JP2021168794A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To improve amusement by enabling a game player to listen favorite music selected by the game player without interruption.SOLUTION: A game machine is equipped with sound output means capable of outputting sound effects and music. When a predetermined output condition is established, the game machine outputs sound effects corresponding to the output condition. The game machine also selects and outputs any one of a plurality of pieces of music on the basis of a predetermined selection operation by a game player and is capable of being set into a music priority mode in which music is prior to sound effects. When the output condition is established in the music priority mode and during output of music selected on the basis of the selection operation by the game player, the game machine reduces sound volume of sound effects lower than that of the music. In the music priority mode, the music selected on the basis of the selection operation by the game player is preceded and the sound volume of sound effects is reduced lower than that of the music even when the output condition is established, which makes it possible to inhibit the music from being cancelled by output of sound effects and interrupted and to improve amusement by enabling the game player to continue listening of his/her favorite music.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine (pachinko machine) that plays a game by firing a gaming ball toward a gaming area formed on a gaming board.

A gaming machine that plays a game by firing a gaming ball toward a gaming area formed on a gaming board is generally equipped with a sound output means such as a speaker, and outputs various sound effects. It is possible to execute a game effect. In such a gaming machine, a plurality of sound effects are prepared in advance, and when any of the plurality of output conditions is satisfied as the game progresses, the sound effects corresponding to the output conditions are output.

In addition, in game machines equipped with sound output means (speakers), not only sound effects but also songs that can be output are widespread, and among a plurality of songs prepared in advance, A technique has been proposed in which the player's preference is reflected in the output music by allowing the player to select the music by a predetermined operation (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-226207

However, as described above, even if the player can select the music to be output from the plurality of music and the player's favorite music is output, one of the sound effect output conditions is satisfied. Then, there is a problem that the player's interest may be lost because the music is interrupted by being canceled by the output of the sound effect.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of enhancing the interest by listening to a favorite music selected by a player without interruption.

In order to solve at least a part of the above-mentioned problems, the gaming machine of the present invention adopts the following configuration. That is,
In a gaming machine that is equipped with sound output means and can output sound effects and music
When a predetermined output condition is satisfied, a sound effect control means for controlling the output of the sound effect corresponding to the output condition and a sound effect control means.
A music control means that controls the output of the music and can select any of the plurality of music based on a predetermined selection operation by the player.
It is provided with a mode setting means capable of setting a music priority mode in which the music is prioritized over the sound effect.
When the output condition is satisfied while the music is being output while the music is in the music priority mode and the music is selected based on the selection operation, the sound effect control means reduces the volume of the sound effect to be smaller than that of the music. It is characterized by doing.

In the gaming machine of the present invention described above,
The mode setting means may set the music priority mode based on a predetermined setting request operation by the player.

Further, in the above-mentioned gaming machine of the present invention,
A specific state generating means for generating a specific state advantageous to the player as the game progresses is provided.
When the number of occurrences of the specific state reaches a predetermined number of times, the mode setting means sets the music priority mode.
When the music priority mode is set, the sound effect control means reduces the volume of the sound effect, whose output condition is an increase in the possibility that the specific state occurs, to be smaller than that of the music being output. It may be that.

Further, in such a gaming machine of the present invention,
A display means that can display the lyrics of the song,
It is provided with a display control means for controlling the display of the lyrics in conjunction with the music being output in the music priority mode.
When the output condition is satisfied during the output of the music in the music priority mode, the display control means may change the display mode of the lyrics during the output period of the sound effect.

According to the present invention, it is possible to enhance the interest by being able to listen to a favorite music selected by a player without interruption.

It is a front view of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the board surface structure of the game board 20 of this Example. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this Example. It is explanatory drawing which showed the segment display part 50 in an enlarged manner. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates one aspect of the display in the effect display device 41. It is a flowchart which showed the rough flow of the game control processing performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 as the control which concerns on the progress of a game. It is a flowchart which showed the symbol variation effect processing performed by CPU 221 of a sub-control board 220. It is a flowchart which showed the music output processing performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220. It is explanatory drawing which illustrated the music selection display performed on the display screen of the effect display device 41. It is a flowchart which showed the sound effect output processing performed by CPU 221 of a sub-control board 220. It is explanatory drawing which illustrated the selection screen of the music priority mode displayed on the effect display device 41 of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which showed the lyrics display processing performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220. It is explanatory drawing which showed the example which displays the lyrics on the effect display device 41. It is a time chart exemplifying how a sound effect is output during the output of a musical piece.

In order to clarify the contents of the present invention described above, an example in which the present invention is applied to a type of pachinko machine (game machine) called "seven machine" or "digipachi" will be described. In the embodiment, "front" and "front" indicate "front with respect to the gaming machine", that is, "direction closer to the player (front side when viewed from the player)", and "rear" and "front". "Back" indicates "backward with respect to the gaming machine", that is, "direction away from the player (back side when viewed from the player)". In addition, "upper" means "upper" when viewed from the player, "lower" indicates "lower" when viewed from the player, and "left" means "lower" when viewed from the player. It indicates that it is "left", and "right" indicates that it is "right" when viewed from the player.

A. Pachinko machine equipment configuration:
A-1. Configuration on the front side of the device:
FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a front frame 4 is provided on the front surface of the pachinko machine 1. One end (left side in FIG. 1) of the front frame 4 is rotatably supported with respect to the middle frame 3. A game board 20 (see FIG. 2) is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame 3, and when the front frame 4 is rotated (opened) to the front side of the pachinko machine 1 with respect to the middle frame 3. , The game board 20 is exposed. One end (left side in FIG. 1) of the middle frame 3 is rotatably supported with respect to the main body frame 2. The main body frame 2 is a substantially rectangular frame formed by assembling wooden plate-shaped members, and forms an outer frame of the pachinko machine 1.

A window portion 4a is formed in a substantially central portion of the front frame 4, and a transparent plate 4b such as a glass plate is fitted in the window portion 4a. The player can visually recognize the game area described later of the game board 20 arranged on the back side through the window portion 4a (transparent plate 4b). A small window portion 4c is formed in the lower right of the window portion 4a in the front frame 4, and a transparent plate 4d such as a synthetic resin plate is fitted in the small window portion 4c. The player can visually recognize the segment display portion described later of the game board 20 arranged on the back side through the small window portion 4c (transparent plate 4d).

An upper lamp 5a is provided above the window portion 4a in the front frame 4, a right side lamp 5b is provided on the right peripheral portion of the window portion 4a, and a left side lamp 5c is provided on the left peripheral portion of the window portion 4a. Is provided. Further, a pair of upper speakers 6a are provided on the left and right above the window portion 4a, and lower speakers 6b are provided on the front side of the lower portion of the main body frame 2. The upper lamp 5a, the right side lamp 5b, the left side lamp 5c, the upper speaker 6a, and the lower speaker 6b are driven in order to enhance the effect on the game. The upper speaker 6a and the lower speaker 6b of this embodiment correspond to the "sound output means" of the present invention.

An upper dish portion 7 is provided below the window portion 4a in the front frame 4. The upper plate portion 7 stores game balls rented out via the card unit 242 (see FIG. 3) and game balls paid out from the pachinko machine 1. Further, a lower plate portion 8 is provided below the upper plate portion 7, and a game ball rented out in excess of the capacity of the upper plate portion 7 or a game paid out in excess of the capacity of the upper plate portion 7. The sphere is stored.

A firing handle 9 that can be rotated by a player is provided on the right side of the lower plate portion 8 of the front frame 4. The rotation axis of the launch handle 9 is connected to a launcher unit 261 (see FIG. 3) mounted on the back side of the launch handle 9. A game ball stored in the upper plate portion 7 is supplied to the launcher unit 261. When the player rotates the launch handle 9, the rotation is transmitted to the launcher unit 261 and the launch motor built in the launcher unit 261 is activated to play the game with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the launch handle 9. The ball is fired.

Further, an effect button 10a that can be pressed by the player is provided on the front edge of the upper plate 7, and a pushing operation or a rotation operation by the player is provided on the left side of the lower plate 8. A jog shuttle 10b capable of rotating is provided. Further, on the left side of the effect button 10a, a direction button 10c that can be pressed by the player is provided, and the direction button 10c has four buttons (up button, down button) corresponding to four directions of up, down, left, and right. Button, left button, right button). These effect buttons 10a, jog shuttle 10b, and direction button 10c are all effect operation units operated by the player, and the player operates the effect operation unit when a predetermined condition is satisfied to produce a game effect. It is possible to be involved in.

A-2. Game board composition:
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a board surface configuration of the game board 20 of this embodiment. As described above, the game board 20 is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame 3. As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular gaming region 21 is formed in the center of the gaming board 20. The game ball launched from the launcher unit 261 (see FIG. 3) is discharged into the game area 21 through between the outer rail 22 and the inner rail 23, and flows down from above the game area 21. Since the game area 21 is visually recognized by the player through the window portion 4a (transparent plate 4b) of the front frame 4, the state of the game ball flowing down the game area 21 is naturally visible to the player through the window portion 4a. be.

A central device 40 is provided substantially in the center of the game area 21, and the central device 40 includes an effect display device 41. The effect display device 41 is composed of a liquid crystal display, and various images for effect can be displayed on the display screen thereof. The display content of the effect display device 41 will be described later with reference to another figure.

In the game area 21, a normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the right side of the central device 40 (effect display device 41). When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, it is detected by the built-in gate sensor 27s (see FIG. 3) and flows downward.

A first starting port 24 is provided below the central device 40 (effect display device 41) in the game area 21. The first starting port 24 is open upward, and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant (constant), so that the game ball can always enter. The game ball that has entered the first start port 24 is guided to the back surface side of the game board 20 through the passage, and is detected by the first start port sensor 24s (see FIG. 3).

Below the first starting port 24 in the game area 21, a second starting port 25 is provided so that the possibility of entering the game ball can be changed. The second starting port 25 of this embodiment is provided with an opening / closing door 26 that is open toward the front and that can rotate with the upper end side tilted forward with the lower end side as an axis. It is possible to change between a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter (or is difficult to enter) while standing upright, and an open state in which the opening / closing door 26 rotates forward to allow the game ball to enter (or easily enter). be. FIG. 2 shows how the second starting port 25 is in the open state. The game ball that has entered the second starting port 25 is guided to the back surface side of the game board 20 through the passage and is detected by the second starting port sensor 25s (see FIG. 3).

On the right side of the first starting port 24 in the game area 21, a large winning opening 28 having a large opening in a substantially rectangular shape toward the front is provided. The large winning opening 28 is provided with an opening / closing door 29 that can rotate with the upper end side tilted forward with the lower end side as an axis. The door 29 can be rotated forward to change to an open state in which a game ball can enter. FIG. 2 shows a state in which the large winning opening 28 is in an open state. The game ball that has entered the large winning opening 28 is guided to the back surface side of the game board 20 through the passage, and is detected by the large winning opening sensor 28s (see FIG. 3).

Two other winning openings 30 are provided on the left side of the first starting opening 24 in the game area 21. In addition, the winning opening 30 is opened upward, and there is no change in the possibility of entering the game ball, and the game ball can be entered at all times. The game ball that has entered the other winning opening 30 is guided to the back surface side of the game board 20 through the passage, and is detected by the other winning opening sensor 30s (see FIG. 3).

Further, around each of the above-mentioned game devices, a windmill type wheel 31 that affects the path through which the game ball flows down and a large number of game nails (not shown in FIG. 2) are provided. Further, an out opening 33 is provided at the lowermost portion of the game area 21, and the ball can be entered in any of the above-mentioned first starting opening 24, second starting opening 25, large winning opening 28, and other winning opening 30. The missing game ball is discharged from the out port 33 to the back surface side of the game board 20.

In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, due to the arrangement of a plurality of game nails, the left region of the central device 40 (effect display device 41) flows down to the first starting port 24 and the other winning openings 30 described above. A game ball can be entered. On the other hand, a game ball flowing down the area on the right side of the central device 40 (effect display device 41) can pass or enter the normal symbol operating gate 27, the second starting port 25, and the large winning opening 28. be. In the following, firing a game ball so as to flow down the left area of the central device 40 is also referred to as "left-handed", and launching the game ball so as to flow down the right area of the central device 40. Is also expressed as "right-handed". In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a game ball enters any of the first start port 24, the second start port 25, and the other prize opening 30, three game balls are paid as prize balls. When a game ball is put out and a game ball enters the large winning opening 28, 13 game balls are paid out.

Further, in the lower right of the game area 21 on the game board 20, a segment display unit 50 that displays information related to the game by combining a plurality of LEDs is provided. The segment display unit 50 is visible to the player through the small window unit 4c (see FIG. 1) provided in the front frame 4. The display contents of the segment display unit 50 will be described later with reference to another figure.

A-3. Control circuit configuration:
Next, the configuration of the control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the control circuit of the pachinko machine 1 is composed of many control boards, various boards, and the like. Focusing on the functions, the main control board 200 that controls the basic progress of the game, the sub control board 220 that controls the control related to the production of the game, and the sub control board 220 control the images. The image / audio control board 230 that controls the display and audio output, the lamp control board 226 that controls the light emission of the lamp under the control of the sub control board 220, and the control related to the lending and paying out of the game balls. It is composed of a payout control board 240, a launch control board 260 that controls the launch of the game ball, and the like. These control boards include a CPU that executes various logical calculations and calculation calculations (CPU 201, 221 and 231 in FIG. 3) and a ROM that stores various programs and data executed by the CPU (ROM 202, 222 in FIG. 3). , 232, etc.), RAM (RAM 203, 223, 233, etc. in FIG. 3) in which the CPU stores temporary data when executing a program, input / output circuits, and other peripheral LSIs are connected to each other by a bus. Has been done.

The main control board 200 includes a first start port sensor 24s that detects a game ball that has entered the first start port 24, and a second start port sensor 25s that detects a game ball that has entered the second start port 25. Gate sensor 27s that detects game balls that pass through the normal symbol operating gate 27, large prize opening sensor 28s that detects game balls that have entered the large winning opening 28, and other that detects game balls that have entered the winning opening 30 A winning opening sensor 30s or the like is connected. When the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 receives a game ball detection signal from the first starting port sensor 24s, the second starting port sensor 25s, the gate sensor 27s, the large winning opening sensor 28s, the other winning opening sensor 30s, and the like. , The command corresponding to the sensor to which the detection signal is input is transmitted to the sub control board 220, the payout control board 240, and the like.

Further, the main control board 200 switches between the open state and the closed state of the start port solenoid 26m for driving the opening / closing door 26 that can switch between the open state and the closed state of the second start port 25, and the open state and the closed state of the grand prize opening 28. A large winning opening solenoid 29m for driving a possible opening / closing door 29, a segment display unit 50, and the like are connected. The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 controls these operations by transmitting drive signals to the starting port solenoid 26m, the winning opening solenoid 29m, and the segment display unit 50.

The image / audio control board 230, the lamp control board 226, the effect operation board 228, and the like are connected to the sub control board 220. When the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 receives various commands from the main control board 200, it analyzes the contents of the commands and performs a game effect according to the contents. That is, a command for designating a display image or output sound is transmitted to the image / sound control board 230, and the upper lamp 5a, the right side lamp 5b, and the left side lamp 5c (hereinafter, "various types") are sent to the lamp control board 226. The game is produced by transmitting a command for designating the light emission pattern of the lamps 5a to 5c). Further, the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 operates the player with respect to the effect button 10a, the jog shuttle 10b, and the direction button 10c (hereinafter, also referred to as “effect operation units 10a, 10b, 10c”) via the effect operation board 228. When it is detected, the game is produced by reflecting the operation.

The image / audio control board 230 includes a VDP 234, an image ROM 235, and an audio ROM 236 in addition to the CPU 231, ROM 232, and RAM 233. When the CPU 231 of the image / audio control board 230 receives a command from the sub control board 220, the CPU 231 instructs the VDP 234 to display an image corresponding to the command. The VDP 234 reads image data (for example, sprite data, moving image data, etc.) used for displaying the instructed image from the image ROM 235, generates an image, and outputs the image to the display screen of the effect display device 41. Further, when the CPU 231 of the image / audio control board 230 receives a command from the sub control board 220, the CPU 231 reads the audio data corresponding to the command from the audio ROM 236 and transmits the audio data signal to the amplifier board 224. Sound is output from the speaker 6a and the lower speaker 6b (hereinafter, also referred to as "various speakers 6a, 6b"). In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to output music from various speakers 6a and 6b as described later, and if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the player selects a music to be output from a plurality of music. It is possible to do.

A ball lending button 241 (not shown in FIG. 1) provided on the upper plate portion 7, a card unit 242 juxtaposed with the pachinko machine 1, a payout motor 243, and the like are connected to the payout control board 240. When the ball lending button 241 is operated, the detection signal is transmitted to the card unit 242 via the payout control board 240. The card unit 242 drives the payout motor 243 to rent out the game ball while communicating data with the payout control board 240. Further, when the payout control board 240 receives a payout command instructing the payout of the game ball from the main control board 200, the payout control board 240 drives the payout motor 243 to pay out the game ball.

Further, the launch control board 260 is connected to the payout control board 240, and the launch device unit 261 is connected to the launch control board 260. The launcher unit 261 has a launch motor 262 for launching a game ball, a touch switch 263 for detecting that the player is touching the launch handle 9, and the like. When the touch switch 263 detects that the player is touching the launch handle 9, the launch motor 262 can be operated, and the game ball is launched with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the launch handle 9.

B. Outline of the game:
In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the game proceeds as follows. When the player rotates the launch handle 9 with the game balls stored in the upper plate portion 7, the game balls stored in the upper plate portion 7 are supplied to the launcher unit 261 one by one, and FIG. It is used and fired toward the game area 21 described above. Since the strength with which the game ball is launched corresponds to the rotation angle of the launch handle 9, the player can make the game ball flow down to a desired region by changing the rotation angle of the launch handle 9. For example, a game ball is fired (left-handed) so as to flow down to the left area of the central device 40 (effect display device 41), or a game ball is caused to flow down to the right area of the central device 40. Can be fired (right-handed).

As described above, a left-handed game ball can enter the first starting port 24. When the game ball enters the first starting port 24 and is detected by the first starting port sensor 24s, a predetermined judgment random number (big hit judgment random number, etc.) is acquired, and whether it is a big hit based on the value of the judgment random number. After making a big hit determination to determine whether or not the ball is out of alignment, the segment display unit 50 displays a variation of the first special symbol (hereinafter, also referred to as “first special symbol”). In addition, a right-handed game ball can enter the second starting port 25. When the game ball enters the second starting port 25 and is detected by the second starting port sensor 25s, after acquiring a judgment random number and making a big hit judgment, the segment display unit 50 displays the second special symbol. (Hereinafter, also referred to as "second special figure") is displayed in a variable manner. In the following, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the first special figure and the second special figure, it may be simply referred to as a "special symbol".

FIG. 4 is an enlarged explanatory view showing the segment display unit 50. As described above, the segment display unit 50 is visible to the player through the small window unit 4c (see FIG. 1) provided in the front frame 4. As shown in the drawing, the segment display unit 50 is provided with a first special figure display unit 51 for displaying the first special figure and a second special figure display unit 52 for displaying the second special figure, respectively. It is composed of 9 LEDs. The first special figure and the second special figure are displayed in a variable manner by blinking nine LEDs (switching the LED to be turned on) on the corresponding display units 51 and 52, and the predetermined combination of LEDs is turned on. Stop is displayed. At this time, if the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, the LED of the combination corresponding to the jackpot symbol is turned on, and if the result is off, the LED of the combination corresponding to the missed symbol is turned on.

Even if the game ball enters the first starting port 24 or the second starting port 25, the start condition of the new variation display is not satisfied during the variation display of the first special figure or the second special figure. In this case, the value of the judgment random number acquired by entering the ball into the first starting port 24 is stored as the first special figure hold, and the value of the determination random number acquired by entering the ball into the second starting port 25 is stored in the second special figure. Store as figure hold. After that, when the start condition of the new variation display of the special symbol (1st special figure or 2nd special figure) is satisfied, a big hit judgment is made based on the 1st special figure hold or the 2nd special figure hold, and the corresponding special The variable display of the design is performed. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, up to four such first special figure hold and second special figure hold can be stored.

As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display unit 50 includes a first special figure hold display unit 53 for displaying the number of first special figure hold storage (first special figure hold number), and a second special figure hold storage unit 53. A second special figure holding display unit 54 for displaying the number (second special figure holding number) is provided, and each is composed of two LEDs. In these hold display units 53 and 54, if the number of holds is 0, both LEDs are turned off, if the number of holds is 1, one LED is turned on, and if the number of holds is 2, the number of holds is 2. Two LEDs are lit, one LED blinks when the number of holds is three, and two LEDs blink when the number of holds is four.

When the first special figure or the second special figure is stopped and displayed with the big hit symbol, the big hit game in which the big winning opening 28 is opened is executed. In the jackpot game, a round game in which a specified number (for example, 9) of game balls enters the opened big winning opening 28 or a predetermined opening time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses is repeated a plurality of times. .. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, a plurality of jackpot symbols are provided, and the number of round games performed in the jackpot game differs depending on the type of the jackpot symbol displayed as stopped (for example, 4 times, 6 times, 10 times). times). As described above, when a game ball enters the big prize opening 28, 13 game balls are paid out as prize balls. Therefore, the larger the number of round games (the number of rounds), the larger the number of players. It is possible to win the prize ball.

As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display unit 50 is provided with a right-handed display unit 55 composed of three LEDs. As described above, a right-handed game ball can enter the big winning opening 28, and right-handed is advantageous for the player during the big hit game, so the LED of the right-handed display unit 59 is turned on. Let me.

Further, as described above, a normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the right side of the central device 40 (effect display device 41), and a right-handed game ball can pass through the normal symbol operating gate 27. .. When the game ball passing through the normal symbol operating gate 27 is detected by the gate sensor 27s, a predetermined judgment random number (such as a judgment random number for hitting a normal figure) is acquired, and whether the hit or miss is hit based on the value of the judgment random number. After performing the normal symbol hit determination, the segment display unit 50 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol.

As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display unit 50 is provided with a normal diagram display unit 56 for displaying a normal symbol, and is composed of two left and right LEDs. The normal symbol is fluctuated by blinking two LEDs (switching the LED to be turned on) on the normal figure display unit 56, and is stopped and displayed with one LED turned on. At this time, if the result of the normal figure hit determination is a normal figure hit, the left LED corresponding to the normal figure hit symbol is turned on, and if it is off, the right LED corresponding to the off symbol is turned on. Then, when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as the normal symbol, the normal symbol hit game is performed in which the second starting port 25 is opened for a predetermined time and then returns to the closed state.

Even if the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, if the start condition of the new fluctuation display is not satisfied, such as during the fluctuation display of the normal symbol, the value of the acquired determination random number is reserved. It is possible to store up to four as. After that, when the start condition of the new variation display of the normal symbol is satisfied, the normal symbol hit determination and the variation display of the normal symbol are performed based on the normal symbol hold. As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display unit 50 is provided with a normal figure hold display unit 57 composed of two LEDs, and the storage number of the normal figure hold (the number of normal figure hold) is the normal figure hold. It is displayed on the display unit 57.

The opening time of the second starting port 25 in the game per normal figure differs depending on whether it is in the “electric support state” or the “non-electric support state”. In the electric support state, the opening time of the second starting port 25 is set longer than in the non-electric support state. Further, in the electric support state, the probability that the result of the normal symbol hit determination will be the normal figure hit (probability of hitting the normal figure) is higher than in the non-electric support state, and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is set shorter. Therefore, in the electric support state, the possibility that the game ball enters the second starting port 25 (that is, the possibility that the variation display of the second special figure is performed) is higher than in the non-electric support state, and the electric support state. Since right-handed hitting is advantageous for the player inside, the LED of the right-handed hitting display unit 55 is turned on as in the case of the big hit game.

In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, a plurality of jackpot symbols provided are roughly classified into a "normal hit symbol" and a "probability variation hit symbol", and even if the special symbol is stopped and displayed at any jackpot symbol. After the jackpot game is over, the electric support state is set. Then, when the normal hit symbol is stopped and displayed, the probability that the jackpot determination result will be a jackpot (big hit probability) is set to a predetermined normal probability (low probability) after the jackpot game is completed, and the number of fluctuations of the special symbol is set. Is set to the non-electric support state when the number of times reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times). On the other hand, when the probability variation hit symbol is stopped and displayed, the jackpot probability is set to a higher probability than the normal probability after the end of the jackpot game, and is continued until the next jackpot game together with the electric support state. In the following, a state in which the jackpot probability is set to a high probability may be referred to as a “probability change state”. Further, in the electric support state, the fluctuation time of the special symbol is shorter and easier to set than in the non-electric support state. Therefore, the state in which the electric support state and the jackpot probability is set to the normal probability is referred to as the "time reduction state". Sometimes referred to.

Further, in conjunction with the variable display of the above-mentioned special symbols (first special figure and second special figure), the effect display device 41 displays various images for effect. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating one aspect of display in the effect display device 41. On the display screen of the effect display device 41, three decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c and a background image 41d as a background thereof can be displayed as the symbols for the effect. When the variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display unit 51 or the second special symbol display unit 52 of the segment display unit 50, the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c also have a plurality of numbers on the effect display device 41. (For example, nine numbers from "1" to "9") are switched one after another to display a variable display (hereinafter, also referred to as "design variable effect"). In addition to the numbers, the decorative design may be a design of characters, figures, symbols, etc., and may be in a form in which the player can identify the type.

FIG. 5A conceptually shows how the three decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed in a variable manner all at once. When a predetermined time elapses after the variable display is started, the left decorative symbol 41a is first stopped and displayed at any of "1" to "9", then the right decorative symbol 41c is stopped and displayed, and finally the middle. The decorative symbol 41b is stopped and displayed. At this time, if the special symbols (1st special symbol or 2nd special symbol) are out of alignment and the special symbols 41a, 41b, 41c are stopped and displayed, the three decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped in a combination (doublet) that does not have the same numbers. On the other hand, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol, it is stopped and displayed in a combination (doublet) with the same number. In particular, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed with a probability variation hit symbol that is more advantageous to the player than the normal hit symbol, the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are all stopped and displayed with the same odd number.

By associating the display contents of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c in the effect display device 41 with the display contents of the special symbols in this way, two of the three decorative symbols are stopped and displayed as shown in FIG. 5 (b). If the numbers are the same at the time, the player will pay close attention to the variable display of the decorative symbols (design variation effect), as if the decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed at the end are also the same numbers. In this way, the effect performed while the last decorative symbol is variablely displayed while the two decorative symbols are stopped and displayed with the same symbol is called "reach effect", and by generating the reach effect, the game is enjoyed. It is possible to increase. In addition, such reach production includes a normal reach production (normal reach production) and a reach production that lasts longer than the normal reach production (super reach production), and is decorated by developing into a super reach production. The possibility that the symbols 41a, 41b, 41c are stopped and displayed in doublet (big hit reliability) is increased.

Further, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 41, a hold display area 42 (indicated by a broken line in the figure) for displaying a hold symbol corresponding to the special figure hold (first special figure hold or second special figure hold) is displayed. The enclosed part) is provided. In the hold display area 42 of this embodiment, as hold symbols (small circles in the figure), the unexecuted symbol 43 corresponding to the special figure hold in which the change display of the special symbol has not been executed, and the special symbol 43 in which the change display has already started. The running symbol 44 corresponding to the special figure hold that triggered the execution of the symbol is displayed, and if it is in the non-electric support state (when left-handed), the hold symbol corresponding to the first special figure hold Is displayed, and if it is in the electric support state (when hitting right), the hold symbol corresponding to the second special figure hold is displayed. As described above, a maximum of four unexecuted symbols 43 can be stored in the hold display area 42 as in the example of FIG. 5, in response to the fact that up to four first special figure hold and second special figure hold can be stored. Up to 4 can be displayed.

C. Control contents of the pachinko machine of this embodiment:
C-1. Game control processing:
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a rough flow of a game control process performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 as a control related to the progress of the game. The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 executes the game control process of FIG. 6 based on a timer interrupt generated at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 msec). In the following description, the description of well-known processes such as the initialization process of the CPU 201, the interrupt prohibition process, and the interrupt enable process will be omitted.

When the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 starts the game control process, the CPU 201 first performs the output process (S10). In the main control board 200 of this embodiment, in each process described later, various commands to be transmitted to various control boards including the sub control board 220 are temporarily stored in the output buffer secured in the RAM 203. In the output process (S10), various commands stored in the output buffer are transmitted to various control boards. By doing so, for example, the sub control board 220 controls the effect according to the progress of the game, and the payout control board 240 pays out the game ball.

The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 performs an input process (S20) following the output process (S10). As described above, when a game ball enters any of the first starting port 24, the second starting port 25, the large winning opening 28, and the other winning opening 30, the game ball is paid out as a winning ball. .. Therefore, in the input process (S20), the game ball is detected for various sensors (first starting port sensor 24s, second starting port sensor 25s, large winning opening sensor 28s, other winning opening sensor 30s, etc.) that detect the entry of the ball. Determine if you did. Then, when the game ball is detected, the payout command instructing the payout of the game ball is stored in the output buffer described above. The payout command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the payout control board 240 in the next output process (S10). Upon receiving the command, the payout control board 240 pays out three game balls if the game ball enters any of the first start port 24, the second start port 25, and the other winning opening 30 as described above. , If it is the big winning opening 28, 13 game balls are paid out.

When the input process (S20) is completed, the random number update process (S30) is then performed. As described above, the normal symbol hit determination and the special symbol jackpot determination are performed based on the value of a predetermined determination random number. In addition to this, various decisions described later are made based on the value of a dedicated random number. In the random number update process (S30), these random numbers are updated. The random number is updated not only in the random number update process (S30) in the game control process, but also from the end of the game control process to the start of the next game control process (timer interrupt occurs). It may be done in the meantime. Further, a dedicated circuit for updating the random number may be provided, and the random number may be updated by this dedicated circuit.

After completing the random number update process (S30), the gate sensor detection process (S40) is performed. In the gate sensor detection process (S40), when the game ball passing through the normal symbol operating gate 27 is detected by the gate sensor 27s, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved figures has reached the upper limit (“4” in this embodiment). If it is determined and not reached, a random number for determining the normal figure is acquired, and the acquired random number value is stored in the RAM 203 as a normal figure hold.

Following the gate sensor detection process (S40), the start port sensor detection process (S50) is performed. In the start port sensor detection process (S50), when the game ball that has entered the first start port 24 is detected by the first start port sensor 24s, the number of reserved first special figures is the upper limit value (“4” in this embodiment). Is determined, and if it is not reached, a predetermined determination random number is acquired, and the acquired random number value is stored in the RAM 203 as the first special figure hold. Further, when the game ball that has entered the second starting port 25 is detected by the second starting port sensor 25s, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved second special figures has reached the upper limit value (“4” in this embodiment). Then, if it has not reached, a predetermined determination random number is acquired, and the acquired random number value is stored in the RAM 203 as the second special figure hold. Here, as the judgment random number, a big hit judgment random number for performing a big hit judgment, a symbol determination random number for determining the type of the big hit symbol to be stopped and displayed with a special symbol in the case of a big hit, and a start of variable display of the special symbol. The fluctuation pattern determination random number for determining the fluctuation pattern from to the stop display is acquired.

When the start port sensor detection process (S50) is completed, the normal operation process (S60) is then performed. In the normal operation processing (S60), the following processing is mainly performed. First, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation display of the normal symbol or the game per normal symbol is being executed. If neither the fluctuation display of the normal symbol nor the execution of the game per normal symbol is in progress, the number of reserved normal symbols is "0" after confirming that the predetermined fixed time has passed from the stop display of the normal symbol. Judge whether or not. If the number of normal figure holds is not "0" (if the normal figure hold is stored), the first stored normal figure hold is read, and the read normal figure hold (value of the random number determined per normal figure). Judgment is made based on. In this normal figure hit judgment, if the value of the normal figure hit judgment random number read out as the normal figure hold is a predetermined hit value, it is determined to be a normal figure hit, and if it is an outlier other than the hit value, it is determined to be an outlier. .. As described above, in the electric support state, the probability of hitting a normal figure is set higher (more hit values) than in the non-electric support state. For example, in the non-electric support state, the probability of hitting a normal figure is set to 1/100. On the other hand, in the electric support state, the probability of hitting a normal figure is set to 99/100.

Then, based on the result of the normal symbol hit determination, it is determined whether to stop and display the normal symbol with the normal symbol or the off symbol. Further, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is set, the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is started, and "1" is subtracted from the number of reserved symbols. As described above, in the electric support state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is set shorter than in the non-electric support state. For example, in the non-electric support state, the fluctuation time is set to 20 seconds, whereas in the electric support state, the fluctuation time is set to 20 seconds. The fluctuation time is set to 1 second.

When the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is in progress, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed, and when the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the determined normal symbol per symbol or out-of-print symbol. Then, after waiting for the elapse of the fixed time, if the stopped-displayed normal symbol is an out-of-order symbol, the process of starting the variable display of the normal symbol again is performed. On the other hand, if the stopped-displayed normal symbol is a normal symbol, the game per normal symbol is started.

During the game, the start port solenoid 26m is driven to open the second start port 25, and then the process returns to the closed state after the opening time elapses. As described above, in the electric support state, the opening time of the second starting port 25 is set longer than in the non-electric support state. For example, in the non-electric support state, the opening time is 0.3 seconds (0.1 seconds x 3 times). While it is set to open), the open time is set to 4.5 seconds (1.5 seconds x 3 times open) in the electric support state.

After completing the normal operation process (S60), the special operation process (S70) is subsequently performed. In the special operation process (S70), the following processes are mainly performed. First, it is determined whether or not the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) is in the variable display, the special symbol is in the final display, or in the big hit game. If neither of these is true, it is determined whether or not the number of 1st special figure hold and 2nd special figure hold is "0", and the number of 1st special figure hold or 2nd special figure hold is "0". If not, the values of the various determination random numbers (big hit determination random number, symbol determination random number, fluctuation pattern determination random number) stored as the special figure hold are read out. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, if the second special figure hold is first stored, the second special figure hold stored first is read, and if the second special figure hold is not stored, the first is the first. The first special figure hold stored in is read out (the second special figure hold is preferentially digested).

In this way, the jackpot determination is performed based on the value of the jackpot determination random number read out as the second special figure hold or the first special figure hold. In the big hit judgment, if the value of the read big hit judgment random number is a value corresponding to "big hit" (big hit value), it is judged as a big hit, and if it is a value corresponding to "outlier" (outlier value), it is judged as a miss. do. As described above, in the probabilistic state, the jackpot probability is set higher (more jackpot values) than in the non-probability change state. For example, in the non-probability change state, the jackpot probability is set to about 1/300. In the probabilistic state, the jackpot probability is set to about 1/100.

Then, if the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, the jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed is determined. As described above, a plurality of big hit symbols are provided, and they are roughly classified into a normal hit symbol and a probabilistic hit symbol, and either one is based on the value of the symbol determination random number read out as the first special symbol hold or the second special symbol hold. Determine the jackpot design of. On the other hand, if the result of the jackpot determination is off, the off symbol is determined as the stop display symbol (stop symbol).

After determining the stop symbol of the special symbol in this way, the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol is determined. The fluctuation pattern is for identifying the time (variation time) from the start of the fluctuation display to the stop display of the special symbol (first special figure or the second special figure), and a plurality of prepared in advance. The fluctuation patterns of are different from each other in the fluctuation time set. The fluctuation pattern is determined based on the value of the fluctuation pattern determination random number read as the first special figure hold or the second special figure hold, and the fluctuation time is shorter in the electric support state than in the non-electric support state. The pattern is easy to determine.

When the fluctuation pattern is determined, the fluctuation display of the special symbol is started, and if it is the second special figure, "1" is subtracted from the second special figure hold number, and if it is the first special figure, the first special figure hold number. Subtract "1" from. Further, the variation pattern specification command for specifying the variation pattern of the special symbol and the stop symbol specification command for specifying the stop symbol are stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. These commands are transmitted to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S10). By receiving these commands, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 executes the symbol variation effect on the effect display device 41 in accordance with the variation display of the special symbol.

If the fluctuation display of the special symbol is being displayed, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed. As described above, the fluctuation time of the special symbol is set to the fluctuation pattern, and when the fluctuation time elapses, the special symbol is stopped and displayed at the determined stop symbol (big hit symbol or off symbol). In addition, the time (fixed time) for confirming and displaying the special symbol that has been stopped and displayed is set. Further, the variable stop command indicating the stop display of the special symbol is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203, and is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S10). When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives the fluctuation stop command, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 ends the symbol variation effect on the effect display device 41.

During the confirmation display of the special symbol, it is determined whether or not the confirmation time has elapsed, and when the confirmation time has elapsed, it is determined whether the confirmed display special symbol is a jackpot symbol or a missed symbol. As a result, if it is an out-of-time symbol, it is determined whether or not it is in the time-saving state, and if it is in the time-saving state, the number of fluctuations of the special symbol in the time-saving state is counted. Then, when the counted number of fluctuations reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times), the electric support state is terminated and the normal state, which is the non-electric support state, is set. Further, with the change of the game state, the game state designation command indicating the game state is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203, and is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S10).

On the other hand, when the special symbol that is confirmed and displayed is the jackpot symbol, the opening pattern (number of rounds, opening time, closing time, etc.) of the jackpot 28 in the jackpot game is set, and the jackpot game is started. As described above, the number of rounds differs depending on the type of jackpot symbol displayed as a stop display (confirmed display). Further, the jackpot game start command indicating the start of the jackpot game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203, and is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S10). The jackpot game of the present embodiment corresponds to the "specific state" of the present invention, and the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 of the present invention corresponds to the "specific state generating means" of the present invention.

During the big hit game, the round game is started by driving the big winning opening solenoid 29m to open the big winning opening 28. After that, when a specified number of game balls enter the large winning opening 28 or the opening time elapses, the large winning opening 28 is closed and the round game is ended, and the next round game is waited for the closing time to elapse. To start. Then, when all the set number of rounds have been exhausted, the jackpot game ends. Further, the jackpot game end command indicating the end of the jackpot game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203, and is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S10).

Further, the game state after the end of the big hit game is set according to the type of the big hit symbol displayed as a stop display (confirmed display). That is, if the jackpot symbol is a probability variation hit symbol, it is set to a probability variation state (electric support state in which the jackpot probability is set to a high probability), and if the jackpot symbol is a normal hit symbol, it is set to a time saving state (the jackpot probability is a normal probability). Set to the electric support state set to). Further, the game state designation command indicating the game state is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203, and is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S10).

When the special operation process (S70) is completed in this way, the game control process of FIG. 6 is temporarily terminated, and when a timer interrupt is generated every 4 msec, the game control process of FIG. 6 is executed again. The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 advances the game in the pachinko machine 1 by repeatedly performing the game control process as described above. Further, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 transmits various commands to the sub control board 220 while executing the game control process. Then, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 determines the specific content of the effect based on the received command, and performs various game effects using the effect display device 41, various speakers 6a, 6b, and various lamps 5a to 5c. Running. Hereinafter, the processing executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 will be described.

C-2. Design fluctuation effect processing:
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a symbol variation effect processing performed by the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220. This symbol variation effect processing is performed based on a timer interrupt generated in a predetermined cycle. In the following description, the description of well-known processes such as the initialization process of the CPU 221, the interrupt prohibition process, and the interrupt enable process will be omitted.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts the symbol variation effect processing, it first determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received from the main control board 200 (S100). As described above, the variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol (first special figure or second special figure) at which the variation display is started on the segment display unit 50. Then, when the variation pattern designation command is received (S100: yes), the content of the symbol variation effect to be executed by the effect display device 41 is determined according to the variation display of the special symbol (S101).

In the symbol variation effect of this embodiment, not only the variation display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c, but also the reach effect described above and the jackpot display (stop display of doublet) before the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed can be reached. Various game effects such as advance notice effects that suggest sex (big hit reliability) are included. The notice effect includes a cut-in notice that suggests the jackpot reliability depending on the type of cut (character that appears) inserted in the background image 41d of the effect display device 41, and a story that suggests the jackpot reliability depending on the content of the story to be developed. There are notices and step-up notices that are composed of multiple stages and suggest that the jackpot reliability is higher as the stages progress. In this way, a plurality of symbol variation effects are provided, and the time required to execute the effects (effect execution time) is different from each other.

As described above, the variation pattern corresponds to the variation time of the special symbol, and in the processing of S101, the effect corresponding to the variation time of the variation pattern specified by the variation pattern designation command from among the plurality of symbol variation effects. The symbol variation effect of the execution time is determined (selected) as the symbol variation effect this time. In addition, the result of the jackpot determination (whether it is a jackpot or a miss) is reflected in the content of the symbol variation effect. As described above, the main control board 200 transmits a stop symbol designation command for designating the stop symbol of the special symbol together with the variation pattern designation command, and the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 is based on the received stop symbol designation command. It is possible to grasp the result of the jackpot judgment. If the result of the jackpot judgment is a jackpot, it is common to perform a reach effect, and a notice effect that suggests an increase in the reliability of the jackpot occurs, such as developing from a normal reach effect to a super reach effect compared to when the jackpot is off. There is a high possibility that it will happen (so-called chance up). On the other hand, if the result of the jackpot judgment is incorrect, a fluctuation pattern with a short fluctuation time is often specified, and of course the production execution time of the symbol fluctuation production is also short, so there is room for performing reach production and advance notice production. If not, the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed in a fluctuating manner for a moment.

In addition, in the symbol variation effect at the time of disengagement, as the stop mode of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c at the end, the same number is determined and the irregularities that are not aligned are determined. On the other hand, in the symbol variation effect at the time of a big hit, the doublet with the same number is determined as the stop mode of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c at the end.

When the content of the symbol variation effect is determined in this way, the symbol variation effect is started (S102). That is, the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 transmits a command for designating the content of the determined symbol variation effect to the image / sound control board 230, and the image / sound control board 230 that receives the command sends an image corresponding to the command. It is displayed on the effect display device 41. As a result, the effect display device 41 starts variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c, and is accompanied by a reach effect and a notice effect.

When the symbol variation effect is started, it is next determined whether or not a variation stop command has been received from the main control board 200 (S103). Then, when the fluctuation stop command is not received (S103: no), the symbol variation effect processing of FIG. 7 is temporarily terminated while the symbol variation effect is continued, and when a timer interrupt occurs at a predetermined cycle, FIG. 7 is performed again. Executes the symbol variation effect processing of.

Then, while the symbol variation effect is being executed, no new variation pattern designation command is transmitted from the main control board 200, and the variation pattern designation command is not received in the determination of S100 (S100: no). ), The processing of S101 and S102 is omitted, and it is determined again whether or not the fluctuation stop command has been received (S103).

When the fluctuation stop command is received (S103: yes), the symbol variation effect being executed by the effect display device 41 is terminated (S104). At this time, the stop mode of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c is the mode determined by the processing of S101, and if the result of the jackpot determination is wrong, the numbers are not the same, whereas the jackpot is a jackpot. If there are, they are doublets with the same numbers.

When the symbol variation effect is completed in this way, the symbol variation effect process of FIG. 7 is temporarily terminated, and when a timer interrupt is generated at a predetermined cycle, the symbol variation effect process of FIG. 7 is executed again. Then, when a new variation pattern designation command is received from the main control board 200 (S100: yes), a series of processes after S101 is executed again to perform a new symbol variation effect.

C-3. Music output processing:
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a music output process performed by the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220. This music output processing is performed based on a timer interrupt generated in a predetermined cycle. In the following description, the description of well-known processes such as the initialization process of the CPU 221, the interrupt prohibition process, and the interrupt enable process will be omitted.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts the music output process, it first determines whether or not it is the start timing of the music output period (S110). The music output period is a period during which a player can select a music to be output from a plurality of music while outputting music from various speakers 6a and 6b. , The period set in the electric support state (when hitting right) is the music output period. Based on the game state designation command received from the main control board 200, when it is the start timing of the music output period (S110: yes), the music selection display is started on the display screen of the effect display device 41 (S111).

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a music selection display performed on the display screen of the effect display device 41. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the music selection display area 46 is secured by using a part of the display screen of the effect display device 41. Then, when the music selection display is started, as shown in the figure, the music selection display area 46 is displayed to notify the player that the music to be output can be selected (“Music can be selected” in the figure. "), And multiple songs are listed.

In the illustrated example, in addition to the default standard music S, a total of five songs, music A, music B, music C, and music D, are displayed as selectable music. Then, it is also displayed that the selection of the music is changed by operating the up button or the down button of the direction button 10c. Note that FIG. 9 shows that the selection of the music remains the standard music S.

In the music output process of FIG. 8, when the music selection display is started, the output of the default standard music S is started from the various speakers 6a and 6b (S112). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the operation of the direction button 10c is detected (S113). Then, when the operation of the direction button 10c is detected (S113: yes), the selection of the music to be output is changed according to the operation of the direction button 10c (S114). For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the lower button of the direction button 10c is operated with the default standard music S selected, the standard music S is followed by music A, music B, music C, and music D. It switches and returns from the music D to the standard music S again. On the other hand, when the upper button of the direction button 10c is operated, the order is switched from the standard music S to the music D, the music C, the music B, and the music A). By allowing the player to select from a plurality of songs by operating the direction button 10c in this way, it is possible to reflect the player's preference in the output song and enhance the interest. The operation of the direction button 10c during the execution of the music selection display of the present embodiment corresponds to the "selection operation" of the present invention. Further, the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 of this embodiment corresponds to the "music control means" of the present invention.

On the other hand, when the operation of the direction button 10c is not detected (S113: no), the processing of S114 is omitted, and then it is determined whether or not it is the end timing of the music output period (S115). .. As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the period set to the electric support state (when hitting right) is the music output period, and the electric support state is maintained at the end timing of the music output period. If not (S115: no), the music output process of FIG. 8 is temporarily terminated while continuing to output the music. After that, when a timer interrupt occurs at a predetermined cycle, the music output process of FIG. 8 is started again.

In the music output process of FIG. 8, in the determination of S110, if it is not the start timing of the music output period (S110: no), then it is determined whether or not the music output period is in progress (S116). If it is not set to the electric support state and it is not during the music output period (S116: no), the music output process of FIG. 8 is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, when the electric support state is set and the music output period is in progress (S116: yes), the processing of S111 and S112 is omitted, and when the operation of the direction button 10c is detected, the music to be output is selected. After the change (S113, S114), it is determined again whether or not it is the end timing of the music output period (S115).

Based on the game state specification command received from the main control board 200, if it is the end timing of the music output period accompanying the end of the electric support state (S115: yes), the music selection display on the display screen of the effect display device 41 When the output of the music is finished (S117), the music output process of FIG. 8 is temporarily ended, and when the timer interrupt occurs at a predetermined cycle, the music output process of FIG. 8 is executed again. Then, when the start timing of the new music output period comes (S110: yes), a series of processes after S111 are executed again to output the music.

C-4. Sound effect output processing:
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a sound effect output process performed by the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220. This sound effect output processing is performed based on a timer interrupt generated in a predetermined cycle. In the following description, the description of well-known processes such as the initialization process of the CPU 221, the interrupt prohibition process, and the interrupt enable process will be omitted.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts the sound effect output process, it first determines whether or not the sound effect output condition is satisfied (S120). In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, a sound effect is output when a chance is increased, such as when a normal reach effect is developed to a super reach effect or a notice effect suggesting an increase in jackpot reliability is generated. It has become. If the sound effect output condition is not satisfied without increasing the chance (S120: no), the sound effect output process of FIG. 10 is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, when the sound effect output condition is satisfied (S120: yes), the sound effect to be output is selected (S121). In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, different sound effects are prepared in advance for each type, such as the development to the above-mentioned super reach production, cut-in notice, street notice, step-up notice, and other notice effects as a chance up. Therefore, in the process of S121, the sound effect is selected according to which chance is up. The output period of the sound effect is predetermined for each sound effect.

Following the selection of the sound effect, it is determined whether or not the music priority mode is set (S122). The music priority mode is a mode in which the output of music is prioritized over the sound effect, and in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the player can select whether or not to use the music priority mode. When a predetermined time elapses without the symbol variation effect being performed on the effect display device 41, the display of the effect display device 41 is switched to the demo screen, and the player operates the effect button 10a during the demo screen to produce the effect. The music priority mode selection screen is displayed on the display device 41 as a game customization.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a music priority mode selection screen displayed on the effect display device 41 of this embodiment. On the display screen of the effect display device 41, a music priority mode is displayed as a customizable function, and ON or OFF can be selected. Further, it is also displayed that the selection is changed by operating the left button or the right button of the direction button 10c, and that the selection is determined (confirmed) by operating the effect button 10a. Note that FIG. 11 shows that the music priority mode is selected to be ON. Further, in the present embodiment, the operation of the direction button 10c and the effect button 10a while displaying the music priority mode selection screen corresponds to the "setting request operation" of the present invention.

Then, the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 sets the music priority mode when the selection of "ON" is determined, whereas the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 does not set the music priority mode when the selection of "OFF" is determined. The CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 of this embodiment corresponds to the "mode setting means" of the present invention.

In the sound effect output process of FIG. 10, in the determination of S122, when the music priority mode is not set (S122: no), the output volume of the sound effect is set to the normal volume (S123). In order to increase the impact of the sound effect on the player, the normal volume of the sound effect in this embodiment is set to a volume higher than the output volume of the music.

On the other hand, in the case of the music priority mode (S122: yes), it is next determined whether or not the music is being output (S124). In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, as described above, the music is output from the various speakers 6a and 6b during the music output period. Then, when the music is not output (S124: no) instead of the music output period, the output volume of the sound effect is set to the normal volume (S123).

On the other hand, when the sound effect is being output (S124: yes), it is determined whether or not the output music is the standard music S (S125). As described above, when the music output period is reached, the output of the standard music S is first started as the initial setting, and the music that can be selected by the player operating the direction button 10c (music A, music B, music C, music). It is changed to any of D). If the output music remains the standard music S (S125: yes), it means that the music has not been selected by the player, so the output volume of the sound effect is set to the normal volume (S123).

On the other hand, when the output music is not the standard music S but any of music A, music B, music C, and music D (S125: no), the player has selected the music. Therefore, the output volume of the sound effect is set to the reduced volume (S126). This reduced volume is set to a volume lower than the output volume of the music. The reduced volume may be muted as long as it is lower than the output volume of the music.

When the output volume of the sound effect is set in this way, the sound effect is output from the various speakers 6a and 6b at the set volume (S127), and the sound effect output process of FIG. 10 is temporarily terminated. After that, when a timer interrupt occurs in a predetermined cycle, the sound effect output process of FIG. 10 is executed again, and when a new sound effect output condition is satisfied (S120: yes), a series of processes after S121 are executed again. Output sound effects. The CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 of this embodiment corresponds to the "sound effect control means" of the present invention.

C-5. Lyrics display processing:
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the lyrics display processing performed by the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to display the lyrics of the music in conjunction with the output of the music, and this lyrics display processing is performed based on the timer interrupt generated in a predetermined cycle. In the following description, the description of well-known processes such as the initialization process of the CPU 221, the interrupt prohibition process, and the interrupt enable process will be omitted.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts the lyrics display process, it first determines whether or not it is in the music priority mode (S130). In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the lyrics of the music output in the music priority mode are displayed, and when the music is not in the music priority mode (S130: no), the lyrics are not displayed as they are. The lyrics display process of 12 is terminated.

On the other hand, in the case of the music priority mode (S130: yes), it is then determined whether or not the music is being output (S131). If the music is not output during the music output period (S131: no), the lyrics display process of FIG. 12 is terminated as it is without displaying the lyrics.

On the other hand, when the music is being output (S131: yes), the lyrics are displayed on the effect display device 41 in conjunction with the music being output (S132). FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying lyrics on the effect display device 41. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, as shown in the figure, the lyrics display area 47 for displaying the lyrics (enclosed by the alternate long and short dash line in the figure) is above the above-mentioned hold display area 42 on the display screen of the effect display device 41. The part) is secured. When the display of the lyrics is started, the phrase of the lyrics corresponding to the output portion of the music is displayed as a telop in the lyrics display area 47. In the example of FIG. 13, the music selection display area 46 (see FIG. 9) described above is secured on the left side of the lyrics display area 47. Further, the lyrics display area 47 of the effect display device 41 of the present embodiment corresponds to the "display means" of the present invention, and the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 of the present invention is the "display control means" of the present invention. Corresponds to.

In the lyrics display process of FIG. 12, following the display of the lyrics, it is determined whether or not it is the output period of the sound effect (S133). In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, as described above, a sound effect is output at the time of chance up, and the output period of the sound effect selected according to the type of chance up is for each sound effect. It is predetermined to. Then, when it is not the output period of the sound effect (S133: no), the color of the lyrics to be displayed in the lyrics display area 47 is set to the normal color (for example, white) (S134).

On the other hand, when it is the output period of the sound effect (S133: yes), then it is determined whether or not the output volume of the sound effect is the reduced volume (S135). As described above, the output volume of the sound effect is set to the normal volume or the reduced volume, and when the output volume of the sound effect is not the reduced volume but the normal volume (S135: no), the lyrics. The color of the lyrics displayed in the display area 47 is set to the normal color (S134).

On the other hand, when the output volume of the sound effect is the reduced volume (S135: yes), the color of the lyrics displayed in the lyrics display area 47 is set to a specific color (for example, red) different from the normal color (S136). As a result, in the lyrics display area 47, the color of the lyrics changes from the normal color to the specific color.

When the color of the lyrics is set according to the output status of the sound effect in this way, the lyrics display process of FIG. 12 is temporarily terminated, and when the timer interrupt occurs at a predetermined cycle, the lyrics display process of FIG. 12 is executed again. Then, if the music is output in the music priority mode, the lyrics are continuously displayed in conjunction with the music, and the color of the lyrics is set according to the output status of the sound effect.

FIG. 14 is a time chart illustrating how a sound effect is output during the output of a musical piece. First, FIG. 14A shows a case where the music priority mode is OFF. In the figure, the volume of the sound output from the various speakers 6a and 6b is shown in three stages of low volume, medium volume, and high volume. It is represented by. In the illustrated example, the music B is selected by the player, and the music B is output at a medium volume. Further, if it is not the music priority mode, even if the music is output, the lyrics are not displayed as telops in the lyrics display area 47 and remain hidden.

Then, if the chance is increased during the output of the music, the sound effect is output according to the type of the chance increase. At this time, since the music priority mode is not set, the output volume of the sound effect is set to the normal volume, and in the illustrated example, the sound effect is output at a louder volume than that of the music. For this reason, even if the player has selected a favorite song, the output of the sound effect cancels the song and the song is interrupted, which may reduce the interest of the player.

On the other hand, FIG. 14B shows a case where the music priority mode is ON. Similar to FIG. 14A, the music B selected by the player is output at a medium volume, and when the chance is increased, a sound effect is output. However, since the music priority mode is used, the output volume of the sound effect is set to a reduced volume, and in the illustrated example, the sound effect is output at a lower volume than that of the music. As a result, it is suppressed that the music is interrupted by being canceled by the output of the sound effect, and the player can continue to listen to the favorite music.

Further, in the music output mode, the lyrics are displayed as telops in the lyrics display area 47 in conjunction with the output of the music. The telop of this lyrics is displayed in the normal color (white) when the sound effect is not output, while the output period of the sound effect accompanying the chance up is displayed in the specific color (red). .. Since the color of the lyrics changes in this way, the player can visually recognize the output period of the sound effect even if the volume of the sound effect is reduced.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the player can select the music to be output from a plurality of music by operating the direction button 10c during the music output period, and the music is more than the sound effect. A music priority mode that prioritizes music is provided. Then, when the output condition of the sound effect is satisfied by increasing the chance while outputting the music in the music priority mode, the volume of the sound effect is reduced smaller than that of the music. In this way, in the music priority mode, the music selected by the player is prioritized, and even if the output condition is satisfied (chance up), the volume of the sound effect is lower than that of the music. It is possible to prevent the music from being canceled and interrupted, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the player by continuing to listen to the music of his choice.

Further, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, even in the music priority mode, if the music to be output is not selected by the player and the default standard music S is used, the output volume of the sound effect is increased. It is set to a normal volume that is louder than the music. If the player has not selected a song, he / she is not listening to the song he / she likes. Therefore, by outputting the sound effect at a louder volume than the song, the impact on the player is increased and the output condition is satisfied ( It will be possible to strongly appeal (chance up).

Further, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the player can select whether or not to set the music priority mode by operating the direction button 10c and the effect button 10a (setting request operation) in the game customization. As a result, the player who wants to prioritize listening to the music over the sound effect can set the music priority mode by himself / herself by performing the setting request operation. On the other hand, a player who wants to prioritize the recognition of sound effects over music can dare not set the music priority mode by not performing the setting request operation, so that any player can handle it.

Further, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, in the music priority mode, the lyrics are displayed as telops in the lyrics display area 47 of the effect display device 41 in conjunction with the music being output. Then, when the output condition is satisfied (chance up) while the music is being output in the music priority mode, the color of the lyrics during the sound effect output period is changed from the normal color (white) to a specific color (red). .. In this way, the volume of the sound effect is reduced to be smaller than that of the music in the music priority mode, and even if the volume is difficult for the player to hear (silence), the color of the lyrics during the sound effect output period changes. By attaching it, it becomes possible to visually appeal to the player that it is the output period of the sound effect (satisfaction of the output condition).

Although the examples of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to this, and is not limited to the wording described in each claim as long as it does not deviate from the scope described in each claim, and those skilled in the art can use it. Improvements based on the knowledge usually possessed by those skilled in the art can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

For example, in the above-described embodiment, the player can select whether or not to set the music priority mode by the setting request operation in the game customization, but the setting trigger of the music priority mode is not limited to this. .. For example, when the probability change state continues and the big hit game is repeatedly generated (so-called continuous chan) and the number of consecutive chans reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10 times), the music priority mode may be set. In this way, by the time the number of consecutive chans reaches a predetermined number, the sound effect with the chance up as the output condition is repeatedly output, and the player becomes accustomed to the sound effect, so that the volume of the sound effect is increased in the music priority mode. Even if it is reduced to be smaller than the music, the player can easily recognize that it is the output period of the sound effect (chance up) while listening to the favorite music. Further, by entering the music priority mode, the number of consecutive chans has reached a predetermined number of times, so that it is possible to enhance the superiority complex of the player.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, even in the music priority mode, if the music to be output is not selected by the player, the output volume of the sound effect is set to a normal volume higher than that of the music. However, in the music priority mode, regardless of whether or not the music is selected by the player, the output of the music may be prioritized and the output volume of the sound effect may be reduced to be smaller than that of the music.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the symbol variation effect is performed during the output of the music in the music priority mode, and the normal reach effect is developed into the super reach effect, or a notice effect suggesting an increase in the jackpot reliability is generated. At the time of chance up such as, the output volume of the sound effect was reduced to be smaller than that of the music, but the chance up is not limited to the one accompanying the design fluctuation production. For example, it is possible to output a musical piece during a big hit game, and after the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c are once displayed as a stop with the same even number, the stop mode is changed to a stop mode with the same odd number during the big hit game. The output volume of the sound effect may be reduced to be smaller than that of the music by outputting the sound effect when the chance is increased such as (so-called probabilistic promotion) or the number of rounds is increased. Further, the output trigger of the sound effect is not limited to the chance increase, and can be set arbitrarily.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the lyrics display area 47 is secured on the display screen of the effect display device 41, and the lyrics are displayed as telops in conjunction with the music being output. However, apart from the effect display device 41, a dedicated display for displaying lyrics may be provided.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the output volume of the sound effect is set to the reduced volume, the color of the lyrics during the output period of the sound effect is changed from the normal color (white) to the specific color (red). rice field. However, the change in the display mode of the lyrics is not limited to the change in color, and may be any change that can be visually recognized by the player. For example, the typeface of the lyrics may be changed or the size may be changed.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 1 that gives the player a profit (game value) as a result of the game by paying out the game ball supplied from the island equipment of the game hall. An example was explained. The present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention can be applied to a type of gaming machine that gives a game benefit in a form different from that of “paining a gaming ball”. For example, when a game ball enters various entrances, data indicating the amount of profit (magnitude of game value) corresponding to the entry is stored, thereby providing a profit (game) in the game. The present invention can be applied to a pachinko machine of a type that imparts a value) to a player, and in this case as well, the same effect as that of the above-described embodiment can be obtained. As a type of pachinko machine that converts game benefits (game value) into data and gives it to the player, a game machine that circulates and uses a plurality of game balls built in the pachinko machine, specifically An example is a pachinko machine (so-called enclosed game machine) configured to return a game ball discharged to the back surface of the game board through various entrances or out ports and fire it again.

<Game machines A1 to A4 that can be extracted from the above-mentioned examples>
The pachinko machine 1 of the above-described embodiment can be regarded as the following gaming machines A1 to A4.

<Game machine A1>
In a gaming machine that is equipped with sound output means and can output sound effects and music
When a predetermined output condition is satisfied, a sound effect control means for controlling the output of the sound effect corresponding to the output condition and a sound effect control means.
A music control means that controls the output of the music and can select any of the plurality of music based on a predetermined selection operation by the player.
It is provided with a mode setting means capable of setting a music priority mode in which the music is prioritized over the sound effect.
When the output condition is satisfied while the music is being output while the music is in the music priority mode and the music is selected based on the selection operation, the sound effect control means reduces the volume of the sound effect to be smaller than that of the music. A game machine characterized by playing.

In such a game machine A1, when the music priority mode is set, the music selected by the player performs the selection operation is prioritized, and the volume of the sound effect is lower than that of the music even if the output condition is satisfied. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the music from being interrupted by being canceled by the output of the sound effect, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the player by continuing to listen to the music of his choice.

<Game machine A2>
In the gaming machine A1
The mode setting means is a gaming machine characterized in that the music priority mode is set based on a predetermined setting request operation by the player.

In such a gaming machine A2, a player who wants to prioritize listening to a musical piece over a sound effect can set the music priority mode by performing a setting request operation. On the other hand, a player who wants to prioritize the recognition of sound effects over music can dare not set the music priority mode by not performing the setting request operation, so that any player can handle it.

<Game machine A3>
In the gaming machine A1
A specific state generating means for generating a specific state advantageous to the player as the game progresses is provided.
When the number of occurrences of the specific state reaches a predetermined number of times, the mode setting means sets the music priority mode.
When the music priority mode is set, the sound effect control means reduces the volume of the sound effect, whose output condition is an increase in the possibility that the specific state occurs, to be smaller than that of the music being output. A game machine characterized by that.

In such a game machine A3, sound effects (specific sound effects) whose output condition is an increase in the possibility that a specific state will occur are repeatedly output by the player until the number of occurrences of the specific state reaches a predetermined number of times. By getting used to the specific sound effect, even if the volume of the specific sound effect is reduced to be smaller than that of the music in the music priority mode, the player is listening to the favorite music and the output period of the specific sound effect is set (the specific state is). It becomes possible to easily recognize (increased possibility of occurrence). Further, by entering the music priority mode, the number of occurrences of the specific state reaches a predetermined number of times, so that the player's sense of superiority can be enhanced.

<Game machine A4>
In any one of the gaming machines A1 and A3,
A display means that can display the lyrics of the song,
It is provided with a display control means for controlling the display of the lyrics in conjunction with the music being output in the music priority mode.
The display control means is a gaming machine characterized in that when the output condition is satisfied during the output of the music in the music priority mode, the display mode of the lyrics during the output period of the sound effect is changed.

In such a game machine A4, the volume of the sound effect is reduced to be smaller than that of the music in the music priority mode, and even if the volume (silence) is difficult for the player to hear, the lyrics are displayed during the sound effect output period. By changing the mode, it becomes possible to visually appeal to the player that it is the output period of the sound effect (increased possibility that a specific state occurs).

The present invention can be used for a gaming machine used in a gaming hall.

1 ... Pachinko machine (game machine), 6a ... Upper speaker (sound output means),
6b ... Lower speaker (sound output means), 10a ... Direction button,
10c ... Direction button, 20 ... Game board, 21 ... Game area,
24 ... 1st start port, 25 ... 2nd start port, 27 ... Normal symbol operation gate,
28 ... Grand prize opening, 41 ... Production display device,
41a, 41b, 41c ... Decorative design, 47 ... Lyrics display area (display means),
50 ... segment display, 200 ... main control board,
201 ... CPU (specific state generating means), 220 ... sub control board,
221 ... CPU (sound effect control means, music control means, mode setting means, display control means).

Claims (4)

In a gaming machine that is equipped with sound output means and can output sound effects and music
When a predetermined output condition is satisfied, a sound effect control means for controlling the output of the sound effect corresponding to the output condition and a sound effect control means.
A music control means that controls the output of the music and can select any of the plurality of music based on a predetermined selection operation by the player.
It is provided with a mode setting means capable of setting a music priority mode in which the music is prioritized over the sound effect.
When the output condition is satisfied while the music is being output while the music is in the music priority mode and the music is selected based on the selection operation, the sound effect control means reduces the volume of the sound effect to be smaller than that of the music. A game machine characterized by playing. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The mode setting means is a gaming machine characterized in that the music priority mode is set based on a predetermined setting request operation by the player. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
A specific state generating means for generating a specific state advantageous to the player as the game progresses is provided.
When the number of occurrences of the specific state reaches a predetermined number of times, the mode setting means sets the music priority mode.
When the music priority mode is set, the sound effect control means reduces the volume of the sound effect, whose output condition is an increase in the possibility that the specific state occurs, to be smaller than that of the music being output. A game machine characterized by that. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
A display means that can display the lyrics of the song,
It is provided with a display control means for controlling the display of the lyrics in conjunction with the music being output in the music priority mode.
The display control means is a gaming machine characterized in that when the output condition is satisfied during the output of the music in the music priority mode, the display mode of the lyrics during the output period of the sound effect is changed.

Images