JP2021164612A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To increase game amusement in a game machine.SOLUTION: A game machine includes performance control means capable of executing a game using a symbol as a performance in display means. The symbol includes a special symbol that is not displayed as a result of the game, and the special symbol includes a specification unit, and a decorative unit different from the specification unit. The performance control means changes the mode of the specification unit at a predetermined timing, and changes the mode of the decorative unit differently from the specification unit or does not change the mode of the decorative unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 37

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine provided with an effect control means capable of executing a game by using a symbol as an effect in the display means.

In a conventional gaming machine, there is a gaming machine capable of executing a game using a symbol as an effect (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2017-77362

However, there was room to further improve the interest of the game in relation to the design.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to enhance the interest of gaming in a gaming machine.

In a typical embodiment of the present invention, in a gaming machine provided with an effect control means capable of executing a game by using a symbol as an effect in the display means, the symbol is not displayed as a result of the game. The special symbol includes a specific portion and a decorative portion different from the specific portion, and the effect control means changes the mode of the specific portion at a predetermined timing and changes the mode of the decorative portion. , It is changed or not changed differently from the specific part.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game in the gaming machine.

It is a perspective view which looked at the game machine from the front side. It is a front view of a game board. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the game control system of a game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the production control system of a game machine. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the first half part of a main process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the latter half part of a main process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a timer interrupt process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the probability setting change / confirmation process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special figure game processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the start port switch monitoring process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special figure start port switch common processing. Special figure It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of ordinary processing. Special FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a procedure of fluctuation start processing. Special FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a procedure of fluctuation start processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the jackpot flag 1 setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the jackpot flag 2 setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special figure information setting processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the variation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of 2 byte distribution processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a sorting process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the fluctuation start information setting processing. It is a flowchart which shows the main processing of an effect control device. It is a flowchart which shows the received command check process. It is a flowchart which shows the received command analysis processing. It is a flowchart which shows the one-shot system command processing. It is a flowchart which shows the look-ahead symbol system command processing. It is a flowchart which shows the look-ahead fluctuation system command processing. It is a flowchart which shows the symbol system command processing. It is a flowchart which shows the variable system command processing. It is a flowchart which shows the variation effect setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a hit system command processing. It is a screen transition diagram which showed the display screen of a display device in time series, and is an example of the screen transition when the screen division effect in a time saving mode is performed. It is a screen transition diagram which showed the display screen of a display device in time series, and is a modification of the screen transition when the screen division effect in a time saving mode is performed. It is a screen transition diagram which showed the display screen of a display device in time series, and is the modification 2 of the screen transition when the screen division effect in a time saving mode is performed. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the effect button input process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which illustrates the variable symbol which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. In the second embodiment, it is a figure which illustrates the special symbol displayed on the display screen of a display device under a predetermined condition. It is a figure which shows the change example of the symbol form of the special symbol which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. In the second embodiment, it is a screen transition diagram (No. 1) in which the display screen of the display device is illustrated in chronological order. In the second embodiment, it is a screen transition diagram (No. 2) in which the display screen of the display device is illustrated in chronological order. In the second embodiment, it is a screen transition diagram (No. 3) in which the display screen of the display device is illustrated in chronological order. In the second embodiment, it is a figure which shows an example in which a ghost effect occurs in the screen transition of the display screen of a display device. In the second embodiment, it is a figure which shows the example in which the re-lottery effect occurs in the screen transition of the display screen of a display device. The second embodiment is an example of a screen transition diagram showing the display screen of the display device in the jackpot state in chronological order. It is a figure explaining the structure of the lamp display device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a screen transition diagram which shows the effect example on the display screen of the display device with respect to 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the display priority of the same character of a different aspect with respect to 2nd Embodiment.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the gaming machine, the front, back, left, and right refer to the direction seen by the player during the game.

[Overall view of the gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a gaming machine.

The gaming machine 10 includes an opening / closing frame that is rotatably attached to the frame 11 fixed to the island equipment via a hinge. The opening / closing frame is composed of a front frame 12 (main body frame) and a glass frame 15. Further, the left end side of the opening / closing frame is the shaft attachment end side attached to the hinge, and the right end side thereof is the open end side opened by rotation.

A game board 30 (see FIG. 2) is arranged on the front frame 12, and a glass frame 15 having a cover glass 14 covering the front surface of the game board 30 is attached. The cover glass 14 functions as a game viewing area that makes the game area 32 (see FIG. 2) formed on the game board 30 visible.

The front frame 12 and the glass frame 15 can be opened individually. For example, by opening only the glass frame 15, the game area 32 of the game board 30 can be accessed. Further, by opening the front frame 12 in a state where the glass frame 15 is not opened, the game control device (main board) 100 (see FIG. 3) and the like arranged on the back side of the game board 30 can be accessed. Can be done.

Various frame constituent members are arranged on the edge portion around the cover glass 14 of the glass frame 15.

Decorative devices 18a and 18b capable of producing light emission according to the gaming state are arranged in the upper center and the left side of the glass frame 15. The decoration devices 18a and 18b accommodate lighting members such as LEDs inside, and perform a light emitting effect according to the game state. The lighting members arranged inside the decorative devices 18a and 18b form a part of the frame decorative device 18 (see FIG. 4).

An upper speaker 19a is arranged at the upper right corner portion and the upper left corner portion of the glass frame 15, respectively. Apart from these upper speakers 19a, two lower speakers 19b are provided below the gaming machine 10. The lower speaker 19b is arranged in the lower left corner portion of the glass frame 15 and the lower right corner portion of the front frame 12. The upper speaker 19a and the lower speaker 19b emit sound effects, alarm sounds, notification sounds, and the like.

On the right side of the glass frame 15, a protruding effect unit 13 that extends in the vertical direction of the gaming machine 10 and projects forward (on the player side) is arranged. The protrusion effect unit 13 is an effect device that performs a light emission effect or the like according to the progress state of the game. The lighting member arranged inside the protrusion effect unit 13 also constitutes a part of the frame decoration device 18 (see FIG. 4).

An upper plate unit having an upper plate 21 capable of storing game balls is attached to the lower part of the glass frame 15. The upper plate 21 is formed in a box shape with an open upper surface. The game balls stored in the upper plate 21 are supplied to the ball launcher (not shown) one by one.

The upper plate unit further includes an effect operation device that receives an input operation from the player, a ball lending operation device that accepts an input operation from the player, and a decoration device 22 that performs a light emission effect or the like according to the game state. ..

The effect operation device is an operation device in which the touch panel 25b is incorporated in the effect button 25, and is provided in the center of the upper part of the upper plate unit so that the player can easily operate the effect button 25.

By operating the effect operation device by the player, it is possible to perform an effect in which the player's operation is intervened in the special figure variation display game (game) displayed on the display device 41 (see FIG. 2). For example, it is possible to select an effect pattern (effect mode) or execute a notice effect that announces the result of the variable display game (game) corresponding to the start memory in advance. The variable display game includes a special figure variable display game, and when it is simply a variable display game, it is referred to as a special figure variable display game in this specification.

Further, the effect pattern may be changed not only during the execution of the variable display game but also by the player operating the effect operation device during the non-execution.

The game state when the variable display game is executed consists of a plurality of game states. The normal gaming state (normal state) is a gaming state in which no special gaming state has occurred. Further, the special game state is, for example, a time saving state as a specific game state, a state in which a special result (for example, a big hit) is likely to occur in a variable display game (probability variation state, a probability fluctuation state), or a big hit state (special game state). ), Small hit game state (small hit state).

Here, the probability change state (specific game state) continues until the next big hit occurs (loop type), continues until a predetermined number of variable display games are executed (number cut type, ST), and There are things that continue until a predetermined probability fall lottery is won (fall lottery type).

Further, it may be possible to always generate a probabilistic state when a big hit occurs without determining whether or not to generate a probable change state by a big hit symbol random number, or to provide a winning device or the like provided with a specific area to specify. A probabilistic state may be generated when the game ball passes through the area.

The ball lending operation device is an operation device operated when a player rents a game ball, and is provided on the upper right side of the upper plate unit. The ball lending operation device includes a ball lending button 27, a return button 28, and a balance display unit 26. The ball lending button 27 is a button operated by the player when renting a game ball, and the return button 28 is a button for ejecting a prepaid card or the like from a card unit (not shown) arranged adjacent to the game machine 10. It is a button operated by the player. The balance display unit 26 is a display area for displaying the balance of a prepaid card or the like.

The decoration device 22 is a device that houses a lighting member such as an LED inside and performs a light emitting effect or the like according to a game state, and is provided on the front side portion of the upper plate unit. The lighting member arranged inside the decoration device 22 constitutes a part of the frame decoration device 18 (see FIG. 4).

An operation handle 24 for controlling the operation of the ball launching device (not shown) and a game ball can be stored in the lower part of the front frame 12 below the glass frame 15 provided with the above-mentioned upper plate unit and the like. A lower plate 23 is provided.

The operation handle 24 is located at the lower right of the front frame 12 and below the lower speaker 19b on the right side. When the player rotates the operation handle 24, the ball launcher launches the game ball supplied from the upper plate 21 into the game area 32 of the game board 30. The rate of fire of the game ball launched from the ball launcher is set to increase as the amount of rotation of the operation handle 24 increases. That is, the ball launching device can change the firing force, which is the force (speed) for launching the game ball into the game area, in response to the operation of the operation handle 24 by the player, and the game can be played in various launch modes having different launching forces. Can fire a ball. The launch mode includes a left-handed hit (normal hit) in which the game ball is allowed to flow down on the left side of the game area 32, and a right-handed hit in which the game ball is caused to flow down on the right side of the game area 32.

The lower plate 23 is arranged below the upper plate unit at a predetermined distance from the upper plate unit. The lower plate 23 has a ball punching hole 23a that penetrates the bottom surface of the lower plate 23 in the vertical direction, and an opening / closing operation unit 23b for opening and closing the ball punching hole 23a. When the player operates the opening / closing operation unit 23b to open the ball pulling hole 23a, the game ball stored in the lower plate 23 can be discharged to the outside through the ball pulling hole 23a.

[Game board]
Subsequently, the game board 30 of the game machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view of the gaming board 30 provided in the gaming machine 10.

As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 30 includes a flat plate-shaped game board main body 30a that serves as a mounting base for various members. The game board main body 30a is made of wood or synthetic resin, and a game area 32 surrounded by a guide rail 31 is provided on the front surface of the game board main body 30a. The gaming machine 10 is configured to launch a gaming ball from a ball launching device into a gaming area 32 surrounded by a guide rail 31 to play a game. A windmill, an obstacle nail, or the like is arranged in the game area 32 as a member for changing the flow direction of the game ball, and the launched game ball flows down the game area 32 while changing the rolling direction by these members.

A center case (front component) 40 that forms a window portion that serves as a display area for a variable display game is attached to substantially the center of the game area 32. Behind the window portion formed in the center case 40, a display device 41 as an effect display device (variable display device) that variablely displays (variablely displays) a plurality of identification information is arranged. The display device 41 is provided with, for example, a liquid crystal display, and is arranged so that the displayed contents can be visually recognized from the front side of the game board 30 through the window portion of the center case 40. The display device 41 is not limited to the one provided with a liquid crystal display, and may be provided with a display such as an EL or CRT.

A plurality of variable display areas are provided on the display screen (display unit) of the display device 41, and identification information (special symbol) and a character that directs the variable display game are displayed in each variable display area. In addition, images based on the progress of the game (big hit display, fanfare display, ending display, etc.) are displayed on the display screen.

Further, the center case 40 has an inflow port 40a to the warp passage 40e for guiding the game ball flowing down the game area 32 to the inside of the center case 40, and a stage on which the game ball passing through the warp passage 40e can roll. A portion 40b is provided. The stage portion 40b of the center case 40 includes a first starting winning opening 36 (which may be simply referred to as a starting winning opening 36) and a third starting winning opening 42 (which may simply be referred to as a starting winning opening 42). Since it is arranged above the mouth unit 101, the game ball that has rolled on the stage portion 40b can easily win the first start winning opening 36 and the third starting winning opening 42.

An upper effect unit 40c and a side effect unit 40d are provided on the upper part and the right side of the center case 40, respectively. The upper effect unit 40c (which may be a movable accessory) and the side effect unit 40d (which may be a movable accessory) form a part of the board decoration device 46 (see FIG. 4) and the board effect device 44 (see FIG. 4). doing.

A normal symbol start gate (normal symbol start gate) 34 is provided in the game area 32 on the right side of the center case 40. Inside the normal drawing start gate 34, a gate switch (SW) 34a (see FIG. 3) for detecting a game ball that has passed through the normal drawing start gate 34 is provided. When the game ball driven into the game area 32 passes through the normal map start gate 34, the normal map variation display game is executed.

A general winning opening 35 is arranged in the lower left game area 32 of the center case 40, and a general winning opening 35 is also arranged in the lower right game area 32 of the center case 40. The winning of the game ball into the general winning opening 35 is detected by the winning opening switches (SW) 35a to 35n (see FIG. 3) provided in the general winning opening 35.

A start winning opening unit 101 is provided in the game area 32 below the center case 40. At the bottom of the start winning opening unit 101, a first starting winning opening 36 (first starting winning area, starting opening 1) that gives a starting condition (starting condition) of a special figure 1 variable display game when a game ball wins a prize. And a third start winning opening 42 (third starting winning area, starting opening 3) that gives a start condition (starting condition) of the special figure 2 variable display game when the game ball wins a prize.

The start winning opening unit 101 is configured so that the game balls entered from the common entrance 103 can be distributed by the winning switching mechanism 105 so that the first starting winning opening 36 and the third starting winning opening 42 can be alternately won. As the winning switching mechanism 105, a known mechanism (for example, described in JP-A-2015-36026 and JP-A-2015-77230) can be used. The winning switching mechanism 105 constitutes an area changing means for changing the winning area.

The winning switching mechanism 105 distributes the game ball entered from the common entrance 103 of the starting winning opening unit 101 to the left side (first starting winning opening 36 side) and the right side (third starting winning opening 42 side), and the starting winning opening unit Let it flow down in 101. At the time of left-handed hitting in which the game ball flows down on the left side of the game area 32, the game ball is more likely to flow into the common entrance 103 of the starting winning opening unit 101 than at the time of right-handed hitting.

The winning switching mechanism 105 includes a rotating member that rotates about a rotation axis with respect to the main body of the starting winning opening unit 101, and a stopper member that stops the rotation of the rotating member. The rotating member has three extending portions extending from the axis of rotation in three directions. The three extending portions provide an L-shaped accommodating portion for accommodating the game ball flowing down to the first starting winning opening 36 and an L-shaped accommodating portion accommodating the game ball flowing down to the third starting winning opening 42. It is formed.

The winning switching mechanism 105 alternately rotates the rotating member to the left side and the right side, and alternately switches the starting winning opening for the game ball to win the first starting winning opening 36 and the third starting winning opening 42. Unless there is an error, the game ball that has entered the common entrance 103 of the start winning opening unit 101 alternates between the left side (first starting winning opening 36 side) and the right side (third starting winning opening 42 side) by the winning switching mechanism 105. The first starting winning opening 36 and the third starting winning opening 42 will be alternately won (balls).

In the game area 32 on the right side of the center case 40, a second start winning opening (starting condition) for giving a start condition (starting condition) of the special figure 2 variable display game based on the winning of the game ball below the normal drawing start gate 34 ( A normal variable winning device 37 provided with a second starting winning area) is provided. The ordinary variable winning device 37 includes a movable member (movable piece) 37b that converts a game ball into a state in which it is easy to flow in by rotating the upper end side in a direction in which the upper end side falls to the right. When the movable member 37b is in the closed state, the game ball cannot win the normal variable winning device 37. When the game ball wins the first start winning opening 36, the second starting winning opening (normal variable winning device 37), or the third starting winning opening 42, the special figure variation display game is executed as an auxiliary game. ..

The movable member 37b is a so-called electric chew type ordinary electric accessory, and rotates via the normal electric solenoid 37c (see FIG. 3) when the result of the normal figure variation display game becomes a predetermined stop display mode. Then, the game ball changes to an open state (a state in which the game is easy to win, which is advantageous for the player), in which the game ball easily flows into the normally variable winning device 37.

The movable member 37b is controlled by the game control device 100, which will be described later. The game control device 100 increases the frequency of occurrence of a winning easy state by shortening the fluctuation time of the normal map variation display game and setting the hit probability of the normal map variation display game to a higher probability than usual, or a normal game state. By making the time for which the easy-to-win state occurs longer than the easy-to-win state that occurs in the above-mentioned specific game state, a time-saving state (general power support state) is generated. In addition, even in the probability change state (excluding the latent probability change state) as the specific game state, the time saving state (Public power support state) occurs in duplicate.

In the game area 32 at the lower left of the normal variable winning device 37, a special opening / closing door 39c of an attacker type that opens the big winning opening by retracting from the front to the back by the large winning opening solenoid 39b (see FIG. 3) is provided. A variable winning device 39 is provided. The special variable prize device 39 converts the large prize opening from a closed state (a closed state disadvantageous to the player) to an open state (a special game state advantageous to the player) according to the result of the special figure variation display game, and wins a large prize. By facilitating the inflow of game balls into the mouth, a predetermined game value (prize ball) is given to the player. In the large winning opening, a count switch 39a (large winning opening switch 39a, see FIG. 3) is provided as a detection means for detecting the game ball that has entered the large winning opening.

A specific area 86 (so-called V winning opening) is provided inside the variable winning device unit 107 in which the special variable winning device 39 is provided. When a game ball enters the specific area 86 (V winning opening), the probability change state (high probability state, specific game state) after the end of the big hit is determined. The specific area 86 may be opened for a long time so that the game ball can easily pass through only in the case of a probability variation jackpot. The game control device 100 can detect the passage of the game ball (V winning) into the specific area 86 via a sensor (specific area switch 72 described later) or the like, and when the V winning is detected, the game shifts to a probable change state after the jackpot ends. In addition to confirming that the operation is to be performed, information (such as a command for passing through a specific area) indicating that a V prize has been won is transmitted to the effect control device 300 described later. Then, the effect control device 300 can notify the V prize on the display device 41 or the like. The variable winning device unit 107 is provided with a general winning opening 35 in the game area 32 at the lower right, in addition to the large winning opening of the special variable winning device 39.

When the game ball wins a prize in the general winning opening 35, the first starting winning opening 36, the third starting winning opening 42, the normal variable winning device 37, and the special variable winning device 39, the payout control device 200 (see FIG. 3). ) Discharges a number of prize balls according to the type of winning opening from the payout device to the upper plate 21. Further, in the game area 32 below the starting winning opening unit 101, an out opening 30b for collecting game balls that have not won a prize in the winning opening or the like is provided.

Further, a special figure variation display game (special figure 1 variation display game, special figure 2 variation display game) and a normal figure variation display game are executed in the lower right corner of the game board main body 30a outside the game area 32. A batch display device 50 is provided. The batch display device 50 includes display units 51 to 60 (LED lamps) that display information such as the current gaming state.

The batch display device 50 includes a first special figure fluctuation display unit 51 (special figure 1 display, lamp D1) and a second special figure fluctuation for a fluctuation display game composed of a 7-segment type display (LED lamp) and the like. The display unit 52 (special figure 2 display, lamp D2), the variable display unit 53 for the normal figure variable display game (normal figure display, lamps D10, D18), and the start (hold) storage number of each variable display game. It has a storage display unit for notification (special figure 1 hold display 54, special figure 2 hold display 55, normal figure hold display 56). Special figure 1 The hold indicator 54 is composed of lamps D11 and D12. The special figure 2 hold indicator 55 is composed of lamps D13 and D14. The normal figure hold indicator 56 is composed of lamps D15 and D16.

Further, the batch display device 50 is provided with a first game status display unit 57 (first game status indicator, lamp) that notifies that it is a right-handed hit (when it should be right-handed) or a left-handed hit (when it should be hit normally). D8), the second game state display unit 58 (second game state indicator, lamp D9) that lights up when a time saving state occurs to notify the occurrence of the time saving state, and the probability state of a big hit when the power of the game machine 10 is turned on is high. The third game status display unit 59 (third game status display, probability status display unit, lamp D17) that displays the status, and the number of rounds at the time of a big hit (the number of times the special variable winning device 39 is opened and closed) are displayed. A round display unit 60 (lamps D3-D7) is provided.

In the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52, the variation display game is executed by the variation display in which the identification information (for example, the central segment) is repeatedly turned on and off (blinking). The special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 are not limited to such a segment type display unit, and may be composed of an aggregate of a plurality of LEDs, and when a variable display is executed. In addition, all the LEDs provided as a display turn on all the lights (all LEDs blink at the same time), or cycle lights (one LED turns on and off in a predetermined order at a predetermined time), or a plurality of LEDs. It may be performed by turning on / off (blinking) or circulating lighting by a predetermined number of LEDs among the LEDs. Also in the normal figure display 53, the variable display game is executed by the variable display (blinking) in which the lamps D10 and D18 are repeatedly turned on and off. Further, the normal figure display 53 can be appropriately configured in the same manner as the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52.

Further, the lamp display device 80 provided on the lower right side of the center case 40 is a lamp display unit that executes variable display (blinking) in which lighting display and extinguishing display are repeated as symbols (fourth special symbol and fourth symbol described later). It has 1 and 2 (LEDs) and a lamp display unit 3-6 (LED) for notifying the start storage number (holding number) of each special figure variation display game. The lamp display device 80 is controlled by the effect control device 300 (described later).

The lamp display units 1 and 2 blink at a predetermined blinking cycle as a variable display. While the fluctuation time of the fluctuation display on the special figure 1 display 51, the special figure 2 display 52, and the general figure display 53 of the batch display device 50 is measured by the game control device 100, the lamp of the lamp display device 80 The fluctuation time of the display units 1 and 2 is measured by the effect control device 300 (described later).

The lamp display units 3 and 4 (decorative special figure 1 hold LED 1, decorative special figure 1 hold LED 2) display the number of decorative special figure 1 hold (first start storage number) depending on the off state, the lighting state, and the blinking state. Similarly, the lamp display units 5 and 6 (decorative special figure 2 hold LED 1, decorative special figure 2 hold LED 2) display the number of decorative special figure 2 hold (second start memory number) depending on the off state, the lighting state, and the blinking state. indicate.

The blinking cycle of the lamp displays 1 and 2 (fourth special symbol described later) and the blinking cycle of the lamp display 3-6 (decorative special figure hold) may be the same 200 msec (100 msec on, 100 msec off). , The blinking cycle may be different so that the decorative special symbol hold and the fourth special symbol can be easily distinguished. Further, the on / off (display / non-display) time of the lamp display units 1-6 may be different.

Next, the flow of the game in the gaming machine 10, the normal map variation display game, and the special map variation display game will be described in detail.

In the gaming machine 10, a game is played by launching a gaming ball toward the gaming area 32 from a ball launching device (not shown). The launched game ball flows down the game area 32 while changing the rolling direction by obstacle nails, windmills, etc. arranged in various places in the game area 32, and the normal drawing start gate 34, the general winning opening 35, and the first start Win a prize in the winning opening 36, the third starting winning opening 42, the normal variable winning device 37, or the special variable winning device 39, or flow into the out port 30b provided at the bottom of the game area 32 and discharge from the game area 32. Will be done. Then, when the game ball wins in the general winning opening 35, the first starting winning opening 36, the third starting winning opening 42, the normal variable winning device 37, or the special variable winning device 39, the number according to the type of winning opening. The prize ball is discharged to the upper plate 21 via the payout device.

The normal drawing start gate 34 is provided with a gate switch 34a (see FIG. 3) for detecting a game ball that has passed through the normal drawing start gate 34. When the game ball passes through the normal map start gate 34, it is detected by the gate switch 34a, and the normal map variation display game is executed based on the determination result of the hit determination random number value extracted at this time.

When the normal map fluctuation display game cannot be started, for example, when the normal map variable display game has already been played and the normal map variable display game has not ended, or when the result of the normal map variable display game is a hit, it is normal. When the game ball passes through the normal drawing start gate 34 when the variable winning device 37 is converted to the open state, the storage number is added (+1) if the normal drawing start storage number is less than the upper limit number.

The hit judgment random value for determining the hit / miss of the normal figure fluctuation display game is stored in the normal figure start memory, and when the hit judgment random value matches the judgment value, the normal figure fluctuation display is displayed. The game wins and a specific result mode (specific result) is derived.

The normal map variation display game is executed by the normal map display 53 provided in the batch display device 50. The normal figure display 53 is composed of LEDs that indicate a hit when the normal identification information (normal figure) is lit and a deviation when the normal identification information (normal figure) is off, and the normal identification information fluctuates by blinking and displaying this LED. The display is performed, and after a predetermined fluctuation display time has elapsed, the result is displayed by turning on or off the LED.

When the normal figure random value extracted when passing through the normal figure start gate 34 is a hit value, the normal symbol displayed on the normal figure display 53 stops in the hit state and becomes the hit state. At this time, by driving the normal electric solenoid 37c (see FIG. 3), the movable member 37b is converted into an open state for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds), and the game ball to the normal variable winning device 37 Winning is allowed.

The winning of the game ball to the first starting winning opening 36, the winning of the normal variable winning device 37, and the winning of the third starting winning opening 42 are the starting opening 1 switch 36a (see FIG. 3) and the first winning, respectively. It is detected by the start port 2 switch 37a-1 (see FIG. 3) and the second start port 2 switch 37a-2 (start port 3 switch) (see FIG. 3). The game ball that has won the first start winning opening 36 is detected as the starting winning ball of the special figure 1 variable display game, is stored up to a predetermined upper limit, and is stored in the normal variable winning device 37 and the third starting winning opening 42. The game ball that has won the prize is detected as the starting prize ball of the special figure 2 variable display game, and is stored up to a predetermined upper limit number. Since both the first start port 2 switch 37a-1 and the second start port 2 switch 37a-2 can start the special figure 2 variation display game by detecting the game ball, they are summarized below. The start port 2 switch 37a is collectively referred to as the start port 2 switch 37a.

When the start winning ball of the special figure fluctuation display game is detected, the jackpot random number value, the jackpot symbol random value, each fluctuation pattern random value, and the like are extracted. These random numbers are stored in the special figure reservation storage area (a part of the RAM) of the game control device 100 as the special figure start winning memory for a predetermined number of times (for example, up to 8 times). The number of special figure start prize memories stored is displayed on the special figure 1 hold display 54 and the special figure 2 hold display 55 for notifying the start prize number of the batch display device 50, and is also displayed on the display screen of the display device 41. Is displayed.

The game control device 100 executes the special figure 1 variation display game on the special figure 1 display 51 based on the winning of the first start winning opening 36 or the first start memory. Further, the game control device 100 executes the special figure 2 variable display game on the special figure 2 display 52 based on the winning of the normal variable winning device 37 or the third start winning opening 42 or the second start memory.

The special figure 1 variable display game (1st special figure variable display game) and the special figure 2 variable display game (2nd special figure variable display game) have identification information (identification information) on the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52. This is performed by displaying the special symbol (special symbol) in a variable manner and then stopping and displaying the predetermined result mode. Further, the display device 41 executes a decorative special figure variation display game in which a plurality of types of identification information (for example, numbers, symbols, character symbols, etc.) are variablely displayed corresponding to each special figure variation display game.

In the decorative special symbol variation display game on the display device 41, the decorative special symbol (identification information) composed of the above-mentioned numbers and the like is left (first special symbol), right (second special symbol), and middle (third special symbol). ) Is started, the fluctuating symbols are sequentially stopped after a predetermined time, and the result of the special figure fluctuation display game is displayed. Further, in the display device 41, various effects such as the appearance of characters are displayed in order to improve the interest. Furthermore, in the decorative special symbol variation display game, as another decorative special symbol (identification information), the fourth special symbol (fourth symbol) fluctuates due to repeated (blinking) lighting display and extinguishing display, and the special symbol fluctuates. Display Indicates that the game is running. After a predetermined time from the start, the variation display of the fourth special symbol is stopped by "turning off" in the case of a miss and "turning on" in the case of a big hit. The variation display of the fourth special symbol is displayed by the lamp display units 1 and 2 (LED) of the lamp display device 80, but may be displayed by other display devices 41 and sub-display devices.

When a game ball is awarded to the first starting winning opening 36, the third starting winning opening 42, or the ordinary variable winning device 37 at a predetermined timing (when the jackpot random number value at the time of winning detection is the jackpot value) As a result of the special figure variation display game, a specific result mode (special result mode) is derived from the display symbol, and a big hit state (special game state) is obtained. Correspondingly, the display mode of the display device 41 becomes a special result mode (for example, a state in which numbers such as "7, 7, 7" are aligned).

At this time, the special variable winning device 39 is converted from the closed state to the open state for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) by energizing the large winning opening solenoid 39b (see FIG. 3). That is, the large winning opening provided in the special variable winning device 39 opens wide until a predetermined time or a predetermined number of game balls are won, during which the player is given the privilege of being able to acquire a large number of game balls. NS.

The special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 may be configured as separate indicators or the same indicator, but the special figure variation display games are not executed at the same time. Is set.

Regarding the decorative special figure variable display game in the display device 41, the special figure 1 variable display game and the special figure 2 variable display game may be executed in different display devices or different display areas, or the same display may be executed. It may be executed in the device or the display area. In this case, the decorative special figure variable display game corresponding to the special figure 1 variable display game and the special figure 2 variable display game is prevented from being executed at the same time. The special figure 1 variable display game and the special figure 2 variable display game are executed in the order in which winning (that is, starting memory) occurs (winning order digestion), and the special drawing 1 variable display game and / or When the start memory of the special figure 2 variation display game is generated and the special figure variation display game can be executed, the variation display game based on the oldest start memory is executed. In the specific game state (time saving state, probability change state, normal electric support), the special figure 2 variable display game may be executed with priority over the special figure 1 variable display game, and the special figure 1 may be executed. When the start-up memory of the variable display game and the special figure 2 variable display game is stored and the special figure variable display game can be executed, the special figure 2 variable display game may be executed.

In the following description, when the special figure 1 variable display game and the special figure 2 variable display game are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as a special figure variable display game.

Further, although not particularly limited, the starting port 1 switch 36a in the first starting winning opening 36, the starting port 2 switch 37a in the normal variable winning device 37 or the third starting winning opening 42 (first). The start port 2 switch 37a-1 or the second start port 2 switch 37a-2), the gate switch 34a, the winning port switch 35a, and the count switch 39a are provided with a coil for magnetic detection, and a magnetic field occurs when a metal approaches the coil. A non-contact magnetic proximity sensor (hereinafter referred to as a proximity switch) that detects a game ball by utilizing the phenomenon of changing is used. Further, the glass frame opening detection switch 63 provided on the glass frame 15 or the like of the game machine 10 or the front frame opening detection switch 64 (main body frame opening detection switch) provided on the front frame (game frame) 12 or the like is used as a machine. Microswitches with similar contacts can be used.

[Game control device]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the game control system of the game machine 10. The game machine 10 includes a game control device 100 (main board), and the game control device 100 is a main control device (main board) that collectively controls a game, and is a game microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as a game microcomputer). A data bus 140 that connects a CPU unit 110 having a 111 (referred to as), an input unit 120 having an input port, an output unit 130 having an output port, a driver, and the like, a CPU unit 110, an input unit 120, and an output unit 130. And so on.

The CPU unit 110 includes a gaming microcomputer (CPU) 111 called an amusement chip (IC) and an oscillator such as a crystal oscillator, and generates an operating clock of the CPU, a timer interrupt, and a clock that serves as a reference for a random number generation circuit. It has an oscillator circuit (crystal oscillator) 113 and the like. A predetermined level of DC voltage such as DC32V, DC12V, DC5V generated by the power supply device 400 is supplied to the game control device 100 and electronic components such as a solenoid and a motor driven by the game control device 100 to enable operation. Will be done.

The power supply device 400 includes a normal power supply unit 410 having an ACDC converter that generates a DC voltage of DC32V from a 24V AC power supply, a DC-DC converter that generates a lower level DC voltage such as DC12V, DC5V, etc. from the voltage of DC32V. , A backup power supply unit 420 that supplies a power supply voltage to the internal RAM of the game microcomputer 111 in the event of a power failure, and a power failure monitoring circuit, and a power failure monitoring signal or reset signal that notifies the game control device 100 of the occurrence or recovery of a power failure. It is provided with a control signal generation unit 430 and the like that generate and output a control signal such as.

In the present embodiment, the power supply device 400 is configured separately from the game control device 100, but the backup power supply unit 420 and the control signal generation unit 430 are integrated on a separate board or with the game control device 100, that is, the main unit. It may be configured to be provided on the substrate. Since the game board 30 and the game control device 100 are to be replaced when the model is changed, the backup power supply unit 420 and the control signal generation unit 430 are mounted on a board different from the power supply device 400 or the main board as in the embodiment. By providing it, it is possible to exclude it from the target of replacement and reduce the cost.

The backup power supply unit 420 can be configured by one large-capacity capacitor such as an electrolytic capacitor. The backup power supply is supplied to the game microcomputer 111 (particularly the built-in RAM) of the game control device 100, and the data stored in the RAM is retained even during a power failure or even after the power is cut off. The control signal generation unit 430 monitors the voltage of 32V generated by the normal power supply unit 410, for example, detects the occurrence of a power failure when it drops to 17V or less, changes the power failure monitoring signal, and changes the power failure monitoring signal, and also resets the signal after a predetermined time. Is output. Also, when the power is turned on or when the power is restored, a reset signal is output after a predetermined time has elapsed from that point.

Further, the game control device 100 is provided with a RAM initialization switch 112. When the RAM initialization switch 112 is pressed down and turned on, an initialization switch signal is generated, and based on this, the information stored in the RAM 111c in the gaming microcomputer 111 and the RAM in the payout control device 200 is forced. The process of initializing to is performed. Although not particularly limited, the initialization switch signal is read when the power is turned on, and the power failure monitoring signal is repeatedly read in the main loop of the main program executed by the gaming microcomputer 111. A reset signal is a type of forced interrupt signal that resets the entire control system.

Further, the game control device 100 (main board) includes a setting key switch 93. The setting key switch 93 makes it possible to change the probability set value (set value) according to the setting related to the game condition (game) by turning it on by the rotation operation of the operator or the like. The RAM initialization switch 112 can also be used as a setting value change switch that can change the probability setting value according to the operation of the operator. In the present embodiment, the probability setting value is a setting value for setting a winning probability such as a big hit probability or a small hit probability (only when there is a small hit), but other game conditions (directing, etc.) other than the probability. Can be changed according to the probability setting value. The setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 constitute a setting changing means (setting changing device 43) capable of changing the setting (probability setting value) related to the game condition. In addition to the RAM initialization switch 112, another switch may also serve as the setting value changing switch, or may provide a dedicated setting value changing switch.

The setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are provided on the game control device 100 inside the game machine 10 and are arranged at positions that cannot be operated (positions that cannot be accessed) unless the front frame 12 (main body frame) is opened. Will be done. That is, a general player cannot access and operate the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112.

As will be described later, when the power of the gaming machine 10 is turned on (power failure recovery, power recovery), the gaming machine 10 sets a probability setting value according to the on / off state of the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112. It is possible to shift to various states such as a changeable setting variable state (setting change state, setting change mode) and a setting confirmation state (setting confirmation mode) in which the probability setting value can be confirmed.

In the present embodiment, the probability setting value is defined in, for example, 6 steps, and the probability setting value 1 (setting 1), the probability setting value 2 (setting 2), the probability setting value 3 (setting 3), and the probability setting value 4 (setting). 4), there are a probability setting value 5 (setting 5) and a probability setting value 6 (setting 6). In general, setting 1 is the most unfavorable setting for the player, and setting 6 is the most advantageous setting for the player. Settings 1 and 2 are low settings, settings 3 and 4 are intermediate settings (intermediate settings), and settings 5 and 6 are high settings.

In the probability setting change process, every time the RAM initialization switch 112 is pressed by the operator, the work setting value (setting) in the work setting value area is set to the setting value 0 (setting 1, probability setting value 1) → Setting value 1 (setting 2, probability setting value 2) → setting value 2 (setting 3, probability setting value 3) → setting value 3 (setting 4, probability setting value 4) → setting value 4 (setting 5, probability setting value 5) ) → Setting value 5 (Setting 6, probability setting value 6) → Setting value 0 (Setting 1) → Setting value 1 (Setting 2) → ... In this way, the RAM initialization switch 112 also functions as a setting value change switch. For convenience of explanation, the work setting values 0 to 5 are provided corresponding to the probability setting values 1 to 6 in the setting change state (setting change mode), but the work setting value and the probability setting value are the same. It may be treated as the same in the numerical range (that is, 0 to 5 or 1 to 6) (the work set value and the probability set value are set to the same numerical value).

Instead of operating the RAM initialization switch 112 (setting value changing switch), the setting key switch 93 may be rotated to a predetermined position to change the probability setting value. Moreover, the probability setting value is not limited to 6 steps. Then, the performance display device 152 in which the display probability setting value corresponding to the selected work setting values 0 to 5 is, for example, a 4-digit 7-segment type (8-segment type including the dot Dp) display. Etc. are displayed.

The gaming microcomputer 111 includes a CPU (central processing unit: microprocessor) 111a, a read-only ROM (read-only memory) 111b, and a RAM (random access memory) 111c that can be read and written at any time.

The ROM 111b non-volatilely stores invariant information (programs, fixed data, determination values of various random numbers, etc.) for game control. The RAM 111c is used as a work area of the CPU 111a and a storage area for various signals and random values during game control. Information on the game (game information) is stored, and the stored information is stored even if a power failure occurs. Is a possible retention and storage means. As the ROM 111b or the RAM 111c, an electrically rewritable non-volatile memory such as EEPROM may be used.

Further, the ROM 111b stores, for example, a variation pattern table for determining a variation pattern (variation mode) that defines the execution time of the special figure variation display game, the effect content, the presence / absence of the occurrence of the reach state, and the like. The variation pattern table is a table for the CPU 111a to refer to the variation pattern random numbers 1 to 3 stored as the start memory to determine the variation pattern. Further, the fluctuation pattern table includes a missed fluctuation pattern table selected when the result is missed, a jackpot fluctuation pattern table selected when the result is a jackpot, and the like. Further, these pattern tables include a table for determining the latter half fluctuation pattern, which is a fluctuation pattern after reaching the reach state (second half fluctuation group table, second half fluctuation pattern selection table, etc.), and fluctuation before reaching the reach state. A table for determining the first half fluctuation pattern, which is a pattern (first half fluctuation group table, first half fluctuation pattern selection table, etc.) is included.

Here, the reach (reach state) has a display device whose display state can be changed, and the display device derives and displays a plurality of display results at different times, and the plurality of display results are predetermined. In the gaming machine 10 in which the gaming state becomes an advantageous gaming state (special gaming state) for the player when the special result mode is adopted, a part of the plurality of display results is already derived and displayed at a stage where the display is not yet derived. A display state in which the displayed display result satisfies the condition of the special result mode. In other words, the reach state is out of the display condition that is the special result mode even when the variable display control of the display device progresses and the display result reaches the stage before the derivation display. Refers to a display mode that does not exist. Further, for example, a state in which variation display is performed by a plurality of variation display areas (so-called full rotation reach) while maintaining a state in which the special result modes are aligned is also included in the reach state. Further, the reach state is a display state at the time when the display control of the display device progresses and reaches the stage before the display result is derived and displayed, and is determined before the display result is derived and displayed. It refers to a display state when at least a part of the display results of a plurality of variable display areas satisfies the condition of the special result mode.

Therefore, for example, the decorative special figure variation display game displayed on the display device corresponding to the special figure variation display game changes a plurality of identification information for a predetermined time in each of the left, middle, and right variation display areas on the display device. After the display, when the variation display is stopped in the order of left, right, and middle to display the result mode, the left and right variation display areas satisfy the conditions for the special result mode (for example,). The state in which the variable display is stopped with the same identification information) is the reach state. In addition, when the fluctuation display of all the fluctuation display areas is temporarily stopped, the condition of the special result mode in any two of the left, middle, and right fluctuation display areas is satisfied (for example, the same identification information). (However, the special result mode is excluded) may be set as the reach state, and the remaining one variable display area may be variable-displayed from the reach state.

The reach state includes a plurality of reach effects, and as a system (type) of reach effects in which the possibility of deriving a special result mode (big hit mode) is different (expectations are different), normal reach (N reach), Special 1 reach (SP1 reach), special 2 reach (SP2 reach), special 3 reach (SP3 reach), and premier reach are set. The expected degree (expected value) of the jackpot of the reach production is increased in the order of no reach <normal reach <special 1 reach <special 2 reach <special 3 reach <premier reach. Further, the reach state is included in the variation display mode at least when the special result mode is derived (when it becomes a big hit) in the special figure variation display game. That is, it may be included in the variation display mode when it is determined that the special result mode is not derived in the special figure variation display game (when it is out of order). Therefore, the state in which the reach state occurs is more likely to be a big hit than the case in which the reach state does not occur.

The degree of expectation of the production (notice) suggests the probability of becoming a big hit when the production is selected, and the selection rate of the production when it is a big hit and the selection rate of the production when it is not a big hit (when it is off). It can be calculated based on the selectivity and the like.

The CPU 111a executes a game control program in the ROM 111b to generate a control signal (command) for the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300, or generate and output a drive signal for a solenoid or a display device to output the game machine. 10 Control the entire system. Further, although not shown, the gaming microcomputer 111 includes a big hit random number for determining a big hit in a special figure variation display game, a big hit symbol random number for determining a big hit symbol, and a small hit for determining a small hit symbol. Symbol random numbers (only when there is a small hit), fluctuation pattern random numbers for determining the fluctuation pattern in the special figure fluctuation display game (including the execution time of the fluctuation display game in various reach and fluctuation display without reach) A random number generation circuit for generation and an update timing of a timer interrupt signal and a random number generation circuit having a predetermined period (for example, 4 msec (milliseconds)) are given to the CPU 111a based on the oscillation signal (original clock signal) from the oscillation circuit 113. It has a clock generator that generates a clock.

Further, the CPU 111a acquires any one of the fluctuation pattern tables stored in the ROM 111b in the process related to the special figure fluctuation display game. Specifically, the CPU 111a determines the game result (big hit or miss) of the special figure variation display game, the probability state (normal probability state or high probability state) of the special figure variation display game as the current game state, and the start memory number. Based on the above, one of the fluctuation pattern tables is selected and acquired from the plurality of fluctuation pattern tables. Here, the CPU 111a serves as a variation distribution information acquisition means for acquiring any one of the plurality of variation pattern tables stored in the ROM 111b when the special figure variation display game is executed.

The payout control device 200 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, input interface, output interface, etc., and drives the payout motor 91 of the payout unit in accordance with a prize ball payout command (command or data) from the game control device 100 to drive the prize ball. Control to pay out. Further, the payout control device 200 drives the payout motor 91 of the payout unit based on the ball lending request signal from the card unit 600, and controls for paying out the ball lending.

The input unit 120 of the game control device 100 includes a radio wave sensor 62 (panel radio wave sensor) that detects the emission of radio waves to the game machine, a gate switch 34a of the normal drawing start gate 34, and a start port 1 in the first start winning opening 36. Switch 36a, starting port 2 switch 37a in the second starting winning opening 37 (normal variable winning device) and in the third starting winning opening 42 (first starting opening 2 switch 37a-1 and second starting opening 2 switch 37a) -2 (starting port 3 switch)), the winning port switch 35a of the general winning opening 35, and the large winning opening switch 39a of the special variable winning device 39 are connected, and the high level supplied from these switches is 11V and the low level is 7V. An interface chip (proximity I / F) 121 is provided which receives a negative logic signal such as the above and converts it into a 0V-5V positive logic signal.

Further, the interface chip (proximity I / F) 121 is connected to the specific area switch 72, the remaining ball discharge port switch 73, and the out ball detection switch 74. The specific area switch 72 detects the passage of the game ball (V winning) into the specific area 86 (V winning opening). The remaining ball discharge port switch 73 detects a game ball that has passed through the remaining ball discharge port that discharges the game ball from the special variable winning device 39. The out-ball detection switch 74 may detect only the game balls that pass through the out port 30b, or may detect all the game balls that have been launched into the game area and finished the game.

The output of the proximity I / F 121 is supplied to the second input port 123, the third input port 124, or the fourth input port 126, and is read into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. Of the outputs of the proximity I / F 121, the detection signals of the gate switch 34a, the start port 1 switch 36a, the start port 2 switch 37a, the winning port switch 35a, and the large winning port switch 39a are input to the third input port 124. ..

Further, among the outputs of the proximity I / F 121, the detection signal of the radio wave sensor 62 and the abnormality detection signal output when an abnormality of the sensor or the switch is detected are input to the second input port 123.

Further, among the outputs of the proximity I / F 121, the detection signal of the specific area switch 72, the remaining ball discharge port switch 73, or the out ball detection switch 74 is input to the fourth input port 126.

Further, the second input port 123 includes a detection signal of a magnetic sensor switch 61 for fraud detection provided on the front frame 12 or the like of the game machine 10, and a glass frame opening detection provided on the glass frame 15 or the like of the game machine 10. A signal from the front frame opening detection switch 64 (main body frame opening detection switch) provided on the switch 63, the front frame 12 (main body frame), etc., and a signal from the vibration sensor 65 that detects the vibration of the game machine 10 are input. ..

Further, the second input port 123 takes in the setting key switch signal from the setting key switch 93 and supplies it to the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140.

Further, among the outputs of the proximity I / F 121, the output to the third input port 124 is also supplied from the game control device 100 to a test firing test device (not shown) via the relay board 70. Further, among the outputs of the proximity I / F 121, the detection signals of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a are configured to be input to the game microcomputer 111 in addition to the third input port 124.

As described above, the proximity I / F 121 has a signal level conversion function. In order to enable such a level conversion function, the proximity I / F 121 is supplied with a voltage of 12V in addition to the voltage such as 5V required for normal IC operation from the power supply device 400. It has become.

The data held by the third input port 124 is read out by asserting the enable signal CE2 (changing to an effective level) by the gaming microcomputer 111 decoding the address assigned to the third input port 124. be able to. The same applies to the second input port 123, the fourth input port 126, and the first input port 122 described later.

Further, the input unit 120 indicates a frame radio wave illegal signal output from the payout control device 200, a payout busy signal, a status signal indicating a payout abnormality, a shoot ball out switch signal indicating a shortage of game balls before payout, and an overflow. The first input port 122 that takes in the overflow switch signal, the touch switch signal based on the input of the touch switch provided on the operation handle 24, and the signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 and supplies them to the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. Is provided. The overflow switch signal is a signal output when it is detected that a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored (full) in the lower plate 23. The frame radio wave invalid signal is a signal output based on the frame radio wave sensor provided on the front frame 12 (main body frame) detecting the radio wave, and the payout busy signal is in a state where the payout control device 200 can accept a command. It is a signal indicating whether or not.

Further, the input unit 120 is provided with a Schmidt buffer 125 for inputting a signal such as a power failure monitoring signal or a reset signal from the power supply device 400 to the gaming microcomputer 111 or the like, and the Schmidt buffer 125 is provided with these input signals. It has a function to remove noise from. The power failure monitoring signal from the power supply device 400 is once input to the first input port 122, and is taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. That is, it is treated as a signal equivalent to the signal from the various switches described above. This is because there is a limit to the number of terminals provided on the gaming microcomputer 111 that receive signals from the outside.

On the other hand, the reset signal RST whose noise has been removed by the Schmidt buffer 125 is directly input to the reset terminal provided in the gaming microcomputer 111 and is supplied to each port of the output unit 130. Further, the reset signal RST is output directly to the relay board 70 without going through the output unit 130 to turn off the test firing test signal held in the port (not shown) of the relay board 70 for output to the test firing test apparatus. It is configured as follows.

Further, the reset signal RST may be configured to be output to the test firing test apparatus via the relay board 70. The reset signal RST is not supplied to the ports 122, 123, and 124 of the input unit 120. The data set in each port of the output unit 130 by the gaming microcomputer 111 just before the reset signal RST is input needs to be reset in order to prevent the system from malfunctioning, but each of the input units 120 immediately before the reset signal RST is input. This is because the data read by the game microcomputer 111 from the port is discarded by resetting the game microcomputer 111.

The output unit 130 is provided with a Schmidt buffer 132 arranged on a communication path from the game microcomputer 111 to the effect control device 300 and a communication path from the game microcomputer 111 to the payout control device 200. Data is transmitted from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 300 and the payout control device 200 by serial communication. It should be noted that the one-way communication is such that a signal cannot be input to the game control device 100 from the effect control device 300 side.

Further, the output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140, and data for notifying the special symbol information of the variable display game to the test firing test device of the accreditation body (not shown), a signal indicating the probability state of the jackpot, and the like are transmitted via the relay board 70. The output buffer 133 is configured to be mountable. The buffer 133 is a component that is not mounted on the game control device (main board) of a pachinko gaming machine as an actual machine (mass production product) installed in a game store. The detection signal of a switch that does not need to be processed, such as a start port switch output from the proximity I / F 121, is supplied to the test firing test apparatus via the relay board 70 without passing through the buffer 133.

On the other hand, a detection signal that cannot be supplied to the test firing test device as it is, such as the magnetic sensor switch 61 and the radio wave sensor 62, is once taken into the game microcomputer 111 and processed into other signals or information, for example, the game machine controls the game. It is supplied from the data bus 140 to the test firing test apparatus via the buffer 133 and the relay board 70 as an error signal indicating that the state cannot be achieved.

The relay board 70 is provided with a port that takes in the signal output from the buffer 133 and supplies it to the test firing test apparatus, a connector that relays and transmits the signal line of the switch detection signal that does not go through the buffer, and the like. There is. A chip enable signal CE output from the gaming microcomputer 111 is also supplied to the port on the relay board 70, and the signal of the port selectively controlled by the signal CE is supplied to the test firing test apparatus.

Further, the output unit 130 includes a solenoid (general electric solenoid) 37c connected to the data bus 140 to open the normal variable winning device 37, a large winning opening solenoid 39b (large winning opening solenoid) to open the special variable winning device 39, and the like. A second output port 134 is provided for outputting open / close data of the lever solenoid 86b that operates the lever to open the specific area 86.

Further, the output unit 130 has a third output port 135 for outputting on / off data of the segment line to which the anode terminal of the LED is connected according to the content to be displayed on the batch display device 50, and the batch display device 50. A fourth output port 136 is provided for outputting on / off data of the digit line to which the cathode terminal of the LED is connected.

Further, the output unit 130 is provided with a fifth output port 137 for outputting information about the gaming machine 10 such as jackpot information to the external information terminal 71. The external information terminal 71 is provided with a photo relay, which can be connected to, for example, an external device (such as an information collection terminal or a game hall internal management device (hall computer)) installed in a game store, and provides information about the game machine 10 to the outside. It can be supplied to the device. Further, a launch permission signal is also output from the fifth output port 137 to the payout control device 200 via the Schmidt buffer 132.

Further, the output unit 130 is a first driver (drive circuit) that generates and outputs a solenoid drive signal by receiving open / close data signals of the general electric current solenoid 37c and the grand prize opening solenoid 39b output from the second output port 134. 138a, the second driver 138b that outputs the on / off drive signal of the segment line on the current supply side of the batch display device 50 output from the third output port 135, and the batch display device 50 output from the fourth output port 136. The third driver 138c that outputs the on / off drive signal of the digit line on the current drawing side, and the fourth driver 138d that outputs the external information signal supplied from the fifth output port 137 to the external device such as the management device to the external information terminal 71. Is provided.

DC32V is supplied from the power supply device 400 as a power supply voltage to the first driver 138a so that a solenoid operating at 32V can be driven. Further, DC12V is supplied to the second driver 138b that drives the segment line of the batch display device 50. Since the third driver 138c for driving the digit wire is for pulling out the digit wire corresponding to the display data with a current, the power supply voltage may be either 12V or 5V.

A dynamic drive system in which a second driver 138b that outputs 12V causes a current to flow into the anode terminal of the LED via a segment wire, and a third driver 138c that outputs a ground potential draws a current from the cathode terminal via a digit wire. The power supply voltage flows through the LEDs sequentially selected in step 2 and the LEDs are turned on. The fourth driver 138d, which outputs the external information signal to the external information terminal 71, supplies the external information signal with a level of 12V, so that DC12V is supplied. The buffer 133, the second output port 134, the first driver 138a, and the like may be provided on the output unit 130 of the game control device 100, that is, on the relay board 70 side instead of the main board.

Further, the output unit 130 is provided with a photocoupler 139 for transmitting information such as an identification code and a program of each gaming machine to an external inspection device 500. The photocoupler 139 is configured so that the gaming microcomputer 111 can communicate with the inspection device 500 by serial communication. Since such data transmission / reception is performed using the serial communication terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111 as in the case of a normal general-purpose microprocessor, ports such as input ports 122, 123, and 124 are not provided.

Further, the output unit 130 receives the serial data (control data, lighting pattern data, character code (character code), etc.) output from the second output port 134, and receives the performance display device 152 (status display device). A driving driver 150 is provided. In the present embodiment, the performance display device 152 is composed of a plurality of (4) 7-segment type (8-segment type including dot Dp) display (LED lamp), and the driver 150 is an LED driver. It is not limited to.

The performance display device 152 is provided on the game control device 100 (main board), but may be provided at another location. For example, the performance display device 152 can display the display probability set value, the accessory ratio, the ball ejection rate, and the number of ejected balls as the performance display.

Here, the number of ejected balls is the number of game balls ejected from the game area 32 (also referred to as the number of out balls), the number of game balls that have passed through the winning opening (the number of winning balls), and the number of games that have passed through the out opening 30b. It is the total with the number of spheres. The number of ejected balls can be obtained by counting the signal of the out ball detection switch 74 or the like. In the present embodiment, the winning openings include a general winning opening 35, a starting winning opening 36 (first starting winning opening, starting opening 1), a normal variable winning device 37 (second starting winning opening, starting opening 2), and a starting winning entry. The opening 42 (third starting winning opening, starting opening 3) and the special variable winning device 39 (large winning opening) are included.

The payout rate is the ratio (ratio) of the total number of prize balls to the number of ejected balls (or the number of launched balls), and is calculated by (number of acquired balls ÷ number of ejected balls) × 100 (%). That is, the ball output rate is the number of acquired balls (total number of prize balls) per 100 ejected balls.

For example, the bonus ratio is in the jackpot state out of the total number of prize balls (total number of prize balls) obtained by winning a prize in the winning opening during a predetermined period (for example, from the power-on of the gaming machine 10 to the present). It is the ratio (%) (= so-called continuous character ratio) of the number of prize balls (the number of balls acquired by the character) obtained by winning the big prize opening. In addition, the accessory ratio may be the ratio of the number of prize balls (in the big hit state and the small hit state) obtained by winning the big prize opening (= big prize opening ratio) to the total number of prize balls. Or, the ratio of the number of prize balls obtained by winning the large prize opening and the ordinary variable winning device 37 (second starting winning opening) (= the so-called bonus ratio (total bonus ratio) commonly used )) May be used.

[Production control device]
Next, the configuration of the effect control device 300 (sub-board) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the effect control system of the gaming machine 10.

The effect control device 300 is used to display images on the display device 41 according to commands and data from the main control microcomputer (CPU) 311 composed of an amusement chip (IC) and the main control microcomputer 311 like the game microcomputer 111. It is provided with a VDP (Video Display Processor) 312 as a graphic processor that performs image processing, and a sound source LSI 314 that controls sound output in order to reproduce various melody and sound effects from the speaker 19.

The main control microcomputer 311 holds a program ROM 321 consisting of a program executed by the CPU and a PROM (programmable read-only memory) that stores various data, a RAM 322 that provides a work area, and a stored content even if power is not supplied in the event of a power failure. A possible FeRAM 323 and an RTC (real-time clock) 338 that serves as a timekeeping means for generating information indicating the current date and time (year, month, day, day, time, etc.) are connected. A RAM that provides a work area is also provided inside the main control microcomputer 311.

A WDT (watchdog timer) circuit 324 is connected to the main control microcomputer 311. The main control microcomputer 311 analyzes commands from the game microcomputer 111, determines the production content, instructs the VDP 312 of the content of the output video, instructs the sound source LSI 314 of the reproduced sound, lights the decorative lamp, and the motor. And the drive control of the solenoid, the management of the production time, and so on.

The VDP 312 is provided with a RAM 312a that provides a work area and a scaler 312b for enlarging / reducing an image. Further, the VDP 312 has an image ROM 325 in which character images and video data are stored, and an ultra-high-speed VRAM (video RAM) used for developing and processing image data such as characters read from the image ROM 325. ) 326 is connected.

Although not particularly limited, data is transmitted and received between the main control microcomputer 311 and the VDP 312 in a parallel manner. By sending and receiving data in parallel, commands and data can be sent in a shorter time than in the case of serial.

From the VDP 312 to the main control microcomputer 311, a vertical synchronization signal VSYNC for synchronizing the video of the display device 41 with the lighting of the decorative lamps provided on the glass frame 15 and the game board 30, and a synchronization signal for giving data transmission timing. STS is input. It should be noted that the VDP 312 informs the main control microcomputer 311 that it is in a state of waiting for reception of interrupt signals INT0 to n and commands and data from the main control microcomputer 311 in order to notify the processing status such as the end of drawing in VRAM. The wait signal WAIT and the like for this is also input.

The effect control device 300 is provided with a signal conversion circuit 313 that generates a video signal to be transmitted to the display device 41 by an LVDS (small amplitude signal transmission) method. Video data, a horizontal synchronization signal HSYNC, and a vertical synchronization signal VSYNC are input from the VDP 312 to the signal conversion circuit 313, and the video generated by the VDP 312 is transmitted to the display device 41 via the signal conversion circuit 313. Is displayed.

An audio ROM 327 in which audio data is stored is connected to the sound source LSI 314. The main control microcomputer 311 and the sound source LSI 314 are connected via the address / data bus 340. Further, an interrupt signal INT is input from the sound source LSI 314 to the main control microcomputer 311. The effect control device 300 is provided with an amplifier circuit 337 including an audio power amplifier for driving the upper speaker 19a provided on the glass frame 15 and the lower speaker 19b provided on the front frame 12, and the sound source LSI 314. The generated sound is output from the upper speaker 19a and the lower speaker 19b via the amplifier circuit 337.

Further, the effect control device 300 is provided with an interface chip (command I / F) 331 that receives a command transmitted from the game control device 100. The effect control command signal (effect command) is a decorative special figure hold number command, a decorative special figure command, a variation command, a stop information command, etc. transmitted from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 300 via the command I / F331. Receive as. Since the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 operates at DC 5 V and the main control microcomputer 311 of the effect control device 300 operates at DC 3.3 V, the command I / F 331 is provided with a signal level conversion function. There is.

Further, the effect control device 300 includes a board decoration LED control circuit 332 and a glass frame 15 for driving and controlling a board decoration device 46 having an LED (light emitting diode) provided on the game board 30 (including the center case 40). A board effect provided on a frame decoration LED control circuit 333 and a game board 30 (including a center case 40) for driving and controlling a frame decoration device having an LED (light emitting diode) (for example, a frame decoration device 18 or the like). A panel effect movable body control circuit 334 for driving and controlling a device 44 (for example, a movable accessory that enhances the effect of the effect in cooperation with the effect display on the display device 41) is provided. The board decoration device 46 may include the above-mentioned lamp display device 80.

These control circuits 332 to 334 that drive and control lamps, motors, solenoids, and the like are connected to the main control microcomputer 311 via the address / data bus 340. A frame effect movable body control circuit for driving and controlling a frame effect device such as a motor provided on the glass frame 15 may be provided.

Further, the effect control device 300 includes an effect button switch 25a built in the effect button 25 provided on the glass frame 15, a touch panel 25b provided on the surface of the effect button 25, and a motor in the board effect device 44. A function of detecting the on / off state of the effect switch 47 (effect motor switch) for detecting the initial position and inputting a detection signal to the main control microcomputer 311 and a volume control switch provided in the effect control device 300. A switch input circuit 336 that detects the state of 335 and inputs a detection signal to the main control microcomputer 311 is provided.

The normal power supply unit 410 of the power supply device 400 drives a motor or a solenoid in order to supply a desired level of DC voltage to the effect control device 300 having the above-described configuration and the electronic components controlled by the effect control device 300. DC32V, display device 41 consisting of liquid crystal panel, DC12V for driving motors and LEDs, DC5V for driving command I / F331, and DC15V for driving motors, LEDs, and speakers. It is configured to do.

Further, when an LSI operating at a low voltage such as 3.3V or 1.2V is used as the main control microcomputer 311, the DC-DC for generating DC3.3V or DC1.2V based on DC5V is used. A DC converter is provided in the effect control device 300. The DC-DC converter may be provided in the normal power supply unit 410.

The reset signal generated by the control signal generation unit 430 of the power supply device 400 is supplied to the main control microcomputer 311 to put the device in the reset state. Further, in the form of being output from the main control microcomputer 311, the VDP 312 (VDP RESET signal), the sound source LSI 314, the amplifier circuit 337 (SNDRESET signal) for driving the speaker, and the control circuit 332-334 (IOReSET) for driving and controlling the lamp, motor, etc. It is supplied to the signal) and puts them in the reset state. Further, a cooling FAN 45 for cooling various parts of the gaming machine 10 is connected to the effect control device 300, and the cooling FAN 45 is driven when the power of the effect control device 300 is turned on.

Next, the game control performed in these control circuits will be described. The CPU 111a of the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 extracts a random value for hit determination in the normal figure based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the gate switch 34a provided in the normal figure start gate 34, and ROM 111b. Compared with the judgment value stored in, the hit / miss of the normal map variation display game is judged.

Then, after the identification symbol is variablely displayed for a predetermined time on the normal figure display 53, the normal figure variation display game for which the identification symbol is stopped and displayed is displayed. When the result of the normal fluctuation display game is a hit, a special result mode is displayed on the normal figure display 53, the normal electric solenoid 37c is operated, and the movable member 37b of the normal fluctuation winning device 37 is operated for a predetermined time (for example). , 0.3 seconds) Control to open as described above. That is, the game control device 100 serves as a conversion control execution means for performing conversion control of the conversion member (movable member 37b). If the result of the normal map variation display game is out of alignment, the normal map display 53 is controlled to display the result mode of the deviation.

Further, the start winning (starting memory) is memorized based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the starting opening 1 switch 36a provided in the starting winning opening 36, and the jackpot determination of the special figure 1 variation display game is made based on the starting memory. The random value for use is extracted and compared with the determination value stored in the ROM 111b to determine the hit / miss of the special figure 1 variation display game.

Further, the starting memory is memorized based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the starting port 2 switch 37a provided in the normal variable winning device 37 or the third starting winning opening 42, and the special figure 2 variable display is based on the starting memory. A random value for determining the jackpot of the game is extracted and compared with the determination value stored in the ROM 111b, and the hit / miss of the special figure 2 variable display game is determined.

Then, the CPU 111a of the game control device 100 outputs a control signal (effect control command) including the determination result of the special figure 1 variation display game and the special figure 2 variation display game to the effect control device 300. Then, the special figure variation display game is displayed on the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 after the identification symbol is variablely displayed for a predetermined time and then stopped and displayed. That is, the game control device 100 changes the display game based on the winning of the game ball flowing down the game area 32 into the starting winning area (first starting winning opening 36, normal variable winning device 37, third starting winning opening 42). It serves as a game control means for controlling the progress.

Further, the effect control device 300 displays the decorative special figure variation display game corresponding to the special figure variation display game on the display device 41 based on the control signal from the game control device 100. Further, the effect control device 300 performs processing such as setting the effect state, outputting sounds from the speakers 19a and 19b, and controlling the light emission of various LEDs based on the control signal from the game control device 100. That is, the effect control device 300 serves as an effect control means for controlling the effect related to the game (variable display game, etc.).

Then, when the result of the special figure variation display game is a hit, the CPU 111a of the game control device 100 displays the special result mode on the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52, and generates a special game state. Let me. In the process of generating the special game state, the CPU 111a controls, for example, by opening the opening / closing door 39c of the special variable winning device 39 by the large winning opening solenoid 39b to allow the game ball to flow into the special winning opening. ..

Then, either a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins in the large winning opening, or a predetermined opening time (for example, 27 seconds or 0.05 seconds) elapses from the opening of the large winning opening. One round (R) is to open the big winning opening until the above condition is achieved, and this is continued (repeated) a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 times, 11 times or 2 times) control (cycle game). I do. That is, the game control device 100 serves as a large winning opening opening / closing control means for controlling the opening / closing of the large winning opening when the stop result mode becomes the special result mode. Further, when the result of the special figure variation display game is out of alignment, the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 are controlled to display the result mode of the deviation.

Further, the game control device 100 can generate a high probability state as a game state after the end of the special game state based on the result mode of the special figure variation display game. The high probability state (probability change state) is a state in which the probability of a hit result in the special figure fluctuation display game is higher than that of the normal probability state. Further, regardless of which of the special figure 1 variable display game and the special figure 2 variable display game results in a high probability state, the special figure 1 variable display game and the special figure 2 variable display game Both are in a high probability state.

Further, the game control device 100 can generate a time saving state (specific game state) as a game state after the end of the special game state, based on the result mode of the special figure variation display game. In the time saving state, the normal fluctuation display game and the normal fluctuation winning device 37 are controlled to be in the time saving operation state, and the normal fluctuation winning device 37 per unit time is controlled as compared with the case where the normal fluctuation winning device 37 is in the normal operating state. Since it is controlled so that the opening time of the game is substantially increased, the game is in the normal power support state. In addition, even in the high probability state (normal probability change state) excluding the latent probability change state, the time saving state is duplicated and the normal electric support is executed.

For example, in the time-reduced state, it is possible to shorten the time so that the execution time (normal figure fluctuation time) of the above-mentioned normal figure fluctuation display game is set to the second fluctuation display time shorter than the normal first fluctuation display time (for example). 10000 msec is 1000 msec). In the time saving state, the execution time of the special figure fluctuation display game (special figure fluctuation time) is also shorter than usual, and the time reduction fluctuation of the special figure fluctuation display game is also executed.

Further, in the time saving state, it is possible to control the normal figure stop time for displaying the result of the normal figure fluctuation display game to be a second stop time (for example, 704 msec) shorter than the first stop time (for example, 1604 msec). Is.

Further, in the time saving state, when the normal fluctuation winning device 37 is opened as a result of the normal fluctuation display game, the opening time (normal power opening time) is the first opening time (for example, 100 msec) in the normal state. It is possible to control the second opening time to be longer (for example, 1352 msec).

Further, in the time saving state, the number of times the normal fluctuation winning device 37 is opened (the number of times the normal electric power is opened) is larger than the number of times the first opening number (for example, 2 times) is obtained with respect to the result of one hit of the normal fluctuation display game. It is possible to set the second opening number of times (for example, 4 times). Further, in the time saving state, the probability of hitting the result of the normal map variation display game (normal figure probability) can be set to a higher probability than the normal probability (low probability) in the normal operating state.

In the time saving state, the normal fluctuation winning device 37 is opened by changing any one or more of the normal fluctuation time, the normal stop time, the number of times the normal power is opened, the normal power opening time, and the normal probability. Try to extend the conversion time longer than usual. As a result, in the time saving state, the winning of the normal variable winning device 37 becomes easier than in the normal gaming state, and the number of executions of the special figure variation display game per unit time can be increased as compared with the normal gaming state. It is also possible to set a plurality of types of time saving states in which different things are changed. Further, it may be set so that the movable member 37b is not opened in the normal operating state (probability of normal drawing is 0). Further, when a hit occurs, either the first open mode or the second open mode may be selected. In this case, the selection probabilities of the first open mode and the second open mode may be different. Further, the high probability state and the time saving state can be generated independently, and both can be generated at the same time, or only one can be generated.

[Transition state when power is turned on]
As described above, the state shifts to four states (modes) depending on the on / off state of the RAM initialization switch 112 and the setting key switch 93 when the power is turned on.

When the RAM initialization switch 112 and the setting key switch 93 are turned on when the power is turned on, the probability setting value (setting value) is changed to a variable setting state (setting change state, setting change mode). (See A1027-A1036 in FIG. 5B and FIG. 6B).

Next, when the setting key switch 93 is turned on but the RAM initialization switch 112 is off when the power is turned on, the state shifts to the setting confirmation state (setting confirmation mode) in which the probability setting value can be confirmed (FIG. FIG. 5B A1031-A1036 and FIG. 6B).

If the setting key switch 93 is off but the RAM initialization switch 112 is on when the power is turned on, the state shifts to the RAM initialization state (RAM clear mode) and the RAM initialization process (RAM clear). The process) is executed to initialize the RAM 111c (see A1042-1044 in FIG. 5B).

If the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are off when the power is turned on, the state shifts to the normal power recovery state (normal power recovery mode), and the power is simply recovered.

[Control of game control device]
Hereinafter, control of a gaming machine that performs such a game will be described. First, the control executed by the game microcomputer (game microcomputer) 111 of the game control device 100 will be described. The control process by the game microcomputer 111 mainly includes the main process shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B and the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 9 performed in a predetermined time period (for example, 4 msec).

[Main processing (game control device)]
First, the main process will be described. 5A and 5B are flowcharts showing a procedure of main processing by the game control device 100. The main process is started when the power is turned on. In the flowchart of the process executed by the game control device 100, the code (number) of the step is represented as "A ***".

As shown in FIG. 5A, when the game control device 100 starts the main process, it first executes a process of disabling interrupts (A1001). Further, a stack pointer setting process for setting the stack pointer, which is the start address of the area for saving the value of the register or the like when an interrupt occurs, is executed (A1002).

Subsequently, register bank 0 is designated as the register bank to be used (A1003), and the upper address of the RAM start address is set in a predetermined register (A1004). For example, when the RAM address is in the range of 0000h to 01FFh, 00h is set as the upper address.

Next, the game control device 100 outputs a firing prohibition signal and sets the firing permission signal to the prohibited state (A1005). The launch permission signal is set to a prohibited state when at least one of the game control device 100 and the payout control device 200 outputs a launch prohibition signal, and the launch of the game ball is prohibited. After that, the game control device 100 reads the states of the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 (A1006). That is, the signals from the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are read.

Further, the game control device 100 sets a power supply delay timer (A1007). A program of a slave control means (for example, a payout control device 200 or an effect control device 300) that performs various controls according to instructions from a game control device 100 that serves as a main control means by setting a predetermined initial value in the power delay timer. A waiting time (for example, 3 seconds) for waiting until is normally started is set. As a result, when the power is turned on, the game control device 100 temporarily starts up first and sends a command to the slave control device before the slave control device (for example, the payout control device 200 or the effect control device 300) starts up, and the slave control device Can prevent the command from being missed. That is, when the power is turned on, the game control device 100 delays the start of the main control means (game control device 100) and waits for the start of the slave control devices (payout control device 200, effect control device 300, etc.). It serves as a waiting means for setting the waiting time.

Further, the timing of the power supply delay timer is performed using a storage area (RAM area or register, etc. that is not subject to the validity determination) that is not subject to the validity determination (checksum calculation) of the RAM. As a result, when calculating check data such as a checksum of a RAM area, it is not necessary to exclude a part of the RAM area for calculation, so that it is possible to prevent the control at the time of power-on from becoming complicated.

By reading the states of the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 before the start of the standby time, the operation of the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 can be reliably detected. That is, if the states of the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are read after the standby time has elapsed, the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are operated or the power is turned on after the standby time has elapsed. It is necessary to continue to operate the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 from the time until the elapse of the standby time. However, by reading the state before the start of the standby time, the operation of the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 performed at the time of turning on the power cannot be accepted without performing such a troublesome operation. Can be prevented.

When the power delay timer is set (A1007), the game control device 100 executes time counting of the standby time and a process of monitoring the occurrence of a power failure during the standby time (A1008 to A1010).

When the power failure monitoring process is started, the game control device 100 first reads the power failure monitoring signal input from the power supply device 400 via the port and the data bus to determine whether or not a power failure has occurred. (A1008). When a power failure occurs (the result of A1008 is "Y"), the machine waits until the power of the gaming machine is turned off.

When the power failure has not occurred (the result of A1008 is "N"), the game control device 100 updates the power-on delay timer by -1 (A1009), and determines whether or not the value of the timer is 0. (A1010). If the value of the timer is not 0 (the result of A1010 is "N"), that is, if the waiting time has not ended, the process returns to step A1008.

That is, the game control device 100 serves as a power failure monitoring means for monitoring the occurrence of a power failure during a predetermined standby time. As a result, it is possible to deal with a power failure that occurs during the period in which the activation of the game control device 100, which is the main control means, is delayed, and it is possible to appropriately deal with a problem at the time of turning on the power. Note that access to the RAM is not permitted until the end of the standby time, and the stored contents at the time of the previous power cutoff are retained, so backup processing etc. is performed when a power failure occurs here. No need. Therefore, even if a power failure occurs during the standby time, it is not necessary to back up the RAM, and the burden of control can be reduced.

On the other hand, when the value of the timer is 0 (the result of A1010 is "Y"), that is, when the standby time has expired, the game control device 100 has a read / write RWM (read / write) such as a RAM or EEPROM. (Memory) access is permitted (A1011), and off-data is output to all output ports (set to no output) (A1012).

Next, the game control device 100 sets a serial port (a port previously mounted on the game microcomputer 111, which is used for communication with the effect control device 300 and the payout control device 200 in the present embodiment) (A1013). ).

Further, here, the driver 150 for driving the performance display device 152 (state display device) may be initially set. The game control device 100 writes a command including control data corresponding to the contents of the initial setting to the transmission buffer of the second output port 134 (serial communication circuit) and transmits the command to the driver 150. For example, the game control device 100 sets the duty ratio in the initial setting. The duty ratio corresponds to the brightness of each LED (each segment) of the performance display device 152. The game control device 100 sets the number of digits used in the performance display device 152 in the initial setting. In this embodiment, the number of digits used is four.

Next, the game control device 100 activates a CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) circuit that generates a timer interrupt signal and a random number update trigger signal (CTC) in the game microcomputer 111 (clock generator) (A1014). The CTC circuit is provided in the clock generator in the gaming microcomputer 111. The clock generator has a frequency dividing circuit that divides the oscillation signal (original clock signal) from the oscillation circuit 113, and a timer interrupt signal having a predetermined period (for example, 4 milliseconds) with respect to the CPU 111a based on the divided signal. It also includes a CTC circuit that generates a signal CTC that triggers a random number update to be supplied to the random number generation circuit.

Subsequently, the game control device 100 sets a RAM abnormality flag indicating an abnormality in the RAM (here, RAM111c) (A1015). Here, the flag of the assumption of abnormality is once set in a predetermined register.

Next, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the value of the power failure inspection area 1 in the RWM is normal power failure inspection area check data (A1016). Then, if it is normal (the result of A1016 is "Y"), it is determined whether or not the value of the power failure inspection area 2 in the RWM is the normal power failure inspection area check data (A1017).

Further, if the value of the power failure inspection area 2 is normal (the result of A1017 is “Y”), the game control device 100 calculates a checksum of a predetermined area (for example, a game control work area) in the RWM. The calculation process is executed (A1018), and it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum and the checksum at the time of power failure match (A1019). If the checksums match (the result of A1019 is "Y"), the RAM is normal and the RAM error flag indicating the RAM abnormality is cleared (A1020). After that, the process proceeds to step A1021.

Further, when the game control device 100 determines that the check data in the power failure inspection area is not normal data (the result of A1016 is "N" or the result of A1017 is "N"), the checksums do not match. (The result of A1019 is "N"), the process proceeds to step A1021 without clearing the RAM error flag.

Next, the game control device 100 determines whether or not both the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are on (A1021). When both switches are on (the result of A1021 is "Y"), the game control device 100 shifts to the variable setting state (setting change mode), and executes the process during the probability setting change in steps A1027-A1037. ..

When at least one of the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 is off (the result of A1021 is "N"), the game control device 100 sets a RAM abnormality flag indicating an abnormality in the RAM (here, RAM 111c). It is determined whether or not it is done (A1022). When the RAM abnormality flag is not set (the result of A1022 is "N"), it is determined whether or not the probability setting changing flag is set (A1023). When the probability setting changing flag is not set (the result of A1023 is "N"), the process of confirming the probability setting in steps A1031-A1037 (during the setting confirmation state and the setting confirmation mode), in step A1041-144 The RAM initialization process (RAM clear process) or the process at the time of normal power-on (power recovery) in steps A1041, A1045, and A1046 is executed.

The game control device 100 notifies that the game control device 100 (main board, main board) has an abnormality when the probability setting changing flag is set (the result of A1023 is “Y”). An error notification command is transmitted to the effect control device 300 (A1024). The effect control device 300 that has received the command for notifying the main abnormality error notifies that there is an abnormality in the game control device 100.

Subsequently, the game control device 100 uses the driver 150 of the performance display device 152 to display the 7-segment display data (data of the error display of "E1" in FIG. 9C) when the game is stopped on the performance display device 152. Is output to (A1025). Then, the on-data of the security signal for notifying the external device (game hall internal management device (hall computer), information collecting terminal, etc.) of the abnormality is output to the external information terminal 71 (A1026). Here, even when the information regarding the jackpot remains in the RAM 111c, other signals to the external information terminal 71 such as the jackpot signal are maintained in the off state. After that, the processes of steps A1025 and A1026 are repeated to wait, and the setting change operation (both the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are turned on) is performed again to wait for the power to be turned on. While the processes of steps A1025 and A1026 are repeated to wait and wait, the interrupt remains disabled (A1001), and the timer interrupt process capable of executing the special figure 1 and 2 game process and the normal figure game process. Since (Fig. 7) cannot be executed, the game (special figure variation display game, normal figure variation display game) cannot be executed.

In this way, if the setting change operation (both the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are turned on) is not executed, but the probability setting changing flag is set, there is an abnormality. , A1024-A1026 is executed. For example, when the power is turned off and restarted while the probability setting is being changed (before the setting change is completed), the probability setting changing flag may be set even though the setting change operation has not been executed. be.

On the other hand, even when the RAM abnormality flag is set (the result of A1022 is "Y"), the game control device 100 notifies the game control device 100 (main board) that there is an abnormality in the main abnormality error notification. The command is transmitted to the effect control device 300 (A1024), the 7-segment display data (data of the error display of "E1") when the game is stopped is output to the driver 150 of the performance display device 152 (A1025), and the RAM is sent to the external device. In order to notify the abnormality, the on-data of the security signal is output to the external information terminal 71 (A1026). As described above, even when the information about the jackpot remains in the RAM 111c, other signals to the external information terminal 71 such as the jackpot signal are maintained in the off state. After that, the processes of steps A1025 and A1026 are repeated to wait.

When both the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are turned on (the result of A1021 is “Y”), the game control device 100 starts the process of changing the probability setting (during the variable setting state). First, it is determined whether or not the RAM abnormality flag is set (A1027). When the RAM error flag is set (the result of A1027 is "Y"), it is unknown whether the probability setting value is correct, so the probability setting value stored in the probability setting value area of the RAM 111c is cleared. After setting the initial value (for example, the minimum setting value "1") (A1028), the probability setting changing flag indicating that the probability setting is being changed is set (A1029). When the RAM abnormality flag is not set (the result of A1027 is "N"), the probability setting changing flag is set without clearing the probability setting value (A1029). Next, the command for which the probability setting is being changed is transmitted to the effect control device 300 (effect control board) (A1030), and the process proceeds to step A1034. The effect control device 300 that has received the command for changing the probability setting notifies the display device 41 or the like that the probability setting is being changed.

In the game control device 100, at least one of the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 is off (the result of A1021 is "N"), and the RAM error flag is not set (the result of A1022 is "N"). ), And when the probability setting changing flag is not set (the result of A1023 is “N”), it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 93 is on (A1031). When the setting key switch 93 is on (the result of A1031 is "Y"), the RAM initialization switch 112 is off, and the process of confirming the probability setting (during the setting confirmation state) starts, and the probability Set the probability setting checking flag indicating that the setting is being checked (A1032). Then, the command under confirmation of probability setting is transmitted to the effect control device 300 (effect control board) (A1033), and the process proceeds to step A1034. The effect control device 300 that has received the command for changing the probability setting notifies the display device 41 or the like that the probability setting is being confirmed.

After step A1030 or step A1033, the game control device 100 executes the processes of steps A1034 to A1040 as common processes during the probability setting change and the probability setting confirmation.

First, the game control device 100 saves 128 ms (predetermined time) in the security signal control timer area in order to output a security signal during the probability setting change and the probability setting confirmation (A1034). The count of the security signal control timer and the output of the security signal are executed in the probability setting change / confirmation process (FIG. 6B) described later, but remain when the probability setting change or the probability setting confirmation is completed early. The count of the security signal control timer and the output of the security signal are executed by the external information editing process (A1321). The security signal is output for at least 50 ms while the probability setting is being changed and the probability setting is being confirmed.

Next, the game control device 100 permits interrupts (A1035). As a result, the timer interrupt process (FIG. 7) can be executed. Then, it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 93 is off (A1036). When the setting key switch 93 is on (the result of A1036 is "N"), it is determined whether or not a power failure has occurred (A1037). If no power failure has occurred (the result of A1037 is “N”), the process returns to step A1036. On the other hand, when a power failure has occurred (the result of A1037 is "Y"), the process at the time of the power failure in steps A1055-A1061 is executed.

In this way, as long as the setting key switch 93 is on and a power failure does not occur, the probability setting value can be confirmed in the variable setting state (setting change state, setting change mode) or the probability setting value can be confirmed. The setting confirmation status (setting confirmation mode) is continued.

On the other hand, when the setting key switch 93 is off (the result of A1036 is "Y"), the game control device 100 prohibits interrupts (A1038), and issues a command to end the notification to the effect control device 300 (effect control board). (A1039). The effect control device 300 that has received the command to end the notification ends the notification that the probability setting is being confirmed or that the probability setting is being changed.

Next, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the probability setting changing flag is set, that is, whether or not the probability setting is being changed so far (A1040). When the probability setting changing flag is set (the result of A1040 is "Y"), that is, when the probability setting is being changed so far, the RAM initialization process (described later) in steps A1042-A1044 is executed. do. On the other hand, when the probability setting changing flag is not set (the result of A1040 is "N"), that is, when the probability setting is being confirmed so far, when the power is turned on after step A1045 (when the power is restored). Perform the normal processing of.

The game control device 100 determines whether or not the RAM initialization switch 112 is on when the setting key switch 93 is off (the result of A1031 is “N”) (A1041). When the RAM initialization switch 112 is on (the result of A1041 is “Y”), the RAM area other than the probability setting value area for storing the probability setting value is cleared to 0 in the RAM 111c (A1042). That is, the game information stored in the RAM 111c is cleared to 0 except for the probability setting value stored in the probability setting value area. Further, the above-mentioned probability setting changing flag is also cleared here. Further, in addition to the probability setting value area, a configuration that does not clear the stack area and the unused area, a work area related to the performance information and its display (performance display), and a configuration that does not clear the stack area are also possible. .. The performance information is derived based on the number of prize balls obtained by winning, for example, the ball output rate, the base value (the ball output rate in the normal game state), the accessory ratio, the number of ejected balls, and the like. be.

Next, the game control device 100 saves the initial value at the time of RAM initialization in the area to be initialized (A1043). Then, the command at the time of RAM initialization is transmitted to the effect control device 300 (effect control board) (A1044), and the process proceeds to step A1047.

On the other hand, the game control device 100 has a normal power supply because both the setting key switch 93 and the RAM initialization switch 112 are off when the RAM initialization switch 112 is off (the result of A1041 is “N”). The process at the time of turning on (when the power is restored) is started, and the power failure recovery process is executed (A1045). For example, the initial value at the time of power failure recovery (power recovery) is saved in the area to be initialized. In addition, the above-mentioned probability setting confirmation flag is also cleared here. Next, a command at the time of power failure recovery corresponding to the processing number prepared for rationally executing the special figure game processing described later is transmitted to the effect control device 300 (effect control board) (A1046), and step A1047. Move to the processing of.

The command at the time of RAM initialization transmitted in the process of step A1044 and the command at the time of recovery from a power failure transmitted in the process of step A1046 include a model designation command indicating the type of the game machine and the hold of special figures 1 and 2. Ornament special figure 1 indicating the number Hold number command and decoration special figure 2 Hold number command, probability information command indicating the presence or absence of a probability state (high probability state or low probability state) or a time saving state, special figure fluctuation in a predetermined production mode It includes a production count information command that indicates the number of times the display game has been executed, and a power failure recovery command that indicates that the power has been turned on.

Further, the command at the time of RAM initialization and the command at the time of power failure recovery include the setting value information command (probability setting value information) indicating the setting value information (setting information) which is the information of the probability setting value (setting value) of the game machine 10. Command) is included. The game control device 100 only needs to transmit the set value information command to the effect control device 300 only once when the power is restored (turned on), and thereafter, the effect control device 300 refers to the set value information stored by itself. You can control the production.

The RAM initialization command also includes a RAM initialization command (RAM clear command). The effect control device 300 that has received the RAM initialization command displays, for example, a customer waiting demo on the display device 41, and notifies the RAM initialization (RAM clear) by the sound of the LED and the speaker of the board decoration device 46 or the like. Do it for a second. Further, the command at the time of power failure recovery includes a screen designation command for designating the display contents of the screen of the display device 41. Note that the screen designation command is a customer waiting demo command for both Special Figures 1 and 2 during normal processing (when neither fluctuating nor hitting), and is a recovery screen command otherwise.

After step A1044 or step A1046, the game control device 100 activates and sets the random number generation circuit (A1047). Specifically, the CPU 111a sets a code (designated value) for activating the random number generation circuit in a predetermined register (CTC update permission register) in the random number generation circuit. In addition, the bit transposition pattern of the hard random number (here, the jackpot random number) generated by the hardware of the random number generation circuit is also set.

The bit transposition pattern is a method of exchanging the extracted random number bits (arrangement before bit transposition in the upper row) when they are exchanged in a predetermined order and stored as different bit arrangements (arrangement after bit transposition in the lower row). It is a pattern that determines.

In the present embodiment, by exchanging the bits of the random number according to the bit transposition pattern, the regularity of the random number can be broken and the confidentiality of the random number can be enhanced. The bit transposition pattern may be a fixed single pattern, or may be selected from a plurality of patterns prepared in advance. In addition, the user may be able to set it arbitrarily.

After that, the game control device 100 extracts the values of predetermined registers (soft random number registers 1 to n) in the random number generation circuit when the power is turned on, and corresponds to various initial value random numbers (big hit symbol random numbers for determining the jackpot symbol). Initial value (big hit symbol initial value random number), small hit symbol random number that determines the small hit symbol (small hit symbol initial value random number) (only when there is a small hit), hit random number that determines the hit of the normal figure Save in a predetermined area of RWM (A1048) as the start value of the initial value (random number of initial value per hit), the initial value of the random number of the fall lottery used in the fall lottery (random number of the initial value of the fall lottery), etc., and allow the interruption (A1049). ). In the random number generation circuit in the CPU 111a used in the present embodiment, the initial value of the soft random number register is configured to change each time the power is turned on. Therefore, this value is used as the start value (initial value) of various initial random numbers. By doing so, the regularity of the random numbers generated by the software can be broken, and it is possible to make it difficult for the player to acquire an illegal random number.

Subsequently, the game control device 100 executes an initial value random number update process for updating the values of various initial value random numbers to break the regularity of the random numbers (A1050). Although not particularly limited, in the present embodiment, the big hit random number, the big hit symbol random number, the hit random number, and the fall lottery random number are configured to be generated by using the random numbers generated in the random number generation circuit. There is. However, the jackpot random number is a so-called "high-speed counter" that is updated based on a clock whose speed is equal to or higher than the operating clock of the CPU, and the jackpot symbol random number, hit random number, and fall lottery random number are timer interrupts that are processing units of the program. It is a "low-speed counter" that is updated based on the CTC output (CTC (CTC2) different from CTC (CTC0) of timer interrupt processing) that has the same cycle as the processing.

In addition, for jackpot symbol random numbers, hit symbol random numbers, and fall lottery random numbers, a so-called "initial value change method" is adopted in which the start value is changed using each initial value random number (generated by software) each time the random number makes a round. ing. It should be noted that each of the random numbers may be a counter-type update by +1 or 1, or a random-type update in which all the values in the range appear separately without duplication until one cycle is completed. That is, the jackpot random number is a random number updated only by the hardware, and the jackpot symbol random number, the hit random number, and the fall lottery random number are random numbers updated by the hardware and software.

Subsequently, the game control device 100 prohibits interrupts (A1051) and executes a performance display editing process for editing the performance information and its display (performance display) (A1052). Here, the performance information (such as the accessory ratio and the ball output rate) may be calculated. Further, when the RAM error flag is set in the register, the work area and the stack area related to the performance information and its display (performance display) may be cleared (if it is not cleared in step A1042). After that, interrupts are permitted (A1053). As a result, the timer interrupt process (FIG. 7) can be executed.

Next, the game control device 100 determines whether or not a power failure has occurred (A1054). If no power failure has occurred (result of A1054 is “N”), the process returns to step A1050. As a result, the process of steps A1050-A1054 is repeated until a power failure occurs.

When a power failure occurs (the result of A1054 is "Y"), the game control device 100 starts processing at the time of a power failure, temporarily disables interrupts (A1055), and outputs off-data to all output ports (A1055). 1056). After that, the power failure inspection area check data 1 is saved in the power failure inspection area 1 (A1057), and the power failure inspection area check data 2 is saved in the power failure inspection area 2 (A1058). Further, a checksum calculation process for calculating the checksum when the power of the RWM is turned off is executed (A1059), and the calculated checksum is saved (A1060). Finally, a process for prohibiting access to the RWM is executed (A1061), and the machine waits until the power of the gaming machine is turned off.

In this way, by saving the check data in the power failure inspection area and calculating the checksum when the power is turned off, it is possible to check whether the information stored in the RWM before the power is cut off is correctly backed up. It can be judged at the time of re-input.

[Timer interrupt processing]
Next, timer interrupt processing will be described. FIG. 6A is a flowchart showing the procedure of timer interrupt processing (interrupt processing program). The timer interrupt process is started by inputting a periodic timer interrupt signal generated by the CTC circuit in the clock generator to the CPU 111a. When a timer interrupt occurs in the gaming microcomputer 111, the timer interrupt processing is started.

When the timer interrupt process is started, the game control device 100 first designates the register bank 1 as the register bank to be used (A1301), and sets the upper address of the RAM start address in the predetermined register (A1302). By switching from register bank 0 used in main processing to register bank 1 at the start of timer interrupt processing, it is equivalent to saving the register used in main processing. When the timer interrupt processing is started, the interrupt is automatically disabled.

Next, the game control device 100 executes input from various sensors and switches, capture of signals, that is, input processing for reading the state of each input port (A1303). Next, based on the probability setting changing flag and the probability setting checking flag, it is determined whether or not the probability setting is being changed or the probability setting is being confirmed (A1304). When the probability setting is being changed or the probability setting is being confirmed (the result of A1304 is "Y"), the probability setting change / confirmation process for changing or confirming the probability setting value is executed (A1305).

The game control device 100 is an actuator such as a solenoid (for example, a large winning opening solenoid 39b) based on the output data set in various processes when the probability setting is not changed or the probability setting is not confirmed (the result of A1304 is “N”). Output processing for performing drive control of the solenoid and drive control of the LED (light emission control) is executed (A1306). When a launch prohibition signal is output in the process of step A1005 in the main process, the launch permission signal is output by performing this output process, and the launch permission signal can be set to the permitted state.

Next, the game control device 100 executes a payout command transmission process (A1307) that outputs commands set in the transmission buffer in various processes to the payout control device 200, and further, random number update process 1 (A1308) and random number update. Process 2 (A1309) is executed. After that, monitoring of whether or not there is a normal signal input from the starting port 1 switch 36a, the starting port 2 switch 37a, the winning port switch 35a, and the large winning port switch 39a, and error monitoring (the front frame and the glass frame are opened). The winning opening switch / status monitoring process is executed (A1310).

Next, the game control device 100 determines whether or not abnormal discharge of the game ball is occurring at the large winning opening (A1311). When the abnormal discharge occurring flag is set by the abnormal discharge monitoring process (A1318) described later, it can be determined that the abnormal discharge is occurring. When abnormal discharge is occurring (the result of A1311 is “Y”), the processes after step A1315 are executed.

When the abnormal discharge is not occurring (the result of A1311 is “N”), the game control device 100 executes the special figure game process for performing the process related to the special figure variation display game (A1312). The details of the special figure game processing will be described later.

Next, the game control device 100 executes a normal map game process that performs a process related to the normal map variation display game (A1313). A segment LED editing process is executed (A1314), which is provided in the gaming machine 10 and drives a segment LED for displaying a special figure variation game and various information related to the game so as to display desired contents (A1314).

Further, the game control device 100 executes a magnet fraud monitoring process of checking the detection signal from the magnetic sensor switch 61 to determine whether or not there is an abnormality (A1315). Further, a radio wave fraud monitoring process (board radio wave fraud monitoring process) for checking the detection signal from the radio wave sensor 62 of the game board and determining whether or not there is an abnormality is executed (A1316).

After that, the game control device 100 executes a vibration fraud monitoring process for monitoring fraud due to vibration based on the input from the vibration sensor 65 (A1317). Next, an abnormal discharge monitoring process for monitoring abnormal discharge from the large winning opening is executed (A1318). In the abnormal discharge monitoring process, the abnormal discharge of the special variable winning device 39 is based on the inputs from the large winning port switch 39a, the specific area switch 72 (V winning port switch), and the remaining ball discharge port switch 73 of the special variable winning device 39. Is monitored, and when an abnormal discharge occurs, the abnormal discharge occurring flag is set. The game ball that has passed through the large winning opening switch 39a of the special variable winning device 39 is discharged through the specific area switch 72 (V winning opening switch) or the remaining ball ejection port switch 73.

Next, the game control device 100 executes an external information editing process for setting signals to be output to various external devices in the output buffer (A1319). Then, the performance display monitor control process for controlling the display of the performance display device 152 is executed (A1320). After that, the timer interrupt processing is terminated.

When returning the timer interrupt processing, the interrupt disabled state is restored and the register bank specification is automatically restored. However, depending on the CPU used, interrupts are permitted after the external information editing processing. Processing or processing to return the designation of the register bank to register bank 0 may be performed.

[Probability setting change / confirmation process]
Next, the details of the probability setting change / confirmation process (A1305) in the timer interrupt process will be described. FIG. 6B is a flowchart showing the procedure of the probability setting change / confirmation process. In the probability setting change / confirmation process, the probability setting value can be changed or confirmed.

The game control device 100 first determines whether or not the probability set value is within the normal range (A2401). The probability set value here is stored in the probability set value area of the RAM 111c.

When the probability set value is within the normal range (the result of A2401 is “Y”), the game control device 100 sets the probability set value display data corresponding to the probability set value (A2402), and the performance display device 152 Is output via the driver 150 (A2404). When the probability set value is not within the normal range (the result of A2401 is "N"), the extinguishing data is set as the probability set value display data (A2403), and the data is output to the performance display device 152 via the driver 150 (A2404). ).

Here, the probability set value display data is display probability set value data displayed on the performance display device 152, and is stored in the probability set value display data area. In order to prevent confusion among people involved in the hall, if the probability setting values are different but the same jackpot probability (and small hit probability), the display probability setting value is associated with the jackpot probability (and small hit probability). May be the same. That is, the same display probability setting value may mean the same jackpot probability (and small hit probability).

Next, the game control device 100 updates -1 if the security signal control timer is not 0 (A2405). The security signal control timer is 128 ms (predetermined time) set in step A1034. Subsequently, the on-data of the security signal for notifying the external device (game hall internal management device (hall computer) or the like) of the abnormality is output to the external information terminal 71 (A1026). Here, other signals to the external information terminal 71 such as the jackpot signal are maintained in the off state.

After that, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the probability setting changing flag is set (A2407). When the probability setting changing flag is not set (the result of A2407 is "N"), that is, when the probability setting is being confirmed, the probability setting change / confirmation process is terminated without doing anything.

The game control device 100 is the first timer interrupt process after the power is turned on when the probability setting changing flag is set (the result of A2407 is "Y"), that is, when the probability setting is being changed. Whether or not it is determined (A2408). When it is the first timer interrupt process after the power is turned on (the result of A2408 is "Y"), the probability setting change / confirmation process is terminated. This is to prevent a situation in which the probability set value is unintentionally updated when the RAM initialization switch 112 is held down.

The game control device 100 determines whether or not there is an input of the RAM initialization switch 112 when it is not the first timer interrupt process after the power is turned on (the result of A2408 is “N”) (A2409). When there is no input from the RAM initialization switch (the result of A2409 is "N"), the probability setting change / confirmation process ends.

When the game control device 100 receives an input from the RAM initialization switch 112 (the result of A2409 is “Y”), the game control device 100 sets the work set value in the work set value area (in the RAM 111c or the register) in the range of 0 to 5. Along with updating by +1 the probability setting values 1 to 6 in the probability setting value area are updated by +1 according to the work setting value (A2410). As a result, the probability setting value in the probability setting value area is updated by 1 each time the RAM initialization switch 112 is operated. After that, the probability setting change / confirmation process is terminated. In the work setting value area (RAM111c or register) for storing the work setting value when the setting change mode is entered, a value corresponding to the probability setting value read from the probability setting value area (1 from the probability setting value). The subtracted value) may be stored.

In the above, every time the RAM initialization switch 112 is operated, the probability setting value in the probability setting value area is directly updated in response to the update of the work setting value, but the work setting value of the RAM 111c is updated. The probability setting value (work setting value) during the setting change is stored in the area, and when the setting key switch 93 is turned off and the setting change work is completed (the result of A1036 is "Y"), the work setting The value corresponding to the work setting value in the value area may be stored in the probability setting value area for the first time. In this way, when a power failure occurs during the setting change (the result of A1037 is "Y"), the probability setting value used for game control, effect control, etc. (probability setting stored in the probability setting value area) It is possible to prevent the situation where the value) is changed by an unintended value.

[Special game processing]
Next, the details of the special figure game processing (A1312) in the above-mentioned timer interrupt processing will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the special figure game processing. In the special figure game process, the inputs of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a are monitored, the entire process related to the special figure variation display game is controlled, and the special figure display is set.

First, the game control device 100 executes a start port switch monitoring process for monitoring the winning of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a (A2601). In the start port switch monitoring process, when a game ball wins in the start winning opening 36, the normal variable winning device 37 forming the second starting winning opening, and the starting winning opening 42, various random numbers (big hit random numbers, etc.) are extracted and the winning is given. Based on special figure variation display The game result pre-judgment is performed to predetermine the game result based on the winning at the stage before the start of the game. The details of the start port switch monitoring process will be described later.

Next, the game control device 100 executes the large winning opening switch monitoring process (A2602). In the large winning opening switch monitoring process, the detection of the game ball by the count switch 39a provided in the special variable winning device 39 is monitored. In the large winning opening switch monitoring process, the game control device 100 prepares the large winning opening count command as an effect command if there is an input to the large winning opening switch during the process of opening the large winning opening or during the processing of the remaining balls of the large winning opening. Then, the effect command setting process is executed, and the number of large winning openings is updated by +1 when the processing is in progress while the large winning openings are being opened. Then, when the number of large winning opening counts exceeds the upper limit value (the number of game balls that can be won in one round, for example, "9" or "15"), the game control device 100 sets the special figure game processing timer area. Clear 0 and end the big winning opening switch monitoring process. As a result, the big prize opening will be closed and one round will end.

Next, the game control device 100 updates -1 (subtracts only 1) if the special figure game processing timer is not 0 (A2603). The special figure game processing timer is clocked by the interrupt cycle (4 msec) of the timer interrupt processing by updating -1. The minimum value of the special figure game processing timer is set to 0. Next, it is determined whether or not the special figure game processing timer is 0 (A2604). If the special figure game processing timer is not 0 (the result of A2604 is "N"), the process proceeds to step A2619.

The game control device 100 corresponds to the special figure game processing number when the special figure game processing timer is 0 (the result of A2604 is "Y"), that is, when the time is up or the time is already up. The special figure game sequence branch table to be referred to for branching to the process is set in the register (A2605). Further, the branch destination address of the process corresponding to the special figure game process number is acquired by using the special figure game sequence branch table (A2606). Subsequently, a subroutine call is made according to the special figure game processing number, and the game branch processing according to the special figure game processing number is executed (A2607).

When the game processing number is "0" in step A2607, the game control device 100 monitors the variation start of the special figure variation display game, sets the variation start of the special figure variation display game, sets the effect, and sets the effect. The special figure normal processing for setting the information necessary for performing the special figure changing processing is executed (A2608). The details of the special figure normal processing will be described later in FIG.

When the game processing number is "1" in step A2607, the game control device 100 sets the stop display time of the special figure, sets the information necessary for performing the processing during the special figure display, and the like. Figure The processing during fluctuation is executed (A2609). For example, in the special symbol changing process, necessary information such as a symbol stop command indicating the stop of the special symbol and the stop display time corresponding to the stop symbol pattern is set, and the process number "2" related to the special symbol display process is set. Set and save in the special figure game processing number area.

When the game processing number is "2" in step A2607, the game control device 100 sets a fanfare command according to the type of big hit and each big hit if the game result of the special figure variation display game is a big hit. The special figure display processing for setting the fanfare time according to the large winning opening opening pattern, setting the information necessary for performing the fanfare / interval processing, and the like is executed (A2610). For example, in the special figure display processing, if the result of the special figure fluctuation display game is a big hit, the necessary information such as the fanfare command and the fanfare time is set, and the processing number "3" related to the fanfare / interval processing is set. Save to the special figure game processing number area. If the result of the special figure variation display game is not a big hit, the process number "0" related to the special figure normal processing is set and saved in the special figure game processing number area.

When the game processing number is "3" in step A2607, the game control device 100 sets the opening time of the large winning opening, updates the number of opening times, and performs processing during opening of the large winning opening. The fanfare / interval processing for setting and the like is executed (A2611). For example, in the fanfare / interval processing, necessary information such as the round command corresponding to the round of the round game to be executed and the opening time of the large winning opening is set, and the processing number "4" related to the processing during the opening of the large winning opening is set. Set and save in the special figure game processing number area.

When the game processing number is "4" in step A2607, the game control device 100 sets an interval command if the jackpot round is not the final round, while setting an ending command if it is the final round. The processing during the opening of the large winning opening is executed (A2612), in which information necessary for processing the remaining balls of the large winning opening is set. For example, in the processing during the opening of the large winning opening, necessary information such as an interval command and an ending command is set, a processing number "5" related to the processing of the remaining balls of the large winning opening is set, and the game is saved in the special figure game processing number area.

When the game processing number is "5" in step A2607, the game control device 100 sets a process for setting the time for the remaining balls in the big winning opening to be discharged if the big hit round is the final round. The big winning opening remaining ball processing for setting the information necessary for performing the big hit end processing is executed (A2613). For example, in the processing during the opening of the large winning opening, if it is not the final round, the interval time is saved in the special figure game processing timer area, the processing number "3" related to the fanfare / interval processing is set, and the special figure game processing number area is set. Save. If it is the final round, the ending time is saved in the special figure game processing timer area, the processing number "6" related to the jackpot end processing is set, and the game is saved in the special figure game processing number area.

When the game processing number is "6" in step A2607, the game control device 100 executes a jackpot end process for setting information necessary for executing the special figure normal process (A2614). For example, in the jackpot end processing, the probability state after the jackpot state ends and the normal power support state after the jackpot state ends (the probability state after the jackpot state ends and the normal power support state after the jackpot state ends ( Set necessary information such as (time saving state), set the processing number "0" related to the special figure normal processing, and save it in the special figure game processing number area. The probability fluctuation judgment data includes the number of continuous games (number of time reduction fluctuations, number of electric support) of the probability state (high probability / low probability) after the end of the jackpot state and the normal power support state (time reduction state) after the end of the jackpot state. ) Information is included.

When the processing based on the special figure game processing number is completed, the game control device 100 prepares the special figure 1 fluctuation control table for controlling the fluctuation of the special figure 1 display 51 (A2615), and then the special figure 1 display. The symbol variation control process according to 51 is executed (A2616). Then, after preparing the special figure 2 fluctuation control table for controlling the fluctuation of the special figure 2 display 52 (A2617), the symbol fluctuation control process related to the special figure 2 display 52 is executed (A2618).

When a small hit is provided, in the special figure game processing, the small hit fanfare medium processing, the small hit medium processing, the small hit remaining ball processing, and the small hit end processing are performed during the fanfare / interval processing and the large winning opening is being opened. It may be executed in the same manner as the processing, the processing for the remaining balls of the big winning opening, and the processing for ending the big hit. It should be noted that there is no change in the probability state such as the probability of occurrence of a big hit / small hit (big hit probability, small hit probability) during the small hit and before and after the small hit. A big hit random value may be used for the small hit determination, but the small hit judgment value (small hit value) that becomes a small hit when the big hit random values match is a big hit judgment that becomes a big hit when the big hit random values match. Different from the value (big hit value).

In the case of a small hit, the special variable winning device 39 changes the large winning opening from the closed state to the open state for a predetermined short time by energizing the large winning opening solenoid 39b. Since the full opening time of the big winning opening is shorter in the small hit state (small hit game state) than in the big hit state (special game state), the game value that the player can obtain in the small hit state than in the big hit state ( The number of acquired balls) is small. In both the small hit state and the big hit state, the big winning opening is open, but the big hit state may be called the first special gaming state, and the small hit state may be called the second special gaming state.

[Starting port switch monitoring process]
Next, the details of the start port switch monitoring process (A2601) in the special figure game process will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the start port switch monitoring process.

First, the game control device 100 prepares a winning monitoring table for the first starting winning opening 36 (starting opening 1) (A2701), executes a hard random number acquisition process (A2702), and wins a prize in the first starting winning opening 36 (A2702). It is determined whether or not there is (A2703). If there is no winning in the first starting winning opening 36 (the result of A2703 is "N"), the processes after step A2709 are executed. On the other hand, when there is a prize in the first start winning opening 36 (the result of A2703 is "Y"), it is determined whether or not the special figure time is shortened (in the normal electric support state) (A2704).

When it is determined that the game control device 100 is not in the special time reduction period (during the normal power support state) (the result of A2704 is "N"), the game control device 100 executes the processes after step A2707. On the other hand, when the special figure time is shortened (in the normal electric support state) (the result of A2704 is "Y"), the right-handed instruction notification command is prepared as an effect command (A2705), and the effect command setting process is executed (A2705). A2706).

That is, in the normal electric support state (time saving state), the right-handed instruction notification command is prepared and the effect command setting process is executed regardless of the probability state (high probability state / low probability state) of the variable display game. .. In the case of the present embodiment, the first start winning opening 36 is not won unless it is left-handed, and the normal variable winning device 37 is not won unless it is right-handed. In addition, the game ball does not pass through the normal drawing start gate 34 unless it is hit right. Therefore, in the normal power support state (time saving state), right-handed is more advantageous than left-handed, but when there is a prize in the first start winning opening 36 during the normal power support state (that is, normal power support). When left-handed during the state), a right-handed instruction notification command is transmitted to the effect control device 300, and the effect control device 300 executes a notification (warning) instructing right-handed by the display device 41 or the like. ..

Next, the game control device 100 prepares a table for setting the information of the hold by the first start winning opening 36 (starting opening 1) (A2707), and then executes the special figure starting opening switch common process (A2708). Then, a winning monitoring table for the second starting winning opening (normal variable winning device 37) is prepared (A2709), a hard random number acquisition process is executed (A2710), and whether or not there is a winning in the second starting winning opening is determined. Judgment (A2711). If there is no winning in the second starting winning opening (the result of A2711 is "N"), the processes after step A2716 are executed.

On the other hand, in the game control device 100, when there is a prize in the second start winning opening (the result of A2711 is "Y"), whether or not the ordinary electric accessory (ordinary variable winning device 37) is operating. That is, it is determined whether or not the normal variable winning device 37 is activated and the game ball is in the open state in which the winning can be won (A2712). When the normal electric accessory is in operation (the result of A2712 is "Y"), the process proceeds to step A2714.

On the other hand, when the normal electric accessory is not in operation (the result of A2712 is "N"), the game control device 100 determines whether or not a fraudulent electric service is occurring (A2713). When the number of fraudulent prizes to the ordinary variable winning device 37 is equal to or greater than the number of fraudulent occurrence determinations (for example, 5), it is determined that the Fuden fraud is occurring. In the normal variable winning device 37, the game ball cannot be won in the closed state, and the game ball can be won only in the open state. Therefore, if a game ball wins in the closed state, it means that some abnormality or fraud has occurred, and if there is a game ball that wins in such a closed state, the number is counted as the number of fraudulent prizes. Then, when the number of fraudulent winnings counted in this way is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of fraud occurrence determinations (upper limit value), it is determined that fraud has occurred.

The game control device 100 prepares a table for setting information on hold by the second start winning opening (normal variable winning device 37) when the normal electric fraud is not occurring (the result of A2713 is "N") (A2714). , The special figure start port switch common process is executed (A2715), and the processes after step A2716 are executed. Further, even when it is determined in A2713 that an illegal electric power is being generated (the result of A2713 is "Y"), the processes after step A2716 are executed. That is, the second start memory is prevented from being generated any more.

The game control device 100 prepares a winning monitoring table for the third starting winning opening 42 (starting opening 3) (A2716), executes a hard random number acquisition process (A2717), and executes the hard random number acquisition process (A2717) to perform the third starting winning opening 42 (starting opening 3). It is determined whether or not there is a prize in (A2718). If there is no winning in the third starting opening winning opening 42 (the result of A2718 is "N"), the starting opening switch monitoring process is terminated. On the other hand, when there is a prize in the third start winning opening 42 (the result of A2718 is "Y"), it is determined whether or not the special figure time is shortened (in the normal electric support state) (A2719).

When it is determined that the game control device 100 is not in the special time reduction period (during the normal power support state) (the result of A2719 is "N"), the game control device 100 executes the processes after step A2722. On the other hand, when the special figure time is shortened (the result of A2719 is "Y"), a right-handed instruction notification command is prepared as an effect command (A2720), and the effect command setting process is executed (A2720). A2721).

That is, in the normal electric support state (time saving state), the right-handed instruction notification command is prepared and the effect command setting process is executed regardless of the probability state (high probability state / low probability state) of the variable display game. .. In the case of the present embodiment, the third start winning opening 42 is not won unless it is left-handed, and the normal variable winning device 37 is not won unless it is right-handed. In addition, the game ball does not pass through the normal drawing start gate 34 unless it is hit right. Therefore, in the normal power support state (time saving state), right-handed is more advantageous than left-handed, but when there is a prize in the third start winning opening 42 during the normal power support state (that is, normal power support). When left-handed during the state), a right-handed instruction notification command is transmitted to the effect control device 300, and the effect control device 300 executes a notification (warning) instructing right-handed by the display device 41 or the like. ..

Next, the game control device 100 prepares a table for setting the information of the hold by the third start winning opening 42 (starting opening 3) (A2722), and then executes the special figure starting opening switch common process (A2723). The start port switch monitoring process is terminated.

[Special figure start port switch common processing]
Next, the details of the special figure start port switch common process (A2708, A2715) in the start port switch monitoring process will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a procedure for common processing of the special drawing start port switch. The special figure start port switch common process is a process that is commonly performed for each input when the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a are input.

First, the game control device 100 outputs information regarding the number of winnings to the monitoring target start port switch among the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a to the external management device of the game machine 10. The start port signal output number of times is loaded (A2901), the loaded value is updated by +1 (A2902), and it is determined whether or not the output number of times overflows (A2903). If the number of outputs does not overflow (the result of A2903 is "N"), the updated value is saved in the start port signal output count area of the RWM (A2904), and the process proceeds to step A2905. On the other hand, when the number of outputs overflows (the result of A2903 is "Y"), the process proceeds to step A2905. In the present embodiment, a value from "0" to "255" can be stored in the start port signal output frequency region. Then, when the loaded value is "255", the updated value becomes "0" by +1 update, and it is configured to determine that the number of outputs overflows.

Next, in the game control device 100, among the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a, whether or not the number of special figure reservations (start memory number) to be updated corresponding to the start port switch to be monitored is less than the upper limit value. (A2905). If the number of special figure reservations to be updated is not less than the upper limit value (the result of A2905 is "N"), the special figure start port switch common processing is terminated. If the number of special figure reservations to be updated is less than the upper limit (the result of A2905 is "Y"), the number of special figure reservations to be updated (special figure 1 hold number or special figure 2 hold number) is updated by +1. Then (A2906), the target start opening winning flag is saved (A2907).

Next, the game control device 100 calculates the address of the start port switch to be monitored and the random number storage area corresponding to the number of reserved special figures (A2908), and stores the jackpot random number prepared in step A2805 in the RWM jackpot random number. Save to the area (A2909). Next, the jackpot symbol random number of the start port switch to be monitored is extracted, prepared (A2910), and saved in the jackpot symbol random number storage area of the RWM (A2911).

Next, the game control device 100 saves the fluctuation pattern random numbers 1 to 3 in the corresponding fluctuation pattern random number storage area of the RWM (A2912), and executes the special figure reservation information determination process (A2913). In the special figure hold information determination process, the look-ahead stop symbol command corresponding to the saved jackpot random number or the stop symbol information based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the first half variation number based on the saved variation pattern random numbers 1 to 3 (number of variation before reach). And the look-ahead fluctuation pattern command corresponding to the latter half fluctuation number (number of fluctuation after reach) is set as an effect command. Then, the start port switch to be monitored and the decorative special figure hold number command corresponding to the special figure hold number are prepared as the effect command (A2914), and the effect command setting process (A2915) is executed to be common to the special figure start port switch. End the process.

Here, the game control device 100 (RAM111c) extracts a predetermined random number based on the inflow of game balls into the start winning area of the starting winning opening 36, the normal variable winning device 37, and the starting winning opening 42, and the variable display game. It serves as a start storage means for storing a predetermined number up to a predetermined number as a start memory that is an execution right of. Further, the start storage means (game control device 100) stores various random value values extracted based on the winning of the game ball to the first start winning opening 36 as the first start memory up to a predetermined number, and second. Various random value values extracted based on the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening (normal variable winning device 37) or the third starting winning opening 42 are stored as the second starting memory up to a predetermined number.

[Special figure normal processing]
Next, the details of the special figure normal processing (A2608) in the special figure game processing will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the special figure normal processing.

First, the game control device 100 determines whether or not both the special figure 1 hold number and the special figure 2 hold number are 0 (A3200). When both the special figure 1 hold number and the special figure 2 hold number are 0 (the result of A3200 is “Y”), the process proceeds to step A3211. If at least one of the special figure 1 hold number and the special figure 2 hold number is not 0 (the result of A3200 is "N"), the variation order corresponding to the hold (hold 1) (oldest hold) to be digested first. The variation order flag is loaded from the flag storage area (for a total of 1 pending numbers) (A3201).

Next, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the variation order flag indicates the variation of the special figure 1 (special figure 1 variation display game) (A3202). When the change order flag indicates the change of the special figure 1 (the result of A3202 is "Y"), the special figure 1 change start process is executed (A3203), and the decorative special figure hold corresponding to the special figure 1 hold number is executed. A number command (decorative special figure 1 hold number command) is prepared as an effect command (A3204), and an effect command setting process is executed (A3205). This decorative special figure hold number command includes information on a value obtained by subtracting 1 from the current special figure 1 hold number (the special figure 1 hold number after executing the special figure 1 variable display game to be started from now on). Then, the process transition setting process during the change of the special figure of the special figure 1 is executed (A3206), and the normal process of the special figure is terminated. For example, in the special figure changing process transition setting process, processing such as setting the process number "1" related to the special figure changing process or clearing the customer waiting demo flag area is executed.

Further, when the variation order flag does not indicate the variation of the special figure 1 (the result of A3202 is "N"), that is, when the variation order flag indicates the variation of the special figure 2, the special figure 2 variation start process is executed ( A3207), a decorative special figure hold number command (decorative special figure 2 hold number command) corresponding to the special figure 2 hold number is prepared as an effect command (A3208), and the effect command setting process is executed (A3209). This decorative special figure hold number command includes information on a value obtained by subtracting 1 from the current special figure 2 hold number (the special figure 2 hold number after executing the special figure 2 variable display game to be started from now on). Then, the process transition setting process during the change of the special figure 2 of the special figure 2 is executed (A3210), and the normal process of the special figure is terminated.

When both the special figure 1 hold number and the special figure 2 hold number are 0 (the result of A3200 is “Y”), the game control device 100 determines whether or not the customer waiting demonstration has been started (A3211). If the customer waiting demo has not been started (the result of A3211 is "N"), the customer waiting demo flag area is set with the customer waiting demo in progress flag (A3212).

Subsequently, the game control device 100 prepares a customer waiting demo command as an effect command (A3213), performs an effect command setting process (A3214), and proceeds to the process of step A3215. On the other hand, in step A3211, when the customer waiting demo has already started (the result of A3211 is "Y"), "0" related to the special figure normal processing is set as the processing number (A3215), and the special figure game processing number. The processing number is saved in the area (A3216), and the variable symbol determination flag area is cleared (A3217). Then, the flag is saved during the fraud monitoring period in the large winning opening fraud monitoring period flag area (A3218), and the special figure normal processing is terminated.

In this way, the variation order flag is loaded from the variation order flag storage area (for the total number of reservations 1) corresponding to the hold (hold 1) to be digested first, and the variation display game of the type indicated by the variation order flag. (Special Figure 1 Variable Display Game or Special Figure 2 Variable Display Game) is started. That is, the variable display game is executed in the order in which the winning (starting memory) is generated, and the hold is exhausted from the oldest in the winning order.

[Special Figure 1 Fluctuation Start Processing]
Next, the details of the special figure 1 fluctuation start processing (A3203) in the special figure normal processing will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the special figure 1 fluctuation start processing. The special figure 1 variation start process is a process performed at the start of the special figure 1 variation display game.

The game control device 100 saves the special figure 1 fluctuation flag indicating the type of the special figure fluctuation display game to be executed (here, special figure 1) in the fluctuation symbol discrimination area (A3401). Subsequently, the jackpot flag 1 setting process for setting the jackpot flag 1 deviation information and the jackpot information for determining whether or not the special figure 1 variable display game is a jackpot is executed (A3402). The details of the jackpot flag 1 setting process will be described later.

Next, the game control device 100 executes the special figure 1 stop symbol setting process related to the setting of the special figure 1 stop symbol (symbol information) related to the special figure 1 variation display game (A3403). In the special figure 1 stop symbol setting process, the stop symbol number at the time of a miss or a big hit and the missed stop symbol pattern or the jackpot stop symbol pattern corresponding to the stop symbol number are saved. Then, a decorative special figure command corresponding to the stop symbol pattern is prepared as an effect command, and the effect command setting process is executed. In addition, the number of rounds information (round upper limit value) corresponding to the stop symbol number and the probability fluctuation determination data corresponding to the stop symbol number are acquired and saved.

Further, the game control device 100 executes a special figure information setting process for setting special figure information which is a parameter for setting a fluctuation pattern (A3404).

Subsequently, the game control device 100 prepares a special figure 1 variation pattern setting information table, which is a table in which information for referring to various information regarding the setting of the variation pattern of the special figure 1 variation display game is set (A3405). ).

After that, the game control device 100 executes a variation pattern setting process for setting a variation pattern (variation pattern number), which is a variation mode in the special figure 1 variation display game (A3406). Next, the game control device 100 executes the variation start information setting process (A3407) for setting the variation start information of the special figure 1 variation display game, and ends the special figure 1 variation start process. In the fluctuation start information setting process, the fluctuation time value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern (variation pattern number) is acquired and saved in the special figure game processing timer area. Then, a variation command (MODE, ACTION) corresponding to the variation pattern number is prepared as an effect command, and the effect command setting process is performed. Further, in the fluctuation start information setting process, the number of special figure reservations related to the special figure type (special figure 1 or special figure 2) of the special figure fluctuation display game to be started is updated by -1 (decreased by 1).

[Special figure 2 fluctuation start processing]
Next, the details of the special figure 2 fluctuation start processing (A3207) in the special figure normal processing will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the special figure 2 fluctuation start processing. The special figure 2 variation start process is a process performed at the start of the special figure 2 variation display game, and is the same process as the process in the special figure 1 variation start process shown in FIG. 11 for the second start memory. It is something to do.

First, the game control device 100 saves the special figure 2 fluctuation flag indicating the type of the special figure fluctuation display game to be executed (here, special figure 2) in the fluctuation symbol discrimination area (A3501). Subsequently, the jackpot flag 2 setting process for setting the jackpot flag 2 deviation information and the jackpot information for determining whether or not the special figure 2 variable display game is a jackpot is executed (A3502).

Next, the game control device 100 executes the special figure 2 stop symbol setting process related to the setting of the special figure 2 stop symbol (symbol information) related to the special figure 2 variation display game (A3503). Further, the special figure information setting process for setting the special figure information which is a parameter for setting the fluctuation pattern is executed (A3504). Subsequently, a special figure 2 variation pattern setting information table, which is a table in which information for referring to various information regarding the setting of the variation pattern of the special figure 2 variation display game is set, is prepared (A3505).

After that, the game control device 100 executes a variation pattern setting process for setting the variation pattern of the special figure 2 variation display game (A3506). Finally, the variation start information setting process for setting the variation start information of the special figure 2 variation display game is executed (A3507), and the special figure 2 variation start process is completed.

[Big hit flag 1 setting process]
Next, the details of the jackpot flag 1 setting process (A3402) in the special figure 1 fluctuation start process will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the jackpot flag 1 setting process.

The game control device 100 first saves the deviation information in the jackpot flag 1 area (A3601). Next, the jackpot random number is loaded from the special figure 1 jackpot random number storage area (for the number of hold 1) of RWM, prepared (A3602), and the special figure 1 jackpot random number storage area (for the number of hold 1) is cleared to 0. (A3603). The number of hold 1 is an area for storing information (random numbers, etc.) about the special figure start memory in which the digestion order is the earliest (here, the earliest in the special figure 1). After that, a jackpot determination process for determining whether or not the prepared jackpot random number value is a jackpot according to whether or not it matches the jackpot determination value is executed (A3604).

When the determination result of the jackpot determination process (A3604) is a jackpot (the result of A3605 is “Y”), the game control device 100 overwrites the jackpot information in the jackpot flag 1 area in which the loss information is saved in step A3601. Save (A3606) and end the jackpot flag 1 setting process. On the other hand, when the determination result of the jackpot determination process (A3605) is not a jackpot (the result of A3605 is "N"), the jackpot flag 1 setting process is terminated. As described above, in the present embodiment, the result of the special figure 1 variable display game is either "big hit" or "missing".

[Big hit flag 2 setting process]
Next, the details of the jackpot flag 2 setting process (A3502) in the special figure 2 fluctuation start process will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the jackpot flag 2 setting process. In this process, the same process as the process in the jackpot flag 1 setting process shown in FIG. 13 is performed for the second start memory.

The game control device 100 first saves the deviation information in the jackpot flag 2 area (A3701). Next, the jackpot random number is loaded from the special figure 2 big hit random number storage area (for the number of hold 1) of RWM, prepared (A3702), and the special figure 2 big hit random number storage area (for the number of hold 1) is cleared to 0. (A3703). The number of hold 1 is an area for storing information (random numbers, etc.) about the special figure start memory in which the digestion order is the earliest (here, the earliest in the special figure 2). After that, a jackpot determination process for determining whether or not the prepared jackpot random number value is a jackpot according to whether or not it matches the jackpot determination value is executed (A3704).

When the determination result of the jackpot determination process (A3704) is a jackpot (the result of A3705 is "Y"), the game control device 100 overwrites the jackpot information in the jackpot flag 2 area where the loss information is saved in step A3701. Save (A3706) and end the jackpot flag 2 setting process. On the other hand, when the determination result of the jackpot determination process (A3704) is not a jackpot (the result of A3705 is "N"), the jackpot flag 2 setting process is terminated while saving the information that the jackpot flag 2 is out of alignment. As described above, in the present embodiment, the result of the special figure 2 variable display game is either "big hit" or "missing".

[Big hit judgment process]
Next, the details of the jackpot determination processing (A3605, A3704) in the jackpot flag 1 setting processing, the jackpot flag 2 setting processing, and the like will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the jackpot determination process. The jackpot determination process is a process common to the jackpot determination process in other processes executed during the timer interrupt process, and is also executed in step A3004 of the special figure hold information determination process.

The game control device 100 first sets a lower limit determination value of the jackpot determination value (A3801), and determines whether or not the value of the target jackpot random number is less than the lower limit determination value (A3802). The big hit means that the big hit random number matches the big hit determination value. The jackpot judgment value is a plurality of consecutive values, and the jackpot random number is equal to or higher than the lower limit judgment value which is the lower limit value of the jackpot judgment value and is equal to or less than the upper limit judgment value which is the upper limit value of the jackpot judgment value. , It is judged to be a big hit.

When the value of the target jackpot random number is less than the lower limit determination value (the result of A3802 is "Y"), the game control device 100 sets a deviation (other than the jackpot) as the determination result (A3807), and ends the jackpot determination process. do.

Further, when the value of the jackpot random number is not less than the lower limit determination value (the result of A3802 is "N"), the game control device 100 determines whether or not the jackpot occurrence probability is in the high probability state (probability variation state). (A3803). Then, in the case of a high probability state (the result of A3803 is "Y"), the upper limit determination value in the high probability is set (A3804). On the other hand, when it is not in the high probability state (the result of A3803 is "N"), the upper limit determination value in the low probability is set (A3805).

When the upper limit determination value of the value of the jackpot random number is set, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the value of the target jackpot random number is larger than the upper limit determination value (A3806). When the value of the jackpot random number is larger than the upper limit determination value (the result of A3806 is "Y"), a deviation (other than the jackpot) is set as the determination result (A3807). On the other hand, when the value of the jackpot random number is not larger than the upper limit determination value (the result of A3806 is "N"), the jackpot is set as the determination result (A3808). When the determination result is set, the jackpot determination process ends.

[Special figure information setting process]
Next, the details of the special figure information setting processing (A3404, A3504) in the special figure 1 fluctuation start processing and the special figure 2 fluctuation start processing will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the special figure information setting process. In the present embodiment, the probability state (low probability / high probability, with / without time reduction) does not directly affect the distribution of fluctuations, and the effect mode managed by the game control device 100 affects the distribution of fluctuations. As the production mode, one production mode is set from a plurality of production modes according to the probability state, the presence / absence of the time saving state, the progress status of the special figure variation display game, and the like.

First, the game control device 100 sets the first half variation group selection pointer table (A4201) and acquires the first half variation group selection pointer corresponding to the effect mode information (A4202). Next, the first half variable group selection offset table is set (A4203), and the offset data corresponding to the target special figure hold number (special figure 1 hold number or special figure 2 hold number) and the stop symbol pattern is acquired (A4204). ..

Next, the game control device 100 adds the first half variable group selection pointer and the offset data (A4205), and saves the added value in the variable distribution information 1 area (A4206). As a result, the variable distribution information 1 generated based on the type of stopped symbol, the number of holdings, and the effect mode is saved in the variable distribution information 1 area. This fluctuation distribution information 1 is a table pointer for distributing the first half fluctuation (variation mode before the start of reach), and is later used to select a fluctuation group. However, although it depends on the specifications of the model, when the number of holds is large, the fluctuation time is shortened only in the case of outliers. Therefore, in cases other than outliers, the number of holdes does not affect the distribution of fluctuations in the first half as a result. The fluctuation group includes a plurality of fluctuation patterns, and when determining the fluctuation pattern, the fluctuation group is first selected, and then one fluctuation pattern is selected from the fluctuation groups. ing.

Next, the game control device 100 sets the latter half variation group selection pointer table (A4207) and acquires the latter half variation group selection pointer corresponding to the effect mode information (A4208). Next, the latter half variable group selection offset table is set (A4209), and the offset data corresponding to the target special figure hold number and the stop symbol pattern is acquired (A4210).

Next, the game control device 100 adds the latter half variation group selection pointer and the offset data (A4211), saves the added value in the variation distribution information 2 area (A4212), and sets the special figure information. End the process. As a result, the variable distribution information 2 generated based on the type of stopped symbol, the number of holdings, and the effect mode is saved in the variable distribution information 2 area. The fluctuation distribution information 2 is a table pointer for distributing the latter half fluctuation (type of reach (including no reach)), and is later used to select a fluctuation group. However, the reach occurrence rate changes according to the number of holds only in the case of a loss (the reach occurrence rate decreases when the number of holds is large), so in cases other than the loss, the number of holds will be distributed to the latter half fluctuation as a result. Does not affect.

[Variation pattern setting process]
Next, the details of the fluctuation pattern setting processing (A3406, A3506) in the special figure 1 fluctuation start processing and the special drawing 2 fluctuation start processing will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the fluctuation pattern setting process.

The fluctuation patterns are the first half fluctuation pattern, which is the fluctuation mode from the start of the special figure fluctuation display game to the reach state, and the second half fluctuation pattern, which is the fluctuation mode from the reach state to the end of the special figure fluctuation display game. The latter half fluctuation pattern is set first, and then the first half fluctuation pattern is set.

The game control device 100 first sets a variable group selection address table (A4301), acquires the address of the latter half variable group table corresponding to the variable distribution information 2 (A4302), prepares the address, and prepares the target variable pattern random number. The variation pattern random number 1 is loaded and prepared from the 1 storage area (for the number of reservations 1) (A4303). In the present embodiment, the structure of the latter half variable group table is different between the one for hitting and the one for hitting. Specifically, the hit size is 1 byte size, and the loss size is 2 byte size. Since the rate of occurrence of hits is lower than the rate of occurrence of loss and even one byte is sufficient, the size of hits is one byte from the viewpoint of saving data capacity. Therefore, at the time of hitting, only the lower value of the 2-byte variation pattern random number 1 is used. In addition, the rate of occurrence of loss is higher than the rate of occurrence of hit, and in order to make more diverse effects appear, the size for loss is 2 bytes.

Then, the game control device 100 determines whether the result of the special figure variation display game is out of order (A4304), and if it is out of order (the result of A4304 is “Y”), performs a 2-byte distribution process (A4305). Then, the process proceeds to step A4307. If it is not out of alignment (the result of A4304 is "N"), the sorting process (A4306) is performed, and the process proceeds to the process of step A4307.

Next, the game control device 100 acquires and prepares (A4307) the address of the latter half variation selection table (second half variation pattern selection table) obtained as a result of the distribution, and holds the target variation pattern random number 2 storage area (hold). Load the variation pattern random number 2 from (for equation 1) and prepare it (A4308). Then, the distribution process is executed (A4309), the latter half variable number obtained as a result of the distribution is acquired, and the latter half variable number area is saved (A4310). By this process, the latter half fluctuation pattern is set.

Next, the game control device 100 sets the first half fluctuation group table (A4311), and calculates the table selection pointer based on the fluctuation distribution information 1 and the second half fluctuation number (A4312). Then, the address of the first half variation selection table (first half variation pattern selection table) corresponding to the calculated pointer is acquired and prepared (A4313), and the variation pattern random number is generated from the target variation pattern random number 3 storage area (for the number of hold 1). Load 3 and prepare (A4314). After that, the distribution process (A4315) is performed, the first half variation number obtained as a result of the distribution is acquired, saved in the first half variation number area (A4316), and the variation pattern setting process is completed. By this process, the first half fluctuation pattern is set, and the fluctuation pattern of the special figure fluctuation display game is set. That is, the game control device 100 serves as a variation pattern setting means for setting a variation pattern, which is an execution mode of the game, from a plurality of of them.

[2-byte distribution processing]
Next, the details of the 2-byte distribution process (A4305) in the variation pattern setting process will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the 2-byte distribution process. The 2-byte distribution process is a process for selecting the latter half variation selection table of the special figure variation display game from the latter half variation group table based on the variation pattern random number 1.

The game control device 100 first checks whether the first data of the selection table (second half variation group table prepared in A4302) is a code without distribution (that is, "0") (A4401). Here, the latter half fluctuation group table stores a predetermined distribution value in association with at least one latter half fluctuation selection table, but the latter half that defines only the latter half fluctuation selection table in which the latter half fluctuation pattern is “no reach”. In the variable group table (for example, some variable group tables when the result is out of order), there is no need for distribution, so the distribution value "0", that is, the code without distribution is specified at the beginning. ..

Then, when the first data in the selection table (second half variation group table) is a code without distribution (the result of A4402 is "Y"), the game control device 100 updates to the address of the data corresponding to the distribution result. Then (A4407), the 2-byte distribution process is completed. On the other hand, when the first data of the selection table (second half variable group table) is not a code without distribution (the result of A4402 is "N"), the first distribution specified in the selection table (second half fluctuation group table) is specified. Get the value (A4403).

Subsequently, a new random number value is calculated by subtracting the distribution value acquired in step A4403 from the random number value (value of fluctuation pattern random number 1) prepared in step A4303 (A4404), and the calculated new random number value is calculated. Is less than "0" (A4405). Then, when the new random number value is not smaller than "0" (the result of A4405 is "N"), after updating to the address of the next distribution value (A4406), the process proceeds to step A4403, which is followed by the process. Subsequent processing is performed. That is, a new disorder is obtained by acquiring the distribution value specified next in the selection table (second half fluctuation group table) (A4403), and then subtracting the distribution value from the random number value determined in the previous step A4405. A numerical value is calculated (A4404), and it is determined whether or not the calculated new random number value is smaller than "0" (A4405).

The above processing is executed until it is determined in step A4405 that the new random number value is smaller than "0" (the result of A4405 is "Y"). As a result, any one of the latter half variable selection tables is selected from at least one latter half variable selection table defined in the selection table (second half variable group table). Then, in step A4405, when it is determined that the new random number value is smaller than "0" (the result of A4405 is "Y"), the data is updated to the address of the data corresponding to the sorted result (A4407), and 2 bytes. The sorting process ends.

[Distribution processing]
Next, the details of the distribution processing (A4306, A4309, A4315) in the fluctuation pattern setting processing will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the sorting process. In the distribution process, the second half fluctuation pattern of the special figure fluctuation display game is selected from the second half fluctuation selection table (second half fluctuation pattern group) based on the fluctuation pattern random number 2, or the first half fluctuation selection table (first half fluctuation selection table) is selected based on the fluctuation pattern random number 3. This is a process for selecting the first half fluctuation pattern of the special figure fluctuation display game from the first half fluctuation pattern group).

First, the game control device 100 starts with the head data of the target selection table (the second half variation group table prepared in A4302, the second half variation selection table prepared in step A4307, or the first half variation selection table prepared in step A4313). Checks if is an unsorted code (ie "0") (A4501). Here, the second half fluctuation group table, the second half fluctuation selection table, and the first half fluctuation selection table are predetermined in association with at least one second half fluctuation selection table, the second half fluctuation pattern (second half fluctuation number), and the first half fluctuation pattern (first half fluctuation number). In the case of a selection table that stores the distribution value of, but does not need to be distributed, the distribution value "0", that is, the code without distribution is specified at the beginning.

Then, in the game control device 100, when the first data of the target selection table (second half variation group table, second half variation selection table, first half variation selection table) is a code without distribution (the result of A4502 is "Y"), The data address corresponding to the distribution result is updated (A4507), and the distribution process is completed. On the other hand, if the first data of the target selection table (second half fluctuation group table, second half fluctuation selection table, first half fluctuation selection table) is not a code without distribution (the result of A4502 is "N"), the target selection table (second half fluctuation). The first distribution value specified in the group table, the second half fluctuation selection table, and the first half fluctuation selection table) is acquired (A4503).

Subsequently, the game control device 100 subtracts the distribution value acquired in step A4503 from the random number values (values of the fluctuation pattern random number 1, the fluctuation pattern random number 2, and the fluctuation pattern random number 3) prepared in steps A4303, A4308, and A4314. Then, a new random number value is calculated (A4504), and it is determined whether the calculated new random number value is smaller than "0" (A4505). Then, when the new random number value is not smaller than "0" (the result of A4505 is "N"), after updating to the address of the next distribution value (A4506), the process proceeds to step A4503, which is followed by the process. Subsequent processing is performed.

That is, the distribution value specified next in the target selection table (second half fluctuation group table, second half fluctuation selection table, first half fluctuation selection table) is acquired (A4503), and then the randomness determined in the previous step A4505 is acquired. A new random number value is calculated by subtracting the distribution value from the numerical value (A4504), and it is determined whether or not the calculated new random number value is smaller than "0" (A4505). The above processing is executed until it is determined in step A4505 that the new random number value is smaller than "0" (the result of A4505 is "Y"). As a result, at least one second half fluctuation selection table, second half fluctuation pattern (second half fluctuation number), and first half fluctuation pattern (first half) specified in the target selection table (second half fluctuation group table, second half fluctuation selection table, first half fluctuation selection table) One of the latter half fluctuation selection tables, the second half fluctuation pattern (second half fluctuation number), and the first half fluctuation pattern (first half fluctuation number) is selected from the fluctuation number).

Then, when the game control device 100 determines in step A4505 that the new random number value is smaller than "0" (the result of A4505 is "Y"), the game control device 100 updates the address of the data corresponding to the distributed result. (A4507), the sorting process is completed.

[Variation start information setting process]
Next, the details of the fluctuation start information setting processing (A3407, A3507) in the special figure 1 fluctuation start processing and the special drawing 2 fluctuation start processing will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the fluctuation start information setting process.

The game control device 100 first clears the random number storage area of the target variation pattern random numbers 1 to 3 (A4601). Next, the first half fluctuation time value table is set (A4602), and the first half fluctuation time value corresponding to the first half fluctuation number is acquired (A4603). Further, the latter half fluctuation time value table is set (A4604), and the latter half fluctuation time value corresponding to the latter half fluctuation number is acquired (A4605).

Then, the game control device 100 adds the first half fluctuation time value and the second half fluctuation time value (A4606), and saves the added value in the special figure game processing timer area (A4607). After that, the variation command (MODE) corresponding to the first half variation number is prepared (A4608), the variation command (ACTION) corresponding to the second half variation number is prepared as an effect command (A4609), and the effect command setting process is performed (A4610). ). Next, the number of special symbols held corresponding to the variable symbol discrimination flag is updated by -1 (A4611), and the address of the random number storage area corresponding to the variable symbol discrimination flag is set (A4612). Next, the random number storage area is shifted (A4613), the free area after the shift is cleared (A4614), and the fluctuation start information setting process is completed.

By the above processing, the information regarding the start of the special figure variation display game is set. That is, the game control device 100 serves as a determination means for determining various random value values stored in the start storage means (game control device 100). Further, the game control device 100 serves as a variation pattern determining means capable of determining the variation pattern of the identification information to be executed in the variation display game based on the determination information of the start memory.

Then, the information regarding the start of the special figure variation display game is later transmitted to the effect control device 300, and the effect control device 300 responds to the determined variation pattern based on the reception of the information regarding the start of the special figure variation display game. Decorate special figure variable display Set detailed production contents in the game. Information on the start of these special figure variation display games includes a decorative special figure hold number command including information on the number of start memories (holds), a decorative special figure command including information on a stop symbol, and a variation of the special figure variation display game. A variation command including information about the pattern and a stop information command including information about the extension of the stop time are mentioned, and the commands are transmitted to the effect control device 300 in this order. In particular, by transmitting the decorative special figure command before the variable command, the processing in the effect control device 300 can be efficiently advanced.

[Control of production control device]
The control (process) executed by the effect control device 300 by the effect control program will be described below.

[Main processing (effect control device)]
First, the details of the main processing executed by the effect control device 300 will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a main process (main program) executed by the effect control device 300. The main process is executed by the main control microcomputer 311 (directing microcomputer) when the power is turned on to the gaming machine 10. In the flowchart of the process executed by the effect control device 300, the step code (number) is represented as "B ***".

When the execution of the main process is started, the effect control device 300 first disables interrupts (B0001). Next, the initial settings of the CPU 311 and VDP 312 are executed (B0002, B0003), and interrupts are permitted (B0004). When the interrupt is permitted, the command reception interrupt process for receiving the command transmitted from the game control device 100 can be executed.

Next, the effect control device 300 permits the generation of display data to be displayed on the display device 41 or the like (B0005), and sets a random number seed to be used for random number generation (B0006). Then, the initial value at the time of turning on the power is saved in the area to be initialized (B0007).

Subsequently, the effect control device 300 clears the WDT (watchdog timer) (B0008). The WDT is started with the above-mentioned CPU initial setting (B0002) and monitors whether or not the CPU 311 is operating normally. If the WDT is not cleared even after a certain period of time has passed, the WDT time is up and the CPU 311 is reset.

After that, the effect control device 300 executes an RTC reading process for reading time information from the RTC (real-time clock) 338 as a timekeeping means (B0009).

The RTC reading process may be configured to read the time information from the RTC 338 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every minute), and it is not necessary to read the time information every time the process shifts to step B0009. Further, the RTC reading process may be executed only once when the power is turned on to the effect control device 300 (that is, the power is turned on to the gaming machine 10) (the position of the RTC reading process may be changed, for example, step B0003). And B0004 may be executed). The effect control device 300 sets a time timer (timekeeping means) for measuring the time in the timer area in the RAM, and when the time information is read from the RTC 338 at a predetermined cycle or when the power is turned on, the time is set from the RTC 338 only once. When the information is read, the time timer may be adjusted to match the time of RTC338. Then, the effect control device 300 may execute various processes by using the time timer instead of the RTC 338. By doing so, the number of times of processing for reading the time from the RTC 338 can be reduced, and the load on the CPU 311 is reduced.

In the RTC reading process, when the read time matches any of a plurality of predetermined times (first predetermined time, second predetermined time, ...), A predetermined effect may be executed, but a plurality of predetermined times may be executed. By drawing a lottery for the time interval of the predetermined time with a probability corresponding to the set value, the player can estimate the set value from this time interval. For example, the lottery may be performed so that the selection rate at long time intervals becomes smaller as the set value is larger. In addition, the player can estimate the set value from the execution period of the predetermined effect by drawing a lottery for the execution period for executing the predetermined effect with a probability corresponding to the set value. For example, the lottery may be performed so that the selection rate for a long execution period increases as the set value increases.

Next, the effect control device 300 detects the operation signal of the effect button 25 by the player (the signal of the effect button switch 25a or the touch panel 25b), or changes the effect content (setting) according to the detected signal. The effect button input process is executed (B0010). Subsequently, the hall / player setting mode process for accepting operations such as changing the brightness and volume of the LED and the liquid crystal display by the person in charge of the game hall (game store) or the player is executed (B0011). In the hall / player setting mode processing, the player can customize the effect according to the effect points described later.

Next, the effect control device 300 executes an effect point control process for adding or clearing the effect points (B0012). In the effect point control process, the effect points are added by executing the effect or operation for which the effect points are to be added, and at the end of the game so that the effect points can be carried over to the next game. For example, information including information on production points and the like is displayed on the display device 41 as a QR code (registered trademark). For example, the effect control device 300 can display the QR code (registered trademark) on the display device 41 in the hall / player setting mode processing. The player can estimate the set value from the added value by drawing a value (added value) to be added to the effect points with a probability according to the set value. For example, the lottery may be performed so that the selection rate of a large addition value increases as the set value increases.

Next, the effect control device 300 executes a random number update process for updating a random number such as an effect random number (B0013), analyzes the received command received from the game control device 100, and executes the corresponding received command check process. (B0014). The details of the received command check process will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, the effect control device 300 updates various data according to the contents to be displayed on the display device (display means) such as the display device 41, or sets the drawing to be displayed on the display device 41 in the display frame buffer. The effect display editing process to be performed is executed (B0015). As for the drawing data set at this time, the image of the display device 41 can be updated without any problem as long as the VDP 312 can complete the drawing within the frame period of 1/30 second (about 33.3 msec). Then, the preparation for drawing in the display frame buffer is completed, and the drawing command preparation end setting is executed (B0016).

Subsequently, the effect control device 300 determines whether or not it is the frame switching timing (B0017). If it is not the frame switching timing (the result of B0017 is "N"), the process of B0017 is repeated until the frame switching timing is reached, and if it is the frame switching timing (the result of B0017 is "Y"), the display device 41 is displayed. Instruct screen drawing (B0018). Since the frame period of this embodiment is 1/30 second, the frame is switched when the periodic V blank (image update) is executed twice every 1/60 second (1/2 of the frame period), for example. .. The image may not be updated in 1/60 seconds, and the interval may be further increased.

Further, the effect control device 300 executes a sound control process for controlling the sound output from the speaker 19 (B0019).

Further, the effect control device 300 executes a decoration control process for controlling a decoration device (board decoration device 46, frame decoration device 18) including LEDs and the like (B0020). In the decoration control process, for example, light emission control of a decoration device such as an LED is executed.

Further, the effect control device 300 executes a movable body control process for controlling an effect device (board effect device 44, frame effect device) such as an electric accessory driven by a motor and a solenoid (B0021). In the movable body control process, for example, an accessory operation effect for driving the motor is set.

Then, when the effect control device 300 finishes the process of B0021 described above, the effect control device 300 returns to the process of B0008. After that, the processes from B0008 to B0021 are repeated.

[Receive command check process]
Next, with reference to FIG. 22, the details of the received command check process (B0014) in the above-mentioned main process (FIG. 21) will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure of the received command check process executed by the effect control device 300.

First, the effect control device 300 loads the value of the command reception counter in the command reception counter area of the RAM as the number of command receptions in order to check the number of commands received from the game control device 100 (B1101). Then, it is determined whether or not the number of command receptions is 0 (B1102). When the number of commands received is 0, that is, when there is no command received from the game control device 100 (the result of B1102 is "N"), there is no command to analyze, so the received command check process ends.

On the other hand, when the number of command receptions is not 0, that is, when the command is received from the game control device 100 (the result of B1102 is "Y"), the effect control device 300 is a command reception counter in the command reception counter area. After subtracting the value by the number of received commands (B1103), the contents of the received command buffer of the RAM are copied to the command area for analysis (B1104). Here, since the received command buffer is a ring buffer, there is no problem even if the number of command received is subtracted before copying the contents in the buffer to the command area. Also, even if a new command is received during copying, the data will not be overwritten.

Then, the effect control device 300 updates the command read index by +1 in the range of 0 to 31 (adds only 1) (B1105). The receive command buffer is configured to store up to 32 received commands. The received commands are stored in the received command buffer in the order of the command read index 0 to 31, and here, the received commands are read in the index order and copied to the command area for analysis. When the copy to the command area for analysis is completed, the storage area of the received command buffer corresponding to the read command read index is cleared.

The effect control device 300 determines whether or not the copy of the command for the number of received commands loaded in the process of step B1101 is completed (B1106), and if the copy is not completed (the result of B1106 is "N". ”), The processing of steps B1104 to B1106 is repeated.

When the effect control device 300 receives the command transmitted from the game control device 100, the content of the received command is saved in the reception command buffer, and at the same time, the command reception counter value in the command reception counter area is added and updated. Although 32 commands can be stored in the received command buffer, the received commands are analyzed separately in the analysis command area. Then, when the contents of the received command are copied to the command area for analysis, the received command buffer and the command reception counter value are cleared. In this way, by always securing a free area without performing analysis directly in the received command buffer, it is possible to prepare for a large amount of commands received.

Subsequently, when the copy is completed (the result of B1106 is "Y"), the effect control device 300 loads the received command content of the command area for analysis (B1107), and analyzes the content of the received command. The process is executed (B1108). The details of the received command analysis process will be described later with reference to FIG. 23 below. Also, the address of the command area for analysis is updated (B1109). After that, it is determined whether or not the analysis of the command for the number of received commands loaded in the process of step B1101 is completed (B1110), and if the analysis is not completed (the result of B1110 is "N"), the step. The processing of B1107 to B1110 is repeated. When the analysis is completed (the result of B1110 is "Y"), the reception command check process is terminated.

[Received command analysis processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 23, the details of the received command analysis process (B1108) in the above-mentioned received command check process (FIG. 22) will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the received command analysis process executed by the effect control device 300.

First, the effect control device 300 separates the upper byte of the received command as a MODE unit and the lower byte as an ACTION unit (ACT unit) (B1201). The command transmitted from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 300 is composed of a MODE unit (MODE command) and an ACTION unit (ACTION command), and is usually continuously transmitted from the MODE unit indicating the type of command. NS. Therefore, the upper and lower ranks of the received command are configured in the order of the MODE section and the ACTION section.

Next, the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the MODE unit is in the normal range (B1202). That is, it is determined whether or not the value (value assigned as the command specification indicating the type) that can be taken by the MODE unit indicating the type of the command. Then, when the MODE unit is in the normal range (the result of B1202 is “Y”), it is similarly determined whether or not the ACTION unit is in the normal range (B1203). That is, it is determined whether or not the value (value assigned as the command specification indicating the content) that can be taken by the ACTION unit indicating the content of the command (specific production instruction, etc.) is determined. Then, when the ACTION section is in the normal range (the result of B1203 is "Y"), the ACTION section for the MODE section determines whether or not the combination is correct (B1204). That is, it is determined whether or not the value of the ACTION section is a value that can be taken by a command of the type specified by the MODE section. Then, if the combination is correct (the result of B1204 is "Y"), the command processing according to the command system is executed in the processing after B1205.

The effect control device 300 first determines whether or not the value of the MODE unit is within the range of the variable command (B1205). The variable command is a command for instructing a variable pattern of a special decorative symbol, and there is a variable command (set in the variable start information setting process). Then, when the MODE unit represents a variable command (the result of B1205 is "Y"), the variable command process is executed (B1206), and the received command analysis process is terminated.

When the MODE unit does not represent a variable command (the result of B1205 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE unit is within the range of the hit command (B1207). The hit command is a command that commands an operation related to the effect during hit (display of fanfare screen or round screen, etc.). For example, a jackpot fanfare command (set by processing during special figure display), a round command (fanfare / Interval command (set by processing during interval opening), interval command (set by processing while opening large winning opening), ending command (set by processing while opening large winning opening), small hit fanfare command, command during opening small hit (small hit round command), Small hit end screen command (small hit ending command), etc. Then, when the MODE unit represents a hit command (the result of B1207 is "Y"), the hit command process is executed (B1208), and the received command analysis process is terminated.

When the MODE unit does not represent a hit command (the result of B1207 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE unit is within the range of the symbol command (B1209). In addition, the symbol system command includes a decorative special figure command corresponding to a stop symbol pattern (decorative special figure 1 command in special figure 1 and decorative special figure 2 command in special figure 2). Then, when the MODE unit represents a symbol-based command (the result of B1209 is "Y"), the symbol-based command process is executed (B1210), and the received command analysis process is terminated.

When the MODE unit does not represent a symbol-based command (the result of B1209 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE unit is within the range of a single-shot command (B1211). Then, when the MODE unit represents a single-shot command (the result of B1211 is "Y"), the single-shot command process is executed (B1212), and the received command analysis process is terminated.

When the MODE unit does not represent a single-shot command (the result of B1211 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE unit is within the range of the look-ahead symbol command (B1213). .. The look-ahead symbol command includes a look-ahead stop symbol command. Then, when the MODE unit represents a look-ahead symbol-based command (the result of B1213 is "Y"), the look-ahead symbol-based command process is executed (B1214), and the received command analysis process is terminated. If the jackpot probability at the time of reception is in a low probability state, the look-ahead symbol system command processing is executed using the look-ahead stop symbol command (low probability), and if the jackpot probability at the time of reception is in a high probability state, look-ahead is executed. The look-ahead symbol command processing may be executed using the stop symbol command (low probability).

When the MODE unit does not represent the look-ahead symbol command (the result of B1213 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether the MODE unit is within the range of the look-ahead variable command (B1215). ). The look-ahead fluctuation command includes a look-ahead fluctuation pattern command. Then, when the MODE unit represents a look-ahead variable command (the result of B1215 is "Y"), the look-ahead variable command process is executed (B1216), and the received command analysis process is terminated.

On the other hand, if the MODE unit does not represent a look-ahead variable command (the result of B1215 is "N"), the effect control device 300 may have received an unexpected command (for example, a command used only in the test mode). Since there is a possibility, the received command analysis process is terminated. Further, when the MODE part is not in the normal range (the result of B1202 is "N"), the ACTION part is not in the normal range (the result of B1203 is "N"), or the ACTION part for the MODE part is not the correct combination ( The result of B1204 is "N"), and the received command analysis process is terminated.

[Single-shot command processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 24, the details of the one-shot command processing (B1212) in the reception command analysis processing (FIG. 23) described above will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a procedure of one-shot command processing executed by the effect control device 300.

The effect control device 300 first determines whether or not the MODE unit represents a model designation command indicating the type of the gaming machine (B1301). Then, when the MODE unit represents a model designation command (the result of B1301 is "Y"), the model setting process for setting the type of the gaming machine is executed (B1302), and the single-shot command process is terminated.

When the MODE unit does not represent the model designation command (the result of B1301 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE unit represents the RAM initialization command (B1303). ). Then, when the MODE unit represents a RAM initialization command (the result of B1303 is "Y"), the RAM initialization setting process for notifying the RAM initialization and the like is executed (B1304), and the single-shot command process is performed. finish.

The effect control device 300 determines whether or not the MODE unit represents a power failure recovery system command when the MODE unit does not represent a RAM initialization command (the result of B1303 is "N") (the result of B1303 is "N"). B1305). For example, there are a power failure recovery command and a recovery screen command as power failure recovery commands. Then, when the MODE unit represents a power failure recovery system command (the result of B1305 is "Y"), the power failure recovery setting process is executed (B1306), and the single-shot system command process is terminated.

When the MODE unit does not represent a power failure recovery system command (the result of B1305 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE unit represents a customer waiting demo command (B1307). ). Then, when the MODE unit represents the customer waiting demo command (the result of B1307 is "Y"), the customer waiting demo setting process is executed (B1308), and the single-shot command process is terminated.

When the MODE section does not represent the customer waiting demo command (the result of B1307 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE section represents the decorative special figure 1 hold number command. (B1309). Then, when the MODE section represents the decorative special figure 1 hold number command (the result of B1309 is "Y"), the special figure 1 hold information setting process is executed (B1310), and the one-shot command process is terminated.

In the effect control device 300, if the MODE section does not represent the decorative special figure 1 hold number command (the result of B1309 is "N"), then whether or not the MODE section represents the decorative special figure 2 hold number command. (B1311). Then, when the MODE section represents the decorative special figure 2 hold number command (the result of B1311 is "Y"), the special figure 2 hold information setting process is executed (B1312), and the one-shot command process is terminated.

When the MODE unit does not represent the decorative special figure 2 hold number command (the result of B1311 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE unit represents the probability information command. (B1313). Then, when the MODE unit represents a probability information command (the result of B1313 is "Y"), the probability information setting process is executed (B1314), and the one-shot command process is terminated.

If the MODE unit does not represent a probability information command (the result of B1313 is "N"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the MODE unit represents an error / invalid command (". B1315). Note that there are, for example, an error occurrence command, an illegal release command, a state off command, and a state on command as error / illegal commands. As a status on command, a signal is generated from the glass frame opening detection switch 63 (glass frame opening error) and a signal is generated from the front frame opening detection switch 64 (main body frame opening detection switch) (main body frame opening error, front frame). There is a command indicating (open error). In addition, the status off command indicates that no error has occurred.

Then, when the MODE section represents an error / invalid command (the result of B1315 is "Y"), an error / invalid setting process for notifying or canceling the error or invalidity is executed (B1316). Terminates single-shot command processing.

In the effect control device 300, when the MODE unit does not represent an error / illegal command (the result of B1315 is "N"), the MODE unit then issues a command for switching the effect mode (processing during special figure display). Etc.) is determined (B1317). Then, when the MODE unit represents a command for switching the effect mode (the result of B1317 is "Y"), the effect mode switching setting process is executed (B1318), and the single-shot command process is terminated.

When the effect control device 300 does not represent the command for switching the effect mode (the result of B1317 is "N"), then the MODE section represents the out ball number command indicating the number of out balls. It is determined whether or not (B1319). Then, when the MODE unit represents the out-ball number command (the result of B1319 is "Y"), the out-ball number reception processing is executed (B1320), and the single-shot command processing is terminated.

In the effect control device 300, if the MODE section does not represent the out-ball count command (the result of B1319 is "N"), then whether or not the MODE section represents the count command (large winning opening count command). (B1321). Then, when the MODE unit represents the count command of the large winning opening switch (the result of B1321 is "Y"), the count information setting process is executed (B1322), and the single-shot command process is terminated.

The effect control device 300 determines whether or not the MODE unit represents a set value information command (probability set value information command) when the MODE unit does not represent a count command (the result of B1321 is “N”). (B1323). The set value information command is included in the command at the time of power failure recovery in step A1046 of FIG. 6B and the command at the time of RAM initialization transmitted in the process of step A1044. Then, when the MODE unit represents the set value information command (the result of B1323 is "Y"), the set value reception processing is executed (B1324), and the single-shot command processing is terminated. In the set value reception processing, the set value (probability set value) is stored in a storage unit such as a RAM, and necessary processing is executed.

When the MODE unit does not represent the setting value information command (the result of B1323 is "N"), the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the MODE unit represents the setting change type command (B1325). As a command for changing the setting, for example, there is a command (A1030) for changing the probability setting. Then, when the MODE unit represents a setting change system command (the result of B1325 is "Y"), the setting change system information setting process is executed (B1326), and the single-shot system command process is terminated. In the setting change information setting process, the contents of the setting change command are memorized and the process corresponding to the command is executed. For example, when a command for which the probability setting is being changed is received, in the setting change system information setting process, a setting changing display for notifying the player that the setting is being changed is displayed on the display device 41.

The effect control device 300 determines whether or not the MODE unit represents a setting confirmation command when the MODE unit does not represent a setting change command (the result of B1325 is “N”) (B1327). .. As a command for setting confirmation, for example, there is a command (A1033) for confirming probability setting. Then, when the MODE unit represents a setting confirmation system command (the result of B1327 is "Y"), the setting confirmation system information setting process is executed (B1328), and the single-shot system command process is terminated. In the setting confirmation system information setting process, the contents of the setting confirmation system command are memorized and the process corresponding to the command is executed. For example, when a command during probability setting confirmation is received, in the setting confirmation system information setting process, a setting confirmation display for notifying the player that the setting is being confirmed is displayed on the display device 41.

Next, it is determined whether or not the MODE unit represents a command to stop the symbol (B1329). The symbol stop command includes, for example, a symbol stop command of special figure 1 (decorative special figure 1 stop command) and a symbol stop command of special figure 2 (decorative special figure 2 stop command). Then, when the MODE section represents a command to stop the symbol (the result of B1329 is "Y"), the effect control device 300 then determines whether or not the command of the MODE section is a normal command (". B1330).

When the command of the MODE section is a normal command (the result of B1330 is "Y"), the effect control device 300 sets the stop mode of the corresponding special figure (B1331), and the game is played after all the symbols are stopped. The status flag is set to the normal status (B1332), and the single-shot command processing is terminated. In the process of B1332, as an example, the game state flag is set to the normal state, but depending on the timing when this process is executed, the game state flag is a flag of "changing", "big hit", and "small hit". Is set.

On the other hand, when the MODE section does not represent the command to stop the symbol (the result of B1329 is "N"), or when the command of the MODE section is not normal (the result of B1330 is "N"), the effect control device. 300 ends the one-shot command processing.

In addition, in the one-shot command processing, when the MODE unit represents a command not shown in FIG. 24, the effect control device 300 may execute the processing corresponding to this command.

[Look-ahead design command processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 25, the details of the look-ahead symbol-based command processing (B1214) in the reception command analysis processing (FIG. 23) described above will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a procedure of pre-reading symbol-based command processing executed by the effect control device 300.

First, the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the latest hold information is the information of the special figure 1 hold (special figure 1 start memory), for example, the latest received decorative special figure hold number command is the decorative special figure 1 hold number. It is determined whether or not it is a command (B1601). When the latest hold information is the information of special figure 1 hold (the result of B1601 is "Y"), the look-ahead symbol system command (look-ahead stop symbol command) is set to the special figure 1 look-ahead symbol command area corresponding to the number of special figure 1 hold. Save (B1602).

In the effect control device 300, when the latest hold information is not the information on the special figure 1 hold (the result of B1601 is "N"), that is, the latest received decorative special figure hold number command is the decorative special figure 2 hold number command. In this case, the look-ahead symbol system command (look-ahead stop symbol command) is saved in the special figure 2 look-ahead symbol command area corresponding to the special figure 2 hold number (B1603).

After steps B1602 and B1603, the effect control device 300 sets a look-ahead variable command reception wait flag indicating that the read-ahead variable command is waiting to be received (B1604). This is because the look-ahead symbol command and the look-ahead variable command are set, and the game control device 100 transmits the look-ahead variable command following the look-ahead symbol command. After that, the look-ahead symbol command processing is terminated.

[Look-ahead variable command processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 26, the details of the look-ahead variable command process (B1216) in the received command analysis process (FIG. 23) described above will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a procedure of pre-reading variation command processing executed by the effect control device 300.

The effect control device 300 first determines whether or not the read-ahead variable command is waiting to be received (B1701). When the above-mentioned read-ahead variable command reception wait flag (B1604) is set, it can be determined that the read-ahead variable command is waiting to be received. If the read-ahead variable command is not waiting to be received (the result of B1701 is "N"), the look-ahead variable command processing is terminated. When the read-ahead variable command reception waiting flag is being waited for (the result of B1701 is "Y"), the look-ahead variable command reception waiting flag is cleared (B1702).

Next, the effect control device 300 (sub-board) sets a look-ahead variation MODE conversion table corresponding to the number of holds of the latest hold information symbol (special figure 1 or special figure 2) (B1703), and sets a look-ahead variation MODE command (B1703). Acquires the sub-internal look-ahead fluctuation command MODE unit corresponding to the MODE unit (B1704). Next, the look-ahead variation ACT conversion table is set (B1705), and the sub-internal look-ahead variation command ACT section corresponding to the look-ahead variation command ACTION section (ACT section) is acquired (B1706).

Next, the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the converted MODE unit and the ACT unit (that is, the sub-internal look-ahead fluctuation command MODE unit and the ACT unit) are both other than 0 (B1707). If the command is normal (valid), it is converted to a command other than 0. When both the converted MODE section and ACT section are other than 0 (the result of B1707 is "Y"), the converted command consisting of the converted MODE section and ACT section corresponds to the latest hold information and the number of holds. Save in the look-ahead fluctuation command area (special figure 1 look-ahead change command area or special figure 2 look-ahead change command area) (B1708). Then, the look-ahead command consistency check process is executed (B1709), and it is determined whether or not the combination of the MODE unit and the ACT unit after conversion is normal (B1710).

It should be noted that the time of the first half fluctuation corresponding to the MODE section changes depending on the number of holds when the hold is changed and the display game is started. Hold changes When starting a display game, if there are no other holds, the first half will be longer, and if a new hold occurs and the number of holds is large, the first half will be shorter. Therefore, even if the time value of the first half fluctuation is changed, the MODE section of the received look-ahead fluctuation command is converted into the sub-internal look-ahead fluctuation command MODE section so that the internal command of the effect control device 300 can be handled in the same way.

Further, since the type of reach is not related to the number of holdings, the latter half fluctuation corresponding to the sub-internal look-ahead fluctuation command ACT section does not depend on the number of holdings. However, since there are different types of reach for the same system, if the effect control device 300 is used as it is without converting the ACT section (value of the latter half fluctuation) of the look-ahead fluctuation system command, the number will increase and it will be difficult to check. .. For example, there are various types of normal reach, such as normal reach-1 stop off and normal reach +1 stop off. Therefore, by converting the ACT unit indicating the reach of the same system into the same sub-pre-reading variation command ACT unit, the number is reduced and the burden of the check processing such as the pre-reading command matching check processing is reduced.

Next, in the effect control device 300, when at least one of the converted MODE unit and ACT unit (that is, the sub-internal look-ahead variation command MODE unit and ACT unit) is 0 (the result of B1707 is "N"), or If the combination of the MODE unit and the ACT unit after conversion is not normal (the result of B1710 is "N"), it is considered that the command after conversion is abnormal, and the look-ahead variable command processing is terminated.

When the combination of the MODE unit and the ACT unit after conversion is normal (the result of B1710 is "Y"), the effect control device 300 loads the hold information (latest hold information) to be read ahead from the look-ahead fluctuation command area. (B1711), a look-ahead lottery process relating to the latest hold look-ahead effect is executed (B1712). The look-ahead effect includes, for example, a continuous advance notice effect (including a chance look-ahead effect), a look-ahead zone effect, and a hold change advance notice. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the latest hold look-ahead effect (hold change notice, etc.) occurs (B1713). When the latest hold look-ahead effect occurs (the result of B1713 is "Y"), the point information corresponding to the selected look-ahead effect is set (B1714).

Next, the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the pre-reading effect (holding change notice, etc.) that occurs is an effect that immediately starts (B1715). When the generated look-ahead effect is an effect that starts immediately (the result of B1715 is “Y”), the display corresponding to the selected look-ahead effect is set (B1716). If the pre-reading effect that occurs is not an effect that starts immediately (the result of B1715 is "N"), set and save the display corresponding to the pre-reading effect at the time of hold shift (when the hold display is moved or when the number of holds is reduced) (B1717). ). Then, the look-ahead variable command processing is terminated.

On the other hand, in the effect control device 300, when the latest hold look-ahead effect does not occur (the result of B1713 is "N"), or when the generated look-ahead effect does not start immediately (the result of B1715 is "N"). As it is, the look-ahead variable command processing is terminated.

[Design command processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 27, the details of the symbol-based command processing (B1210) in the reception command analysis processing (FIG. 23) described above will be described. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a procedure of symbol-based command processing executed by the effect control device 300.

The effect control device 300 sets the special symbol type corresponding to the MODE unit of the received symbol-based command (decorative special figure 1 command or decorative special figure 2 command) (B1801). The special figure type is special figure 1 or special figure 2. Then, the symbol type corresponding to the combination of the MODE unit and the ACTION unit (ACT unit) of the symbol system command is set and saved in a predetermined area such as RAM (B1802). Here, since the distribution ratio of the symbols changes between the special figure 1 and the special figure 2, the symbol type is set by using the table for each MODE. In this embodiment, the symbol type corresponds to an outlier symbol, a 10R probability variation jackpot symbol, a 4R probability variation jackpot symbol, and a 10R normal jackpot symbol.

[Variable command processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 28, the details of the variable command processing (B1206) in the reception command analysis processing (FIG. 23) described above will be described. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a procedure of variable command processing executed by the effect control device 300.

The effect control device 300 determines whether or not the special figure type (special figure 1 or special figure 2) of the received variable system command (variable command) is undetermined (B1901). When the special figure type is undecided (the result of B1901 is "Y"), the variable command processing is terminated. If the special symbol type is not undetermined (the result of B1901 is "N"), the combination of the received variable command and symbol command is checked (B1902), and whether the variable command and symbol type are inconsistent. Is determined (B1903). Here, the inconsistency means that there is a contradiction in the production, such as when a design command of a jackpot symbol is received even though a variable command of an outlier is received. If the variable command and the symbol type are inconsistent (the result of B1903 is "Y"), the variable command processing is terminated.

When the effect control device 300 determines the variation pattern type from the variation command (variation command) when the variation command and the symbol type are not inconsistent (the result of B1903 is "N"), the effect control device 300 determines the variation pattern type from the variation command (variation command) (B1904). A variation effect setting process for setting a certain variation effect is executed (B1905). There are multiple effects for the same variable command. Subsequently, the special figure changing is set in the game state flag indicating the game state (P machine state) (B1906), and if the number of pre-reading effects of the continuous notice effect (the remaining number of continuous notice effects) is not 0, the number is updated by -1. (B1907).

[Variable effect setting process]
Next, with reference to FIG. 29, the details of the variation effect setting process (B1905) in the variation system command process (FIG. 28) described above will be described. FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a procedure of the variable effect setting process executed by the effect control device 300.

First, the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the variation pattern type is reachless variation (variation that does not reach the reach state) (B2001). When the fluctuation pattern type is non-reach fluctuation (the result of B2001 is "Y"), the first half notice distribution corresponding to the number of production points, model code, special figure type, production mode, and set value (probability setting value) The group address table is set (B2002), and the address of the first half advance notice distribution group table corresponding to the MODE section of the variable command (variable command) and the number of reservations of the special figure type is acquired (B2003). In the case of non-reach fluctuation, the fluctuation time is shortened as the number of holds increases, so the address of the table corresponding to the number of holds is acquired.

When the fluctuation pattern type is not reachless fluctuation (the result of B2001 is “N”), that is, when the fluctuation pattern type is reach fluctuation, the effect control device 300 includes the number of production points, the model code, the special figure type, and the effect mode. Set the first half advance notice distribution group address table corresponding to the symbol type and set value (probability set value) (B2004), and set the MODE part of the variable command (variable command) and the first half advance notice distribution group table corresponding to the variable pattern type. Get the address of (B2005).

After steps B2003 and B2005, the effect control device 300 draws a lottery for advance notices that appear during the first half fluctuation (before reach) (B2006). The lottery probability of the advance notice depends on the set value. Next, set the second half notice distribution group address table corresponding to the number of production points, model code, special figure type, production mode, symbol type, and set value (probability setting value) (B2007), and set the variable command. The address of the second half notice distribution group table corresponding to the ACT section is acquired (B2008), and the notice lottery that appears during the second half fluctuation (during reach) is performed (B2009). The lottery probability of the advance notice depends on the set value. After that, the content of the variable effect corresponding to the MODE section and the ACT section of the variable command (variable command) is determined (B2010). In addition, the fluctuation time and main reach contents can be known from the fluctuation command.

Next, the effect control device 300 determines the content of the effect (notice effect) corresponding to the lottery result of the advance notice (B2011). Then, the content of the setting suggestion effect for suggesting the set value (probability set value, setting) is determined (B2012). After that, a stop symbol setting process for determining the stop symbol of the decorative special symbol variation display game is executed according to the content of the variation effect such as the reach effect or the advance notice effect (B2013). Here, the decoration stop symbol is specifically determined, such as determining the looseness in the case of the out-of-order symbol.

Next, the effect control device 300 sets the display of the setting suggestion effect (B2014). The display setting of the variable effect such as the reach effect is set (B2015), and the display setting of the notice effect is set (B2016). Subsequently, the display setting of the hold reduction (hold shift) corresponding to the special figure type is set. The corresponding display information (B1717) and the like are read out (B2017). Subsequently, a voice number that determines the effect mode (sound output mode) by the sound of the speaker and a decoration number that determines the effect mode by the light emission of the decoration device are set (B2018). The decoration device (board decoration device 46, frame decoration device 18) has a plurality of decorative light emitting units (decorative LEDs, etc.) and emits light in a light emitting mode (color, light emitting timing, etc. of each LED) defined by a decoration number. ..

It is possible to set the voice number and the decoration number not only based on the effect content but also by drawing with a lottery probability according to the set value (probability setting value). In this way, the player can enjoy estimating the set value (probability set value) of the gaming machine 10 from the light emitting mode of the decorative device, that is, the light emitting mode of the decorative light emitting unit (LED).

Next, the effect control device 300 sets the display of the decorative special symbol variation corresponding to the special symbol type (B2019), and in addition to the first to third special symbols, the fourth special symbol (fourth symbol, identification information). 4 Set the display setting of the symbol variation with respect to (B2020). The fourth symbol variation is displayed by the lamp display units 1 and 2 (LEDs) of the above-mentioned lamp display device 80 provided in addition to the display device 41, and / or the display device 41.

[Hit system command processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 30, the details of the hit command process (B1208) in the above-mentioned received command analysis process (FIG. 23) will be described. FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a procedure of hit system command processing executed by the effect control device 300.

The effect control device 300 first determines whether or not the MODE unit of the received hit system command represents a fanfare (B2101). When the MODE part of the hit command represents a fanfare (the result of B2101 is "Y"), that is, when the hit command is a big hit fanfare command (or a small hit fanfare command when a small hit is provided), a fanfare effect is produced. The fanfare effect setting process for setting is executed (B2102). The fanfare command includes information on the upper limit of the number of rounds for this big hit. Subsequently, the game state flag indicating the game state (P machine state) of the current game machine 10 is set to during fanfare (B2103), and the hit-type command process is terminated. The upper limit of the number of rounds can also be obtained from the symbol type determined from the symbol command (decorative special symbol command corresponding to the stop symbol pattern).

The effect control device 300 determines whether or not the MODE section of the hit command represents a round when the MODE section of the received hit command does not represent a fanfare (the result of B2101 is "N"). B2104). When the MODE unit represents a round (the result of B2104 is "Y"), that is, when the hit system command is a round command (or a command during which the small hit is open when a small hit is provided), the effect control device 300 is used. The round effect setting process for setting the round effect is executed, the game state flag indicating the game state (P machine state) of the current game machine 10 is set during the round (B2105, B2106), and the hit system command processing is performed. finish.

If the MODE section of the received hit command does not represent a round (the result of B2104 is "N"), the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the MODE section of the hit command represents an interval (the result of B2104 is "N"). B2107). When the MODE unit represents an interval (the result of B2107 is "Y"), that is, when the hit system command is an interval command, the effect control device 300 executes the interval effect setting process for setting the interval effect. Interval is set in the game state flag indicating the game state (P machine state) of the current game machine 10 (B2108, B2109), and the hit system command processing is terminated. There is no interval command when the big winning opening is opened only once with a small hit, that is, when the small hit is one round.

When the MODE section of the received hit command does not represent the interval (the result of B2107 is "N"), the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the MODE section of the hit command represents the ending (the result of B2107 is "N"). B2110). When the MODE unit represents the ending (the result of B2110 is "Y"), that is, when the hit system command is the ending command (or the small hit end screen command when a small hit is provided), the effect control device 300 sets the effect control device 300. The ending effect setting process for setting the ending effect is executed, the ending is set in the game state flag indicating the game state (P machine state) of the current game machine 10 (B2111, B2112), and the hit system command processing is performed. finish.

If the MODE section of the received hit command does not represent the ending (the result of B2110 is "N"), the effect control device 300 ends the hit command process without executing any process. do.

[Example of screen transition of screen split effect in time saving mode]
With reference to FIG. 31, a display mode of the display screen of the display device 41 when the screen division effect is executed in the time saving mode (time saving state) will be described.

FIG. 31 is a screen transition diagram showing the display screens of the display device 41 in chronological order, and is an example of screen transitions when the screen division effect in the time saving mode is performed. The screen division effect may be executed in another mode (other gaming state) such as the probability change mode (probability change state).

FIG. 31A is a display screen of the display device 41 when the game state is reduced to a reduced time after the end of the big hit (after the round game). The effect control device 300 starts and displays a specific effect mode (time reduction mode) when the game state becomes the time reduction state (for example, the number of fluctuations (time reduction number) of the variation display game in the time reduction state is 100 times). The screen division effect can be performed on the display screen of the device 41.

The time saving state may be started when the gaming state is the normal gaming state and the fluctuation is stopped at a specific symbol (identification information). This specific symbol is a so-called time-saving symbol, which will be described later in the second embodiment.

Further, even if the time saving state is started when the game state is the normal game state and the latest number of games of the variable display game reaches a predetermined upper limit number of times (so-called ceiling, ceiling number of times) such as 1000 times. good. The latest number of variable display games is the number of variable display games (number of fluctuations, total number of times) executed since the end of the previous (most recent, latest) jackpot game (special game), and is the number of variable display games. When the result becomes a big hit result (special result), it is reset to 0 times. In addition, in the gaming machine 100 in which the gaming state becomes the time saving state (specific game state, high support low probability state) after the end of the big hit game, whether or not the number of games of the variable display game in the time saving state also reaches a predetermined upper limit. Can be included in the number of fluctuations for determining.

Further, the effect control device 300 may start the screen division effect in the time saving mode, for example, when the 50th variable display game (50th time saving game) is performed after the time saving state is reached. It may be started when the variable display game is played when the remaining 10 times are reached (90th time-saving game).

Further, in the effect control device 300, in the upper left corner of the display screen of the display device 41, the effect mode name (for example, "tiger dance mode") and the remaining number of fluctuations (for example, "80 more times") of the screen division effect in the time saving mode are displayed. Can be displayed as the effect mode display 740.

On the display screen of the display device 41, the display area (screen) is divided into upper and lower parts and displayed by executing the screen division effect.

The upper display area is the first divided area 710, and as will be described later in FIG. 31 (i) and thereafter, the first divided area 710 has more changes than the image displayed in the second divided area 720. An image with a lot of movement such as a moving image is displayed.

The lower display area is the second divided area 720, and the second divided area 720 is a still image or the like that does not move or moves slowly as an image with less change than the image displayed in the first divided area 710. The image is displayed together with the decorative special symbol (identification information, decorative first symbols A to C, large symbol (design)).

Further, a frame-shaped (almost linear) accessory image 730 extending in the left-right direction is displayed between the first divided region 710 and the second divided region 720. The accessory image 730 is movably displayed as a boundary that separates (divides) the first divided region 710 and the second divided region 720. In addition, instead of the accessory image 730, a movable body (movable accessory, movable member) is provided on the game board 30 and arranged on the front side (front) of the display screen to form the first division area 710 and the second division. The region 720 may be divided. Further, it is not necessary to arrange an object image 730 or the like that separates the boundary between the first divided area 710 and the second divided area 720. In this case, the first divided area 710 and the second divided area 720 are displayed adjacent to each other, and the first divided area 710 and the second divided area 720 are displayed as much as the accessory image 730 and the like are not arranged. A large area can be secured and it can be used for production.

The screen division effect is not limited to the top and bottom, but the display area may be divided into left and right, diagonally, and the like. Further, the second divided area 720 may be preferentially displayed on the upper layer (front side, player side) of the first divided area 710. At that time, the first divided area 710 is displayed by shifting from the second divided area 720, or the first divided area 710 is displayed in a display area wider than the second divided area 720, so that the first divided area 710 and the first divided area 710 are displayed. The two division areas 720 can be seen overlapping, and the interest of the game can be improved. Further, the division of the display area in the screen division effect is not limited to two divisions, and the display area may be divided into three or more, for example, four divisions may be made in the shape of squares on the top, bottom, left, and right.

A plurality of variable display areas 610 (left area 610A, right area 610B, middle area 610C) are displayed in the lower center of the display screen of the display device 41, that is, in the second divided area 720. In the variable display area 610, the left area 610A is decorated with the first decorative symbol A (identification information, large symbol (design), special decorative symbol), the right region 610B is decorated with the first decorative symbol B, and the middle region 610C is decorated. The first symbol C is enlarged and displayed as a large symbol, and is stopped and displayed (for example, "167"). When the screen division effect of the specific effect mode is not performed, for example, during the normal game state, the effect control device 300 can display a plurality of variable display areas 610 in a large size near the center of the display screen. (Display mode similar to (or) in FIG. 31).

In the upper right corner of the display screen of the display device 41, a variable display area 615 in which the variable display game is executed by a decorative special symbol (small symbol) is provided. The small symbol of the variable display area 615 is stopped and displayed at the stop symbol of the immediately preceding variable display game (for example, "167"). When the variable display game is running, at least one of the variable display area 610 and the variable display area 615 is displayed. Further, the results of the variable display game in the variable display area 610 and the variable display area 615 have contents that match each other.

Below the variable display area 615 in the upper right corner of the display screen of the display device 41, a special figure 1 hold number display unit 650 and a special figure 2 hold number display unit 660 are provided. The special figure 1 hold number display unit 650 and the special figure 2 hold number display unit 660 display a number "0" indicating the special figure 1 hold number and a number "3" indicating the special figure 2 hold number, respectively. ..

At the lower part of the display screen of the display device 41, a square frame holding digestion area 640 (changing hold display area) and a hold display part 630 are provided as a start storage display area (specific display unit, specific display area).

In the hold digestion area 640, there is a hold display (start memory display, special figure 1) corresponding to the first start memory (special figure 1 hold) related to the variable display game (special figure 1 variable display game) being executed (during digestion). The changing hold display 643 (see (i), etc. in FIG. 31) can be displayed as the hold display, the special figure changing hold display, and the special figure digesting hold display).

The hold display unit 630 displays the hold display 633 (starting memory display) corresponding to the generated second start memory, and for example, three hold displays 633 are displayed. When the game state is a specific game state such as during the reduced working hours state, the second start memory, which is the start memory of the main variable display game, is preferentially displayed on the hold display unit 630 as shown in FIG. 31. The number of special figure 1 reserved in the time saving state can be confirmed on the special figure 1 reserved number display unit 650 displayed in the upper right corner of the display screen as described above.

In the normal game state, the special figure 1 and the special figure 2 variable display games are executed alternately, so that the effect control device 300 displays the hold display 633 corresponding to the first start memory and the second start memory, and the hold display unit 630. Both are displayed in. The reserved digestion area 640, which is the area where the variable pending display 643 is displayed, may be hidden in the time saving state.

As shown in FIG. 31 (i), when the variable display game is started, the three hold displays 633 displayed on the hold display unit 630 move one by one to the right (hold shift), and the hold display is displayed. One of the hold displays 633 at the right end of the unit 630 moves to the hold digestion area 640, and the changing hold display 643 is displayed in the square frame of the hold digestion area 640.

(I) of FIG. 31 is a display screen of the display device 41 after the variable display game is started in the time saving state.

When the variable display game is executed in response to the variable display on hold display 643 displayed in the pending digestion area 640 due to the hold shift, the decoration first symbols A to C of the variable display area 610 and the small variable display area 615 are executed. The design or variable display ("↓↓↓") is displayed. When the variable display game is started, the number indicating the special figure 2 hold number of the special figure 2 hold number display unit 660 is decremented by one from "3" to become "2".

Further, when the variable display game is executed, for example, characters 711 and 712 move in the first divided area 710, which is the upper display area of the display screen, as images with a lot of movement (images with many changes, images with large changes). A video (for example, running, dancing) is displayed. Here, the characters 711 and 712 may be displayed as, for example, an animation-type moving image in which a still image whose character form and / or display position changes for each frame (frame) is continuously displayed together with other images. Further, the moving images of the characters 711 and 721 may be moving images of a performer (person) who is actually moving. As described above, the characters 711 and 712 are characters in the moving image stored in the image ROM 325 of the effect control device 300, and may be composed of the moving image. The moving image may be compressed and stored in the image ROM 325 of the effect control device 300. In addition, a virtual camera (specific viewpoint) is generated (modeled) by a 3D character object (3D character model, 3D computer graphics) made of polygons or the like that perform movements (movements) such as running (dancing) on a specific layer. It may be displayed as a moving image taken from the screen and projected (rendered) on a two-dimensional drawing surface.

In the present embodiment, "violent movement" and "many changes" simply mean the movement speed of the entire character or the movement speed (movement speed) of a part of the character (arms, legs, etc.) that dances or runs. It may mean that it is large, or it may mean that these movement speeds standardized by the length in the vertical or horizontal direction of the character are large (movement speed ÷ length is large). Further, "slow movement" and "small change" may mean that the above-mentioned moving speed (operating speed) is simply small, or that the above-mentioned standardized moving speed is small (moving speed ÷). It may mean that the length is small).

Further, in the upper layer (front side, player side) of the first division area 710, there are an effect mode display 740, a variable display area 615, a special figure 1 hold number display unit 650, and a special figure 2 hold number display unit 660. And the right-handed instruction display (for example, "right-handed →", right-handed instruction image) instructing the player to right-handed is displayed in preference to other images. Therefore, these displays are displayed in front of the characters 711 and 712 of the first divided area 710 and are not hidden by the image displayed in the first divided area 710. The effect mode display 740 and the variable display area 615 may be displayed on the lower layer (back side, gaming machine side) of the first division area 710, or may be displayed as the display of the first division area 710. It may be hidden behind the 711 and 712. Further, when the small symbols in the variable display area 615 are hidden and hidden, the decorative first symbols A to C in the variable display area 610 are displayed in a manner visible to the player. Since the player is performing a right-handed game during the big hit game (special game), the effect control device 300 may not display the right-handed instruction display unless the player makes a left-handed game.

On the other hand, in the second divided area 720, which is the lower display area of the display screen, for example, an image of the character 721 is displayed large as an image with slow movement (an image with little change, an image with little change). The image of the character 721 is displayed on the back side (lower layer side) of the variable display area 610, and does not hide the display of the decorative first symbols A to C of the variable display area 610. Since the changing decorative first symbols A to C are translucent, the player can easily visually recognize the image of the character 721 displayed as the background on the back surface. The character 721 is stored as a still image in the image ROM 325 of the effect control device 300, and is composed of the still image.

In this way, a plurality of images are segmented by displaying a rapidly moving image in the first divided region 710 and displaying a slow-moving image together with the decorative first symbols A to C in the second divided region 720. It is possible to improve the visibility of images and patterns when displaying them at the same time in the production, and to improve the interest of the game.

The characters displayed in the second division area 720 in a manner that does not move so as to allow the player to select a favorite character from a plurality of characters when starting the game (when waiting for a customer). You may do it. By allowing the player to select the character displayed in the second division area 720 in this way, the second division is performed in such a manner that the player's favorite character (pushing character) is hardly moved in the time saving mode after the end of the big hit. Since it can be displayed large in the area 720, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

Further, at the stage (i) of FIG. 31, the still image of the character 721 viewed in frame units slowly moves or stops on the right side of the display screen while maintaining the form of the character 721 for each frame. The effect control device 300 continuously displays a still image of the character 721 over a plurality of frames, and the form of the character 721 is the same even in different frames. Therefore, the character 721 is displayed in a stationary (fixed) mode, and the display position in the second divided region 720 gradually changes as the frame advances.

In FIG. 31, the moving speed of the entire character 721 is smaller than the moving speed of the entire characters 711 and 712. However, not limited to this, when the characters 711 and 712 dance, the standardized movement speed of the entire character 721 (movement speed ÷ length of the character 721) is the standardized movement speed of a part of the characters 711 and 712. It may be smaller than (movement speed ÷ length of characters 711 and 712).

The still image of the character 721 in the second division area 720 displays the same image continuously over a plurality of frames, but switches to another still image every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 sec) elapses. It may be (updated display may be displayed). At that time, the same character (character 721) whose pose, costume, or the like has changed may be displayed on another still image to be updated and displayed, or different characters may be displayed.

Further, the effect control device 300 may display a moving image such as an animation in which the mode of the character 721 slowly changes in the second divided region 720 instead of the still image of the character 721.

The effect mode slide display 722 is displayed on the right side of the second division area 720. The effect mode slide display 722 moves (slides) the effect mode name (for example, "tiger dance mode") from the right side of the second division area 720 to the diagonally upward left side, and notifies the player of the effect mode name. It is a display to be done. The effect mode slide display 722 may not be entirely displayed on the display screen, and may be partially displayed, for example, as shown in FIG. 31 (i).

FIG. 31 (c) is a display screen of the display device 41 when a reach state occurs in the variable display game in the time saving state.

When N reach (normal reach) is executed as the reach effect of the first half of the reach by the effect control device 300, in the variable display area 610, the decorative first symbol A of the left area 610A and the decorative first symbol B of the right area 610B are displayed. For example, the symbol "1" is temporarily stopped while being displayed, and the reach state is reached. Further, in the middle region 610C, the decorative first symbol C is maintained in a variable display (“↓”) state.

For the reach effect, for example, N reach, SP1 reach (special 1 reach), SP2 reach (special 2 reach), SP3 reach (special 3 reach) and the like can be selected. The expectation of the production (notice) that the result of the variable display game is a big hit (special result), that is, the expectation of the big hit (expected big hit, expected value) is higher in the order of N reach <SP1 reach <SP2 reach <SP3 reach. Set. The degree of expectation suggests the probability of becoming a big hit when the effect is selected, and is calculated based on the selection rate of the effect when it is a big hit and the selection rate of the effect when it is not a big hit (when it is off). can do.

When the reach state occurs, the second division region 720 expands and the first division region 710 becomes narrower. That is, the ratio of the second divided area 720 on the display screen is larger than that of the first divided area 710. Further, the effect control device 300 may make it easier to generate an effect in which the second division region 720 is expanded as the reach effect (for example, SP2 reach or SP3 reach) having a high expectation of big hit occurs.

Further, the effect control device 300 slides the accessory image 730 upward in accordance with the expansion of the second division area 720 (reduction of the first division area 710), and the decoration first symbol A to the variation display area 610. Display C in large size. In this way, the effect control device 300 plays the symbol by changing the size of the decorative first symbols A to C displayed in the second divided region 720 according to the area of the second divided region 720. It is possible to improve the interest of the game by making it easier for people to pay attention to it. The effect control device 300 may generate a predetermined effect (a reach precursor effect or a reach fanning effect that occurs before the reach) according to the degree of expectation of a big hit, and when the predetermined effect occurs, the accessory image. The second divided region 720 may be enlarged (in the direction of operation) in accordance with the operation of the accessory image 730 while sliding the 730 upward.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 31 (c) to (e), the effect control device 300 can gradually move the image of the character 721 and display it in a large size according to the enlargement of the second divided area 720. .. Even when the character 721 is enlarged, the form (shape, pattern, color, etc.) other than the size may be the same. It should be noted that the effect control device 300 does not have to change the size of the character 721 by displaying only the decorative first symbols A to C of the variable display area 610 in accordance with the expansion of the second divided area 720. That is, the size of the character 721 displayed in the second divided area 720, the size of the effect mode slide display 722, the size of the hold display 633 and the changing hold display 643 do not change, and the background image of the second divided area 720. It is possible to widen only the visible range (area) such as. Further, the effect control device 300 may perform an effect of changing the size of the character 721 and giving an effect such as sparks to the image of the character 721. Further, the image of the character 721 is selected regardless of whether it is a big hit or a miss, and is displayed as a background image not related to the big hit expectation, but it is selected by a selection rate according to whether it is a big hit or a miss. It may be displayed as a background image related to the jackpot expectation. For example, a background image that is not related to the jackpot expectation is a background image that always appears in a certain mode (game state).

On the other hand, the moving images (images) of the characters 711 and 712 of the first divided area 710 are continuously displayed as they are even if the first divided area 710 is reduced (the running direction changes as the moving image progresses). As the image 730 rises, it gradually disappears from below. The moving images of the characters 711 and 712 are selected with a selection rate according to whether they are big hits or misses, and are displayed as background images related to the expectation of big hits, but it is related to whether they are big hits or misses. It may be selected without and displayed as a background image that is not related to the jackpot expectation.

FIG. 31 (e) is a display screen of the display device 41 when the reach state progresses in the variable display game in the time saving state.

The effect control device 300 can develop the reach effect from, for example, N reach to SP2 reach in the latter half of the reach.

The effect control device 300 further expands the second division area 720 and slides the accessory image 730 further upward. The area (area) of the second divided area 720 shown in FIGS. 31 (c) to (o) is continuously (smoothly) expanded, but the area is stepwise (stepped) according to the effect. You may go so that

Further, the image of the character 721 in the second divided area 720 and the decorative first symbols A to C in the variable display area 610 are displayed even larger as the second divided area 720 is enlarged. On the other hand, the moving images of the characters 711 and 712 of the first division area 710 are continuously displayed as they are, but the displayed area is further narrowed.

Here, the special figure 1 hold number display unit 650 and the special figure 2 hold number display unit 660 are displayed on the frontmost layer, and even if the accessory image 730 is displayed at a position where they overlap, the accessory image 730 is displayed. It is not hidden by, and is displayed preferentially in the foreground. The effect mode display 740, the variable display area 615, and the right-handed instruction display can also be displayed on the frontmost layer in the same manner, and even if the accessory image 730 is displayed at the overlapping position, it is displayed preferentially on the front side. Can be done. Therefore, the player can easily confirm the information to be confirmed during the game on the display screen, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

FIG. 31 (O) is a display screen of the display device 41 when the reach state further progresses in the variable display game in the time saving state.

As the reach state further progresses, for example, as shown in (O) of FIG. 31, the second divided area 720 spreads over the entire display screen (full screen state), and the first divided area 710 is completely hidden. Further, the effect control device 300 displays the decorative first symbols A to C of the variable display area 610 in a larger size in accordance with the expansion of the second divided area 720.

In the effect control device 300, for example, by making the decorative first symbols A to C larger in size, the decorative first symbol B in the right area 610B goes out (positioned) from the display screen and is inside the display screen. It may not be displayed in. In this case, only two symbols, the decorative first symbol A in the left area 610A and the decorative first symbol C in the middle area 610C, are displayed on the display screen. Further, since the decoration 1st symbol A and the decoration 1st symbol C are temporarily stopped at "1", the player can further increase the expectation that the variable display game will stop fluctuating at "111" and become a big hit. can.

Further, for example, a spark-like effect 723 may be added to the background of the large decorative first symbols A and C. At that time, the image of the character 721 in the background can be hidden by the effect 723 displayed on the front surface, and the image can be hidden, so that the player can perform an effect with less discomfort. At the top of the display screen, information that the player wants to check rather than the effect 723 (special figure 1 hold number display unit 650, special figure 2 hold number display unit 660, effect mode display 740, variable display area 615, right-handed instruction Display) is displayed with priority. The information that these players want to confirm may be hidden together with the first division area 710. At that time, the information that the player wants to confirm can be displayed in the first division area 710 (the same layer as), and by overlapping with the accessory image 730 that has slid upward, the accessory image 730 is confirmed. It is hidden by being displayed in front of the information you want.

FIG. 31 (ka) is a display screen of the display device 41 when the variable display game in the time saving state ends.

When the reach effect is finished and the variable display game is finished, the result of the variable display game becomes a special result (big hit result), and the numbers of the decorations 1st symbols A to C of the variable display area 610 are aligned in the center of the display screen. The big hit stop symbol of the symbol (for example, "111") fluctuates and stops. Similarly, the small symbol in the variable display area 615 also fluctuates and stops at the jackpot stop symbol (special result) of (for example, "111"). Further, the changing hold display 643 in the holding digestion area 640 (changing hold display area) is digested and hidden at the end of the variable display game.

Then, the game state shifts to a special game state (big hit game state) that is advantageous to the player, and the big hit game (round game after the fanfare production) is started. In addition, when the fluctuation is stopped with an odd number symbol such as "111", the game state can be changed to the probability change state (high probability state, specific game state) after the end of the big hit game. The probability change state is a state in which the probability that the result of the variable display game becomes a big hit (special result) is higher than usual, and can be shifted after the big hit game with an odd number symbol such as "777" is completed. Even in the probabilistic state, the time saving state and the general electric support state occur repeatedly.

[Modification example of screen transition of screen division effect in time saving mode]
Next, with reference to FIG. 32, a display mode of the display screen of the display device 41 when the screen division effect of the modified example is executed in the time saving mode (time saving state) will be described. In the following description, the part overlapping with FIG. 31 will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 32 is a screen transition diagram showing the display screens of the display device 41 in chronological order, and is a modified example of the screen transition when the screen division effect in the time saving mode is performed.

(I) of FIG. 32 is the same as (I) of FIG. 31, and is a display screen of the display device 41 after the variable display game is started in a time-saving state in the screen division effect of the modified example.

FIG. 32 (2) is a display screen of the display device 41 when a reach state occurs in the variable display game in the time saving state in the screen division effect of the modified example. When the effect control device 300 executes N reach as the effect of the first half of the reach, the effect control device 300 temporarily stops in the second divided area 720 with the decorative first symbols A and B of the variable display area 610 displaying, for example, the symbol "1". Then, it becomes a reach state.

As shown in (2) of FIG. 32, the effect control device 300 may widen the first divided region 710 instead of widening the second divided region 720. In this case, the second division region 720 becomes narrow. Further, the accessory image 730 slides (moves) to the lower side of the display screen.

By enlarging the first divided region 710 in this way, it is possible to emphasize the effect mode of the first divided region 710 with a violently moving image (for example, a moving image). Therefore, the violently moving image of the first divided area 710 can be developed to perform a reach effect by SP3 reach (for example, a battle effect in which characters fight each other), and the effect can be enhanced, so that the interest of the game can be improved. can.

Further, as shown in (2) of FIG. 32, when the first division region 710 is expanded, a new character 713 may be added in addition to the characters 711 and 712. In this way, by increasing the number of new characters 713 when the first divided region 710 is expanded, it is possible to more easily emphasize the effect mode of the first divided region 710 with a violently moving image (for example, a moving image).

Further, the moving images of the characters 711, 712, and 713 can be displayed as a background image related to the jackpot expectation, but since the first division area 710 is enlarged, the player visually recognizes the background image. As a result, it becomes easier to confirm the degree of expectation of a big hit, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

After that, the effect control device 300 expands the first division area 710 over the entire display screen (full screen state (a mode opposite to (e) in FIG. 31)), and then, as shown in (o) of FIG. The screen may change to. At that time, the variation display area 610 becomes smaller because the second division area 720 is narrowed by the amount that the first division area 710 spreads over the entire display screen. Therefore, the first decorative symbols A to C cannot be seen, but since the small symbols in the variable display area 615 are displayed, the player can easily confirm on the display screen that the variable display game is changing.

[Transformation example 2 of screen transition of screen division effect in time saving mode]
Subsequently, with reference to FIG. 33, the display mode of the display screen of the display device 41 when the screen division effect of the modification 2 is executed in the time saving mode (time saving state) will be described.

FIG. 33 is a screen transition diagram showing the display screens of the display device 41 in chronological order, and is a modification 2 of the screen transition when the screen division effect in the time saving mode is performed.

(O) of FIG. 33 is the same as (O) of FIG. 31, and in the screen division effect of the second modification, the display screen of the display device 41 when the reach state further progresses in the variable display game in the time saving state. Is. The effect control device 300 makes the decorative first symbols A to C of the variable display area 610 larger in size, and displays the decorative first symbol A of the left region 610A and the decorative first symbol C of the middle region 610C on the display screen. .. The first decorative symbols A and C are temporarily stopped at "1", and the spark-like effect 723 is displayed on the background of the first decorative symbols A and C.

Then, the effect control device 300 can display another accessory image 750 as shown in FIG. 33 (ki) before the variable display game ends.

FIG. 33A is a display screen of the display device 41 when the cut-in effect is executed before the variable display game in the time saving state ends.

The effect control device 300 displays the radial effect 752 on the front surface of the decorative first symbols A and C as shown in FIG. 33 (ki) before the variable display game in the time saving state ends. Further, the effect control device 300 inserts (cuts in) the accessory image 750 in the center of the display screen, and has the same maximum as the variable display area 615, the special figure 1 hold number display unit 650, and the special figure 2 hold display unit 660. A cut-in effect of displaying the accessory image 750 on the front layer can be performed. A character display 751 (for example, "tiger") related to the model and character of the gaming machine 10 can be displayed on the accessory image 750. The accessory image 750 may be displayed on the back (rear) layer of the variable display area 615, the special figure 1 hold number display unit 650, and the special figure 2 hold display unit 660, and may be displayed on the front (front), that is, the frontmost. It may be displayed on the layer of.

The cut-in effect is performed as an effect that emphasizes the variable stop with the stop symbol (special result) of the big hit. Therefore, in the cut-in effect, the information that the player wants to confirm at the upper part of the display screen (special figure 1 hold number display unit 650, special figure 2 hold number display unit 660, effect mode display 740, variable display area 615, right-handed instruction The display) may be positioned on the layer behind the radial effect 752 or the accessory image 750 so as not to be displayed on the display screen. On the other hand, the effect control device 300 may give priority to the information to be confirmed over the radial effect 752 and the accessory image 750 and continuously display the information.

The accessory image 750 may be displayed by moving (sliding) the accessory image 750 located from the upper side to the center of the display screen. Further, instead of the accessory image 750, a movable body (movable accessory, movable member) may be provided on the game board 30 and arranged in front (front) of the display screen to perform the effect.

After that, when the variable display game ends, the effect control device 300 hits the decorative first symbols A to C of the variable display area 610 and the small symbols of the variable display area 615 as shown in (or) of FIG. 33. It stops fluctuating at the stop symbol (for example, "111") of. Then, the gaming state shifts to the special gaming state (big hit gaming state), and the player can start the jackpot game.

[Action / effect of the first embodiment]
The gaming machine 10 according to the first embodiment is a game (variable display game (special figure 1 variable display)) in which identification information (decorative first symbols A to C, large symbols (designs), decorative special symbols, small symbols) is variablely displayed. A game control means (game control device 100) capable of executing a game (game, special figure 2 variable display game)), an effect control means (effect control device 300) capable of executing an effect, and a plurality of images can be displayed as the effect. A display means (display device 41) is provided. In the gaming machine 10, the effect control means divides the display area of the display means into a plurality of divided areas (first divided area 710, second divided area 720), and at least one of a plurality of images is divided into each divided area. An image (an image with slow movement, a still image of the character 721) that can be displayed and has less change than the image of the other divided areas as a display different from the identification information in at least one divided area of the plurality of divided areas. , A moving image in which the aspect of the character 721 changes slowly) can be displayed together with the identification information.

According to such a gaming machine 10, a player displays an image having less change than an image of another divided region in at least one divided region of the plurality of divided regions together with identification information, thereby displaying a plurality of images. It is possible to improve the visibility of images and patterns when displaying them at the same time in a split effect, and to improve the interest of the game.

Further, in the gaming machine 10, the effect control means (effect control device 300) is in a special game state (big hit game state) depending on the result of the game (variable display game (special figure 1 variable display game, special figure 2 variable display game)). A background image irrelevant to the high degree of expectation (big hit expectation) can be displayed in at least one divided area (second divided area 720) of the plurality of divided areas.

According to such a gaming machine 10, an image that is not related to the jackpot expectation is displayed as a background of the identification information, so that the player can confirm the identification information without increasing the amount of information too much. , The interest of the game can be improved.

Further, in the gaming machine 10, the effect control means (effect control device 300) has a movable body (character image 750,) between a plurality of divided areas (first divided area 710, second divided area 720) (boundary). Movable accessories, movable members) can be placed.

According to such a gaming machine 10, since a plurality of divided areas can be clearly divided by a movable body, the visibility of each image is improved and the player can easily recognize the plurality of images when the plurality of images are displayed at the same time. Therefore, the interest of the game can be improved.

Further, in the gaming machine 10, when a predetermined effect (reach precursor effect, reach fanning effect) with a high expectation (big hit expectation) to be in a special gaming state (big hit game state) occurs, a movable body (character image) The 750, the movable accessory, and the movable member) are operated, and at least one of the plurality of divided regions (first divided region 710 and second divided region 720) is expanded.

According to such a gaming machine 10, the movable body operates or at least one of the plurality of divided regions is expanded according to the expected degree of the special gaming state. Therefore, the expected degree is given to the player by the effect. Since it can be easily recognized and the player's expectation for the special gaming state can be fueled, the interest of the game can be improved.

Further, in the gaming machine 10, when at least one of the plurality of divided areas (second divided area 720) is expanded, the effect control means (effect control device 300) displays the identification information displayed in the divided area. To increase.

According to such a gaming machine 10, the identification information displayed in the enlarged divided area is also displayed in a large size, so that the visibility of the identification information can be improved and the interest of the game can be improved. Can be done.

Further, in the gaming machine 10, the effect control means (effect control device 300) identifies the area displayed in the divided area according to the area of at least one of the plurality of divided areas (second divided area 720). Change the size of information.

According to such a gaming machine 10, the size of the identification information changes appropriately according to the area of the divided region, and the visibility of the identification information can be improved, so that the interest of the game can be improved as well.

Further, in the gaming machine 10, the effect control means (effect control device 300) can display the identification information in at least one of the plurality of divided areas (second divided area 720), which is smaller than the identification information. The decorative reduced symbol (small symbol) can be displayed in another divided area (first divided area 710).

According to such a game machine 10, even if at least one of the plurality of divided areas is reduced or hidden during the screen division effect, the player can tell that the variable display game is changing. Since it can be easily confirmed on the display screen from the symbol displayed in the area, the visibility of the identification information is improved, and the interest of the game can be improved.

[Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 34 to 44. The configuration other than that described below may be the same as that of the first embodiment. Further, in the following embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for configurations that perform the same functions as those in the first embodiment, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. The second embodiment is related to the operation of the decorative special symbol (sometimes simply referred to as a symbol or decorative symbol) displayed on the display device 41 (display means) and the effect button 25 (operation unit, operating means). Regarding operation production (button production).

In addition to the display effect on the display device 41, the operation effect includes the operation effect of the movable accessory included in the board effect device 44, the light emission effect of the frame decoration device 18 and the board decoration device 46, and the effect by the sound from the speaker. May include. Further, the display effect on the display device 41 as the operation effect is executed in response to the operation promotion display (pre-operation effect, pre-operation process) for prompting the player to operate and the operation. Includes one or both of the operation-responsive effects (post-operation effects, post-operation processes).

[Direction button input processing]
FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the effect button input process according to the second embodiment. The effect button input process is executed by the effect control device 300 in step B0010 of the main process (FIG. 21).

The effect control device 300 first determines whether or not the operation of the effect button switch 25a (main body of the effect button) is in the operation valid period (button operation valid period, operation detectable period) (B6701). .. The operation validity period decreases with the passage of time, but is set to zero when the effect button switch 25a is operated. If it is not the operation valid period (the result of B6701 is "N"), the detection of the button operation (operation of the effect button switch 25a) is set to invalid (B6702), and the effect button input process is terminated. In this case, if the operation promotion display is being displayed and the operation request sound is being generated (outputting), the operation promotion display and the operation request sound are terminated.

When the operation valid period (the result of B6701 is "Y"), the detection of the button operation is enabled (B6703). That is, the operation promotion display and the operation request sound start or continue.

Then, the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the button operation is detected (B6704). If there is no button operation (the result of B6704 is "N"), the effect button input process is terminated. When the button operation is detected (the result of B6704 is "Y"), the button operation type is determined and saved for the button operation of the effect button switch 25a (B6705).

Button operation types include single press operation, long press operation, and continuous press operation. Although methods for determining these operations are known, for example, a single push operation can be determined when the effect button switch 25a is pressed and turned on only once in a predetermined short time. For example, the long press operation can be determined when the pressed state (on state) of the effect button switch 25a is maintained for a predetermined long time. For example, the continuous striking operation can be determined when the effect button switch 25a is turned on and off a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time. When the effect button switch 25a is pressed and moved, it is detected by an optical sensor, a magnetic sensor, or the like to be turned on, and when it is not pressed, the effect button switch 25a is maintained in an off state.

Next, the effect control device 300 determines whether or not the determined button operation type is the button operation type set corresponding to the operation valid period in step B6701 (B6706). In the variation effect setting process, the operation validity period and the button operation type are set in association with each other. If the determined button operation type is not the button operation type set corresponding to the operation validity period (the result of B6706 is "N"), the effect button input process is terminated.

When the determined button operation type is the button operation type set corresponding to the operation validity period (the result of B6706 is "Y"), the effect control device 300 accompanies the button operation (operation of the effect button switch 25a). Execution information for executing the operation correspondence effect is set (B6707), the detection of the button operation is set to be invalid, and the operation promotion display and the operation request sound are terminated (B6708). For example, the operation-corresponding effect here is the display of a predetermined image on the display device 41 and the operation of a movable accessory. After that, the effect button input process is finished.

In the above-mentioned effect button input process, the button operation is the operation of the effect button switch 25a (the main body of the effect button), but the button operation may be the operation of the touch panel 25b (swipe operation or the like). Further, the determination regarding the button operation type (B6705, B6706) may be eliminated, and only the determination as to whether or not the button operation has been performed may be determined (B6704).

[Fluctuating pattern]
FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating the variable symbol 450 according to the second embodiment. The variable symbol may be stored as an image (image object) in the image ROM 325 of the effect control device 300. The variable symbol can be a scroll symbol used for scroll variation, but can also be used for variation other than scroll variation. In addition to scroll fluctuations, there are other types of symbol fluctuations such as swing fluctuations, shake fluctuations, back-and-forth fluctuations, switching fluctuations, and rotation fluctuations. It should be noted that the symbols corresponding to each type of such fluctuation may be stored in the image ROM 325 as an image, and these may be used for the fluctuation display. The variable symbol is a symbol that is variablely displayed on the display screen of the display device 41, but can also be used as a decorative stop symbol that indicates the result of the decorative special symbol variable display game, and the decorative special symbol variable display game is stopped (finished). It may be displayed on the display screen of the display device 41.

Here, in the scroll fluctuation, a series of a plurality of symbols appear on the display screen in order and move across the display screen in one direction such as the vertical or horizontal direction (vertical direction or horizontal direction), and then from the display screen. It is a variable display that disappears. For example, the plurality of symbols are nine symbols corresponding to numbers from 1 to 9 (symbol numbers). The shaking fluctuation is a fluctuation display at the time of temporary stop, and is a fluctuation display in which the symbol shakes slightly. The shake variation (see FIG. 38A) is a variation display in which the symbol is displaced (transitioned or deformed) into a deformed shape so that the symbol appears tilted by the perspective method, and then returns to the original shape. The back-and-forth fluctuation (back-and-forth scroll) is a fluctuation display in which a series of overlapping symbols are shown by a perspective method or the like so as to move in the front-back direction. The switching variation is simply a variation display in which a series of a plurality of symbols are switched and displayed in order at substantially the same position. The rotation variation is a variation display visually recognized by the player so that the symbol rotates about the axis. The rotation variation may be not only a variation mode in which one symbol rotates, but also a variation mode in which a series of a plurality of symbols are switched and displayed each time one rotation is performed.

As shown in FIG. 35, the variable symbol 450 is rectangular as a whole in the present embodiment, but other shapes may be used. The variable symbol 450 includes a character 450a (character image, character portion), a number 450b (symbol number), and a symbol decoration 450c (decorative portion, symbol background image, background in the symbol) which is a decoration or a background in the symbol 450. And, including. That is, the variable symbol 450 is configured by combining the character 450a, the number 450b, and the symbol decoration 450c. Then, a different symbol decoration 450c (design background image) is provided corresponding to the different number 450b, and the character 450a and / or the symbol decoration 450c identifies the symbol 450 in addition to the number 450b. It is information. The characters 450a are not exactly the same, but are different, but they imitate a tiger and have a degree of similarity that can be recognized as a tiger, and some morphologies (face and head patterns, etc.) have something in common. ..

It is also possible to make the symbol 450 such that the number 450b is attached to the large character 450a and omit the symbol decoration 450c. In FIG. 35, for the sake of simplicity, the design decoration 450c is shown as a pattern, but it may be a landscape or the like. Further, in FIG. 35, the character 450a and the number 450b are located in the rectangular frame 450d of the symbol 450, but may protrude from the rectangular frame 450d.

[Special design]
FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating a special symbol 510 displayed on the display screen of the display device 41 under a predetermined condition. In the present embodiment, the predetermined conditions are the case where the operation effect (button effect) related to the operation of the effect button 25 is executed, the left symbol (first special symbol), the right symbol (second special symbol), and the middle. At least one of the three symbols (third special symbol) is temporarily stopped (swaying and fluctuating) during temporary stop. In addition, in this embodiment, the temporary stop is during the temporary stop in the pseudo continuous effect, during the reach state, during the re-lottery effect of the jackpot symbol, and the like.

Here, the pseudo continuous effect is to change the decorative special symbol from the start to the end (result display) of one special figure variation display game so that the temporary stop display (pseudo stop display) is performed. Pseudo-variation (single effect, sub-effect, sub-variation) is performed a predetermined number of times. At the time of the pseudo stop display, the pseudo continuous symbol suggesting the pseudo continuous effect may be stopped and displayed. In addition, the re-lottery effect of the jackpot symbol is to temporarily stop and display the three symbols of the left symbol, the right symbol, and the middle symbol, and then redisplay (redisplay) the three symbols to see the three symbols. Above It is a production that makes it look like a lottery again. The full rotation reach may be executed before the three symbols are redisplayed.

The special symbol 510 cannot be used as a decorative stop symbol indicating the result of the special symbol variable display game, and may be displayed on the display screen of the display device 41 when the decorative special symbol variable display game is stopped (finished). No. Further, the special symbol 510 is not included in the variable symbol 450 of FIG. 35 and is different from the variable symbol 450. In the present embodiment, the special symbol 510 is displayed in a stopped or temporarily stopped (swaying fluctuation) state, but does not perform large movement fluctuations such as scrolling fluctuations and rotation fluctuations (that is, fluctuations other than shaking fluctuations). .. Not limited to this, the special symbol 510 may be used in a fluctuation display that moves significantly other than the state of stop or temporary stop (sway fluctuation).

As shown in FIG. 36, the special symbol 510 is rectangular as a whole in the present embodiment, but other shapes may be used. The special symbol 510 is a button display 510a (specific part, specific display, character image, button image, button object, first part) imitating the effect button 25 (which may be regarded as a character), and / or in the symbol. Includes a design decoration 510c (decorative portion, design background image, background inside the design, decorative object, second part) which is the decoration or background of the above. Here, the design decoration 510c is an image imitating a peony flower, and can be distinguished from the button display 510a. Since the special symbol 510 is one type of symbol from the viewpoint of being continuously displayed on the display screen under a predetermined condition for a predetermined period, it does not include a number (symbol number). Further, the special symbol 510 may include a gauge display 510b that displays an operation valid period (black portion). The button display 510a and / or the gauge display 510b constitutes an operation promotion display that prompts the player to operate the effect button 25 (operation means).

As described above, the special symbol 510 is composed of one of the button display 510a, the gauge display 510b, and the symbol decoration 510c, or a combination of two or more of these. The button display 510a, the gauge display 510b, and the symbol decoration 510c serve as identification information for identifying the special symbol 510 from other symbols such as the variable symbol 450.

The special symbol 510 is one type, but the symbol mode can be changed. In the present embodiment, the button display 510a (button object), which is a part of the special symbol 510 on the display screen, does not always have the same mode but changes, so that the symbol mode of the special symbol 510 changes. The button display 510a has a degree of similarity that can be recognized as a common button through a series of changes, and a part (a part of the outer shape, a pattern, etc.) has a commonality. The variable mode of the button display 510a includes not only the form (shape, pattern, size, color, etc.) but also the display position (display coordinates) on the display screen and the appearance on the display screen. The appearance on the display screen corresponds to the line-of-sight direction that defines the appearance if it is a 3D (three-dimensional) button object. On the other hand, the design decoration 510c always has the same mode except for the display position on the display screen, and has the same shape.

The special symbol 510 is continuously displayed on the display screen for a predetermined period under a predetermined condition, and this predetermined period is immediately before the start of the operation valid period in which the detection of the operation of the effect button 25 becomes effective ( From (for example, just before a few seconds) to the end of the operation validity period (see also FIG. 38). The operation validity period decreases with the passage of time from the default fixed period, and if there is an operation, it ends at that point.

In the example of FIG. 36, the symbol aspect of the special symbol 510 is roughly divided into the symbol aspect I and the symbol aspect II (see also FIG. 37). In the symbol aspect I, the special symbol 510 is composed of a combination of the button display 510a and the symbol decoration 510c, and does not have the gauge display 510b. In the symbol aspect II, the special symbol 510 is composed of a combination of the button display 510a, the gauge display 510b, and the symbol decoration 510c.

At a predetermined timing corresponding to the start of the operation valid period (almost the start timing of the operation valid period), the symbol mode of the special symbol 510 changes from the symbol mode I to the symbol mode II (II-1). In the symbol aspect II (II-1), the form (size, etc.), display position, and appearance on the display screen of the button display 510a change from the symbol aspect I. On the other hand, in the symbol aspect II (II-1), the form of the symbol decoration 510c does not change at all from the symbol aspect I.

In the symbol aspect II, the size of the button display 510a is reduced from the symbol aspect I, and the display position is on the lower side. Further, in the symbol aspect II, the button display 510a changes from the symbol aspect I to the appearance as if the effect button 25 is viewed from above. As described above, since the mode of the button display 510a changes before and after the start of the operation valid period (predetermined timing), the player is urged to pay attention to the button display 510a and operate the effect button 25. In the symbol aspect I, the button display 510a may be integrated with the symbol decoration 510c and displayed two-dimensionally (planarly) as a part of the image (image data) of the entire special symbol 510. However, in the symbol aspect II, the button display 510a is three-dimensional (three-dimensional) so as to stand out from the symbol decoration 510c based on image data independent of the symbol decoration 510c, not as a part of the image of the entire special symbol 510. ) May be displayed.

Further, in the design aspect II, the button display 510a and the gauge display 510b are conspicuously displayed on the front side in preference to the design decoration 510c, but in the design mode I, the button display 510a is displayed from the design decoration 510c. Is also non-priority and is hidden behind the back side (back side), and there is no gauge display 510b.

Further, at a predetermined timing, the button display 510a starts a movement in which the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a appears to be pushed and retracted as a part of a change (deformation, displacement) such that the button display 510a partially reciprocates. .. Further, at a predetermined timing, the symbol decoration 510c starts moving upward together with the frame 510d of the special symbol 510 as a part of the shaking fluctuation (shaking operation) on the display screen (see FIG. 38B (co)). The reciprocating operation of the button display 510a and the shaking operation of the symbol decoration 510c may be started with a slight delay from the predetermined timing of changing from the symbol aspect I to the symbol aspect II (II-1).

After a predetermined timing, the length of the operation valid period (black part) indicated by the gauge display 510b gradually decreases from the default fixed length (fixed period), and the length of the black part in the left-right direction becomes It gets shorter. Further, after a predetermined timing, in the button display 510a, the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a repeats a reciprocating operation, and the symbol decoration 510c and the frame 510d repeat shaking fluctuations on the display screen. As a result, the symbol aspect changes as in the symbol aspect II-1 ... II-i ... II-n in the category of the symbol aspect II.

In addition, in the symbol aspects II-1 to II-n (particularly II-i), the positions of the button display 510a and the gauge display 510b are relatively moved with respect to the symbol decoration 510c and the frame 510d. This is due to the fluctuation of the design decoration 510c and the frame 510d. Actually, the display positions of the button display 510a (particularly, the annular portion around the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a) and the gauge display 510b are fixed with respect to the display screen (see FIGS. 37 and 38). .. The form (shape or pattern) of the button display 510a and the gauge display 510b changes. On the other hand, the shape (shape, pattern, size, color, etc.) of the design decoration 510c and the frame 510d do not change due to the shaking fluctuation (↑ ↓ in FIG. 37), and only the display position (display coordinates) on the display screen is displayed. Change. It is also possible that the design decoration 510c and the frame 510d do not change their modes so as not to fluctuate.

As described above, the shape of the button display 510a (specific part) changes significantly at a predetermined timing, and at the same time or slightly later, a part (the part corresponding to the effect button switch 25a) starts the reciprocating operation, while the design The shape of the decoration 510c is maintained unchanged at a predetermined timing, and the swinging operation is started at the same time as or slightly later than the predetermined timing. Therefore, at a predetermined timing, the mode of the button display 510a changes, while the mode of the design decoration 510c (decorative portion) changes differently from the button display 510a, or does not change (maintains) at all. ) Will be. As a result, the player can easily pay attention to the button display 510a at a predetermined timing, and even if the mode changes, the special symbol 510 is less likely to be mistaken for a scroll symbol, and the interest of the game is improved.

Further, when focusing only on the frame 510d of the special symbol 510, the mode of the button display 510a (specific portion) changes at least within the frame 510d at a predetermined timing, and the aspect of the symbol decoration 510c (decorative portion) changes. It does not change within the frame 510d. Therefore, in the frame 510d of the special symbol 510, only the mode of the button display 510a changes, so that the button display 510a strongly draws the player's attention at a predetermined timing.

The special symbol 510 of the symbol aspect I may be stored as an image (image object) in the image ROM 325 of the effect control device 300 as it is.

Further, the button display 510a and the gauge display 510b whose forms change with time in the symbol aspect II may be stored as moving images (animation, moving image) in the image ROM 325 of the effect control device 300. The moving image may be compressed and stored. The design decoration 510c and the frame 510d whose shapes do not change with time may be collectively stored as a still image (still image) in the image ROM 325. As described above, with respect to the symbol aspect II, the button display 510a and the gauge display 510b may be image data independent of the symbol decoration 510c and the frame 510d, respectively. Then, for example, in the special symbol 510 of the symbol aspect II, the moving images of the button display 510a and the gauge display 510b are fixed while changing the display positions of the symbol decoration 510c and the frame 510d on the display screen of the still image as fluctuations over time. It may be formed by displaying from the front side (or the upper layer side) at the displayed display position (fixed position).

Alternatively, for example, in the special symbol 510 of the symbol aspect II, the frames of the moving images of the button display 510a and the gauge display 510b are attached to the symbol decoration 510c by changing the relative positions, and each symbol aspect II-1. ... II-i ... It may be formed by synthesizing each II-n. Then, the display position of the special symbol 510 as a composite image may be changed so as to fluctuate.

[Example of change in design mode of special design]
FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of a change in the symbol mode of the special symbol 510. Change II is the same as the change in FIG. The special symbol 510 changes significantly from the symbol aspect I to the symbol aspect II at a predetermined timing. In the symbol aspect II, the pattern changes more finely as in the symbol aspects II-1 ... II-i ... II-n. In the design aspect II, only the display position on the display screen of the design decoration 510c and the frame 510d changes in the vertical direction due to the shaking fluctuation (indicated by the vertical arrows ↑ ↓ in FIG. 37), and the button display 510a and the gauge display 510b The display position is fixed, but only the form changes. The direction of the shaking fluctuation may be one direction such as the left-right direction in addition to the up-down direction.

The button display 510a of the special symbol 510 changes its mode significantly after a large change in mode at a predetermined timing (design mode I → symbol mode II-1) (symbol mode II-1 ... II-i ... -II-n). Therefore, the player can see that the operation effect (button effect) has occurred by paying attention to the button display 510a due to a large change, and the elapse of the operation valid period can be known from the subsequent small change of the button display 510a, and the effect button 25 can be displayed. You are prompted to operate.

In the present embodiment, the cycle of the shaking fluctuation (vibration) of the design decoration 510c and the frame 510d and the cycle of the reciprocating operation (vibration) of the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a in the button display 510a are the same, and the shaking fluctuation and the reciprocation Coordinated movements improve the interest. Therefore, when the design decoration 510c and the frame 510d are in the lowermost positions, the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a is not retracted and is in the initial position (design modes II-1, II-n), and the design is in the initial position. When the decoration 510c and the frame 510d are in the uppermost positions, the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a is retracted to the maximum and moved to the maximum operating position (design aspect II-i). It should be noted that it is also possible to configure the swing fluctuation and the reciprocating motion so that the cycles are not aligned and synchronized.

In change III, the special symbol 510 changes significantly from symbol aspect I to symbol aspect III at a predetermined timing. Then, in the symbol aspect III, the pattern changes more finely as in the symbol aspects III-1 ... III-i ... III-n. The symbol aspect III is the same as the symbol aspect II, but in the button display 510a, the portion is projected at the initial position (symbol aspect III-1, III-n) of the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a. Further, in the symbol aspect III, the appearance of the button display 510a is different from that of the symbol aspect II.

In the change IV, the special symbol 510 changes significantly from the symbol aspect I to the symbol aspect IV at a predetermined timing. In the symbol aspect IV, the button display 510a protrudes to the outside of the special symbol 510 and is displayed in a larger size than the symbol aspect I at the center of the display screen. In the symbol aspect IV, the special symbol 510 is composed of only the symbol decoration 510c and the frame 510d. Below the pop-out button display 510a, a gauge display 510b is displayed. In the symbol aspect IV-1 to the symbol aspect IV-n after the predetermined timing, the display position of the special symbol 510 only changes up and down due to the fluctuation of the shaking, and the form itself is maintained and does not change.

The mode of the button display 510a (and thus the mode of the special symbol 510) may be changed according to the degree of expectation that the special symbol variation display game will be a big hit. For example, change II may have low expectations, change III may have moderate expectations, and change IV may have high expectations. As a result, the player pays attention to the change in the mode of the button display 510a (and by extension, the mode of the special symbol 510), and the interest of the game is improved.

Further, at a predetermined timing when the symbol aspect I changes to the symbol aspects II-1, III-1, and IV-1, the form of the button display 510a changes significantly, but the form of the symbol decoration 510c is maintained, and the special symbol is maintained. The upper part of 510 is empty. Therefore, even if the mode changes, it is difficult to mistake the special symbol 510 as a variable symbol.

〔Screen transition〕
38A-38C are examples of screen transition diagrams showing the display screens of the display device 41 in chronological order with respect to the second embodiment.

(A) of FIG. 38A is a display screen at the time of starting the decorative special figure variation display game. The decorative special figure variable display game may be either a special figure 1 variable display game or a special figure 2 variable display game that is executed alternately. The variable symbol (FIG. 35) as the decorative special symbol (large symbol, identification information) is stopped in the variable display area 610, and the decorative reduced symbol (small symbol, identification information) is stopped in the variable display area 615. In the left region 610A, right region 610B, and middle region 610C of the variable display area 610, the left symbol (decorative first symbol A), the right symbol (decorative first symbol B), and the middle symbol (decorative first symbol C) are respectively. It is stopped. Further, on the display screen, the mode display 502 (stage display, game state display) indicating the effect mode is shown as a "normal mode" to indicate that it is a left-handed normal game state. When a plurality of modes (stages) are provided as the effect modes (effect stages) even in the same normal game state, the mode display 502 may display the name of each mode (each stage).

The hold display unit 530 collectively displays the first start memory (special figure 1 hold, special figure 1 start memory) and the second start memory (special figure 2 hold, special figure 2 start memory) as the hold display 533. In the present embodiment, the upper limit value (A2905) of the special figure reservation number (starting memory number) is four for each of the first starting memory and the second starting memory. Therefore, the hold display unit 530 has eight hold display frames 530a for accommodating and displaying each hold display 533, and the first start memory and the second start memory are stored and displayed in the order in which they occur (winning order). It is displayed on the hold display unit 530 at the end. In the normal game state, which is a left-handed state, the winning switching mechanism 105 (FIG. 2) alternately generates the first start memory and the second start memory, so that the first start is applied to one of the two adjacent hold display frames 530a. The memory hold display 533 is displayed, and the second start memory hold display 533 is displayed on the other side. In the specific game state (probability change state, time saving state), which is the right-handed state, only the second start memory by winning the normal variable winning device 37 is basically generated, so only four hold display frames 530a are displayed. You can. In this case, four of the eight reserved display frames 530a on the left side may be covered with a predetermined image from the front side to hide them.

Further, in (a), the hold display 533 (special figure 1 hold display or special figure 2 hold display) moves to the right (hold shift) in the hold display unit 530. Then, the hold display 533 at the right end of the hold display unit 530 moves to the hold digestion area 540 of the rectangular frame.

In the decorative special figure variation display game started here, a pseudo continuous effect consisting of a predetermined number of pseudo variations is executed. The pseudo continuous effect and the predetermined number of pseudo variations may be determined, for example, in step B2010 of the variation effect setting process.

After that, in (a), the fluctuation of the variable symbol as the large symbol (↓↓↓) is being executed in the variable display area 610, and the variation of the small symbol (↓↓↓) is being executed in the variable display area 615. .. In the left region 610A, right region 610B, and middle region 610C of the variable display area 610, the left symbol (decorative first symbol A), the right symbol (decorative first symbol B), and the middle symbol (decorative first symbol C) are respectively. It is fluctuating. Further, a variable hold display 533a indicating a hold related to the special figure change display game being executed (starting memory that was the execution right of this special figure change display game) is displayed in the hold digestion area 640. In the upper right corner of the display screen of the display device 41, the special figure 1 hold number display unit 650 and the special figure 2 hold number display unit 660 are respectively designated with the number "1" indicating the special figure 1 hold number and the special figure 2 hold number. The indicated number "1" is displayed.

Then, in (c), after the first pseudo-variation (single effect) of the pseudo-continuous effect is completed, the left symbol is temporarily stopped and displayed (pseudo-stop display), and the swaying variation is performed.

After that, in (d), the variation of the right symbol in the right region 610B changes from the scroll variation to the switching variation in which a plurality of symbols are sequentially switched and displayed at substantially the same position. As the right symbol, the variable symbol 450 with the number “7” is displayed on the display screen as if a tag or card is taken out by the image 460 of the hand. The variable symbol 450 is displayed at an angle of a predetermined angle (for example, −45 degrees) from the vertical direction. The hand image 460 is displayed on the front side of the variable symbol 450. In this way, in (d), the mode of change of the symbol (here, the right symbol) is switched from the scroll variation, triggered by the temporary stop display (pseudo stop display) of the symbol (here, the left symbol) in (c). Since it changes like a fluctuation, the production becomes rich in variety and the interest of the game is improved.

At this time, the left symbol of the left region 610A changes from the shaking fluctuation to the shake fluctuation, and the symbol is displaced (transitioned, deformed) into a deformed shape so that the symbol appears to be tilted by the perspective method, and then returns to the original shape. .. As a result, the left symbol appears to turn around the left end and then return to its original position due to the vibration of the bill or card, which improves the fun of the game. For the displacement to the irregular shape, a known perspective projection transformation, projection transformation, or the like can be used, and methods for making the image appear to be tilted by the perspective method are, for example, JP-A-06-068272, JP-A-P. It is described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 09-237355 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-13007.

Subsequently, in (e), the hand image 460 is hidden and the first shake fluctuation is completed.

After that, in (f), as the right symbol of the switching variation, the variable symbol 450 with the number “1” is displayed on the display screen as if a tag or a card is taken out by the image 460 of the hand. The hand image 460 is displayed on the front side of the variable symbol 450, the mode display 502, the hold display frame 530a (hold display unit 530), the hold display 533, the changing hold display 533a, and the hold digestion area 540, and is displayed to the player. It gives a surprise and improves the interest. At this time, as in (d), the left symbol of the left region 610A undergoes a second shake fluctuation and is displaced (transitioned, deformed) into a deformed shape so that the symbol appears to be tilted by the perspective method. Return to the original.

The variable symbol 450 (450 (2)) of the number “1” is displayed in preference to the front side by superimposing the variable symbol 450 (450 (1)) of the number “7” displayed earlier. At this time, in order to make the variable symbol 450 of the number "7" inconspicuous, it is displayed with the brightness and saturation lowered from the state of (e), or is displayed lightly by increasing the transparency. The variable symbol 450 of the number "1" is displayed so as to intersect the variable symbol 450 of the number "7" at an angle of a predetermined angle (for example, 45 degrees) from the vertical direction.

Subsequently, in (g) of FIG. 38B, the image 460 of the hand is hidden and the second shake fluctuation ends.

Next, in (c), as the right symbol, the special symbol 510 is displayed on the display screen so as to take out a tag or a card by the image 460 of the hand. The special symbol 510 is displayed in the vertical direction along the vertical direction (inclination 0 degree), and is preferentially displayed on the front side by superimposing on the two variable symbols 450. In this way, the special symbol 510 and the two variable symbols 450 are displayed on top of each other at substantially the same position, resulting in an interesting effect and improving the enjoyment of the game.

In (c), the left symbol of the left region 610A changes from a shake fluctuation to a shaking fluctuation (temporary stop display), and unlike (d) and (f), the left symbol of the left region 610A does not execute the shake fluctuation. That is, in (c), after the second pseudo-variation (single-effect) of the pseudo-continuous effect is completed, the left symbol is temporarily stopped and displayed (pseudo-stop display), and the swaying variation is performed. The special symbol 510 can also be regarded as a pseudo-continuous symbol.

Subsequently, in (ke), the hand image 460 is hidden. Here, the aspect of the special symbol 510 is the symbol aspect I of FIGS. 36 and 37.

Next, in (co), the symbol mode of the special symbol 510 is changed from the symbol mode I to the symbol mode II by a large change in the form of the button display 510a at a predetermined timing corresponding to the start of the operation valid period. It changes significantly (see FIGS. 36 and 37). Then, at a predetermined timing, the symbol decoration 510c starts swaying and fluctuating together with the frame 510d from the lowest position. In this way, triggered by the display of the special symbol 510 (which may be regarded as a pseudo-continuous symbol) in (ku) and (ke), the mode of variation of the symbol (here, the right symbol) is changed from the switching variation of (ki) (ki). Since it changes like the shaking fluctuation of (ko), the production becomes rich in variety and the interest of the game is improved.

Further, in (a), a part (a part corresponding to the effect button switch 25a) starts a reciprocating operation in the button display 510a whose form has changed. To the player, the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a appears to reciprocate in the substantially front-rear direction. Further, the gauge display 510b is preferentially displayed on the front side so as to be superimposed on the design decoration 510c.

After that, in (S), the mode of the special symbol 510 becomes the symbol mode II-i of FIGS. 36 and 37, and the button display 510a is set to the maximum operating position by retracting the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a to the maximum. It is recognized as moving. The design decoration 510c and the frame 510d during the shaking fluctuation are in the uppermost positions. The length of the operation effective period (black part) shown by the gauge display 510b in the left-right direction becomes shorter from (ko) with the passage of time. The display positions of the button display 510a (particularly, the annular portion around the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a) and the gauge display 510b are fixed on the display screen without changing from (U).

Next, in (S), the display screen is the same as (K) except for the gauge display 510b. Here, the symbol decoration 510c and the frame 510d during the shaking fluctuation are at the lowermost positions. The length of the operation effective period (black part) shown by the gauge display 510b in the left-right direction becomes shorter from (sa) with the passage of time.

Subsequently, in (s), the display screen is the same as in (s) except for the gauge display 510b. Here, the symbol decoration 510c and the frame 510d during the shaking fluctuation are in the uppermost positions. The length of the operation effective period (black part) shown by the gauge display 510b in the left-right direction becomes shorter from (shi) with the passage of time.

Next, in (C), the display screen is the same as (K) (S) except for the gauge display 510b. Here, the symbol decoration 510c and the frame 510d during the shaking fluctuation are at the lowermost positions. The length of the operation effective period (black part) shown by the gauge display 510b in the left-right direction becomes shorter from (s) with the passage of time.

From (ko) to (c), the design decoration 510c and the frame 510d perform shaking fluctuations for two cycles, and the button display 510a has a portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a in synchronization with the shaking fluctuations. Performs reciprocating operation for two cycles. In the reciprocating operation, the part is from the initial state (initial position, for example, (ko)) recognized as not being pushed to the maximum operating state (maximum operating position, for example, (sa)) recognized as being pushed. ), And then returns to the initial state (initial position, for example, (shi)) that is recognized as not being pushed. The display of the button display 510a and / or the partial reciprocating operation (displacement, deformation) is an operation promotion display (pre-operation effect) for prompting the player to operate the effect button 25.

In addition, in order to improve the interest of the game, the cycle of either the swing fluctuation of the design decoration 510c and the frame 510d and the partial reciprocating motion of the button display 510a is changed to the other cycle according to the expectation of the jackpot. On the other hand, it may be lengthened or shortened so as not to be synchronized. Further, depending on the degree of expectation of a big hit, one cycle can be made several times the other cycle.

After that, in (S), the operation-corresponding effect is executed in response to the player operating the effect button 25 immediately after (C). In the operation-compatible effect, a cloud-shaped wide area image 463 that spreads over substantially the entire display screen is displayed including the character display "great success!".

Then, in (ta), as a result of the special figure variation display game, a jackpot stop result "1,1,1" in which the same stop symbols are aligned on the left and right is displayed. Here, the variable symbol 450 of the number "1" is also used as the stop symbol of the jackpot in the left and right, but a stop symbol used only for displaying the result of the special symbol variation display game may be prepared. In the case of the out-of-order result of the special figure variation display game, in (ta), the out-of-order stop result (for example, "1, 3, 5") in which the same stop symbols are not aligned in the left and right is displayed.

The effect control device 300 does not use the special symbol 510 as the stop symbol even if the variable symbol 450 is also used as the stop symbol in the stop symbol setting process (B2013). Further, in the stop symbol setting process (B2013), the effect control device 300 sets the jackpot stop symbol corresponding to the jackpot symbol type (B1802).

Subsequently, in (H), a fanfare effect is performed before the start of the jackpot round, and a character display (here, "REG bonus") suggesting the upper limit of the number of rounds corresponding to the jackpot symbol type (B1802) is displayed. At the same time, a display 462 indicating that the jackpot has been achieved with the stop symbol of the number "1" is displayed. The character display suggesting the upper limit of the number of rounds is displayed as "REG bonus" when the upper limit of the number of rounds is small, but is displayed as "BIG bonus" when the upper limit of the number of rounds is large. NS. For example, if the type of jackpot (symbol type) is 10R probability variation jackpot (10R probability variation jackpot symbol), the upper limit of the number of rounds is 10, and the jackpot type (symbol type) is 4R probability variation jackpot (4R probability variation jackpot symbol). If so, the upper limit of the number of rounds is 4. The fanfare effect is set by the fanfare effect setting process (B2102).

After (H), the jackpot round effect is executed on the display screen.

[Gase production]
FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example in which a ghost effect occurs in the screen transition (FIG. 38) of the display screen of the display device 41.

Even if the player operates the effect button 25 immediately after (S) in FIG. 38C, the screen does not directly transition to the display screen of (S), but before (S), (S-1). Gase production is executed like this. Despite the fact that the result of the special figure fluctuation display game becomes a big hit result after passing through (S) and (Ta), the left and right symbols are not aligned with the symbols of "1" and "2" in the Gase production. Pretend to be. A player who is disappointed by the disappointing production will be a big hit and will be greatly pleased, so the interest of the game will improve.

[Re-lottery production]
FIG. 40 is a diagram showing an example in which a re-lottery effect occurs in the screen transition (FIG. 38) of the display screen of the display device 41.

After (S) in FIG. 38C, in (Ta), the fluctuation of the symbol is not completely stopped (the symbol is confirmed) and the stop result of the big hit is not displayed, as shown in (Ta-1) of FIG. 40. , The fluctuation symbol 450 of the number "1" in the left and right swings and fluctuates in the temporarily stopped state.

After that, in (Ta-2), the button display 510a is attached to the character 450a and the symbol decoration 450c as a part of the variable symbol 450 in the variable symbol 450 of the number "1" which is swaying and fluctuating as the middle symbol. Is displayed. The form of the button display 510a is the same as that in (K).

Next, in (Ta-3), the form and display of the button display 510a are displayed at the timing when the symbols in the left and right are at the lowermost position during the temporary stop (during shaking fluctuation), as in (K) in FIG. 38B. The position and appearance change greatly. Further, the gauge display 510b is superimposed on the design decoration 450c (or the character 450a) and displayed on the front side. Then, at this timing, the button display 510a starts to change so that a part (the part corresponding to the effect button switch 25a) reciprocates. The character 450a, the symbol decoration 450c, and the frame 450d continue to sway in the temporarily stopped state.

After that, in (Ta-4), the symbols in the left and right are in the uppermost position during the temporary stop (during shaking fluctuation). The button display 510a and the gauge display 510b swing and fluctuate together with the character 450a, the symbol decoration 450c, and the frame 450d, and the positions with respect to the character 450a, the symbol decoration 450c, and the frame 450d are fixed, but the display position with respect to the display screen is fixed. Not. In this way, the unity between the design decoration 450c and the operation promotion display (button display 510a and gauge display 510b) is increased. As with the special symbol 510, the button display 510a (particularly, the annular portion around the portion corresponding to the effect button switch 25a) and the gauge display 510b can be configured so that the display positions are fixed with respect to the display screen. ..

Next, in (Ta-5), in response to the player operating the effect button 25 immediately after (Ta-4), the operation-corresponding effect is executed in the same manner as in (So).

Then, in (Ta-6), as a result of the special figure variation display game, the stop result "7,7,7" of the big hit in which the same stop symbols are aligned in the left and right is displayed. By the re-lottery effect, it is possible to make it appear as if the symbols "1,1,1" temporarily stopped in the left and right of (Ta-1) are drawn again to "7,7,7". In the stop symbol setting process (B2013) at the start of the special figure variation display game, the stop result "7,7,7" of the big hit is decided in advance, but it is actually re-lottery at the stage of (Tar-6). It is also possible to configure the above.

After (Ta-6), as in (C), a fanfare effect is performed before the start of the big hit round, but a character display (here, "BIG bonus") suggesting the upper limit of the number of rounds is displayed, and at the same time, A display 462 indicating that the jackpot has been achieved with the stop symbol of the number "7" is displayed.

[Screen transition 2]
FIG. 41 is an example of a screen transition diagram showing the display screen of the display device 41 in the jackpot state in chronological order with respect to the second embodiment. FIG. 41 shows a case where the fifth big hit occurs through the time saving state or the probability change state without sandwiching the normal game state, that is, the case where the player enters the big hit state (special game state) of the fifth consecutive villa.

In FIG. 41 (tsu), the fanfare production of the jackpot production has ended, and the round production of the jackpot has started. The fanfare effect on the display screen is the same as in (C), but the character display suggesting the upper limit of the number of rounds is displayed as "BIG bonus", and the stop symbol of the number "7" is a big hit. 462 is displayed. The big hit round effect is set by the round effect setting process (B2105).

In (tsu), a display 462 indicating that the jackpot has been achieved with the stop symbol of the number "7" is displayed continuously from the fanfare production, and a character display suggesting the upper limit of the number of rounds of the jackpot this time (here). "BIG bonus") is displayed. Further, on the display screen, a jackpot information display area 464 for displaying information regarding past jackpots is provided. In the jackpot information display area 464, the star mark (★ or ☆) corresponding to the jackpot is displayed for the past four times, and the character display BIG (abbreviation of BIG bonus) and REG (REG) suggesting the upper limit of the number of rounds of each jackpot. One of the bonuses) is displayed below the star. The star mark is displayed in black when the upper limit of the number of rounds is 10R and corresponds to a large BIG bonus, and is displayed in white when the upper limit of the number of rounds corresponds to a small REG bonus ☆. be.

Further, in (tsu), the right-handed instruction display 465 is displayed as a notification instructing the player to hit the right-handed person. Further, on the display screen, a music display area 466 for displaying the music currently output from the speaker is provided. Further, on the display screen, the remaining winning count display area 468 for displaying the remaining number of winnings in one round (the remaining number of winnings for the winning opening) and the round display area 469 for displaying the current round. Is provided. In the remaining winning count display area 468, 10 circles are displayed for the upper limit value "10" of the number of large winning openings in one round, and in the round display area 469, the current round is "Round 1". Is displayed.

Further, on the display screen, the first acquired game ball number display 471 showing the number of acquired game balls (number of balls) acquired in the current round and the total number of acquired game balls acquired during the consecutive villas are displayed. The second acquired game ball number display 474 indicating (the number of balls to be ejected) is displayed. At the stage of the initial screen of Round 1 of (T), the number of game balls in the first acquired game ball number display 471 is zero and is displayed as "acquired 0000 dance", and the number of game balls in the second acquired game ball number display 474. Is, for example, 4000 and is displayed as "Total 4000 Mai".

Next, in (te), nine circles are displayed in the remaining winning count display area 468 in response to the occurrence of the first winning in the large winning opening, and the remaining winning count in the large winning opening is displayed. It can be recognized that it is "9". Further, the number of game balls displayed in the first acquired game ball number display 471 and the second acquired game ball number display 474 starts to increase by the number of acquired game balls (here, the number of prize balls 15 × 1 time).

Further, here, the effect 476 is generated so as to overlap the first acquired game ball number display 471 from the front side in response to the winning of the large winning opening. As will be described later, since the number of game balls of the first acquired game ball number display 471 is updated at once up to the number of acquired game balls before winning by winning a prize in the large winning opening, the effect 476 displays the number of first acquired game balls 471. The player's attention is distracted from the number of game balls. The effect 476 does not completely hide the number of game balls in the first acquired game ball number display 471 by making it translucent, and the number of game balls can be visually recognized.

After that, in (G), the number of game balls in the first acquired game ball number display 471 is displayed as "8", and the number of game balls in the second acquired game ball number display 474 is displayed as "4010". The rate of increase in the number of game balls (the number of increases per unit time) on the second acquired game ball number display 474 is larger than the rate of increase on the first acquired game ball number display 471. As a result, the player can be made to think that the number of acquired game balls is rapidly increasing, and the interest of the game is improved.

Next, in (na), a second prize is awarded to the large prize opening. Eight circles are displayed in the remaining winning count display area 468, and it can be recognized that the remaining winning count to the large winning opening is “8”. The number of game balls of the first acquired game ball number display 471 is updated at once from "8" to the number of acquired game balls "15" before the second prize. As a result, the error between the number of acquired game balls and the number of acquired game balls in the first acquired game ball number display 471 is within 15 prize balls. Can be roughly grasped. On the other hand, the number of game balls in the second acquired game ball number display 474 is not updated to "4015" at once, and is directed toward the number of acquired game balls one by one (here, 4000 + prize balls 15 x 2 times). As the number continues to increase, the player can get the feeling that the game ball has been acquired (feeling of a ball coming out). In this way, the first acquired game ball number display 471 and the second acquired game ball number display 474 are different in the mode of increasing the number of game balls, thereby giving the player the impression that the number of acquired game balls is mechanically increased. Can be prevented, and the effect and decoration on the display screen will increase.

Further, in (na), the effect 476 can distract the player's attention from the update of the first acquired game ball number display 471, and the player feels uncomfortable that the number of game balls of the first acquired game ball number display 471 flies. Can be relaxed.

Subsequently, in (d), the number of game balls in the first acquired game ball number display 471 increases by one from "15" to "18", and the number of game balls in the first acquired game ball number display 471 is ". It increases by one from "4012" to "4016". Again, the rate of increase in the number of game balls on the second acquired game ball number display 474 is greater than the rate of increase on the first acquired game ball number display 471.

After that, in (nu), round 10 is completed, and the ending effect of the big hit is executed. In the ending effect of the jackpot, the first acquired game ball number display 471 is not displayed, but the second acquired game ball number display 474 is displayed.

[Lamp display device 80]
FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the lamp display device 80 with respect to the second embodiment.

As shown in the upper part of FIG. 42, an example of the lamp display device 80 includes the lamp display units 1, 3 and 4 for special drawing 1 arranged in a straight line, and the lamp display units for special drawing 2 arranged in a straight line. 2, 5 and 6 are arranged in parallel (Example 1). In another example of the lamp display device 80, a total of six lamp display units, which are the lamp display units 1, 3 and 4 for special drawing 1 and the lamp display units 2, 5 and 6 for special drawing 2, are arranged in a straight line. (Example 2).

As shown in the middle figure, the lamp display device 80 executes the variable display (blinking) that repeats the lighting display and the extinguishing display at a predetermined blinking cycle as the fourth special symbol (fourth symbol). ), And a lamp display unit 3-6 (LED) for notifying the start storage number (holding number) of each special figure variation display game. The lamp display device 80 is controlled by the effect control device 300.

The lamp display units 3 and 4 (decorative special figure 1 hold LED 1, decorative special figure 1 hold LED 2) display the number of decorative special figure 1 hold (first start storage number) depending on the off state, the lighting state, and the blinking state. Similarly, the lamp display units 5 and 6 (decorative special figure 2 hold LED 1, decorative special figure 2 hold LED 2) display the number of decorative special figure 2 hold (second start memory number) depending on the off state, the lighting state, and the blinking state. indicate.

Although each lamp display unit is a full-color LED, only RG (red-green) among RGB (red-green-blue) light-emitting elements is used. That is, only two terminals of RG out of the three terminals of RGB of the full-color LED are used by connecting the conductive wire.

The lamp display units 1 and 2 perform variable display by changing the mode of the fourth symbol in the order of extinguishing → red lighting → extinguishing → green lighting. Then, as shown in the figure below, the lamp display units 1 and 2 are turned off as the fourth symbol when the result of the special figure variation display game is out of order, and red (R) or yellow in the case of a big hit result or a small hit result. Lights up at. In addition, yellow is a composite color in which two colors of RG are emitted.

Further, in the case of the time saving result (time saving symbol), the lamp display units 1 and 2 have a single color green (G) of the RG (red-green) as the fourth symbol, unlike the case of the big hit result or the small hit result. ) Lights up. The lamp display units 1 and 2 may emit light in a warm color other than red in the case of a big hit result or a small hit result, and in the case of a time saving result (time saving symbol), a cold color other than green may be emitted. May emit light with.

In the big hit determination process of FIG. 15, in the present embodiment, the small hit determination and the time saving determination are also performed by lottery using the big hit random number value. In the time reduction determination as a lottery, when the jackpot random number value matches the time reduction determination value, the time reduction is set as the determination result. The time saving judgment value is different from the small hit judgment value and the big hit judgment value. In the case of the time saving determination result (time saving result), in the special figure 1 stop symbol setting process (A3403) or the special figure 2 stop symbol setting process (A3503), the time saving symbol (stop symbol number, stop symbol pattern) is set as the time saving symbol (stop symbol pattern). (Time saving symbol number, time saving symbol pattern) is set, and a decorative special symbol command corresponding to the time saving symbol is transmitted to the effect control device 300. Then, in the display device 41, the time saving symbol is displayed as the decoration stop symbol by the effect control device 300, and the time saving state is entered from the next special figure variation display game.

Examples of the time-saving symbols displayed on the display device 41 include "1, 1, 3" in which only the left symbol and the middle symbol are aligned. There are no restrictions on the time saving symbols if they are decided in advance, but there are regularities such as "1, 2, 3" in which the numbers are arranged in order and "1, 3, 1" in which only the left and right symbols are arranged. However, it is easy for the player to remember and is preferable. A plurality of time-saving symbols may be prepared, and the number of times (time-saving number) of the special figure variation display game in which the time-saving state continues may be determined for each time-saving symbol.

In this way, when the time-saving symbol is displayed as the stop symbol, the emission color of the fourth symbol is a cool color (green) different from the warm color (red) in the case of a big hit. Therefore, when the time saving symbol is displayed as the stop symbol, it is possible to prevent the player from misidentifying that a big hit has occurred, and it becomes easier for the player to know that the time saving symbol has been won. Further, since the emission color of the fourth symbol is a composite color (yellow) in the case of a big hit result or a small hit result, even if the time saving symbol is not displayed, there is no unused light emitting element and the light emission control is performed. No need to change.

When the number of special figure fluctuation display games executed after the jackpot state ends reaches a predetermined number of times (so-called ceiling), the lamp display units 1 and 2 are cold colors other than green (G) regardless of the lottery. It may emit light as the fourth symbol in the color of. In this case, the time saving symbol is displayed as the decoration stop symbol on the display device 41, and the time saving state is entered from the next special figure variation display game. As the time saving symbol displayed on the display device 41, for example, "3, 3, 5" (which may be "1, 1, 3" as in the case of the time saving by lottery) in which only the left symbol and the middle symbol are aligned is used. be.

[Other production examples]
FIG. 43 is a screen transition diagram showing an effect example on the display screen of the display device 41 with respect to the second embodiment. In particular, an example of an effect using a special character (carp) will be described with respect to a look-ahead effect and a notice (notice effect) for the change (running special figure change display game). The look-ahead effect is set by the look-ahead variable command process (FIG. 26), and the advance notice (notice effect) is set by the variable effect setting process (FIG. 29).

In (c) of FIG. 43, as in (a) of FIG. 38A, the variation (↓↓↓) of the variable symbol as the decorative special symbol (large symbol, identification information) is being executed in the variable display area 610. The variation (↓↓↓) of the decorative reduced symbol (small symbol, identification information) is being executed in the variation display area 615. The mode display 502 is shown as a "normal mode" to indicate that it is in a normal gaming state. The special figure 1 hold number display unit 650 and the special figure 2 hold number display unit 660 display a number "0" indicating the special figure 1 hold number and a number "1" indicating the special figure 2 hold number, respectively. .. One hold display 533 (second hold display) is displayed in the hold display unit 530, and the changing hold display 533a is displayed in the hold digestion area 640.

In FIG. 43, the hold display unit 530 is provided in a form included in the building-like image 480 that imitates a house. The eight hold display frames 530a correspond to eight shoji screens. The hold display 533 is displayed on the open shoji among the eight shoji (hold display frame 530a) of the building image 480. Images 482 of the pond are arranged on the left and right of the building-like image 480 located at the lower center of the display screen, and it looks as if the house is surrounded by the pond. The image 482 of the pond may be a moving image having a small and wavy surface. In addition, an image 483 of a cliff and an image 484 of a waterfall flowing through a cliff are displayed near the left end of the display screen. The image 484 of the waterfall may be a moving image of flowing water. On the left side of the display device 41, a light emitting accessory 487 is provided facing the upper part of the image 484 of the waterfall.

Further, in (c), on the display screen, character images 489 (white) imitating a carp are displayed in a variable manner by the number (2 in this case) according to the degree of expectation that the special figure variable display game being executed will be a big hit. It is displayed on the front side in preference to.

After that, in (H), there is a prize in the start winning opening 36, the first start memory (special figure 1 hold) is newly generated, and the hold display 533 (special figure 1 hold display) corresponding to the prize is newly generated. It is additionally displayed in the hold display frame 530a of the opened shoji. The character image 489 that imitates a carp is moved from (c) to make the carp look like it is swimming.

In addition, in order to make the carp appear to appear in the pond in response to the winning of the starting winning opening 36, a character image 486 imitating a carp is displayed in the image 482 of the pond, but the image 482 of the pond is half. It is made transparent and displayed on the front side of the character image 486. The number of character images 486 may be plural, and may be increased as the degree of expectation of the jackpot of the starting memory generated by this winning is higher. The display of the character image 486 is a precursor effect executed prior to the pending change notice.

Next, in (f), the character image 489 imitating a carp acts close to the hold display 533 (special figure 1 hold display) corresponding to the start memory generated by this prize, and the hold change notice is generated. The color of the hold display 533 changes from white to red. Further, the acting character image 489 changes from white to red to become a red character image 489a. In addition, a new character image 489b (white) that imitates a carp will appear. The red character image 489a is more expected to be a big hit in the special figure variation display game being executed than the white character images 489 and 489b.

Then, in (he), the character image 486 imitating the carp moves along the image 484 of the waterfall in order to make the carp appear to climb the waterfall. Further, the character image 489, the character image 489a, and the character image 489b move from (F), respectively, but when the red character image 489a and the white character image 489b are displayed overlapping, the expectation of a big hit is high. The high red character image 489a is displayed on the front side (or the upper layer) in preference to the white character image 489b.

Then, in (e), in order to make the carp appear to have climbed to the top of the waterfall, the character image 486 imitating the carp moves further from (f) along the image 484 of the waterfall, as if it were a luminous character 487. It is visually recognized as if it rushes into. Further, the character image 489, the character image 489a, and the character image 489b move from (to), respectively, but the white character image 489 displayed earlier from the stage (c) and displayed later at the stage (f). When the white character images 489b are displayed in an overlapping manner, the white character image 489 displayed earlier has priority over the white character image 489b displayed later on the front side (upper layer side). Is displayed in. The expected degree of jackpot of the character image 489 and the character image 489b is the same.

Next, in (ma), the character image 486 imitating a carp is hidden, and it seems that it has rushed into the light emitting accessory 487 and disappeared. Then, the light emitting accessory 487 emits light, and a group notice (notice by a school of fish) in which a large number of golden character images 489c imitating a carp appear is executed. Even if the golden character image 489c overlaps with the white character image 489, the white character image 489b, and the red character image 489a, it is preferentially displayed on the front side (or the upper layer) of the white character image 489c. .. The group notice is a highly expected production that will be a big hit in the special figure fluctuation display game that is being executed. A series of notices from (f) to (ma) may be configured as continuous notices. That is, the first stage (he) carp waterfall climbing notice, the second stage (ma) light emitting accessory 487 light emitting notice, and the third stage (ma) group notice are continuous notices and interrupted. As the stage progresses without any problems, the expectation that the special figure variation display game being executed will be a big hit may increase.

[Display priority]
FIG. 44 is a diagram showing display priorities of a white character image 489 imitating a carp, a red character image 489a, and a gold character image 489c. Here, the smaller the display priority, the more the display is displayed on the front side (or the upper layer) of the display screen of the display device 41.

As shown in (a), the jackpot expectation of the special figure variation display game being executed in the order of the white character image 489, the red character image 489a, and the gold character image 489c increases (white <red <gold). The display priority becomes smaller as the degree of expectation increases, and the white character image 489 is ranked third, the red character image 489a is ranked second, and the golden character image 489c is ranked first. Therefore, when a plurality of the same characters having different display modes (colors in this case) are displayed, the display mode having a higher expectation of big hit is preferentially displayed on the front side (or the upper layer side). .. Therefore, even if a plurality of the same characters having different display modes overlap on the display screen, it becomes easier for the player to recognize that the effect with high expectation of big hit is occurring, and the effect with high expectation of big hit is produced. Even if you want to shoot, it is enough to shoot the entire display screen as it is.

Further, as in (b), when a plurality of the same characters having the same display mode (color in this case) are displayed, the display priority is the one displayed earlier in time (it has been displayed for a long time). Things get smaller. That is, it is displayed on the front side (or the upper layer side) with priority given to the one displayed earlier in time. For example, the first (first) displayed white character image 489, the second (first) displayed white character image 489b, and the third (last) displayed white character image (not shown) Even if they overlap, they will be displayed on the front side with priority in this order. When a plurality of the same characters having the same display mode are displayed, the display priority may be determined by lottery, not by the order in which they are displayed.

As described above, the second embodiment has been described, but the specific portion of the special symbol 510 whose form changes significantly at a predetermined timing may be the symbol decoration 510c instead of the button display 510a. This also makes it easier for the player to pay attention to the special symbol 510 and thus the button display 510a at a predetermined timing. Further, the predetermined timing may be not only the timing corresponding to the start of the operation valid period but also an arbitrary timing while the special symbol 510 is displayed. This also makes it easier for the player to pay attention to the special symbol 510 itself or the specific portion. For example, if the special symbol 510 is a pseudo-continuous symbol or the like, the interest of the game is improved.

[Action / effect of the second embodiment]
The gaming machine 10 according to the second embodiment is an effect control means (effect control device 300) capable of executing a game (special figure variation display game) by using a symbol (decorative special symbol) as an effect in the display means (display device 41). ) Is provided. The symbol includes a special symbol (special symbol 510) that is not displayed as a result of the game, and the special symbol includes a specific portion (for example, button display 510a) and a decorative portion different from the specific portion (for example, symbol decoration 510c). ) Is provided. The effect control means changes the mode of the specific portion at a predetermined timing (for example, the timing corresponding to the start of the operation valid period), and changes or does not change the mode of the decorative portion differently from the specific portion. ..

In such a gaming machine 10, since it becomes easier for the player to pay attention to the special symbol or its specific portion at a predetermined timing, it is possible to notify the operation promotion display or the like via the special symbol, and also, the special symbol can be notified. If is used for a pseudo-series pattern, the effect will be rich in variety. Therefore, the interest of the game can be improved.

Further, in the second embodiment, the gaming machine 10 includes an operating means (for example, an effect button 25) that can be operated by the player, and the special symbol is an operation promotion display that prompts the player to operate the operating means as a specific unit. (For example, button display 510a or gauge display 510b) is included. Therefore, it is possible to encourage the player to operate the operating means through the special symbol, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

Further, in the second embodiment, the predetermined timing is the timing corresponding to the start of the operation valid period in which the detection of the operation becomes effective. Therefore, when the specific unit is the operation promotion display, the player can pay attention to the operation promotion display at the start of the operation valid period.

Further, in the second embodiment, the aspect of the specific part differs before and after the start of the operation valid period. Therefore, when the specific unit is the operation promotion display, the player can pay attention to the operation promotion display at the start of the operation valid period.

Further, in the second embodiment, the effect control means superimposes a display (for example, gauge display 510b) indicating the operation effective period on the decorative portion. Therefore, it is possible to urge the player to operate the operating means more strongly.

Further, in the second embodiment, the effect control means changes the mode of the specific unit according to the degree of expectation of a special result (for example, a jackpot result). Therefore, the degree of expectation can be notified by the mode of the specific part of the special symbol, and the interest of the game is improved.

Further, in the second embodiment, the effect control means changes the mode of the specific portion at least within the frame of the special symbol at a predetermined timing, and does not change the mode of the decorative portion within the frame of the special symbol. Therefore, inside the special symbol (inside the frame), only the mode of the specific portion (for example, the button display 510a) changes, so that the specific portion strongly draws the player's attention at a predetermined timing, and the specific portion of the specific portion. The change will improve the interest of the game.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the technical idea, and it is clear that these are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Is. For example, it is possible to combine a plurality of embodiments. Further, for example, the present invention can be applied to other types of gaming machines (slot machines, etc.). The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and content equivalent to the claims.

For example, when the above embodiment is applied to a slot machine, the game medium used for the game is a medal (coin) instead of the game ball, and the number of prize balls is replaced with the number of medals paid out. Then, in the slot machine, the payout rate (base) as performance information is the ratio (%) of the number of medals to be paid out to the number of medals inserted into the slot machine, and the accessory ratio is the number of medals paid out in a predetermined period. Of these, the ratio (%) of the number of medals paid out by various bonuses.

10 Pachinko machine 25 Direction button 30 Gaming board 32 Gaming area 36 1st start winning opening (1st starting winning area)
37 Ordinary variable winning device (second starting winning area)
39 Special variable prize device 40 Center case 41 Display device 50 Collective display device (LED)
100 Game control device (main board)
200 Payout control device 300 Production control device (sub-board)
450 variable symbol 510 special symbol

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine provided with an effect control means capable of executing a game using a symbol as an effect in the display means.
The symbol includes a special symbol that is not displayed as a result of the game.
The special pattern includes a specific part and a decorative part different from the specific part.
The effect control means
A gaming machine characterized in that the aspect of the specific portion is changed at a predetermined timing, and the aspect of the decorative portion is changed or not changed differently from the specific portion.

Images