, during each invalid period from the first invalid period to the fifth invalid period, a specific pattern is not displayed in the lower left display area. In the left reel fluctuation effect, a plurality of patterns moving downward at high speed are sequentially displayed in the lower left display area on the display screen 70, but in FIGS. 19 (D), (F), and (H), , The state in which a pattern different from a specific pattern (of the diamond mark) moves at high speed in each of the first invalid period, the second invalid period, and the third invalid period is schematically represented by a downward arrow. ing.

The left reel fluctuation effect is one of the valid periods in the process of rotating the left reel with the width direction of the game machine 1 as the axial direction (a large number of patterns including a specific pattern are arranged in the circumferential direction on the peripheral surface). When is, the left reel is in the first rotation posture (a specific pattern appears to face the front), and when one of the invalid periods is in effect, the left reel is (a specific pattern is other than the front). It can be said that it is a display effect that reproduces the reel effect that looks like it is in the second rotation posture. Therefore, the player operates the first effect button 35 at the right time when a specific pattern is displayed in the lower left display area on the display screen 70 on which the left reel variation effect is performed. The operation can be an operation within the valid period.

In the present embodiment, the first valid period to the fifth valid period are set to 300 ms, and the first invalid period to the fifth invalid period are set to 700 ms (see FIG. 20). Further, if the first valid period is configured to occur before the first invalid period, it is assumed that it will be more difficult for the player to operate the first effect button 35 in a timely manner. In the embodiment, the first valid period is generated after the first invalid period. That is, immediately after the start of the execution period of the operation promotion effect, the invalid period is generated without generating the valid period.

As described above, the invalid period is a period in which even if the player operates the first effect button 35, the effect corresponding to the operation does not occur. Therefore, the last valid period (the present embodiment) is assumed. Then, if an invalid period following the fifth valid period) is generated and the operation promotion effect is terminated at the end of the invalid period, the operation promotion effect longer than necessary will be performed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the invalid period following the fifth valid period, which is the final valid period, is not provided, and the operation promotion effect is terminated at the end of the fifth valid period.

(Production performed during the execution period of the operation promotion effect)
Next, the effect performed during the execution period of the operation promotion effect will be described. During the first invalid period, as illustrated in FIGS. 19 (C) to 19 (D) and FIG. 20, the explanatory effect started before the start of the operation promotion effect execution period (“Aim at ◆ to the left””. The display effect of displaying the characters of (See FIGS. 19C and 19D). Further, since the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts at the same time as the first invalid period starts, the operation content suggestion effect indicating the characters "press!" Is started with the start of the first invalid period, and the above-mentioned operation promotion effect is started. The left reel fluctuation effect is started (see FIGS. 19C and 19D).

In the first invalid period, even if the player operates the first effect button 35 during this period, the operation is not accepted, and even if the operation is performed, the diamond-shaped pattern cannot be stopped. The period. Therefore, during the first invalid period, a static button display effect (denoted as "stationary button" in FIG. 20) for displaying an effect image showing a stationary state of the first effect button 35 is executed. This static button display effect is similarly executed in the second invalid period to the fifth invalid period (see FIGS. 19 (F) and 19 (H) and FIG. 20).

Following such a first invalid period, the following effects are performed during the first valid period. That is, during the first valid period, as is clear from the comparison of FIGS. 19 (D) and 19 (E) and the notation of FIG. 20, the explanation effect, the operation content suggestion effect, and the gauge are the same as during the first invalid period. A reduction effect and a left reel fluctuation effect are performed. Since the first valid period is set to include a period in which at least a part of the diamond-shaped pattern is displayed in the lower left display area, at least a part of the diamond-shaped pattern is displayed during the first valid period. It is displayed in the lower left display area (see FIG. 19 (E)).

In the process of executing the left reel fluctuation effect, the rhombus pattern is displayed in the lower left display area for a moment during the first valid period, so it is adjusted to the timing when the rhombus pattern is displayed. It is not always easy to operate the first effect button 35. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the first effect button 35 is pushed down in response to a single press of the first effect button 35 in accordance with the timing at which the valid period (here, the first valid period) is started. After that, the operation button display effect is used as a display effect that expresses how the first effect button lamp 352 built in the first effect button 35 emits light in response to the operation of the first effect button 35 while returning to the original position. (Indicated as "operation button" in FIG. 20) is executed. FIG. 19 (E) illustrates a state in which the first effect button 35 is pressed down and the first effect button lamp 352 emits light by the operation button display effect. Such an operation button display effect is similarly performed during the second valid period to the fifth valid period (see FIGS. 19 (G) and 19 (I) and FIG. 20).

Further, in the four invalid periods from the second invalid period to the fifth invalid period, substantially the same effect as during the first invalid period is performed except that the remaining time indicated by the gauge image is different. Further, in the four valid periods from the second valid period to the fifth valid period, the same effect as during the first valid period is performed except that the remaining time indicated by the gauge image is different. For this reason, the description of the effects performed during the four invalid periods from the second invalid period to the fifth invalid period and the effects performed during the four valid periods from the second valid period to the fifth valid period will be omitted. do.

(When the operation is performed during the execution period of the operation promotion effect)
Next, a case where the operation is performed during the execution period of the operation promotion effect will be described. First, when the first effect button 35 is operated during the five invalid periods from the first invalid period to the fifth invalid period, the effect corresponding to this operation is not executed. Therefore, the left reel variation effect does not change, and the left reel variation effect is continued. Further, when the first effect button 35 is operated during the invalid period in this way, the effect corresponding to this operation is not executed, so that the operation is performed in order to facilitate the generation of the operation-compatible effect. The invalid period is followed by the valid period. For example, when the first effect button 35 is operated during the second invalid period, a second valid period following the second invalid period is generated. This also applies when the operation is performed during each of the third invalid period to the fifth invalid period.

On the other hand, if the player can operate the first effect button 35 during the validity period of any of the five validity periods, the left reel fluctuation effect ends at the operation timing, although not always. An operation-compatible effect is executed in which the diamond-shaped pattern is stopped and displayed in the lower left display area (where the left reel fluctuation effect was performed). In this way, when an operation-compatible effect that stops and displays the diamond-shaped pattern in the lower left display area is executed, the valid period ends at the timing when the operation that triggered the execution is performed, and a further invalid period is further invalidated. And no validity period occurs. For example, when the player succeeds in operating the first effect button 35 during the third valid period, and in response to this operation, an operation-compatible effect for stopping and displaying the diamond-shaped pattern in the lower left display area is executed. , Even if it is in the middle of the third valid period, the third valid period ends at the operation timing of the first effect button 35. Then, since the operation-corresponding effect is executed, the invalid period after the fourth invalid period and the valid period after the fourth valid period do not occur, and the operation is performed when the third valid period ends in the middle. The promotion production will also end.

In this embodiment, there is a function as a notification effect for notifying that the operation-corresponding effect of stopping and displaying the diamond-shaped pattern on the display screen 70 directly develops into the first SP reach or the second SP reach after the end of the first button effect. have. Therefore, at the start of the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the first button effect, the variation effect pattern of the effect symbol that develops into the first SP reach or the second SP reach after the end of the first button effect is selected by the sub CPU 91. If this is the case, an operation-compatible effect that stops and displays the diamond-shaped pattern is executed in response to the operation of the first effect button 35 during any of the valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period. NS. On the other hand, at the start of the variation display of the first special symbol accompanied by the execution of the one-button effect, the variation effect pattern of the effect symbol that does not develop into the first SP reach or the second SP reach after the end of the first button effect is selected by the sub CPU 91. If so, even if the first effect button 35 is operated during any of the valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period, the operation-corresponding effect for stopping and displaying the diamond-shaped pattern is not executed. In this case, the left reel fluctuation effect ends at the end of the fifth valid period, and the symbol "x" is displayed in the lower left display area accordingly.

For this reason, the operation-compatible effect of stopping and displaying the diamond-shaped pattern in the lower left display area includes the first condition that the first SP reach or the second SP reach is executed after the end of the first button effect, and the first valid period ~. It can be said that the effect is executed only when both of the second conditions that the first effect button 35 is operated during the valid period of any of the fifth effect periods are satisfied.

(Characteristics of 1st button production)
As is clear from the above description, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, an operation promotion effect for urging the player to operate the first effect button 35 is executed, and during the execution of the operation promotion effect, the first effect is performed. When a plurality of valid periods in which the operation for the button 35 is valid occur and the operation for the first effect button 35 is performed during any of the valid periods, the operation-corresponding effect corresponding to the operation may be executed. be.

According to the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, even if the player misses the operation timing during the valid period, the valid period occurs again. Therefore, it is possible to easily reduce the possibility that the player cannot generate the operation-compatible effect due to the player's failure to operate the first effect button 35 during the valid period. be.

Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the first effect button 35 is operated while the operation promotion effect is being executed and not during the valid period, the operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation is performed. Is not executed. Therefore, the player can enjoy the operation while estimating the valid period, and can improve the probability of occurrence of the operation-corresponding effect by generating the valid period a plurality of times.

By the way, when the first effect button 35 is operated while the operation promotion effect is being executed and not during the valid period, the player can recognize that the operation is not during the valid period, for example. If the operation-corresponding effect of the mode is performed, the player is uncomfortable and the player's motivation to operate the first effect button 35 is reduced, and as a result, the interest of the first button effect is enjoyed. May be significantly reduced.

On the other hand, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the operation of the first effect button 35 is not effective (that is, the first effect button 35) when the operation promotion effect is being executed and not during the valid period. The effect corresponding to the operation of the effect button 35 is not executed). Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress a decrease in the interest of the first button effect due to the above problem.

(Modification example of 1st button production)
The following configuration may be adopted for the first button effect in the present embodiment. That is, in the present embodiment, the case of displaying a linear gauge image extending to the left and right will be described as an example, but the shape of the gauge image is not limited to this, and is curved so as to be along the peripheral edge of the button image, for example. A gauge image that is not linear may be displayed.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case where a left reel variation effect indicating a state in which only one specific pattern is written on the peripheral surface is rotated is described as an example, but in other embodiments, the peripheral surface is described. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which a left reel variation effect showing a state in which a left reel on which two or more specific patterns are written is rotated and the validity period is increased accordingly. As a result, it is possible to improve the possibility that an operation-compatible effect for displaying a specific pattern is executed.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the first effect button 35 is operated during any of the valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period, the first SP reach or the second SP reach is reached after the end of the first button effect. Will be described as an example of the case where an operation-corresponding effect for notifying that one of these SP reach is executed is executed on condition that is executed. On the other hand, in other embodiments, on condition that the SPSP reach is developed after the end of the first button effect, an operation-compatible effect for notifying that the SPSP reach is executed is executed, or the first button effect is executed. On the condition that the pseudo-continuous effect is executed after the end of the above, the operation-corresponding effect for notifying that the pseudo-continuous effect is executed may be executed. That is, any effect may be used as the effect notified by the operation-corresponding effect executed in response to the operation of the first effect button 35 during the valid period. Further, the operation-corresponding effect is not limited to the effect based on the determination result of the first special symbol determination, and may be an effect of notifying information irrelevant to the determination result.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the first effect button 35 is operated during any of the valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period, the valid period is terminated at the operation timing and is generated thereafter. The explanation will be given by taking as an example the case where a new validity period that may occur is not generated. On the other hand, in another embodiment, a new valid period is generated even after the first effect button 35 is operated during the valid period, and the total number of operations performed during the valid period becomes a predetermined number of times. A configuration may be adopted in which specific information is notified on condition that the information is reached, or useful information is notified to the player as the total number of times increases.

Further, in the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 20, a case where the lengths of the five valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period are all the same will be described as an example, but other embodiments will be described. Then, a configuration may be adopted in which the length of at least one of these five validity periods is different from the length of the other validity periods. When such a configuration is adopted, for example, the length of the validity period becomes longer in the order of the first validity period, the second validity period, the third validity period, the fourth validity period, and the fifth validity period. Is conceivable. Further, in the present embodiment, as is clear from the notation of FIG. 20, the case where the invalid period is longer than the valid period is described as an example, but in other embodiments, the valid period is temporal. A configuration opposite to that of the present embodiment, in which the length of the invalid period and the time length of the invalid period are the same, or the valid period is longer than the invalid period in terms of time, may be adopted. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to improve the probability that the player succeeds in operating the first effect button 35 during the valid period.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the number of valid periods is five will be described as an example, but the number of valid periods is not limited to five if there are a plurality of valid periods, and in other embodiments, the number of valid periods is not limited to five. During the execution period of the operation promotion effect, a configuration in which two or more and four or less valid periods are generated, or a configuration in which six or more valid periods are generated may be adopted.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the first effect button 35 is operated during any of the valid periods, the operation is performed on condition that the effect notified by the operation corresponding effect is performed after the end of the first button effect. The case of executing the corresponding effect will be described as an example, but in another embodiment, the operation corresponding effect is set as an effect that does not notify the execution of the other effect, and the first effect button 35 is operated during any of the valid periods. In this case, the operation-corresponding effect according to the operation may be executed regardless of whether or not any effect is executed after the end of the first button effect.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the first button effect is executed during the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state will be described as an example, but in other embodiments, the probabilistic gaming state (or the time-saving gaming state) will be described. The first button effect may be executed during the variable display of the second special symbol in. Further, in another embodiment, the first button effect can be executed during the variable display of the second special symbol in the probabilistic game state (or the time-saving game state), while the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal game state. Some configurations may be adopted such that the first button effect is not executed.

Further, the button effect similar to the first button effect may be executed not only during the variable display of the special symbol but also during the execution of the jackpot game, for example.

Further, in the present embodiment, in order to inform in an easy-to-understand manner that the validity period has expired, a case where the operation button display effect is executed during each validity period will be described as an example, but in other embodiments, during the validity period. A configuration may be adopted in which the operation button display effect is executed both during the invalid period and the invalid period. Further, a configuration may be adopted in which the operation button display effect is not executed during the valid period. As such a configuration, for example, the operation button display effect is not executed during the valid period, but the operation button display effect is executed before the valid period starts (that is, during the invalid period). An example is a configuration in which the operation button display effect is not executed at all regardless of whether or not it is in the valid period. As described above, when the operation button display effect is not executed at all, it is conceivable to execute the static button display effect during both the valid period and the invalid period.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the first effect button 35 is operated during the invalid period, the case where the effect corresponding to the operation is not executed has been described as an example, but in other embodiments, it has been described. When the operation is performed during the invalid period, the success effect is executed when the operation is performed during the valid period, while the failure effect is executed when the operation is performed during the invalid period. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the effect is performed so that the effect is different from the effect executed when the operation is performed during the valid period.

Further, in another embodiment, even if a configuration is adopted in which at least one of the first to fifth validity periods exemplified in the present embodiment is provided with another validity period within the validity period. good. For example, when the validity period of 300 ms, which is the same as that of the present embodiment, is set as the validity period A, the start is the timing when 140 ms has elapsed from the start of the validity period A, and the cycle is the timing when 160 ms has elapsed from the start of the validity period A. It is also possible to provide a valid period B of 20 ms (= 160 ms-140 ms). In this case, for example, if the operation is performed either between the start of the valid period A and the start of the valid period B, or between the end of the valid period B and the end of the valid period B, the first operation is performed. It is conceivable to perform the operation-corresponding effect of, and when the operation is performed in the valid period B, perform the second operation-corresponding effect.

When such a first operation-corresponding effect and a second operation-corresponding effect can be executed, for the player, generating the second operation-corresponding effect generates the first operation-corresponding effect. Since it is more difficult than the first operation-corresponding effect, it is preferable that the second operation-corresponding effect is an effect of notifying the player of useful information to the player rather than the first operation-corresponding effect. Therefore, for example, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination performed at the start of the fluctuation is a "big hit", a highly reliable notice effect is performed as the first operation response effect, and the second As an example of the operation-responsive production, a so-called premier production is performed. Further, for example, when the gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine in which a plurality of settings related to the jackpot probability can be changed by a predetermined operation by a predetermined operation, a setting suggestion effect is performed as a second operation corresponding effect, and the first operation is performed. As a corresponding effect, it is conceivable to perform an effect other than the setting suggestion effect.

[2nd button production]
Next, with reference to FIG. 21, the second button effect executed by the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. Here, FIG. 21 is a screen view showing a specific example of the second button effect. Since this second button effect has much in common with the above-mentioned first button effect, the second button effect will be mainly described here with respect to the difference from the first button effect.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a reach is established during the variable display of the second special symbol in the probabilistic gaming state and the result of the battle with the enemy character develops into a battle effect of notifying the winner, the enemy The second button effect is performed as a button effect for determining the attack technique of the own character against the character by operating the first effect button 35. FIG. 21 (A) exemplifies a state in which an enemy character notification effect is performed to notify an enemy character in which the own character battles before the start of the battle.

In the second button effect, it is possible to execute an operation-compatible effect that promotes the attack technique of the own character displayed on the display screen 70, provided that the first effect button 35 is operated during the valid period. Here, the attack technique of the own character suggests the reliability of the jackpot, and in this embodiment, five types of attack techniques are prepared. When these five types of attack techniques are arranged in order from the one with the lowest jackpot reliability to the one with the highest reliability, the order is weak attack, medium attack, strong attack, strong attack, and transcendental attack.

Weak attack, medium attack, strong attack, and strong attack are when the judgment result of the second special symbol judgment performed at the start of the variable display of the second special symbol where the second button effect is performed is "big hit". It may be displayed in any case of "missing". On the other hand, since the transcendental attack is an effect image in a display mode that deterministically notifies the jackpot (for example, an effect image expressed using rainbow colors), a variable display of the second special symbol in which the second button effect is performed is performed. The other four types of attack techniques are displayed in some cases where the judgment result of the second special symbol judgment performed at the start of is "big hit", but not when it is "missing". Is different.

As described above based on FIGS. 19 and 20, if the player can operate the first effect button 35 within any of the five valid periods, the diamond-shaped pattern is stopped and displayed. The production corresponding to one operation is performed. On the other hand, with the second effect button, there is a possibility that the operation-corresponding effect is performed as many times as the number of valid periods in which the operation is performed within the valid period, up to a maximum of three times. That is, when the first effect button 35 is operated for one of the first valid period to the fifth valid period, the operation corresponding effect is performed only once (at the operation timing). In addition, when the first effect button 35 is operated for two of the first valid period to the fifth valid period, the operation corresponding effect is performed at each operation timing, for a total of two times. Operation-friendly production is performed. In addition, when the first effect button 35 is operated for three valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period, the operation corresponding effect is performed at each operation timing, for a total of three times. Operation-friendly production is performed.

In the first button effect, if the operation can be performed even once during the valid period of any of the five valid periods, the operation-compatible effect is generated, whereas in the second button effect, the operation-compatible effect is performed three times. In order to generate it, it is necessary to perform the operation in three of the five validity periods. For this reason, the length of the five valid periods in the second button effect is the effectiveness of the first button effect so that the effect corresponding to three operations (attack technique promotion effect) can be easily generated in the second button effect. It is set to 500 ms, which is longer than the length of the period, 300 ms.

Returning to FIG. 21, in the first button effect described above based on FIGS. 19 and 20, the explanatory effect (“◆ to the left” exemplified in FIG. 19 (A) is displayed before the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts. In contrast to the effect of displaying the characters "Aim"), the second button effect notifies that the second button effect will be started following the enemy character notification effect (see FIG. 21 (A)). Therefore, a start effect of displaying the characters "Reel ATTACK" in a large size in the center of the display screen 70 is performed (see FIG. 21 (B)). By performing such a start effect, the player can sensuously recognize that a button effect aiming to stop the pattern of "ATTACK" on the effective line is started.

Next, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the start effect, it is composed of an explanation effect, an operation content suggestion effect, a gauge reduction effect, and a static button effect with the start of the first invalid period related to the second button effect. The operation promotion effect is started (see FIG. 21 (C)).

As illustrated in FIG. 19C and the like, in the first button effect, the explanatory effect of displaying characters such as "Aim at ◆ to the left" on the display screen 70 is started before the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts. (See FIGS. 19A and 19B), the explanatory effect is continuously performed during the execution period (see FIGS. 19C to 19I). On the other hand, in the second button effect, the above start effect is performed before the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts, and when the start timing of the execution period of the operation promotion effect is reached, a character such as "Aim for ATTACK" is included. An explanatory effect for displaying the effect image in the upper left display area of the display screen 70 is started (see FIG. 21 (C)).

Further, in the first button effect, an operation content suggestion effect that suggests the player's operation content such as "press!" Is performed, whereas in the second button effect, the first effect button 35 is performed in the same manner as the first button effect. Since it is a button effect using, in the second button effect, an operation content suggestion effect that suggests the player's operation content such as "press" is performed. The first button effect is an effect that causes the player to operate the first effect button 35 once, whereas the second button effect is an effect that causes the player to operate the first effect button 35 three times. Therefore, during the execution period of the operation promotion effect related to the second button effect, three button images arranged side by side (imitation of the first effect button 35) are displayed, and " The characters "press" are displayed (see FIG. 21 (C)).

In the first button effect, the gauge increase effect is performed before the execution period of the operation promotion effect starts (see FIGS. 19A to 19C), whereas in the second button effect, the operation promotion effect is performed. Such an effect is not performed before the execution period of (see FIGS. 21 (A) and 21 (B)). On the other hand, during the execution period of the operation promotion effect related to the second button effect, the gauge reduction effect is executed in the same manner as during the execution period of the operation promotion effect related to the first button effect, but in the second button effect, the second button effect is executed. 1 Three button images are displayed so that the effect button 35 is operated three times. Therefore, during the execution period of the operation promotion effect related to the second button effect, a gauge image is displayed directly under each button image of the three button images, and these three gauge images indicate (the operation promotion effect is shown). A gauge reduction effect is performed to show how the remaining time (until the end) is similarly reduced (see FIGS. 21 (C) to 21 (I)).

Further, during the execution period of the operation promotion effect related to the first button effect, one reel variation effect (left reel variation effect) is performed, whereas during the execution period of the operation promotion effect related to the second button effect. Is a three-reel variation effect composed of three reel variation effects, a left reel variation effect, a middle reel variation effect, and a right reel variation effect. The left reel fluctuation effect of the first button effect is a variation effect that expresses the rotation of the left reel with a specific diamond-shaped pattern on the peripheral surface, whereas the left reel variation effect of the second button effect. The production is a variable production that expresses the rotation of the left reel on which a specific pattern including the characters "ATTACK" is written on the peripheral surface. The left reel variation effect of the second button effect is performed in the lower left display area on the display screen 70, similarly to the left reel variation effect of the first button effect.

Further, the middle reel variation effect and the right reel variation effect of the second button effect are performed by using the display area at the lower center and the display area at the lower right of the display screen 70, respectively. It is performed in the same way as the left reel fluctuation effect. By simultaneously performing such a left reel variation effect, a middle reel variation effect, and a right reel variation effect in the lower region of the display screen 70, it is possible to express a state in which three reels are rotating in the spinning machine. (See, for example, FIG. 21 (C)).

In the second button effect, a specific pattern including the characters "ATTACK" is stopped in the lower left display area where the left reel variation effect is performed by operating the first effect button 35, and the middle reel variation effect is performed. In the lower center display area where the right reel variation effect is performed, the specific pattern including the characters "ATTACK" is stopped by the operation of the first effect button 35, and in the lower right display area where the right reel variation effect is performed, the first effect button 35 is displayed. 1 This is a button effect that stops a specific pattern including the characters "ATTACK" by operating the effect button 35.

For this reason, the characters "press" related to the operation content suggestion effect, the button image imitating the first effect button 35, and the gauge image are in the upper area and the middle reel of the lower left display area where the left reel variation effect is performed. It is displayed in the upper area of the lower center display area where the variation effect is performed and in the upper area of the lower right display area where the right reel variation effect is performed.

Up to this point, the operation promotion effect related to the second button effect has been described, but the following effect display is performed for the attack technique of the own character. That is, during the first invalid period related to the second button effect, the characters "weak attack" expressed in blue as the attack technique of the own character are displayed in the upper right area on the display screen 70 (FIG. 21 (C). ) And (D)). In this way, since the characters "weak attack" are displayed in blue during the first invalid period, the player can easily recognize that the jackpot reliability is not so high at this stage. It is possible.

FIG. 21 (E) illustrates a display state immediately after the start of the first valid period following the first invalid period related to the second button effect. As illustrated in FIG. 21 (E), the operation button display effect is performed during the first valid period related to the second button effect as well as during each effective period effect related to the first button effect. This also applies to the valid period after the second valid period related to the second button effect.

In FIG. 21 (F), the first effect button 35 is not operated during the first valid period related to the second button effect, and the first effect button 35 is operated during the second valid period. It is illustrated that the operation corresponding to the production is performed. Specifically, the operation-corresponding effect here is a specific pattern stop effect that ends the left reel fluctuation effect and stops and displays a specific pattern including the characters "ATTACK" in the lower left display area of the display screen 70. , It is an attack technique promotion effect (see FIGS. 21 (E) and 21 (F)) that changes the character of "weak attack" to "medium attack".

When the above attack technique promotion effect is performed, the characters "medium attack" are displayed in green, so that the player can see the character content of "medium attack" indicating the attack technique and the display color of this character. Based on both of the above, you can feel that the jackpot reliability is higher than when the word "weak attack" was displayed, and you can enjoy the subsequent operations.

Here, as an operation response effect according to the operation during the second valid period, an attack technique promotion effect that changes the character of "weak attack" to "medium attack" is described as an example. An attack technique promotion effect that changes the blue letters of "attack" to the purple letters of "strong attack" may be performed. In addition, an attack technique promotion effect that changes the blue letters of "weak attack" to the red letters of "strong attack" may be performed. In addition, only when the judgment result of the second special symbol judgment performed at the start of the variable display of the second special symbol on which the second button effect is performed is "big hit", the blue character of "weak attack" is changed to "transcendence". An attack technique promotion effect that changes to the rainbow-colored characters of "attack" may be performed.

Further, the sub CPU 91 may set an execution pattern of the attack technique promotion effect such that the attack technique promotion effect is not executed for the first operation during the valid period. In such a case, the execution pattern of the attack technique promotion effect may be set. The above-mentioned attack technique promotion effect is not executed based on FIG. 21 (F).

Further, here, the case where the operation is not performed during the first valid period and the operation is performed during the second valid period has been described as an example, but when the operation is performed during the first valid period, the operation is performed. With this operation as the first operation, the various attack technique promotion effects described above will be performed.

In FIG. 21 (G), the first operation of the first effect button 35 is performed during the second valid period related to the second button effect, and the second operation of the first effect button 35 is performed during the subsequent third effective period. It is illustrated that the operation of is performed and the operation corresponding effect is performed according to this operation. Specifically, the operation-corresponding effect here is a specific pattern stop effect in which the middle reel variation effect is terminated and a specific pattern including the characters "ATTACK" is stopped and displayed in the display area at the lower center of the display screen 70. And, it is an attack technique promotion effect (see FIGS. 21 (F) and (G)) that changes the character of "medium attack" to "strong attack".

When such a second attack technique promotion effect is performed, the character "strong attack" is displayed in purple, so that the player can see the character content of "strong attack" indicating the attack technique and the character content of this character. Based on both the display color and the characters "medium attack", you can feel that the jackpot reliability is higher than when it was displayed, and enjoy the subsequent operation (third operation). Can be done with.

Here, as an operation response effect according to the operation during the third valid period, an attack technique promotion effect that changes the character of "medium attack" to "strong attack" is described as an example. An attack technique promotion effect that changes the green letters of "attack" to the purple letters of "strong attack" may be performed. In addition, an attack technique promotion effect that changes the green character of "medium attack" to the red character of "strong attack" may be performed. In addition, only when the judgment result of the second special symbol judgment performed at the start of the variable display of the second special symbol on which the second button effect is performed is "big hit", the green character of "medium attack" is changed to "transcendence". An attack technique promotion effect that changes to the rainbow-colored characters of "attack" may be performed.

Further, the execution pattern of the attack technique promotion effect such that the attack technique promotion effect is executed for the first operation during the valid period and the attack technique promotion effect is not executed for the second operation by the sub CPU 91, for example. Is set, and in such a case, the above-mentioned attack technique promotion effect is not executed based on FIG. 21 (G).

In FIG. 21 (H), the first operation of the first effect button 35 is performed during the second valid period related to the second button effect (see FIG. 21 (F)), and during the subsequent third effective period. The second operation of the first effect button 35 is performed (see FIG. 21 (G)), and the third operation of the first effect button 35 is performed during the fourth valid period, and this third operation is performed. It is illustrated that the operation-corresponding effect is performed according to the above. Specifically, the operation-corresponding effect here is a specific pattern stop effect that ends the right reel fluctuation effect and stops and displays a specific pattern including the characters "ATTACK" in the lower right display area of the display screen 70. And, it is an attack technique promotion effect (see FIGS. 21 (G) and (H)) that changes the character of "strong attack" to "strong attack".

When such a third attack technique promotion effect is performed, the character "powerful attack" is displayed in red, so that the player can see the character content of "powerful attack" indicating the attack technique and the character content of this character. Based on both the display color and the display color, you can feel that the jackpot reliability is even higher than when the characters "strong attack" were displayed. Therefore, the player's expectation for the jackpot can be effectively improved.

Here, as an operation response effect according to the operation during the fourth valid period, an attack technique promotion effect that changes the character of "strong attack" to "strong attack" is described as an example. Only when the judgment result of the second special symbol judgment performed at the start of the variable display of the second special symbol where the button effect is performed is "big hit", the red letters of "powerful attack" are changed to the rainbow of "transcendence attack". An attack technique promotion effect that changes to colored characters may be performed (see FIGS. 21 (G) and 21 (I)).

Further, the sub CPU 91 may set an execution pattern of the attack technique promotion effect such that the attack technique promotion effect is not executed for the third operation during the valid period. In such a case, the execution pattern of the attack technique promotion effect may be set. The attack technique promotion effect exemplified in FIGS. 21 (G) and 21 (H) and the attack technique promotion effect exemplified in FIGS. 21 (G) and 21 (I) are not executed.

Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 21 (H) and 21 (I), when the third operation is performed with respect to the second button effect, the left reel variation effect, the middle reel variation effect, and the right reel variation are performed. Since all the productions have been completed, there is no need for the player to perform further operations. Therefore, when the third operation is performed during the valid period, the operation ends at the operation timing even if the valid period is in the middle, and no further valid period occurs. That is, in the examples shown in FIGS. 21 (H) and 21 (I), since the third operation is performed during the fourth valid period, the fourth valid period ends at the timing when this operation is performed. However, the fifth validity period does not occur after that.

In this embodiment, five types of attack techniques are prepared, and a maximum of three attack technique promotion effects may be executed by one second button effect, and the promotion pattern of the attack technique is There are many available, but the promotion patterns for attack techniques have the following characteristics.

That is, as described above, even if the player can operate the first effect button 35 during any of the valid periods, the attack technique promotion effect may not be executed. In addition, if the judgment result of the second special symbol judgment performed at the start of the variable display of the second special symbol on which the second button effect is executed is "big hit", the attack technique is promoted to a higher attack technique. On the other hand, if it is "missing", it is not preferable to promote the attack technique to a higher attack technique. Therefore, in the second button effect of the present embodiment, in the case of "big hit", the attack technique is likely to be promoted to a higher attack technique, and conversely, in the case of "loss", the attack technique is a higher attack technique. It has the characteristic that it is difficult to be promoted to.

(Modification example of 2nd button production)
The following configuration may be adopted for the second button effect.
That is, in the present embodiment, the case where the number of valid periods related to the second button effect is five, which is the same as the number of valid periods related to the first button effect, has been described as an example, but the valid period related to the second button effect has been described. May be generated in an amount of 6 or more. As a result, although it depends on the length of the valid period, it is possible to improve the possibility that the player can perform a total of three operations during the valid period during the execution period of the operation promotion effect related to the second button effect. be.

Further, in the present embodiment, even if the operation is performed twice during one valid period, the operation corresponding effect executed in response to the operation is described as an example. In another embodiment, when two operations are performed during one valid period, two operation-corresponding effects are performed, or one operation-corresponding effect that combines two operation-corresponding effects. May be done. For example, in a situation where the characters "weak attack" are displayed before the start of the first valid period related to the second button effect (see, for example, FIG. 21 (D)), twice during the first valid period. When an operation is performed, the left reel fluctuation effect is ended and the attack technique is changed from "weak attack" to "medium attack". It is conceivable to continuously perform the second operation response effect that changes from "medium attack" to "strong attack". Also, if two operations are performed during the first valid period under the same circumstances, the left reel fluctuation effect and the middle reel variation effect will be terminated at the same time, and the attack technique will be changed from "weak attack" to "medium attack". It is conceivable to perform one operation-corresponding effect (operation-corresponding effect in which two operation-corresponding effects are combined into one) to change to "strong attack" without going through.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the first button effect and the second button effect are the effects using the reel effect that imitates the movement of the reel of the rotating drum type game machine will be described as an example. A player presses the first effect button 35 in the process of moving light emission in which a roulette image of electronic roulette arranged in a circle is displayed on the display screen 70 and the light emitting unit emits light in a clockwise order. It is possible to realize the same effect as the first button effect and the second button effect even in the roulette effect in which the moving light emission is stopped while only the predetermined light emitting part emits light by operating at the right timing. ..

Hereinafter, the RAM configuration of the main control board 80 for realizing the effects described with reference to the drawings of FIGS. 6 to 21 and the processing performed on each control board will be described.

[Configuration example of main RAM 83]
FIG. 22 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. 22 (A), 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, the main RAM 83 has the determination storage area 830 and the special figure 2 / first hold storage area 835 as storage areas for storing the acquired information and the like acquired when the game ball wins in the second start port 22. , 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. The 835-special figure 2/4 reserved 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 and the 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. 22B, 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 pre-judgment information which is information indicating a pre-judgment 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. 25) 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 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 this 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. 22B 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 the order of the special figure 2 and the first reserved storage area 835, in the order of 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 in response to the winning are stored in the special figure 1 and the 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 winning 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 is performed. 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 to. 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 gaming 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 holding 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. 23. Here, FIG. 23 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. 23 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. 23 and 23 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 normal 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. 24.

Following the process of step S2, the main CPU 81 executes the special symbol determination to cause the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42 to display the special symbol in a variable manner, 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. 26.

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. Normal 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. 24 is a detailed flowchart of the sensor detection process in step S2 of FIG. 23. As illustrated in FIG. 24, the main CPU 81 causes the gate sensor 251 to pass the game ball to the gate 25 based on the presence / absence of the input of the detection signal from the gate sensor 251 following the random number update process in step S1. 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 through 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 every time the random number 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 detection signal input 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 with respect to 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 the present 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, which 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 relating to the hold of the second special symbol determination The process is executed (step S211). Specifically, the jackpot determination process (see FIG. 27) and the variation pattern selection process (see FIG. 28), 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 is executed to predetermine which variation pattern is selected as the pattern. The pre-determination information that is the result of this pre-determination process is stored in the same reserved 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 number 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 start port sensor 211 is based on the presence or absence of the input of the detection signal from the first start 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 this 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. 27) and the variation pattern selection process (see FIG. 28), 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 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 is executed to predetermine which variation pattern is selected as the pattern. The pre-determination information that is the result of this pre-determination process is stored in the same reserved storage area in which the jackpot random numbers and the like used in the pre-determination process are stored.

If the game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 21 while the number of pending numbers T1 of the first special symbol determination is "0", neither during the jackpot game nor in the variable display of the special symbol, the winning number is increased. 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. 25. Here, FIG. 25 is a detailed flowchart of the pre-determination process in steps S211, 219 of FIG. 24. Here, the pre-judgment process performed when the right to determine the first special symbol is reserved will be described as an example, but the right to determine the second special symbol is different 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. 24 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. 24 (step S218: NO), the jackpot determination process is executed (step S2191). Specifically, in the case of a low probability state (“normal game state” corresponds to this in the present embodiment), 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. 24 (or the process of step S217 of FIG. 24) 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 out 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 pending first special symbol determinations may differ between 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. be. 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. 22.

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, with reference to FIG. 26, the details of the special symbol processing executed by the main control board 80 will be described. Here, FIG. 26 is a detailed flowchart of the special symbol processing in step S3 of FIG. 23.

As illustrated in FIG. 26, 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. 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 is first started with the number of pending numbers T1 for the first special symbol determination and the number of pending numbers 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 the jackpot 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. 27.

Following the jackpot determination process in step S308, the main CPU 81 executes a variation pattern selection process for selecting a variation pattern of the special symbol (step S309). This fluctuation pattern selection process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 28.

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 the above is related, information on setting the fluctuation pattern selected in the process of step S309, information on the gaming state of the gaming 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. 29.

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 is not displayed in a variable manner and is in the winning waiting state is set in the main RAM 83 (step S318). Although not shown in FIG. 26, 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 prize waiting flag is set to "ON", since the prize waiting flag has already been set, the process proceeds to the normal symbol processing in step S4 without executing the process in step S318.

[Big hit determination process by the main control board 80]
FIG. 27 is a detailed flowchart of the jackpot determination process in step S308 of FIG. 26. 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 this 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 (“normal game state” corresponds to this in the present embodiment), the winning value stored in the jackpot random number table for low probability is used. NS.

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 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 that is 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 is matched with the random number value 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. 28 is a detailed flowchart of the fluctuation pattern selection process in step S309 of FIG. 26. After executing the jackpot determination process in step S308 of FIG. 26, 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 fluctuation pattern is selected, the main CPU 81 sets the setting information of the selected fluctuation 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. 29 is a detailed flowchart of the special figure stop processing in step S317 of FIG. 26. 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. 27), as illustrated in FIG. 29 (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 gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the gaming state is controlled by setting the probability variation gaming flag and the time saving gaming 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 jackpot, the opening pattern of the first jackpot 26 (or the second jackpot 28) during the jackpot 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, when it is determined 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. 30 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 gaming machine 1, the jackpot game is executed by the big winning opening opening / closing control process in step S6, but when the ending period in this jackpot game ends, the gaming state setting for setting the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 after the jackpot 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 continues 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 to 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 gaming 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 the 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 gaming machine 1 is running.

Hereinafter, the interrupt processing executed on the sub-control board 90 will be described with reference to FIG. 31. Here, FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating interrupt processing executed on the sub-control board 90. The sub CPU 91 repeatedly executes a series of processes illustrated in FIG. 31 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) in the same manner as the interrupt process (see FIG. 23) performed on the main control board 80. The processing performed by the sub control board 90 described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. 31 and 31 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. 32.

Following the process in step S10, the sub CPU 91 executes an operation acceptance process that performs a process according to the operation when the first effect button 35 or the second effect button 36 is operated (step S40). This operation acceptance process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 41.

Following the process in step S40, 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 S40 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. It is instructed to the control board 120.

Following the process in step S50, the sub CPU 91 executes the 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. 32 is a detailed flowchart of the command reception process in step S10 of FIG. 31. As illustrated in FIG. 32, 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. 24. 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 executes the hold command reception process (step S13). This hold command reception process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 33.

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. 26? 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. 37.

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 judgment 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. 29? Whether or not it is determined (step S19). Here, when it is determined that the received command is the opening command (step S19: YES), the start of the opening effect of notifying the type of the jackpot or urging the player to hit right during the opening period of the jackpot game is imaged. 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).

[Hold command reception processing by sub-control board 90]
FIG. 33 is a detailed flowchart of the hold command reception process in step S13 of FIG. 32. When the sub CPU 91 determines that the command received from the main control board 80 is a hold command (step S12: YES), the sub CPU 91 executes a series of hold command reception processes exemplified in FIG. 33.

That is, the sub CPU 91 updates the number of reserved special symbol determinations stored in the sub RAM 93 to a value obtained by adding "1" (step S131). Specifically, when the hold command related to the first special symbol determination is received, the hold number of the first special symbol determination is updated to the value obtained by adding "1", and the hold command related to the second special symbol determination is executed. When it is received, the pending number of the second special symbol determination is updated to the value obtained by adding "1".

Following the process in step S131, the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not the hold command received from the main control board 80 includes the pre-determination information (step S132). Here, when it is determined that the received hold command does not include the pre-determination information (step S132: NO), the hold icon display command is set in the sub RAM 93 (step S133). The hold icon display command set by the process of step S133 is a command for instructing the display of the hold icon, and is a command that does not include the setting information of the effect (for example, the icon change effect) based on the prior determination information.

When this hold icon display command is transmitted to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120 by the command transmission process of step S50 in FIG. 31, a white hold icon is displayed in the hold icon display area 71, and the white hold icon is displayed. The icon change effect for the hold icon of is not performed.

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the received hold command includes the pre-determination information (step S132: YES), the sub CPU 91 stores the pre-determination information in a predetermined area of the sub RAM 93 (step S134), and changes the icon. The effect pattern setting process is executed (step S135), the remaining short variation number advance notice effect pattern setting process is executed (step S136), the forward effect effect pattern setting process is executed (step S137), and the hold icon display command is sub. It is set in the RAM 93 (step S138). This hold icon display command is transmitted to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120 by the command transmission process of step S50 in FIG.

When the setting information of the icon change effect is set in the process of step S135, the hold icon display command including the setting information of the icon change effect is set in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S138. Then, the above-mentioned icon change effect is realized by transmitting the hold icon display command including the setting information of the icon change effect to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120. The icon change effect pattern setting process in step 135 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 34.

When the setting information of the remaining short variation number advance notice effect is set in the process of step S136, the hold icon display command including the setting information of the remaining short change number advance notice effect is set in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S138. Then, by transmitting the hold icon display command including the setting information of the residual short variation number advance notice effect to the image / acoustic control board 100 and the lamp control board 120, the residual short variation described above is described based on FIGS. 11 to 13 and the like. The number of times notice production will be realized. The process of setting the residual short variation number advance notice effect pattern in step S136 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 35.

When the setting information of the order effect effect is set in the process of step S137, the hold icon display command including the setting information of the order effect effect is set in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S138. Then, by transmitting the hold icon display command including the setting information of the order effect effect to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120, the above-mentioned order effect effect is realized based on FIG. become. The order effect effect pattern setting process in step S137 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 36.

[Icon change effect pattern setting process by sub-control board 90]
Next, the icon change effect pattern setting process executed on the sub-control board 90 will be described with reference to FIG. 34. Here, FIG. 34 is a detailed flowchart of the icon change effect pattern setting process in step S135 of FIG. 33.

As illustrated in FIG. 34, the sub CPU 91 executes the icon change effect lottery following the process of step S134 in FIG. 33 (step S1351). Specifically, the icon change effect random number is acquired and stored in the sub RAM 93. This icon change effect random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the sub control board 90, and the sub CPU 91 acquires, for example, the count value at the time when the hold command is received as the icon change effect random number. Then, it is determined whether or not to execute the icon change effect based on whether or not the icon change effect random number matches any of the random numbers to be compared with the icon change effect random number stored in the sub ROM 92 in advance. ..

Although not shown in the figure, the sub ROM 92 contains the pre-judgment result (whether or not it is a "big hit") related to the first special symbol determination, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, and the above icon change effect. A table in which a random number and a random number to be compared are associated with each other is stored. The sub CPU 91 refers to this table and determines the determination result of the first special symbol determination in which the acquired icon change effect random number is specified from the pre-determination information stored in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S134 (see FIG. 33). , And, based on whether or not it matches any of the random number values associated with the variation pattern of the first special symbol, it is determined whether or not to execute the icon change effect. In this table, with respect to the preliminary determination result related to the first special symbol determination, more random values are associated with "big hit" than with "loss". Further, the longer the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is, the more random values are associated with it. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the higher the jackpot reliability is, the easier it is to execute the icon change effect, and conversely, the lower the jackpot reliability is, the more difficult it is to execute the icon change effect.

Subsequently, the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not to execute the icon change effect based on the lottery result in step S1351 (step S1352), and when it is determined to execute the icon change effect (step S1352: YES), the icon. As the setting information of the change effect, the icon change effect pattern information is set in the sub RAM 93 (step S1353).

Although not shown in the figure, the sub ROM 92 stores an icon change effect pattern selection table for selecting an icon change effect pattern. In the icon change effect pattern selection table, the determination result of the first special symbol determination, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, the number of pending first special symbol determination at the start of the icon change effect, and the display mode of the icon are displayed. The change pattern and the random value are associated with each other. When the sub CPU 91 determines that the icon change effect is to be executed (step S1352: YES), the sub CPU 91 reads the icon change effect pattern selection table from the sub ROM 92 and sets it in the sub RAM 93. Then, the determination result of the first special symbol determination and the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol specified by the prior determination information stored in the sub RAM 93, and the number of pending first special symbol determination updated in the process of step S131. By reading the change pattern corresponding to the icon change effect random number acquired when the hold command is received from the icon change effect pattern selection table set in the sub RAM 93, one change pattern related to the icon change effect can be obtained. select. Then, the icon change effect pattern information indicating the change pattern selected in this way is set in the sub RAM 93.

Further, here, when selecting the change pattern of the icon change effect, the case where the same icon change effect random number used for the icon change effect lottery in step S1351 is used has been described as an example. May use another random number to select the change pattern of the icon change effect.

Here, the case where the lottery for determining whether or not to execute the icon change effect and the lottery for selecting the effect pattern for the icon change effect are separate lottery has been described as an example, but the icon change effect is executed. Whether or not to execute the icon change effect and, if executed, what kind of effect pattern to execute the icon change effect may be determined by one lottery. Further, here, the process of setting the icon change effect pattern related to the hold icon corresponding to the reserved first special symbol determination right has been described, but the second special symbol determination in the probabilistic game state (or time-saving game state) has been described. Even when is held, it is possible to set the icon change effect pattern in the same manner, except that the table used is different.

[Remaining short variation number of times notice effect pattern setting process by sub-control board 90]
Next, with reference to FIG. 35, the residual short variation number advance notice effect pattern setting process executed on the sub-control board 90 will be described. Here, FIG. 35 is a detailed flowchart of the remaining short variation number advance notice effect pattern setting process in step S136 of FIG. 33, and the residual short change number advance notice effect pattern setting process is based on FIGS. 8 and 11 to 13 and the like. This is a process for setting the effect pattern of the above-mentioned remaining short change number advance notice effect.

Following the icon change effect pattern setting process in step S135, the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not the short variation display is performed in the look-ahead target variation as illustrated in FIG. 35 (step S1361). The sub ROM 92 stores a variation effect pattern selection table in which a plurality of types of variation effect patterns are associated with each combination of the determination result of the special symbol determination and the variation pattern of the special symbol. When the sub CPU 91 stores the pre-determination information related to the first special symbol determination in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S134, the sub CPU 91 sets the determination result of the first special symbol determination and the variation pattern of the special symbol based on the pre-determination information. To identify. Then, the determination result and the variation effect pattern corresponding to the variation pattern are read out from the variation effect pattern selection table, and the determination process of step S1361 is performed based on whether or not the variation effect pattern includes the short variation display of the effect symbol. conduct. Here, when it is determined that the short variation display is not performed in the look-ahead target variation (step S1361: NO), the process proceeds to the order effect effect pattern setting process in step S137.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the short variation display is performed in the look-ahead target variation (step S1361: NO), the sub CPU 91 executes the residual short variation number advance notice effect in a part of the case where the residual short variation number advance notice effect can be executed. In order to do so, a lottery for producing a notice of the number of remaining short fluctuations is executed (step S1362). Specifically, the remaining short variation number advance notice effect random number is acquired and stored in the sub RAM 93. The remaining short variation number advance notice effect random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the sub control board 90, and the sub CPU 91 sets the count value at the time when the hold command is received to the remaining short change number advance notice effect random number. Get as. Then, based on whether or not the remaining short variation number advance notice effect random number matches any of the random numbers to be compared with the residual short change number advance notice effect random number stored in the sub ROM 92 in advance, the remaining short change number advance notice effect Decide whether to execute.

Although not shown in the figure, the sub ROM 92 contains the pre-judgment result (whether or not it is a “big hit”) related to the first special symbol determination, the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol, and the above-mentioned residual short variation. Number of times advance notice effect A table in which a random number to be compared with a random number is associated with the random number is stored. With reference to this table, the sub CPU 91 determines the first special symbol determination in which the acquired random number for indicating the number of remaining short fluctuations is specified from the prior determination information stored in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S134 in FIG. Based on the result and whether or not it matches any of the random number values associated with the variation pattern of the first special symbol, it is determined whether or not to execute the residual short variation number advance notice effect. In this table, with respect to the preliminary determination result related to the first special symbol determination, more random values are associated with "big hit" than with "loss". Further, the longer the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is, the more random values are associated with it. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the higher the jackpot reliability is, the easier it is to execute the remaining short variation number advance notice effect, and conversely, the lower the jackpot reliability is, the more difficult it is to execute the remaining short variation number advance notice effect. There is.

Subsequently, the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not to execute the remaining short variation number advance notice effect based on the lottery result in step S1362 (step S1363). Here, when it is determined by the sub CPU 91 that the remaining short variation number advance notice effect is not executed (step S1363: NO), the residual short change number advance notice effect pattern setting process is completed, and the order effect effect pattern setting in step S137 is completed. Processing proceeds to processing.

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the remaining short variation number advance notice effect is executed (step S1363: YES), the determination of the first special symbol determination indicated by the preliminary determination information regarding the current look-ahead target variation stored in the sub RAM 93. It is determined whether or not the result is a "big hit" (step S1364). Here, when it is determined that it is a "big hit" (step S1364: YES), the remaining short variation number notice effect pattern selection table for the big hit is read from the sub ROM 92 and set in the sub RAM 93 (step S1365), and in the "big hit" When it is determined that there is no such (step S1364: NO), the remaining short variation number advance notice effect pattern selection table for reach loss is read from the sub ROM 92 and set in the sub RAM 93 (step S1366).

Then, the sub CPU 91 refers to the remaining short variation number advance notice effect pattern selection table set in the sub RAM 93 by the process of step S1365 or the process of step S1366, and selects the residual short variation number advance notice effect effect pattern. The number-of-times advance notice effect pattern selection process is executed (step S1637).

Although not shown in the figure, in the residual short variation number advance notice effect pattern selection table stored in the sub ROM 92, the determination result of the first special symbol determination, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, and the residual short variation number The number of reservations for the first special symbol determination at the time of starting the notice effect, the change pattern of the remaining short change number notice image 75 (see FIG. 8), and the random number value are associated with each other. In the process of step S1637, the sub CPU 91 sets the determination result of the first special symbol determination and the variation pattern of the first special symbol specified by the pre-determination information related to the current look-ahead target variation stored in the sub RAM 93, and the step. The change pattern corresponding to the hold number of the first special symbol determination updated in the processing of S131 and the remaining short change number advance notice effect random number acquired when the hold command is received is set in the sub RAM 93. By reading from the number-of-times advance notice effect pattern selection table, the change pattern of 1 of the remaining short change number-of-times advance notice image 75 is selected.

It should be noted that when the jackpot residual short variation number advance notice effect pattern selection table is referred to, the residual short change number advance notice image 75 is referred to as compared with the case where the reach loss residual short change advance notice effect pattern selection table is referred to. The number shown is likely to increase at an earlier stage (that is, the increase effect is likely to occur at an earlier stage). The number indicated by the remaining short change number notice image 75 is more when the jackpot residual short change number notice effect pattern selection table is referred to than when the reach loss notice residual short change number notice effect pattern selection table is referred to. Is characterized by being easily changed to a higher number.

Here, when selecting the change pattern of the remaining short variation number advance notice image 75, an example is used in which the same residual short change number advance notice effect random number used for the residual short change number advance notice effect lottery in step S1362 is used. As described in the above, the change pattern of the remaining short variation number advance notice image 75 may be selected by using a random number different from the remaining short change number advance notice effect random number.

Further, here, a lottery for deciding whether or not to execute the remaining short change number notice effect and a lottery for selecting the effect pattern of the remaining short change number notice image 75 (change pattern of the remaining short change number notice image 75). Although the case where is a separate lottery was explained as an example, whether or not to execute the remaining short variation number advance notice effect, and if so, what kind of effect pattern to execute the remaining short change number advance notice effect 1 It may be decided by a lottery.

Subsequently, the sub CPU 91 sets the remaining short variation number advance notice effect pattern information indicating the change pattern of the residual short change number advance notice image 75 selected in the process of step S1376 in the sub RAM 93 as the setting information of the residual short change number advance notice effect. (Step S1368).

[Sequential effect effect pattern setting process by sub-control board 90]
Next, with reference to FIG. 36, the sequential effect effect pattern setting process executed on the sub-control board 90 will be described. Here, FIG. 36 is a detailed flowchart of the order-order effect effect pattern setting process in step S137 of 33, and the order-order effect effect pattern setting process sets the effect pattern of the order-order effect effect effect described above based on FIG. It is a process to do.

The sub CPU 91 has a reach variation in which the reach effect is performed in the symbol variation performed before the pre-reading target variation, as illustrated in FIG. 36, following the residual short variation number advance notice effect pattern setting process in step S136. It is determined whether or not there is (step S1371). Specifically, the pre-determination information corresponding to the symbol variation performed before the pre-reading target variation is stored in the sub RAM 93, and the reach is included in the variation pattern of the first special symbol indicated by the pre-determination information. Yes It is determined whether or not there is a reach fluctuation based on whether or not a fluctuation pattern for production is included. Here, if it is determined that there is a reach variation (step S1371: YES), the order effect effect pattern setting process is completed, and the process proceeds to step S138 (see FIG. 33).

On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no reach variation (step S1371: NO), the sub CPU 91 pseudo-stops the above-described order based on FIG. 18 in the pattern variation of the reachless loss performed before the look-ahead target variation. A sequential effect lottery for determining whether or not to display is executed (step S1372). Specifically, the random number for the order effect is acquired and stored in the sub RAM 93. This order-directed random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the sub-control board 90, and the sub CPU 91 acquires the count value at the time when the hold command is received as the order-ordered random number. Then, based on whether or not the order-order effect random number matches any of the random numbers to be compared with the order-order effect random number stored in the sub ROM 92 in advance, the three effect symbols indicating the order are displayed in a pseudo-stop display. After that, it is decided whether or not to execute the sequential effect of displaying the main stop.

Although not shown in the figure, the sub ROM 92 contains the pre-judgment result (whether or not it is a "big hit") related to the first special symbol determination, the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol, and the above-mentioned ordering effect. A table in which a random number and a random number to be compared are associated with each other is stored. With reference to this table, the sub CPU 91 refers to the determination result of the first special symbol determination, in which the acquired random number of the order effect is specified from the pre-determination information stored in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S134 of FIG. 33, and It is determined whether or not to execute the sequential effect based on whether or not it matches any of the random numbers associated with the variation pattern of the first special symbol. In this table, with respect to the preliminary determination result related to the first special symbol determination, more random values are associated with "big hit" than with "loss". Further, the longer the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is, the more random values are associated with it. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the higher the jackpot reliability is, the easier it is to execute the sequential effect, and conversely, the lower the jackpot reliability is, the more difficult it is to execute the sequential effect.

Subsequently, the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not to execute the sequential effect based on the lottery result in step S1372 (step S1373). Here, if it is determined by the sub CPU 91 that the sequential effect is not executed (step S1373: NO), the sequential effect effect pattern setting process is completed, and the process proceeds to step S138.

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the sequential effect is to be executed (step S1373: YES), the determination result of the first special symbol determination indicated by the preliminary determination information regarding the current look-ahead target variation stored in the sub RAM 93 is ". It is determined whether or not it is a "big hit" (step S1374). Here, when it is determined that it is a "big hit" (step S1374: YES), the jackpot order effect effect pattern selection table is read from the sub ROM 92 and set in the sub RAM 93 (step S1375), and it is not a "big hit". If it is determined (step S1374: NO), the order loss effect effect pattern selection table for reach loss is read from the sub ROM 92 and set in the sub RAM 93 (step S1376).

Then, the sub CPU 91 refers to the order effect effect pattern selection table set in the sub RAM 93 by the process of step S1375 or the process of step S1376, and selects the effect pattern of the order effect effect accompanying the order effect. The effect effect pattern selection process is executed (step S1377).

Although not shown in the figure, in the order effect effect pattern selection table stored in the sub ROM 92, the determination result of the first special symbol determination, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, and the order effect effect start. The number of pending 1st special symbol determinations, the display colors of the 1st effect image added to the 3 effect images indicating the order, and the display color of the 2nd effect image representing the light rays extending on the 3 effect symbols, and the disorder. It is associated with a numerical value. In the process of step S1377, the sub CPU 91 sets the determination result of the first special symbol determination and the variation pattern of the first special symbol specified by the pre-determination information related to the current look-ahead target variation stored in the sub RAM 93, and the step. The display color corresponding to the number of holds for the first special symbol determination updated in the processing of S131 and the random number for order effect acquired when the hold command is received is selected for the order effect effect pattern set in the sub RAM 93. By reading from the table, one effect pattern of the order effect effect is selected.

In addition, as the effect pattern of the order effect effect, a blue effect pattern in which a blue first effect image is added to three effect patterns indicating the order and a second effect image representing a blue ray is extended is used. A green effect pattern in which a green first effect image is added to the three effect symbols indicating the order and a second effect image representing a green ray is extended, and a red first effect pattern is added to the three effect symbols indicating the order. An example is a red effect pattern in which one effect image is added and a second effect image representing a red ray is extended.

The effect effect in which a plurality of effect patterns are prepared in this way has the following features. That is, when the jackpot order effect effect pattern selection table is referred to, the red effect pattern is easier to select than the blue effect pattern or the green effect pattern, and when the reach loss order effect effect pattern selection table is referred to. , The blue effect pattern and the green effect pattern are easier to select than the red effect pattern. Further, the longer the fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol selected for the look-ahead target variation, the easier it is to select the red effect pattern, and the shorter the fluctuation time, the more difficult it is to select the red effect pattern (the blue effect pattern is selected). Easy).

Although detailed description is omitted, if a plurality of symbol fluctuations are performed before the look-ahead target fluctuation is started, it is possible to execute the sequential effect and the sequential effect effect for all of the plurality of symbol fluctuations. Yes, in such a case, the effect pattern of the order effect effect is selected for each symbol variation.

In addition, although the case where the same order effect random number used for the order effect lottery in step S1372 is used when selecting the effect pattern of the order effect effect is described here as an example, the order effect random number has been described. A random number different from that of the random number may be used to select the effect pattern of the order effect effect.

Further, here, the case where the lottery for deciding whether or not to execute the sequential effect and the lottery for selecting the effect pattern for the sequential effect effect are separate lottery has been described as an example. Since the eye effect effect is an effect performed as a set, whether or not to execute the order effect and, if so, what kind of effect pattern to execute the order effect effect is determined by one lottery. You may decide.

Subsequently, the sub CPU 91 sets the sequential effect effect pattern information indicating the effect pattern of the sequential effect effect selected in the process of step S1377 in the sub RAM 93 as the setting information of the sequential effect effect (step S1378).

[Variation start command reception processing by sub-control board 90]
FIG. 37 is a detailed flowchart of the fluctuation start command reception process in step S16 of FIG. 32. 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. 37.

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 that is 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 a winning start port indicating whether or not the game is a game, information on setting a variation pattern of a special symbol, information indicating the game state of the gaming 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. .. In addition, the fluctuation time of the special symbol can be specified based on the setting information of the fluctuation pattern. 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 the 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 (presence / absence of the short variation display of the effect symbol), the type of the effect symbol constituting the reach symbol, The type and content of the reach effect, the content of the pseudo-continuous effect (the number of short-variable displays), the type of the 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. 38.

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 variablely displayed in the variable effect pattern set in the process of step S163. , Cut-in, etc.) is executed (step S164). The notice effect pattern setting process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 39.

Following the process of step S164, a button effect pattern setting process for setting the effect pattern when executing the above-mentioned first button effect based on FIGS. 19 and 20 and the above-mentioned second button effect based on FIG. 21 is performed. Execute (step S166). This button effect pattern setting process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 40.

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 S167).

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

When the effect pattern of the first button effect (or the effect pattern of the second button effect) is set in the process of step S166, the setting information of the first button effect (or the setting information of the second button effect) is further added. The variation effect start command including the variation effect is set in the sub RAM 93, and the variation effect start command is transmitted to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120. As a result, the first button effect (or the second button effect) in which the effect pattern is determined on the sub control board 90 is realized by the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120.

Following the process of step S167, the sub CPU 91 updates the hold number stored in the sub RAM 93 to a value obtained by subtracting "1" (step S168). 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 fluctuation start command notifies the start of the fluctuation 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. 38 is a detailed flowchart of the variation effect pattern setting process in step S163 of FIG. 37. 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? It is specified 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.

When the order effect effect pattern information is set in the sub RAM 93 by the process of step S1378 in FIG. 36 described above with respect to the symbol variation this time, the sub CPU 91 sets the order as a random item. Examples of the order include "123" and "567" in addition to "123" illustrated in FIG. 18, but in the present embodiment, there is no difference in jackpot reliability with respect to these orders. Since the jackpot reliability is different depending on the color of the order effect effect, when setting the order, the effect lottery using random numbers may be executed and one of the order may be selected.

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 necessary to perform the effect with reach (step S1632: YES), the variable effect pattern of the effect with reach is set (step S1633). 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.

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that it is not necessary to perform the effect with reach (step S1632: NO), the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not the order effect effect pattern information is set in the sub RAM 93 with respect to the current symbol variation (step S1632: NO). Step S1634). Here, when it is determined that the order effect effect pattern information is not set (step S1634: NO), the variable effect pattern of the non-reach effect is set (step S1635). For example, from the non-reach variable effect pattern selection table in which a plurality of types of non-reach effect variable 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.

Further, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the order effect effect pattern information is set (step S1634: YES), the sub CPU 91 sets the variation effect pattern of the order effect (step S1636). Specifically, when the process of step S1636 is executed, since the order is set in the process of step S1631 as the effect symbol to be finally confirmed and displayed, for example, scroll display of three symbols is performed. In this state, a variable effect pattern is set in which each symbol sequence is pseudo-stopped in order so as to represent this order.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, by performing the process of step S1633 or the process of step S1635, what kind of variation pattern the effect symbol is variablely displayed, and which reach effect is to be performed when the reach effect is performed. , When developing the reach production, it will be decided how to develop the reach production. Further, when the process of step S1636 is executed, the variation effect including the setting information of the variation effect pattern of the order effect and the order effect effect pattern information set in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S1378 of FIG. 36 is included. The start command is transmitted to the audiovisual control board 100 and the lamp control board 120 in the process of step S50. As a result, the order-order effect and the order-order effect effect in the effect pattern set by the sub CPU 91 are realized by the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, as the variation pattern of the first special symbol, the variation pattern for the special variation effect described above is prepared based on FIGS. 14 to 16. When the sub CPU 91 receives the variation start command related to the first special symbol determination including the setting information of the symbol indicating the variation pattern for the special variation effect, in the process of step S1633 described above, the variation effect of the special variation effect Set the pattern.

[Preliminary effect pattern setting process by sub-control board 90]
FIG. 39 is a detailed flowchart of the advance notice effect pattern setting process in step S164 of FIG. 37, and illustrates the process performed when the variation start command related to the first special symbol determination is received in the normal game state. Following the process of step S163, the sub CPU 91 changes the first special symbol in the current symbol change based on the setting information of the change pattern of the special symbol included in the change start command received from the main control board 80. It is determined whether or not the displayed fluctuation time is longer than the predetermined time (step S1641).

By the way, when the above-mentioned stage effect is executed based on FIG. 17, a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds) is required even if the stage effect is not developed from the first stage and is ended in the first stage. Is. For this reason, while the fluctuation time is longer than the predetermined time to perform a stepwise effect on a part of the symbol fluctuation in which the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time is shorter than the predetermined time is the first. When the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, it is necessary not to perform the stepwise effect. Therefore, the sub CPU 91 executes the following processing.

That is, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the fluctuation time is shorter than the predetermined time (step S1641: NO), the advance notice effect pattern setting process ends, and the process proceeds to the button effect pattern setting process in step S166.

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the fluctuation time of the first special symbol related to the current symbol variation is longer than the predetermined time (step S1641: YES), the variation display of the first special symbol is shown in FIG. Based on this, a staged effect lottery for determining whether or not to execute the staged effect described above is executed (step S1642). Specifically, the step production random number is acquired and stored in the sub RAM 93. This step effect random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the sub control board 90, and the sub CPU 91 sets the count value at the time of receiving the fluctuation start command related to the first special symbol determination as the stage effect random number. Get as. Then, it is determined whether or not to execute the step effect based on whether or not the step effect random number matches any of the random numbers to be compared with the step effect random number stored in the sub ROM 92 in advance.

Although not shown in the figure, the sub ROM 92 compares the determination result of the first special symbol determination (whether or not it is a "big hit"), the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol, and the above-mentioned step production random number. A table associated with the random number value to be used is stored. With reference to this table, the sub CPU 91 refers to the determination result of the first special symbol determination in which the acquired stage effect random number is specified based on the variation start command received from the main control board 80, and the variation of the first special symbol. Whether or not to execute the step effect is determined based on whether or not it matches any of the random number values associated with the pattern. In this table, with respect to the determination result of the first special symbol determination, more random values are associated with "big hit" than with "loss". Further, the longer the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is, the more random values are associated with it. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the higher the jackpot reliability is, the easier it is to execute the step effect, and conversely, the lower the jackpot reliability is, the more difficult it is to execute the step effect.

Subsequently, the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not to execute the step effect based on the lottery result in step S1642 (step S1643). Here, if it is determined by the sub CPU 91 that the step effect is not executed (step S1643: NO), the advance notice effect pattern setting process is completed, and the process proceeds to step S166.

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the step effect is to be executed (step S1643: YES), the sub CPU 91 relates to the current symbol variation based on the symbol setting information included in the variation start command received from the main control board 80. It is determined whether or not the determination result of the first special symbol determination is a "big hit" (step S1644). Here, when it is determined that it is a "big hit" (step S1644: YES), the jackpot stage effect pattern selection table is read from the sub ROM 92 and set in the sub RAM 93 (step S1645), and it is determined that it is not a "big hit". In the case (step S1644: NO), the loss step effect pattern selection table is read from the sub ROM 92 and set in the sub RAM 93 (step S1646).

Then, the sub CPU 91 refers to the stage effect pattern selection table set in the sub RAM 93 by the process of step S1645 or the process of step S1646, and executes the stage effect pattern selection process of selecting the effect pattern of the stage effect (step S1647). ).

Although not shown in the figure, in the stage effect pattern selection table stored in the sub ROM 92, the determination result of the first special symbol determination, the variation pattern of the first special symbol, the effect pattern of the stage effect, and the disorder It is associated with a numerical value. In the process of step S1647, the sub CPU 91 determines the determination result of the first special symbol determination and the variation pattern of the first special symbol specified by the variation start command received from the main control board 80, and the effect acquired in the process of step S161. By reading the effect pattern of the stage effect corresponding to the random number from the stage effect pattern selection table set in the sub RAM 93, one effect pattern of the stage effect is selected. The effect pattern of the staged effect that can be selected is as described above based on FIG.

It should be noted that, in the case where the variable effect pattern of the effect symbol in which the pseudo-continuous effect is performed is set by the process of step S163, the execution of the pseudo-continuous effect exemplified in FIG. 17 (F) is suggested in a part of the cases. Stage at which the effect image to be performed is finally displayed The stage at which the effect pattern of the effect and the effect image suggesting the execution of the pseudo-continuous effect illustrated in FIG. 17 (J) are finally displayed. The production pattern of the production is selected.

In the advance notice effect pattern setting process, for example, a process of setting an effect pattern of another advance notice effect such as a dialogue advance notice or a group advance notice is also performed, but since this process is performed in the same manner as the conventional one, the description here will be described. Omit.

[Button effect pattern setting process by the sub control board 90]
FIG. 40 is a detailed flowchart of the button effect pattern setting process in step S166 of FIG. 37. The sub CPU 91 executes a series of button effect pattern setting processes illustrated in FIG. 40, following the advance notice effect pattern setting process in step S164. The sub CPU 91 first determines whether or not the variation effect pattern set in the process of step S163 is a variation effect pattern with a button effect (step S1661). The sub ROM 92 contains information indicating a variation effect pattern of the variation effect in which the first button effect is performed based on FIGS. 19 and 20, and a variation of the variation effect in which the second button effect is performed based on FIG. 21. Information indicating the production pattern is stored. With reference to these information, the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not the variation effect pattern set in the process of step S163 is the variation effect pattern of the variation effect in which the first button effect or the second button effect is performed. ..

When the sub CPU 91 determines that the variable effect pattern has a button effect (step S1661), the sub CPU 91 sets an effective period related to the button effect (step S1662). That is, regarding the first button effect (or the second button effect) performed in the current symbol variation, the above-mentioned five valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period are set based on FIG. 20, and the information thereof. Is set in the sub RAM 93. As is clear from the notation in FIG. 20, since 700 ms before and after each valid period of the first valid period to the fourth valid period is the invalid period, the first valid period to the fifth valid period are set. Therefore, the first invalid period to the fifth invalid period are inevitably set, and the execution period of the operation promotion effect is also set.

Next, the sub CPU 91 reads out the button effect pattern selection table stored in the sub ROM 92 and sets it in the sub RAM 93 (step S1663). Then, the button effect pattern selection random number for selecting the button effect pattern is acquired and stored in the sub RAM 93 (step S1664). This button effect pattern selection random number is added by "1" each time the random number update process is performed on the sub control board 90, and the sub CPU 91 sets the count value at the time when the fluctuation start command is received from the main control board 80 as the button effect pattern. Get as a selected random number.

Subsequently, the sub CPU 91 uses the button effect pattern selection table set in the sub RAM 93 in the process of step S1663 to obtain the determination result of the special symbol determination this time and the button effect pattern selection random number acquired / stored in the process of step S1664. By reading out the corresponding button effect pattern, one button effect pattern is selected (step S1665).

The sub ROM 92 stores a first button effect pattern selection table for selecting the effect pattern of the first button effect and a second button effect pattern selection table for selecting the effect pattern of the second button effect. When the variable effect pattern related to the variable effect in which the first button effect is performed is set, the first button effect pattern selection table is set in the sub RAM 93, and the variable effect related to the second button effect is performed. When the variable effect pattern is set, the second button effect pattern selection table is set in the sub RAM 93.

Following the process of step S1665, the sub CPU 91 provides information indicating the validity period set in the process of step S1662 and information indicating the button effect pattern selected in the process of step S1665 to be a button for instructing the execution of the button effect. It is set in the sub RAM 93 as the effect pattern setting information (step S1666).

When the button effect pattern setting information is set by the process of step S1666, the variable effect start command including the button effect pattern setting information is transmitted to the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120 by the command transmission process of step S50. Will be done. As a result, the button effect (first button effect, second button effect, etc.) in which the effect pattern is determined on the sub control board 90 is realized by the image / sound control board 100 and the lamp control board 120.

In the first button effect pattern selection table, following the left reel variation effect, the first effect pattern in which a specific diamond-shaped pattern is stopped and displayed in the lower left display area on the display screen 70, and the left reel variation effect are followed. A second effect pattern is defined in which the symbol "x" is stopped and displayed in the lower left display area of the display screen 70. By referring to the first button effect pattern selection table, the effect of the first button effect is specified. As the pattern, a first effect pattern or a second effect pattern is selected.

Further, in the second button effect pattern selection table, a large number of effect patterns related to the second button effect in which the number of executions of the attack technique promotion effect and the promotion pattern of the attack technique are different from each other are defined, and the second button effect pattern selection table By executing the process of step S1665 with reference to, one of the various effect patterns described above is selected as the effect pattern of the second button effect based on FIG.

[Operation acceptance processing by sub-control board 90]
FIG. 41 is a detailed flowchart of the operation acceptance process in step S40 of FIG. 31. Following the command reception process (see FIG. 31) in step S10, the sub CPU 91 determines whether or not it is in the valid period, as illustrated in FIG. 41 (step S401). Specifically, whether or not the validity period is in effect based on the setting information of the validity period set in the sub RAM 93 by the process of step S1662 described above and the elapsed time from the start of the variable display of the special symbol. Is determined. If the valid period setting information is not stored in the sub RAM 93, it is determined that the valid period is not in progress. If it is determined in step S401 that the period is not valid (step S401: NO), the operation acceptance process is completed and the process proceeds to the command transmission process in step S50 (see FIG. 31).

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the valid period is in effect (step S401: YES), whether or not an operation signal indicating that the first effect button 35 has been operated has been input from the first effect button detection sensor 351. Based on the above, it is determined whether or not the first effect button detection sensor 351 is turned “ON” (step S402). Here, when it is determined that the first effect button detection sensor 351 is not "ON" (step S402: NO), that is, the operation signal indicating that the first effect button 35 has been operated is not input. In this case, the process proceeds to step S405 described later.

By the way, as described above based on FIGS. 19 and 20, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the first SP reach (or the first SP reach (or the first) after the end of the first button effect during the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state. When 2SP reach) is executed, if the player can operate the first effect button 35 even once during any of the valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period, the left reel fluctuates according to the operation. It is decided to end the production and perform an operation-compatible production in which the diamond-shaped pattern is stopped and displayed.

However, if the first button effect is performed only when the first SP reach (or the second SP reach) is executed during the variable display of the first special symbol, when the first button effect occurs, the first button effect is performed. Since the execution of the 1SP reach (or the second SP reach) becomes rich and the necessity for the player to operate the first effect button 35 during each valid period related to the first button effect is reduced, the first button is pressed. There is a possibility that a sufficient production effect cannot be obtained by the production.

Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, in order to suppress the occurrence of such a problem, when the first SP reach (or the second SP reach) is not executed during the variable display of the first special symbol in the normal gaming state. Also generates a first button effect, and even if the player can operate the first effect button 35 during any of the valid periods from the first valid period to the fifth valid period related to the first button effect, the operation is performed. The left reel fluctuation effect is continued by treating it as an invalid operation without executing the operation-corresponding effect according to the above (that is, the operation is not regarded as an effective operation).

On the other hand, in the second button effect described above based on FIG. 21, even if the player operates the first effect button 35 during the valid period, the operation is performed according to the execution pattern of the attack technique promotion effect set by the sub CPU 91. The corresponding attack technique promotion effect may not be executed, and in order to realize such effect control, the first effect button performed during the valid period based on the set execution pattern of the attack technique promotion effect. It is necessary to treat a part of the operations of 35 as invalid operations so as not to execute the attack technique promotion effect as the operation corresponding effect.

As described above, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, with respect to both the first button effect and the second button effect, a part of the operation of the first effect button 35 performed during the valid period is regarded as an invalid operation. Since it is necessary not to execute, the following processing is performed.

That is, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the first effect button detection sensor 351 is "ON" (step S402: YES), that is, an operation signal indicating that the first effect button 35 has been operated is input. In this case, it is determined whether or not the operation of the first effect button 35 is an effective operation (step S403). Specifically, when the operation of the first effect button 35 is an operation during the valid period related to the first button effect, the variation effect pattern set by the variation effect pattern setting process is the first SP reach (or the second SP reach). If it is a variable effect pattern in which is executed, it is determined that the operation is an effective operation, and conversely, if it is a variable effect pattern in which the first SP reach (or the second SP reach) is not executed, it is determined that the operation is not an effective operation. do. Further, when the operation of the first effect button 35 is an operation during the valid period related to the second button effect, the attack technique promotion effect is executed according to the operation according to the set execution pattern of the attack technique promotion effect. If it is determined in advance, the operation is determined to be a valid operation, and if not, the operation is determined not to be a valid operation.

When the sub CPU 91 determines that the operation of the first effect button 35 is an effective operation (step S403: YES), the sub RAM 93 issues a first effect button operation notification command for notifying that the first effect button 35 has been operated. (Step S404). This first effect button operation notification command is transmitted to the image / sound control board 100 (and the lamp control board 120) by the command transmission process in step S50. On the other hand, when the image / sound control CPU 101 of the image / sound control board 100 receives the first effect button operation notification command during the execution of the display control related to the first button effect, the image / sound control CPU 101 ends the left reel variation effect. When the display control is performed to realize the operation-compatible effect of stopping and displaying the diamond-shaped pattern, and the first effect button operation notification command is received during the execution of the display control related to the second button effect, the sub CPU 91 gives an instruction. Display control is performed to realize the promotion of attack techniques.

For example, when the first effect button 35 is operated during the valid period related to the first effect button operation promotion effect illustrated in FIG. 10 (E), it is necessary to treat a part of the operation as an invalid operation. Therefore, if the first effect button 35 is operated during the valid period of the button effect different from the first button effect and the second button effect, it is unconditionally determined as "NO" in the determination process of step S403. , The process proceeds to step S404.

When the sub CPU 91 executes the process of step S404, when it is determined that the first effect button detection sensor 351 is not "ON" (step S402: NO), or the operation of the first effect button 35 is valid. When it is determined that the operation is not performed (step S403: NO), the second effect button is based on whether or not an operation signal indicating that the second effect button 36 has been operated is input from the second effect button detection sensor 361. It is determined whether or not the detection sensor 361 is "ON" (step S405). Here, when it is determined that the second effect button detection sensor 361 is not "ON" (step S405: NO), a series of operation acceptance processes are completed, and the process proceeds to the command transmission process in step S50. ..

On the other hand, when the sub CPU 91 determines that the second effect button detection sensor 361 is "ON" (step S405: YES), the sub CPU 91 notifies that the second effect button 35 has been operated. Is set in the sub RAM 93 (step S406). This second effect button operation notification command is transmitted to the image / sound control board 100 (and the lamp control board 120) by the command transmission process in step S50. On the other hand, the image / sound control CPU 101 of the image / sound control board 100 is, for example, a second effect button operation notification command during execution of display control related to the second effect button operation promotion effect exemplified in FIG. 10 (G). Is received, display control is performed to realize a hit notification effect (or a loss notification effect).

[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. 42. Here, FIG. 42 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. 42 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 that controls 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. 43.

Following the process of step S71, the image / sound control CPU 101 executes an effect sound output control process for outputting various effect sounds from the speaker 38 so as to synchronize with or asynchronously with the screen display performed on the display screen 70. (Step S72).

Following the process in step S72, the audiovisual control CPU 101 executes the data transmission control process (step S73). Specifically, data related to 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 by the data transfer process in step S60 of FIG. As a result, the frame lamp 37, the board lamp 5, the movable decorative member 14, and the like are controlled so as to be synchronized with the effect executed by the display screen 70 and the speaker 38.

[Image display control processing by the image / sound control board 100]
FIG. 43 is a detailed flowchart of the image display control process in step S71 of FIG. 42. The image / sound control CPU 101 first determines whether or not a command transmitted from the sub control board 90 has been received (step S711). Here, if it is determined that the command has not been received (step S711: NO), the process proceeds to step S72.

On the other hand, when the image / sound control CPU 101 determines that the command from the sub control board 90 has been received (step S711: YES), the setting information included in the command is set in the control RAM 103 (step S712). 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. (Step S713), and the display list is set in the display list storage area of the VRAM 106 (step S714). When the VDP 104 executes the drawing process based on the display list set in the display list storage area, the effect display instructed by the sub-control board 90 is realized.

[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 present invention is applied to a so-called probabilistic loop type pachinko gaming machine has been described, but the present invention has been described as a so-called ST machine or a one-type pachinko gaming 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 goes without saying that the configuration of the gaming 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 number 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.

[Reference Invention]
Hereinafter, inventions related to the embodiments (Examples) disclosed in the present specification will be disclosed as reference inventions.

(Reference Invention 1)
The gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-1 is
Input means that can be input by the player,
Judgment means for determining whether or not to execute a special game that is advantageous to the player,
The effect control means for controlling the execution of the effect based on the result of the determination is provided.
The effect control means
An input promotion effect that prompts the player to input the input means is executed, and a plurality of valid periods in which the input to the input means is valid are generated during the execution of the input promotion effect.
When an input is made to the input means during the valid period, it is possible to execute an input corresponding effect according to the input.

According to this gaming machine, even if the player misses the input timing during the valid period, the valid period reoccurs, so that the player cannot input to the input means during the valid period. Therefore, it is possible to easily reduce the possibility that a problem such as the inability to generate an input-corresponding effect will occur.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-2 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-1.
The effect control means
When the input to the input means is input while the input promotion effect is being executed and not during the valid period, the input-corresponding effect corresponding to the input is not executed. Is.

According to this gaming machine, the input-corresponding effect is executed only when the input promotion effect is being executed and the input to the input means is performed during the valid period. Therefore, the player can enjoy inputting while estimating the valid period, and can improve the probability of occurrence of the input-corresponding effect by generating the valid period a plurality of times.

(Reference Invention 2)
The gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-1 is
Judgment means for determining whether or not to execute a special game that is advantageous to the player,
When the determination is made, the symbol display control means for causing the predetermined symbol display means to display the special symbol in a variable manner and then stopping and displaying the special symbol indicating the result of the determination.
It is equipped with a production control means that controls the execution of the production.
The effect control means
During the variation display of the special symbol, it is possible to execute a plurality of short variation displays in which the effect symbol for notifying the result of the determination is variablely displayed over a time shorter than the variation time of the special symbol.
The greater the number of executions of the short variation display executed during one variation display of the special symbol, the easier it is for the special game to be executed.
The effect control means
A suggestion image suggesting the number of executions of the short variation display executed during one variation display of the special symbol is displayed, and the suggestion image is displayed so that the number of executions suggested by the suggestion image changes. It is characterized by being updatable.

According to this gaming machine, the larger the number of executions of the short variation display executed during one special symbol variation display, the easier it is for the special game to be executed, whereas the special game is likely to be executed during one special symbol variation display. Since a suggestion image suggesting the number of executions of the short-variable display to be executed is displayed, it is possible to effectively improve the player's expectation that the special game is executed by displaying the suggestion image. Is. In addition, since the display of the suggestion image may be updated so that the number of executions suggested by the suggestion image changes, the effect is more interesting than when the number of executions suggested by the suggestion image is fixed. It can be executed and a high effect can be obtained.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-2 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-1.
The effect control means
When displaying the suggestion image suggesting the number of executions of all the short variation displays executed during one variation display of the special symbol, and the above suggesting the number of executions of some of the short variation displays. It is characterized in that there are times when a suggestion image is displayed.

According to this gaming machine, in addition to the case where a suggestion image suggesting the number of executions of all the short variation displays executed during one special symbol variation display is displayed, one special symbol variation display A suggestion image suggesting the number of executions of some of the short-variable displays executed during may be displayed, and in the latter case, the short-variable display is executed more times than the suggested image suggests. It will be. For this reason, it is possible to make the player who thinks that the same number of short-variable displays as the number of executions suggested by the suggested image are executed feel unexpected, and the effect of displaying the suggested image is improved. It is possible.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-3 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-1 or Reference Invention 2-2.
The effect control means
When the display of the suggestion image is updated and displayed so that the number of executions suggested by the suggestion image being displayed is reduced as the short variation display is started in the state where the suggestion image is displayed. It is characterized in that the display of the suggestion image is sometimes maintained so that the number of executions suggested by the suggestion image in the image does not change.

According to this gaming machine, the display of the suggestion image is updated so that the number of executions suggested by the suggestion image being displayed is reduced as the short-variable display is started while the suggestion image is displayed. In addition to the case, the display of the suggestion image may be maintained so that the number of executions suggested by the suggestion image being displayed does not change. It will be executed. In this way, since the short-variable display that is not suggested by the suggestion image may be executed, it is possible to make the player feel unexpected, and to improve the effect of the effect of displaying the suggestion image. Is possible.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-4 is a gaming machine of any of Reference Inventions 2-1 to 2-3.
The effect control means
It is characterized in that the display of the suggested image may be updated so that the number of executions suggested by the suggested image being displayed increases from the first number to the second number, which is larger than the first number. be.

According to this gaming machine, the number of executions suggested by the suggestion image being displayed may increase from the first number to the second number (more than the first number), so that the short variation display is based on the suggestion image. It is possible to make the player who thought that the special game is unlikely to be executed because the number of executions of the special game is small, and the player's expectation that the special game is executed. Can be effectively improved.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-5 is any of the gaming machines of Reference Invention 2-1 to Reference Invention 2-4.
The effect control means
Based on the result of the determination, the suggestion image being displayed is used as the last short variation display in the variation display of the special symbol is started in the state where the suggestion image is displayed. It is characterized in that a specific effect can be executed.

According to this gaming machine, as the last short variation display (during one special symbol variation display) is started in the state where the suggestion image is displayed, the suggestion image being displayed is used for identification. The production may be executed. In this way, since the suggestion image has both the function of suggesting the number of times the short variation display is executed and the function of executing the specific effect, the effect of the effect of displaying the suggestion image can be further improved. In addition, the specific effect can effectively improve the player's expectation that the special game will be executed.

(Reference Invention 3)
The gaming machine of Reference Invention 3-1 is
Judgment means for determining whether or not to execute a special game that is advantageous to the player,
It is equipped with a production control means that controls the execution of the production.
The effect control means
The first display control that variablely displays the identification information that notifies the result of the determination, and
It is characterized in that it is possible to execute a second display control in which the specific effect image including the identification information is displayed and the identification information is variablely displayed by changing the specific effect image.

According to this gaming machine, in addition to the case where the identification information is variablely displayed, the identification information may be variablely displayed due to the fluctuation of the specific effect image including the identification information. Therefore, the variation pattern of the identification information becomes abundant, and it is possible to improve the interest of the effect of displaying the identification information in a variable manner.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 3-2 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 3-1.
The effect control means
It is characterized in that the second display control for changing the identification information in the specific effect image can be executed while the specific effect image is changed.

According to this gaming machine, the movement of the identification information is rich in variation as compared with the case where the identification information is changed with the identification information fixed to the specific effect image, and the identification information is displayed in a variable manner. It is possible to further improve the interest of the production.

(Reference Invention 4)
The gaming machine of Reference Invention 4-1 is
Judgment means for determining whether or not to execute a special game that is advantageous to the player,
It is equipped with a production control means that controls the execution of the production.
The effect control means
It is possible to display a plurality of effect symbols, each of which has identification information.
When displaying a plurality of effect symbols in the first combination indicating that the special game is determined to be executed by the determination means, and when the identification information of each effect symbol is a specific combination different from the first combination. There are times when multiple production symbols are displayed in the second combination that becomes
In order to suggest that a plurality of effect symbols are displayed in the second combination, it is possible to execute a change effect display showing a state in which a predetermined effect image extends in a predetermined direction. ..

By the way, when a plurality of effect symbols are displayed in the first combination indicating that the special game is determined to be executed, it is highly likely that the player pays attention to these effect symbols. On the other hand, when a plurality of effect symbols are displayed in a combination different from the first combination, it is considered unlikely that the player pays attention to these effect symbols.

On the other hand, according to the gaming machine of the first invention, when a plurality of effect symbols are displayed in a second combination different from the first combination and in which the identification information of each effect symbol is a specific combination. It is suggested that the change effect display showing how the predetermined effect image extends in the predetermined direction is executed, and the plurality of effect symbols are displayed in the second combination. Therefore, even when a plurality of effect symbols are displayed in the second combination, which is less likely to be watched by the player than in the first combination, the player's line of sight is easily guided to the plurality of effect symbols. can do.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 4-2 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 4-1.
The identification information possessed by each of the plurality of effect symbols is a number.
The change effect display is an effect display showing how the predetermined effect image extends in a predetermined direction according to a predetermined rule based on each number of the plurality of effect symbols displayed in the second combination. It is a feature.

According to the gaming machine of the reference invention 4-2, a change effect representing a state in which a predetermined effect image is extended in a predetermined direction according to a predetermined rule based on each number of a plurality of effect symbols displayed in the second combination. The display is executed. For this reason, as compared with the case of executing the change effect display showing how the predetermined effect image extends in the predetermined direction without any regularity, it is possible that a plurality of effect symbols are displayed in the second combination. It is possible to suggest effectively.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 4-3 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 4-2.
The change effect display is an effect display showing how the predetermined effect image is stretched according to the predetermined rule that a plurality of effect symbols displayed in the second combination are indicated in order from the smallest number to the largest number. It is characterized by being.

According to the gaming machine of Reference Invention 4-3, the effect image is stretched so as to indicate a plurality of effect symbols displayed in the second combination in order from the smallest number to the largest number by the change effect display. The change effect display to represent is performed. Therefore, the player can easily visually follow the displayed plurality of effect symbols in ascending order of numbers, and can easily recognize the plurality of effect symbols.

In addition, any two or more inventions of the above-mentioned reference inventions 1 to 4 may be combined.

1 Gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine), 7 Image display device, 21 1st starting port, 22 2nd starting port, 23 opening / closing member, 26 1st big winning opening, 28 2nd big winning opening, 35 1st production button, 36 2nd effect button, 41 1st special symbol display, 42 2nd special symbol display, 70 display screen, 74 short fluctuation count, 75 remaining short fluctuation count notice image, 80 main control board, 81 main CPU, 90 sub Control board, 91 sub CPU, 100 image / sound control board, 101 image / sound control CPU, 120 lamp control board, 121 lamp CPU, 211 first start port sensor, 221 second start port sensor, 351 first effect button detection sensor, 352 1st effect button lamp, 353 vibration motor, 361 2nd effect button detection sensor, 362 2nd 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, the symbol display control means for causing the predetermined symbol display means to display the special symbol in a variable manner and then stopping and displaying the special symbol indicating the result of the determination.
A gaming machine characterized by being provided with an effect control means for controlling the execution of an effect.

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