JP2023102119A - game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To increase the interest of a game.SOLUTION: In a time saving state, when the variation display of a normal symbol is a variation display other than the final variation, that is, when the count of times of variation of the normal symbol is 1st to 9999th (in other words, less than 10000 times), and when a big hit or a small hit is achieved in the first special pattern during the variable display of the normal pattern, a second specific effect is executed while switching from a production pattern for the normal symbol to the production pattern for a special symbol. On the other hand, when the variation display of the normal symbol is a variation display of a final variation, that is, when the count of times of variation of the normal design is the 10000th, and when a big hit or a small hit is achieved in the first special pattern during the variable display of the normal pattern, the first specific effect is executed while switching from a production pattern for the normal symbol to the production pattern for a special symbol.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 59

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine capable of playing games.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a game machine, a game machine (for example, a pachinko machine) is known in which a game ball, which is a game value, is shot into a game area, and when the game ball wins in a prize winning area such as a prize winning opening, a prize ball is paid out to a player, and furthermore, a game state can be changed according to the results of variable display of identification information.

Among such gaming machines, there is known a gaming machine capable of executing a variable display effect corresponding to variable display of identification information in a specific game state, and ending the specific game state when the number of variable display times of the identification information reaches a predetermined number (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-151238

By the way, when the variable display effect is switched in the specific game state, the player may feel uncomfortable when switching the variable display effect, and the interest in the game may be reduced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a game machine capable of increasing the interest of a game.

(Means 1) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a gaming machine capable of executing variable display of identification information,
A state control means capable of controlling a plurality of types of game states including a specific game state;
and a production execution means capable of executing production,
The effect executing means can execute a variable display effect corresponding to the variable display of the identification information,
The variable display effect includes a first variable display effect and a second variable display effect,
The state control means is capable of ending the specific game state when variable display of the identification information is executed a predetermined number of times in the specific game state,
The production executing means is
switching from the first variable display effect to the second variable display effect when a condition for switching the variable display effect is satisfied in the specific game state;
When the switching condition is met while the identification information is being variably displayed for the predetermined number of times in the specific game state, a first specific effect can be executed,
A second specific effect can be executed when the switching condition is met while the identification information is being variably displayed less than the predetermined number of times in the specific game state,
The first specific effect and the second specific effect include a first effect part and a second effect part executed after the first effect part,
The execution time of the second effect part differs between the first specific effect and the second specific effect.
Therefore, by executing the first specific performance and the second specific performance in accordance with the game situation when switching the variable display performance, it is possible to eliminate the sense of incongruity when switching the variable display performance, thereby enhancing the interest of the game.

(Means 2) In the gaming machine of Means 1,
the identification information includes first identification information and second identification information;
each of the first identification information and the second identification information can be independently variably displayed at the same time;
The first identification information corresponds to the first variable display effect,
The second identification information corresponds to the second variable display effect,
The switching condition is that the variable display result of the second identification information becomes the specific display result in the specific game state.
Therefore, it is possible to switch the variable display effect according to the result of the variable display of the identification information, thereby making the game more interesting.

(Means 3) In the gaming machine of Means 2,
The effect executing means can continuously execute the first variable display effect without switching to the second variable display effect when the switching condition is not satisfied in the specific game state (when the variable display result of the second identification information is a display result other than the specific display result).
Therefore, it is possible to switch the variable display effect according to the result of the variable display of the identification information, thereby making the game more interesting.

(Means 4) In the game machine of means 2 or 3,
When the variable display of the identification information is performed in the specific game state and the switching condition is not satisfied when the number of times of variable display of the identification information is the predetermined number of times (when the variable display result of the second identification information is a display result other than the specific display result), the effect execution means can execute a second specific effect.
Therefore, by executing the second specific performance when the specific game state is terminated and the variable display performance is switched, it is possible to eliminate the sense of incongruity when switching the variable display performance, so that the amusement of the game can be enhanced.

1 is a front view of a pachinko machine; FIG. It is a rear view of the pachinko machine. It is a front view showing a game board unit alone. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. It is a block diagram showing various electronic devices installed in the pachinko machine. FIG. 11 is a flowchart (1/2) showing an example of a procedure of reset start processing; FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart (2/2) showing an example of a procedure of reset start processing; FIG. 7 is a flowchart specifically showing an example of a procedure of power failure occurrence check processing; 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of interrupt management processing; FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure of switch input event processing; FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a 1st special design memory|storage update process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a 2nd special design memory|storage update process. It is a flow chart showing a configuration example of a special symbol game process. It is a flow chart showing a procedure example of special symbol variation pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of special design storage area shift processing. It is a figure which shows the structure row|line|column of the stop design selection table at the time of a special design big hit. It is a figure which shows an example of a stop design selection table at the time of a small hit. FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of a number-of-times counter value management process; FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern selection table. It is a figure which shows the structure of each fluctuation pattern selection table. It is a figure which shows the structure of each fluctuation pattern selection table. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a process during a special design stop display. 6 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of display output management processing; It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable prize-winning apparatus management process. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure of a special winning opening opening pattern setting process; It is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. It is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a special prize opening opening-and-closing operation process. It is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening opening and closing operation process at the time of a small hit. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of processing when passing through a specific area; It is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening and closing operation process at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a special winning opening closing process. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for termination processing; It is a flow chart showing a configuration example of normal symbol game processing. It is a flow chart showing a procedure example of normal symbol variation pre-processing. It is an explanatory diagram showing the variation time of normal symbols and the opening pattern of the variable starting winning device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the selection probability of a normal design, and the selection probability of long opening. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed in a pachinko machine. It is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the opening time of the variable starting winning device and the variation time of the second special symbol. It is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the opening time of the variable starting winning device and the variation time of the second special symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation example of the production|presentation design. It is explanatory drawing of the display screen of a mini design and a 4th design. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of production|presentation control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of operation memory production|presentation management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of production|presentation design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of production|presentation design change pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of production|presentation design change pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of production|presentation design change pre-processing. It is explanatory drawing of a specific example when suggesting the production|presentation design of a variable object according to a game state. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of switching timings of effect screens; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of switching of effect screens; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of switching of effect screens; 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for chance lamp-related processing; It is explanatory drawing which shows the lighting aspect of a chance lamp in a normal state. It is explanatory drawing which shows the lighting mode of the chance lamp in a time saving state and a jackpot game state. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the lighting timing of the chance lamp and the output timing of the sound; It is explanatory drawing about a specific example when a chance lamp lights in a time saving state. It is explanatory drawing about a specific example when a chance lamp lights up in a jackpot game state. It is explanatory drawing about the execution timing of the production|presentation performed when it becomes a big hit or a small hit with a special design during a time saving state. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 2nd specific production|presentation performed when it becomes a big hit with a special design in fluctuation|variation other than the final fluctuation|variation of a time saving state. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st specific production|presentation performed when it becomes a big hit with a special design in the final fluctuation|variation of a time saving state.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as "pachinko machine") 1. As shown in FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. FIG. The pachinko machine 1 uses game balls as game media. In the game in the pachinko machine 1, each game ball is a medium having a game value, and the privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game can be converted into the game value based on, for example, the number of game balls acquired by the player. The overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

[overall structure]
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4 and an inner frame assembly 7 (plastic frame, game machine frame) as its main body. An integrated door unit 4 is located on the frontmost side when viewed from the front facing the player. The inner frame assembly 7 is positioned on the rear side (deep side) of the integrated door unit 4 , and the outer frame unit 2 is arranged so as to surround the outer side of the inner frame assembly 7 .

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

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

A unified lock unit 7a is provided on the inner side of the right edge (the left edge in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 as viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, locking devices (not shown) are also provided on the right side edges (rear sides) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2, respectively. As shown in FIG. 1, in a state in which the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 7a on the back side thereof disables the opening of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 together with the lock.

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

On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the integrated door unit 4 is unlocked while the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked, so that the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integral door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game parlor can remove obstacles such as clogged balls in the board surface. Further, when the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the tray unit 6 is also opened to the front side together.

Moreover, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with the game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4 . The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7, for example, with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side. The integrated door unit 4 has a vertically long circular window 4a formed in the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is mounted in the window 4a. The glass unit is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut to match the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the rear side of the integrated door unit 4 via a fixture (not shown). A game area 9a (board surface, game board) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and the game area 9a can be visually recognized by the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integral door unit 4 is closed, a space is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface to allow the game balls to flow down.

The receiving tray unit 6 has a shape projecting from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper tray 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. In the upper tray 6b, game balls lent to the player (rental balls) and game balls obtained by winning prizes (prize balls) can be stored. Further, the tray unit 6 is formed with a lower tray 6c below the upper tray 6b. The lower tray 6c stores the game balls that have been put out while the upper tray 6b is full. The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is a model connected to a card unit, and the game balls borrowed by the player are paid out to the tray unit 6 (upper tray 6b or lower tray 6c) from the payout device unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize balls.

A lending operation part 14 is provided on the upper surface of the receiving tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged in the lending operation part 14. - 特許庁When a player operates a ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted into a card unit (not shown), the number of game balls (for example, 125) corresponding to a predetermined degree unit (for example, 5 degrees) is rented. For this reason, a frequency display section (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation section 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium inserted in the card unit is displayed on this frequency display section. By operating the return button 12, the player can receive the return of the valuable medium with remaining points. Although the game machine connected to the card unit is taken as an example in this embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a game machine not connected to the card unit).

A handle unit 16 is installed at the lower right portion of the tray unit 6 . The player operates the handle unit 16 to operate the shooting control board set 174 and can shoot (hit) a game ball toward the game area 9a (see FIG. 3) (ball shooting device). The shot game ball rises from the lower edge of the game board unit 8 along the left edge, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 9a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (no reference numerals in the figure), etc. are arranged in the game area 9a, and the thrown game ball flows down the game area 9a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmills. The configuration of the inside of the game area 9a (board surface, game board) will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

[Composition of front frame]
The integral door unit 4 is provided with a lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for presentation. Among them, the lens unit 47 incorporates a frame lamp 46 , and the upper right illumination unit 49 incorporates a right frame lamp 50 .

The various frame lamps 46 and 50 described above perform effects by, for example, light emission from built-in LEDs (lighting, blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, etc.). Speakers 54a to 54d are incorporated in the integrated door unit 4, respectively. These speakers 54a to 54d output sound effects, BGM, voices, etc. (general sound) to execute effects.

Also, in the center of the tray unit 6, a performance button 45 is installed in front of the upper tray 6b. By pressing the performance button 45, the player can switch the performance contents (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device 42), or generate some performance (announcement performance, probability variable promotion performance, promotion performance during the big win, etc.) during the fluctuation of the pattern, the determination display of the big win, or the big win game.

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

[Construction of the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a power control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a payout device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, a payout control board unit 176, a back cover unit 178, etc. are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer (not shown)) that make up the power system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, a ground wire (ground terminal) 166, and connection wiring (not shown) are installed.

The above payout device unit 172 has, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference numeral), of which the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7, and can store game balls supplied from a supply route (not shown). The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are led to the prize ball case through an upper prize ball gutter (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game balls delivered from the payout device unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

The external terminal board 160 is for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (e.g., data display device, hall computer, etc.), and from this external terminal board 160, various external information signals (e.g., winning ball information, door opening information, pattern determination frequency information, big win information, start opening information, etc.) representing the game progress state, maintenance state, etc. of the pachinko machine 1 are output to the external electronic device.

The power cord 164 secures the power supply (electric power) necessary for the pachinko machine 1 to operate, for example, by being connected to a power supply (for example, AC 24V) installed in an island facility of the game arcade. The ground wire 166 is also connected to a ground terminal installed in the island equipment to secure the grounding of the pachinko machine 1 .

[Configuration of game board unit]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 has a game board 9 serving as a base, and a game area 9a is formed on the front side of the game board 9 . The game board 9 is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate, and when the game board unit 8 is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 9 is parallel to the glass unit. On the front surface of the game board 9, the above-described game area 9a is formed inside a substantially circular firing rail (no reference numeral).

A relatively large production unit 40 is arranged in the center of the game area 9a, and the game area 9a is largely divided into a left part, a right part and a lower part centering on the production unit 40. - 特許庁

The left part of the game area 9a is a first game area (hereinafter also referred to as left hitting area) used in the normal game state (non-time saving state), and the right part of the game area 9a is an advantageous game state (big hit game state, small hit game state, time saving state). In addition, in this embodiment, a non-time-saving state may be called a non-time-saving state, and a time-saving state may be called a time-saving state.

At the top of the game area, a guide passage 18 based on a section having an entrance (for example, an entrance of a line of passages formed in the upper part of the performance unit 40) and an exit is formed for guiding the game balls shot toward the upper part of the game area 9a to the right hitting area.

In the game area 9a, a starting gate 20, a normal winning opening 22, a first starting winning opening 26, a variable starting winning device 28, a variable winning device 30, etc. are distributed and installed.

Among them, the normal winning opening 22 is arranged on the left side of the game area 9a. The first start winning opening 26 is arranged in the center of the lower portion of the game area 9a. The starting gate 20, the variable starting winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30 are arranged in the right part of the game area 9a. In this embodiment, the variable winning device 30, the variable starting winning device 28, and the starting gate 20 are arranged in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side. Therefore, the variable starting winning device 28 is arranged downstream of the variable winning device 30 in the downflow path of the game ball.

A game ball shot into the game area 9a enters a first starting prize winning port 26 and a normal winning prize port 22 in the process of flowing down, passes through a starting gate 20, or enters a variable starting prize winning device 28 during operation and a variable prize winning device 30 during opening operation.

The game balls passing through the starting gate 20, the game balls entering the normal prize winning port 22, the first starting prize winning port 26, the variable starting prize winning device 28, and the variable winning prize device 30 are recovered to the back side of the game board unit 8 through through holes formed in the game board (plywood material, transparent board, etc. constituting the game board unit 8).

Here, in this embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 9a (board surface), when the game ball is entered into the first start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22, it is necessary to hit the game ball into the left-handed area in the game area 9a (execute the so-called "left-handed hitting").

On the other hand, when the game ball is entered into the starting gate 20, the variable start winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30, it is necessary to hit the game ball into the right hitting area within the game area 9a (execute the so-called "right hitting").

When the game ball passes through the starting gate 20, an operation lottery (normal pattern lottery) is performed. Then, the variable starting prize winning device 28 is activated when a predetermined operation condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol lottery is won and the normal symbol is stop-displayed for a predetermined stop-display time in a win mode).

The variable start-up winning device 28 has a plate-shaped opening/closing member 28a. The opening/closing member 28a can be reciprocated in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown). In a normal state, the opening/closing member 28a is housed inside the board surface of the game board 9. As shown in FIG. At this time, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start prize opening 28b of the variable start prize winning device 28, and the game ball flows downstream without rolling on the upper surface of the opening/closing member 28a. Then, when the variable starting prize winning device 28 operates, the opening/closing member 28a protrudes forward from the board surface (that is, to the player side). The opening/closing member 28a is inclined from right to left in the figure. In addition, a second start winning opening 28b is provided on the left side of the opening/closing member 28a. Then, when the opening/closing member 28a protrudes, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening/closing member 28a and is guided to the second start winning opening 28b. As a result, when the opening/closing member 28a protrudes, the difficulty of the game ball entering the second start winning opening 28b of the variable starting winning device 28 is reduced, and the game ball on the opening/closing member 28a can enter the second start winning opening 28b.

The variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when special symbols are stop-displayed in the form of a big win or when special symbols are stop-displayed in the form of a small win).

The variable winning device 30 includes a plate-shaped opening/closing member 30a. The opening/closing member 30a can reciprocate in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown). In the normal state, the opening/closing member 30a protrudes from the board surface of the game board 9 toward the player side. At this time, since the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening/closing member 30a, the game ball cannot flow into the variable winning device 30. - 特許庁Then, when the variable winning device 30 operates, the opening/closing member 30a is pulled into the inside of the board surface, and the inflow of game balls into the variable winning device 30 becomes possible. When the game ball flows into the variable winning device 30, it becomes possible to enter the game ball into the big winning hole 30b provided in the variable winning device 30. - 特許庁In addition, hereinafter, the big winning hole 30b may be simply referred to as a big winning hole.

Here, in the variable prize winning device 30, a specific area guide device 30c is provided. A specific area (V winning opening) switch 85a and a non-specific area (non-V winning opening) switch 85b are provided side by side on the downstream side of the specific area guidance device 30c. The specific area switch 85a and the non-specific area switch 85b are composed of sensors through which game balls can pass. Then, the passage area of the game ball in the specific area switch 85a is the specific area 30d, and the passage area of the game ball in the non-specific area switch 85b is the non-specific area 30e.

The specific area guidance device 30c is rotatable about an axis extending in the front-rear direction by a solenoid (not shown). Then, the specific area guide device 30c can be rotated to either a first position where the game ball can easily pass through the specific area switch 85a (that is, the specific area 30d) or a second position where the game ball can easily pass through the non-specific area switch 85b (that is, the non-specific area 30e) according to the game situation. As will be described later in detail, the specified area 30d and the non-specified area 30e are areas for determining whether or not to develop the small winning game state into the big winning game state.

A game ball that has entered (won a prize) in the variable winning device 30 is distributed to either the specific region 30d or the non-specific region 30e by the specific region guidance device 30c. A game ball that has passed through the specified area or the non-specified area is collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the downstream through-hole.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the specific area guidance device 30c is positioned at the first position regardless of the game state. As a result, most of the game balls entering the variable winning device 30 pass through the specific area 30d. Therefore, when a game ball enters the variable prize winning device 30 when winning a small win, it almost always develops into a big win.

It should be noted that entering (entering) a game ball into each winning hole or winning device is also referred to as "winning". In particular, winning a prize in a starting prize opening (first starting prize opening, second starting prize opening) is also referred to as starting prize.

The game board unit 8 is provided with the effect unit 40 from its central position to its right side. The effect unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a which functions as a guide member for changing the flowing direction of the game ball, and has various decorative members 40b inside. The decorative member 40b enhances the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by its three-dimensional shape, and can perform a dramatic action by emitting transmitted light from, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED, etc.). A liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the performance unit 40, and various performance images including performance patterns corresponding to the special patterns are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42.例文帳に追加Thus, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the features of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40. - 特許庁In addition, when the game board 9 is a transparent resin plate (for example, an acrylic board) as in the present embodiment, various decorations (including movable bodies and light-emitting bodies) arranged not only on the front side but also behind the game board 9 can add decorativeness.

Also, the board surface of the game board 9 is provided with a plurality of lamps for effecting. Specifically, as the plurality of lamps, there are provided a board surface lamp 53a built in the decorative member 40b of the effect unit 40 and the decorative member 60a of the accessory 60 arranged below the liquid crystal display 42, a chance lamp 53b built into the decorative member 61a of the decorative portion 61 arranged in the vicinity (lower right side) of the variable winning device 30, and an attacker lamp 53c built into the variable winning device 30.

When the board lamp 53a lights up and emits light, the decorative member 40b of the performance unit 40 and the decorative member 60a of the accessory 60 emit light toward the front side of the pachinko machine 1.例文帳に追加Also, the decorative member 61a is made up of a face-like decoration. Then, when the chance lamp 53b is turned on, the eye of the decorative member 61a emits light toward the front side of the pachinko machine 1. - 特許庁The attacker lamp 53c also emits light toward the front side of the pachinko machine 1 in the same manner.

In this example, the board surface lamp 53a is composed of one LED built in the decorative member 40b of the effect unit 40 and two LEDs containing the accessory 60. As shown in FIG. Also, the chance lamp 53b is composed of one LED built in the decorative member 61a. Also, the attacker lamp 53c is composed of four LEDs.

On the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, for example, in synchronism with the variable display of the first special pattern and the variable display of the second special pattern, the variable display of a plurality of kinds of performance patterns (such as patterns showing numbers etc.) different from the special patterns is performed. Here, in synchronism (in other words, in parallel) with the variable display of the first special pattern, the variable display of the second special pattern, and the variable display of the normal pattern, the performance patterns are variably displayed (for example, vertically scrolled display or updated display) in the respective ``left'', ``middle'' and ``right'' performance pattern display areas 42L, 42C and 42R. Incidentally, in the present embodiment, the performance pattern that is variably displayed in the performance design display area 42L is sometimes called a left design, the performance design that is variably displayed in the performance design display area 42C is called a middle design, and the performance design that is variably displayed in the performance design display area 42R is sometimes called a right design.

Further, for example, on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a display area is provided for displaying pending display corresponding to the variable display whose execution is pending. In this example, a first reserved display area 42a for displaying a reserved display corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol and a second reserved display area 42b for displaying a reserved display corresponding to the variable display of the second special symbol are provided.

It should be noted that the number of pending variable displays is also referred to as the number of pending memories. The reserved memory number corresponding to the first special symbol is also referred to as the first reserved memory number, and the reserved memory number corresponding to the second special symbol is also referred to as the second reserved memory number. The sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count is also referred to as the total reserved memory count.

In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 9a, and game balls that do not enter (win a prize) in various winning ports are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out port 32.例文帳に追加In addition, all the game balls hit into the game area 9a including the game balls entering the normal winning hole 22, the first starting winning hole 26, the second starting winning hole 28b and the variable winning device 30 are recovered to the back side of the game board unit 8.例文帳に追加The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and join the replenishment route of the island facility (not shown).

FIG. 4 is a front view showing an enlarged part of the game board unit 8 (lower right position in the window 4a).

In the game board unit 8, for example, a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a are provided at the lower right position in the window 4a, and a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 35, a first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, a second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and a game state display device 38 are provided.

Among them, the normal design display device 33, for example, alternately lights two lamps (LEDs) to variably display the normal design, and stops and displays the normal design by lighting or extinguishing the lamp. In this embodiment, the winning symbols always stop because the probability of winning is 1/1. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays the number of 0 to 4 memories by combining two lamps (LED), for example, extinguishing, lighting, and blinking. For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, a stored number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a stored number of 1 is displayed, in a display mode in which the same lamp is blinking, a stored number of 2 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is blinking and another lamp is lit, a stored number is displayed in a display mode of 3, and in a display mode in which both lamps are blinked, a stored number of 4 is displayed. Although two lamps (LED) are used here, four lamps (LED) may be used to form the normal symbol working memory lamp 33a. In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps that are lit.

Every time a game ball passes through the starting gate 20, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to a display mode after increasing one by one (up to four) in order to memorize the occurrence of passage as a trigger for the operation lottery, and changes to a display mode after decreasing one by one each time the variation of the normal symbol is started with the passage as a trigger. In this embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of stored symbols is 0), the display mode does not change even if the game ball passes through the starting gate 20 in a state where the normal symbols can already start to change (at the time of stop display). That is, the number of memories (up to 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a represents the number of passages in which the normal symbol variation has not yet started at that time.

In addition, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 can display the variable state and the stopped state of the special symbol by, for example, a 7-segment LED (with dots) (symbol display means, first symbol display means, second symbol display means). In addition, the special pattern display devices 34 and 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, circularly). In this embodiment, since the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not simultaneously varied, the first special symbol display device 34 is used for the variable display of the special symbol. The second special symbol display device 35 is used for variable display of normal symbols. Then, the normal symbol of the type determined by lottery is stopped and displayed by the second special symbol display device 35 . The variable display by the second special symbol display device 35 is performed in synchronization with the variable display by the normal symbol display device 33 .

In addition, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a are, for example, two lamps (LED) by a display mode composed of a combination of extinguishing, lighting, and blinking, respectively. 0 to 4 memory numbers are displayed (memory number display means). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, a stored number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a stored number of 1 is displayed, in a display mode in which the same lamp is blinking, a stored number of 2 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is blinking and another lamp is lit, a stored number is displayed in a display mode of 3, and in a display mode in which both lamps are blinked, a stored number of 4 is displayed.

Each time a game ball enters the first start winning hole 26, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a changes to a display mode after increasing one by one (up to four) in order to memorize the occurrence of the entering ball, and changes to a display mode after decreasing one by one each time the variation of the special symbol is started with the entering ball as a trigger. In addition, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a changes to a display mode after increasing one by one (up to four) in the sense of memorizing that a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 (second start winning port 28b) each time a game ball enters the above variable start winning device 28 (second start winning hole 28b), and changes to a display mode after decreasing one by one each time the special symbol starts to change with the entering ball as a trigger. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the display mode does not change even if the game ball enters the first start winning hole 26 in a state where the first special symbol can already start to fluctuate (at the time of stop display). In addition, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the stored number is 0), the display mode does not change even if the game ball enters the variable start prize winning device 28 (second start prize winning port 28b) in a state where the second special symbol can already start to fluctuate (at the time of stop display). That is, the memory number (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a represents the number of times the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not yet started to change at that time.

The gaming state display device 38 includes, for example, five LEDs respectively corresponding to the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b, the small hit display lamp 38c, the time saving state display lamp 38e, and the firing position designation lamp 38f. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and the game state display device 38 are mounted on one integrated display board 90 and attached to the game board unit 8.

The "variable display" of the special symbols means, for example, that a plurality of types of special symbols are variably displayed (the same applies to normal symbols). Variations include updating display of a plurality of patterns, scrolling display of a plurality of patterns, deformation of one or more patterns, enlargement/reduction of one or more patterns, and the like. In the variation of special symbols and normal symbols, which will be described later, a plurality of types of special symbols or normal symbols are updated and displayed. In the later-described variation of performance symbols, a plurality of types of performance symbols are scrolled or updated, or one or more performance symbols are deformed or enlarged/reduced. Note that the variation also includes a mode in which a certain symbol is displayed blinking. At the end of the variable display, a predetermined special symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as derivation or derivation display) as a display result (the same applies to variable display of other symbols to be described later). Variable display may be expressed as variable display or variation.

[Outline of game progress]
The game state of the pachinko machine 1 includes a normal state (non-time-saving state) and a time-saving state in which the probability of a big win is the same as in the normal state but the efficiency of changing special patterns is improved compared to the normal state. In addition, in this embodiment, the special design may be abbreviated as a special design, and the normal design may be abbreviated as a general design. Also, the first special symbol may be omitted as special figure 1 and the second special symbol as special figure 2.

In the pachinko machine 1, when the game state is the normal state, it is advantageous for the player to aim at the left side of the game area 9a and perform a shooting operation (so-called left-handed operation). The normal state is a state that is controlled in the same manner as the initial setting state of the pachinko machine 1 (for example, when a predetermined recovery process is not executed after power-on, such as when the system is reset). In a normal state, a left-handed operation is performed by a player's rotation operation to a handle unit 16 provided in the pachinko machine 1, and when a game ball enters a first start winning hole 26, a first special symbol display device 34 starts variable display of the first special symbol. In addition, since the opening and closing member 28a protrudes in the normal state for a very short time, it is impossible for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole 28b during the normal state.

In addition, when the game ball enters the start winning opening during the period during which the variable display of the special symbols is executed, the period during which the game is controlled to the jackpot game state or the small win game state (when the start winning occurs but the variable display of the special symbols based on the start winning cannot be executed immediately), the variable display of the special symbols based on the winning is suspended up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

If the big winning pattern is stop-displayed in the variable display of the first special pattern, it is "big hit", and if the small winning pattern different from the big winning pattern is stopped and displayed, it is "small hit". Also, if a lost symbol is stopped and displayed, it is "lost".

After the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol becomes "big win", the game is controlled to a big win game state as an advantageous state for the player. After the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol becomes "small win", the game is controlled to a small win game state. In both the big-hit game state and the small-hit game state, the player performs a right-handed operation by rotating the handle unit 16 of the pachinko machine 1 .

In the jackpot game state, the jackpot 30b formed by the variable prize winning device 30 is opened in a predetermined manner. The open state continues until the timing when a predetermined period of time (for example, 29 seconds) elapses or the timing until the number of game balls entering the big winning opening 30b reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10), whichever is earlier. The predetermined period is an upper limit period during which the large winning opening 30b can be opened in one round, and is hereinafter also referred to as an upper limit opening period. One cycle in which the big winning opening 30b is open is called a round (round game). In the jackpot game state, the round can be repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number of times is reached.

In the jackpot game state, the player can get a prize ball by entering the game ball into the big winning hole 30b. Therefore, the jackpot gaming state is an advantageous state for the player. The larger the number of rounds in the jackpot game state and the longer the upper limit period of opening, the more advantageous the player is.

In addition, a jackpot type is set in the "jackpot". For example, a plurality of types of opening modes (number of rounds and upper limit period of opening) of the big winning opening and game states after the jackpot game state (normal state, time-saving state, etc.) are prepared, and jackpot types are set according to these. As the jackpot type, there may be provided a jackpot type in which a large number of prize balls can be obtained, and a jackpot type in which a small number of prize balls or almost no prize balls can be obtained.

In the small winning game state, the big winning opening 30b formed by the variable winning device 30 is opened in a predetermined manner. The open state continues until the timing when a predetermined period of time (for example, 29 seconds) elapses or the timing until the number of game balls entering the big winning opening 30b reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10), whichever is earlier. In the small winning game state, only one round can be executed.

Then, in the small winning game state, when the game ball entering the big winning opening 30b passes through the specific area 30d, it is controlled to the big winning game state after the small winning game state ends. At this time, the small winning game state is the first round, and the big winning game state is started from the second round.

After the small winning game state is finished without being controlled to the big winning game state, the game state is not changed, and the game state before the display result of the variable display of the special pattern becomes "small winning" is continuously controlled.

On the other hand, when the game ball entering the big winning opening 30b passes through the non-specific area 30e, the small winning game state ends without developing into the big winning game state. However, in the present embodiment, since the game ball entering the big winning hole 30b always passes through the specific area 30d, when a small win occurs, it develops into a big win.

After the jackpot game state is finished, the game may be controlled to a time-saving state according to the jackpot type. In this embodiment, all big hits are controlled to the time saving state. When the big hit game is finished and the game state is controlled to the time saving state, it is advantageous for the player to aim at the right side of the game area and perform the shooting operation (right hitting operation). When the game ball passes through the starting gate 20 by rotating the handle unit 16 provided in the pachinko machine 1 by the player, the normal symbol display device 33 starts to display the variable normal symbols. When the game ball passes through the start gate 20 during the execution period of the previous variable display of the normal symbols (when the game ball passes through the start gate 20 but the variable display of the normal symbols based on the passage cannot be executed immediately), the variable display of the normal symbols based on the passage is suspended up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

In the variable display of the normal symbols, if the normal winning symbols are stopped and displayed, the display result of the normal symbols becomes "normal winning". On the other hand, if a normal pattern (normal pattern lost pattern) other than the normal pattern per pattern is stopped and displayed, the display result of the normal pattern becomes "normal pattern lost". When it becomes a "universal figure hit", open control is performed to open the variable starting prize winning device 28 for a predetermined period (the second starting prize opening 28b is opened). In addition, in this embodiment, since it becomes a general-purpose hit in 1/1, it is all the general-purpose-per pattern, but a plurality of types of symbols are provided as the general-purpose-per pattern (see FIG. 36(b)).

When the game ball enters the second starting winning hole 28b formed in the variable starting winning device 28, the second special symbol display device 35 starts to display the second special symbol in a variable manner.

In the variable display of the second special symbols, if the big win pattern is stop-displayed, it is a "big hit", and if the small win pattern different from the big win pattern is stop-displayed, it is a "small hit". In addition, if a winning symbol different from the big winning symbol or the small winning symbol is stopped and displayed, it becomes "lost".

After the display result of the variable display of the second special symbol becomes "big win", the game is controlled to a big win game state as an advantageous state for the player. After the display result of the variable display of the second special symbol becomes "small win", the game is controlled to a small win game state. In the small winning game state and the big winning game state, the same game as described above is performed.

In the time-saving state, the probability of ``performing a normal pattern'' in the variable display of the normal pattern is the same probability (1/1) as in the normal state (non-time-saving state), but the opening period of the second start winning opening 28b when the variable display of the normal pattern is ``performing a normal pattern'' may be longer than in the non-time-saving state. Specifically, in the present embodiment, as the opening mode of the second start winning opening 28b, there are a short opening in which the second starting winning opening 28b is opened for an extremely short period of time so that no game ball can win a prize, and a long opening in which the second starting winning opening 28b is opened for a longer period of time than the short opening so that a plurality of game balls can win. In the non-time saving state, only short opening is performed, but in the time saving state, long opening may be performed. As a result, it is impossible to enter the game ball into the variable start-up winning device 28 in the normal state, but it becomes possible to enter the game ball into the variable start-up winning device 28 in the time saving state. Furthermore, in the time-saving state, the time during which the normal symbols are displayed in a variable manner is also shorter than in the non-time-saving state.

In this example, when a game ball enters the second start winning hole 28b, there is a probability of about 1/1 that the game will be a small hit, or very rarely a big hit (there will be no loss). Since it is limited to the time saving state that the game ball can be won in the second start winning hole 28b, it can be said that the time saving state is easily controlled to the small winning game state.

When the long opening is performed, a plurality of game balls can be won in the second start prize-winning opening 28b, so that the special pattern suspension memory (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as ``special symbol suspension'') is likely to occur. Then, a small win occurs at about 1/1 in the second starting prize winning port 28b, and a big win occurs even if no small win occurs. Therefore, when a special prize reservation occurs at the second start winning prize port 28b, a small win or a big prize is generated based on the first prize to control to a big prize game state, and in the first variation after the big prize game state is finished, a small prize or a big prize is generated again based on the special prize reservation to control to the big prize game state. Therefore, when three special symbols are reserved at the second start prize-winning port 28b, it is possible to make four big wins through one change in the flow of big win game state→1 variation→big win game state→1 change→big win game state→1 change→big win game state→time reduction state. In the present embodiment, the game state with one variation in this flow is referred to as a series of big wins. In addition, since one variation during the jackpot series is after the end of the jackpot game state, it is controlled to the time saving state as the actual game state, but the variation display is performed by the special figure production pattern. Therefore, when the jackpot is being played in a row, a state designation command to that effect is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the effect control CPU 126 .

The time-saving state continues until a predetermined termination condition is established, such as execution of variable display of special symbols a predetermined number of times or execution of variable display of normal symbols a predetermined number of times. And, the end condition that the variable display of the special symbol of a predetermined number of times or the variable display of the normal symbol of a predetermined number of times is executed is also called the number of cuts (number of cuts probability variable etc.).

In addition, in this embodiment, the time saving state A, the time saving state B, and the time saving state C are provided as the time saving state. In the time saving state A, when the total of the number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 reaches 5 times, the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 is 1 time, and the number of fluctuations of normal figure reaches 10000 times, the time saving state ends. In the time saving state B, when the total of the number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 reaches 5 times, the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 is 1 time, and the number of fluctuations of normal figure reaches 200 times, the time saving state ends. In the time saving state C, when the total of the number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 reaches 5 times, the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 is 1 time, and the number of fluctuations of normal figure reaches 100 times, the time saving state ends.

[Progress of production, etc.]
In the pachinko machine 1, various effects are executed according to the progress of the game. The effect is performed by displaying various effect images on the liquid crystal display 42 .

As a performance executed according to the progress of the game, in ``left'', ``middle'' and ``right'' performance pattern display areas 42L, 42C and 42R provided on a liquid crystal display 42, the variation display of performance symbols is started corresponding to the start of the variation display of the first special pattern, the variation display of the second special pattern and the start of the variation display of the normal symbols. At the timing when the display result (also called fixed special pattern) is stopped and displayed in the variable display of the first special pattern and the variable display of the second special pattern, the fixed performance pattern (combination of three performance patterns) as the display result of the variable display of the performance pattern is also stopped and displayed. Similarly, at the timing when the display result (also referred to as fixed normal pattern) is stop-displayed in the variable display of normal patterns, the fixed production pattern (a combination of three production patterns) which is the display result of the variable display of production patterns is also stop-displayed.

During the period from the start of the variable display of the performance symbols to the end thereof, the mode of the variable display of the performance symbols may be a predetermined ready-to-win mode. Here, the ready-to-win mode is a mode in which, when the performance symbols stopped and displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 42 constitute a part of a big winning combination or a small winning combination described later, the performance symbols not yet stopped and displayed continue to be variably displayed.

In addition, the ready-to-win effect is executed in response to the ready-to-win mode being set during the variable display of the effect symbols. In the pachinko machine 1, a plurality of types of ready-to-win performances are executed in which the display results (the display result of the variable display of the special symbols and the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols) become a ``big win'' (also called the reliability of the big win or the expectation of the big win) or the ratio of the ``minor win'' (also called the reliability of the small win or the expectation of the small win) according to the mode of presentation. The ready-to-win performance includes, for example, a normal reach and a super-to-win with higher reliability than the normal reach.

In the present embodiment, during the normal state or during the jackpot consecutive games, the variable display of the effect symbols corresponding to the special symbols is performed. More specifically, since the game ball cannot be entered into the second start winning hole 28b in the normal state, the variable display of the performance symbol corresponding to the first special symbol is performed during the normal state. In addition, since a series of big wins is generated when a reserved memory is generated in the second start prize winning port 28b in the time saving state, the variable display of the performance pattern corresponding to the second special pattern is performed during the series of big wins.

When the display result of the variable display of the special pattern becomes a ``big win'', a determined performance pattern that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived as the display result of the variable display of the performance pattern on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 42 (the display result of the variable display of the performance pattern becomes a ``big win''). For example, the same effect symbols (for example, "7" etc.) are stop-displayed together on predetermined effective lines in the "left", "middle" and "right" effect symbol display areas 42L, 42C and 42R.

When the display result of the variable display of the special symbols becomes a ``small hit'', a fixed performance pattern (for example, ``1, 3, 5'', etc.) which is a predetermined small winning combination is derived on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 42 as the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols (the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols is a ``small hit''). For example, the effect symbols constituting the chance symbols are stopped and displayed on predetermined effective lines in the "left", "middle" and "right" effect symbol display areas 42L, 42C and 42R.

When the display result of the variable display of the special symbols is "miss", the mode of the variable display of the performance symbols does not become the ready-to-win mode, and as the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols, the fixed performance symbol of the non-reach combination (also referred to as "non-reach failure") may be stopped and displayed (the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols may be "non-reach failure"). Further, when the display result is "lost", after the mode of the variable display of the performance symbols becomes the ready-to-win mode, as the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols, the determined performance symbols of a predetermined ready-to-win combination (also called "lack of reach"), which is not a big hit combination, may be stop-displayed (the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols is "loss of reach").

In addition, in the present embodiment, during the time saving state, the variable display of the effect symbols corresponding to the normal symbols is performed. As described above, when the game ball enters the second start winning hole 28b in the time saving state, it becomes a small win or a big win, and even if it becomes a small win, it develops into a big win. Therefore, when a game ball wins in the second start winning hole 28b in the time-saving state, a predetermined big hit combination is derived as a display result of the variable display of the performance symbols on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 42 (the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols becomes "big win"). For example, the same effect symbols (for example, "7" etc.) are stop-displayed together on predetermined effective lines in the "left", "middle" and "right" effect symbol display areas 42L, 42C and 42R.

The effects that can be executed by the pachinko machine 1 include display of suspension display and variable display display. In addition, as other effects, for example, a notice effect that foretells the reliability of the big hit is executed during the variable display of the effect symbols. The notice effect includes a notice effect for notifying the reliability of the big hit in the variable display during execution and a pre-reading notice effect for notifying the reliability of the big hit in the variable display before execution (variation display whose execution is suspended). As a look-ahead notice effect (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a look-ahead effect), an effect of changing the display mode of the display corresponding to the variable display (suspended display or active display) to a mode different from normal may be executed.

Further, in the liquid crystal display device 42, by temporarily stopping the performance pattern during the variable display of the performance pattern and then resuming the variable display, a pseudo-continuous performance may be executed in which one variable display is simulated as a plurality of variable displays.

During the big winning game state, the performance during the big winning is executed to report the big winning game state. As the effect during the big win, the effect of notifying the number of rounds or the promotion effect indicating that the value of the big win game state is improved may be executed. Also, during the small-hit game state, an effect during the small-hit game for notifying the small-hit game state is executed. By executing a common performance during the small winning game state and the big winning game state in a part of the big winning type (the big winning type of the big winning game state in the same manner as the small winning game state, for example, the big winning type in which the subsequent game state is a high probability state), the player may not know whether the current state is the small winning game state or the big winning game state. In such a case, it may be made impossible to distinguish between the high-probability state and the low-probability state by executing a common performance after the end of the small-win game state and after the end of the big-win game state.

In this embodiment, the large winning opening 30b is controlled to be open in the big winning game state, and a round game is performed in which the large winning opening is controlled to be closed on the condition that the number of game balls entering the big winning opening 30b reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10) (the winning of game balls into the big winning opening is detected 10 times). Also called a prize) can also be detected, and it is configured to pay out prize balls even when over-winning is detected. For example, when one over-winning occurs after the 10th game ball enters the big winning hole until it is closed, 15×(10+1)=165 prize balls are awarded in one round game.

In this embodiment, the chance lamp 53b and the attacker lamp 53c emit light when an over-win occurs.

In addition, in this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start prize winning port 26, the start gate 20, or the second start prize winning port 28b in the normal state or the time saving state, a prefetch performance lottery for determining whether or not to execute the prefetch performance is executed. When the prefetch effect lottery is won, the effect sound is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and the board lamp 53a, the chance lamp 53b, and the frame lamps 46 and 50 emit light according to the game situation.

Furthermore, the board surface lamp 53a, the chance lamp 53b, and the frame lamps 46 and 50 also emit light when the specific variation pattern is selected in the normal state. Specifically, in the present embodiment, as the specific variation pattern, a full rotation ready-to-win pattern is set in which a full-rotation ready-to-win performance is executed in which the symbols stop after four times of pseudo-variation display that repeats the variation display and temporary stop display of the symbols, and in the fourth pseudo-variation display, the performance symbols fluctuate in a state of a big hit combination (for example, a state in which the same symbols are aligned in the performance symbol display areas 42L, 42C, and 42R). When the fluctuation display by the full rotation reach is performed, the big hit is confirmed.

Further, for example, a demonstration image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 when the variable display of special symbols is not executed.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices installed in the pachinko machine 1. As shown in FIG. The pachinko machine 1 is provided with a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of control operations. Note that the main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 .

In addition, the main control unit 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72, which is a central processing unit, is mounted, and the main control CPU 72 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 74 and a RAM (RWM) 76 are integrated together with a CPU core and registers (not shown). The main controller 70 is also equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77 . Of these, the random number generator 75 generates a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for judging the jackpot of the special symbol lottery or the winning judgment of the normal symbol lottery. In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input/output (I/O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter/timer circuit (CTC), etc., which are mounted on the circuit board together with the main control CPU 72. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or an inner layer portion).

The starting gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting passage of a game ball. In addition, the game board unit 8 is provided with a first start winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first starting winning opening 26, a second starting winning opening switch 82 corresponding to the second starting winning opening 28b, a count switch 84 corresponding to the variable winning apparatus 30, a specific area switch 85a corresponding to the specific area 30d of the variable winning apparatus 30, and a non-specific area switch 85b corresponding to the non-specific area 30e of the variable winning apparatus 30.

The first start prize winning port switch 80 detects the entry of a game ball into the first start prize winning port 26, and the second start prize winning port switch 82 detects the entry of a game ball into the second start prize winning port 28b. When a game ball is detected by the first start winning opening switch 80 or the second starting winning opening switch 82, a predetermined number (one) of game balls are paid out as prize balls based on this detection information.

Also, the count switch 84 is for counting the number of balls entered into the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening 30b). When game balls are detected by the count switch 84, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as prize balls based on this detection information.

The specific area switch 85a is for detecting that a game ball has entered the specific area 30d of the variable winning device 30. FIG. The non-specific area switch 85b is for detecting that a game ball has entered the non-specific area 30e of the variable winning device 30. FIG.

Similarly, the game board unit 8 is provided with a normal winning hole switch 81 for detecting entry of a game ball into the normal winning hole 22 . When game balls are detected by the normal winning opening switch 81, a predetermined number (six) of game balls are paid out as prize balls based on this detection information.

Winning detection signals from these switches are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input/output driver (not shown). Due to the configuration of the game board unit 8, in this embodiment, the detection signals from the gate switch 78, the normal prize winning port switch 81, the count switch 84, the specific area switch 85a, and the non-specific area switch 85b are transmitted via the panel relay terminal board 87, and the panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with wiring patterns, connection terminals, etc. for relaying the winning detection signals.

The normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a, and the game state display device 38 described above have their display operations controlled based on control signals from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals to these display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. Further, these display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and lamps 33a, 34a, 35a are installed in the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 90 as described above, and a control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to this integrated display board 90 via the panel relay terminal board 87.

In addition, the game board unit 8 is provided with a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 corresponding to the variable starting prize winning device 28 and a large winning opening solenoid 89 corresponding to the variable prize winning device 30 . These solenoids 88 and 89 are operated (excited) based on control signals from the main control CPU 72 to open and close (actuate) the variable starting prize winning device 28 and variable prize winning device 30, respectively. Control signals for these solenoids 88 and 89 are also transmitted from the main control CPU 72 via the panel relay terminal plate 87 .

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

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

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

In addition, for example, a payout road ball disconnect switch 104 is installed at the upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at the downstream position of the payout motor 102 . Each time the payout motor 102 is driven to actually pay out the prize balls, a count signal from the payout count switch 106 is input to the payout device board 100 . Also, when the ball runs out at the upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device board 100 . The payout device board 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual number of payouts and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device board 100 .

Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a full tank switch 161, for example, inside the lower tray 6c (at the back when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The actually paid-out prize balls (game balls) are discharged to the upper tray 6b through the channel unit 173, but when the upper tray 6b is filled with the game balls, the game balls paid out further flow into the lower tray 6c as described above. Furthermore, when the lower tray 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is thereby turned on, and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, the payout control CPU 94 temporarily suspends further prize ball motions even if a prize ball instruction command is received from the main control CPU 72, and stores the remaining number of prize balls that have not been paid out in the RAM 98.例文帳に追加The memory in the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, and even if a power cut (including a momentary blackout) occurs during the game, the remaining number of unpaid prize balls will not disappear.

Also, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with a firing control board 108. - 特許庁Also, a ball feed solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6 . The firing control board 108, firing solenoid 110 and ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the firing control board set 174 described above. Among them, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation to feed the game balls stored in the receiving tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined shooting position within the launcher case. Also, the shooting solenoid 110 hits the game ball sent to the shooting position, and continuously (intermittently) launches the game balls one by one toward the game area 9a as described above. In addition, the shooting interval of game balls is, for example, an interval of about 0.6 seconds (within 100 balls per minute).

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

A firing relay terminal plate 118 is installed in the receiver unit 6, and signals from the firing lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the firing stop switch 116 are transmitted to the firing control board 108 via the firing relay terminal plate 118. A drive signal from the firing control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the firing relay terminal plate 118 . When the player operates the firing handle, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) according to the amount of operation, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. As a result, the strength of hitting the game ball is adjusted according to the amount of operation by the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. In addition, a game ball lending device connection terminal plate 120 is connected to the shooting relay terminal plate 118, and when the card unit is not connected to the game ball lending device connection terminal plate 120, the driving circuit of the shooting control board 108 stops driving the shooting solenoid 110.

Further, the tray unit 6 incorporates a frequency display board 122 and a lending/returning switch board 123 . Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with an indicator (3-digit 7-segment LED) for the frequency display section. Also, switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12 are mounted on the lending and returning switch board 123, and when the ball lending button 10 or the returning button 12 is operated, the operation signal is transmitted from the lending and returning switch board 123 to the card unit via the game ball lending device connection terminal board 120. In addition, from the card unit, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted to the frequency display board 122 via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120 . A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display substrate 122 drives a display based on the frequency signal to numerically display the remaining frequency of the valuable medium. In addition, when no valuable medium is inserted into the card unit or when the remaining number of points of the inserted valuable medium becomes 0, the display circuit of the point display board 122 can drive the display to perform a demonstration display (a display prompting the insertion of a valuable medium).

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a performance control device 124 (computer for controlling performance) as a control configuration. This performance control device 124 controls the performance accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1 . The performance control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which a performance control CPU 126, which is a central processing unit, is mounted. The production control CPU 126 incorporates a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The performance control device 124 is provided at a position covered by a back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1. - 特許庁

The performance control device 124 is equipped with an input/output driver and various peripheral ICs (not shown), as well as a lamp driving circuit 132 and a sound driving circuit 134 . The performance control CPU 126 controls the performance based on the command for performance transmitted from the main control CPU 72, gives instructions to the lamp driving circuit 132 and the sound driving circuit 134, makes the frame lamps 46, 50, the board lamp 53a, the chance lamp 53b, the attacker lamp 53c emit light, and actually outputs sound effects, voices, etc. from the speakers 54a to 54d.

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

The lamp drive circuit 132 includes switching elements such as PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) ICs and MOSFETs (not shown). The lamp drive circuit 132 switches (or duty-switches) the drive voltage applied to various lamps including LEDs, and manages operations such as light emission and flashing. The various lamps include, in addition to the frame lamps 46 and 50, a board surface lamp 53a, a chance lamp 53b, and an attacker lamp 53c installed in the game board unit 8 for decoration and presentation. A board lamp 53a is an LED built in the performance unit 40 and the accessory 60, a chance lamp 53b is an LED arranged in the vicinity (specifically, on the right side) of the variable prize winning device 30, and an attacker lamp 53c is an LED built in the variable prize winning device 30.

The sound drive circuit 134 is a sound generator containing, for example, a sound ROM, a sound control IC, an amplifier (not shown), etc. The sound drive circuit 134 drives the speakers 54a to 54d to output sounds.

In this embodiment, a glass-framed decorative substrate 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the sound drive circuit 134 are applied to various frame lamps 46 and 50, the board surface lamp 53a, the chance lamp 53b, the attacker lamp 53c, and the speakers 54a to 54d via the glass-framed decorative substrate 136. A production button 45 is connected to the glass frame illumination board 136 , and when the player operates the production button 45 , the contact signal is input to the production control device 124 through the glass frame illumination board 136 . Further, a jog dial 45 a is connected to the glass frame illumination board 136 , and when the player rotates the jog dial 45 a , the rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame illumination board 136 . Here, an example in which the production button 45 and the jog dial 45a are connected to the glass frame illumination board 136 is given, but in the case of installing a saucer illumination board, the production button 45 and the jog dial 45a may be connected to the saucer illumination board.

The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8 , and its display screen is visible through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8 . In addition, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and this inverter board 158 generates AC power applied to the backlight of the liquid crystal display 42 (for example, a cold cathode tube). Furthermore, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display operation of the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. FIG. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146 as a general-purpose central processing unit and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a VDP 152 as a display processor is mounted. Among them, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). The VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 are integrated together with a processor core (not shown). A part of the storage area of the VRAM 156 can be used as a frame buffer.

The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program relating to the control of the effect, and the effect control CPU 126 executes control of the effect according to this program. Control of effects includes control of effects using the frame lamps 46, 50, board lamp 53a, chance lamp 53b, attacker lamp 53c, etc. and speakers 54a to 54d as described above, as well as control of effects by image display using the liquid crystal display 42. A performance control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, a performance number) on performance to a display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 receiving this performs control to specifically display an image for performance based on the basic information.

The display control CPU 146 outputs further detailed control signals to the VDP 152 . The VDP 152 having received this accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads the necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156 . Furthermore, the VDP 152 develops the image data on the VRAM 156 for each frame (still image per unit time) into a frame buffer, and individually drives each pixel (full-color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data.

In addition, a power control unit 162 (power control means) is provided on the back side of the inner frame assembly 7 . This power supply control unit 162 incorporates a switching power supply circuit, and when it takes in external power (for example, AC 24V, etc.) from the island equipment through the power cord 164, it can generate necessary power (for example, DC +34V, +12V, etc.). The power generated by the power control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70 , the payout control device 92 , the performance control device 124 and the inverter board 158 . Further, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the card unit via the terminal board 120 for lending equipment such as game balls. Low-voltage power (for example, DC +5 V) for logic is generated by a power supply IC (three-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Also, as described above, the power supply control unit 162 is grounded to the island facility through the ground wire 166 .

The external terminal board 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) are output to the outside from the external terminal board 160 via the payout control device 92. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72 ) and payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94 ) can output external information signals to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160 . Signals output from the external terminal board 160 are counted, for example, by a hall computer (not shown) of the game arcade. In addition, although the configuration via the payout control device 92 is taken as an example here, the configuration may be such that the external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160 .

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

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts reset start processing. The reset start process is a process for adjusting the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 by restoring the game state (so-called power recovery) based on the backup information saved at the time of the last power shutdown, or by clearing the backup information. Further, the reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for ensuring stable game operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjustment of the initial state.

6 and 7 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure of reset start processing. Each procedure of the processing performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described below.

Step S101: The main control CPU 72 first sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector type interrupt mode (mode 2) and modifies the default RST type interrupt mode (mode 0). As a result, the main control CPU 72 can thereafter refer to any address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute the specified interrupt handler.

Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a reset standby process here. This process secures a certain amount of waiting time (for example, about several thousand milliseconds) at the time of reset start (for example, turning on the power), and checks the main power interruption detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the standby time, it bit-checks the input port of the main power interruption detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power failure detection signal is input from, for example, a power monitor IC, which is a peripheral device. When the input of the main power interruption detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the processing from the beginning. As a result, it is possible to protect the system even if the main power switch (not shown) is repeatedly turned on and off within a short period of time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

Step S104: Next, the main control CPU72 permits access to the work area of the RAM76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value of the work area is reset (00H). As a result, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted thereafter.

Step S105: Also, the main control CPU 72 initializes the mask register to set the interrupt mask. Specifically, a value that enables the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the previously saved input signal from the RAM clear switch and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switched ON). If the RAM clear switch has not been operated (No), then step S107 is executed.

Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether the backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup was successfully completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, "A55AH") is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

Step S108: The main control CPU72 performs a sum check on the backup information in the RAM76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sum-checks all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (user work area including prohibited area and stack area) except for the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the sum check result is normal (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup validity determination flag (for example, "0000H").
Step S110: Also, the main control CPU 72 clears the command that was waiting for transmission immediately before the previous power failure occurred.

Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes effect control return processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends a return command (for example, model designation command, special symbol probability state designation command, working memory number increase performance command, working memory number decrease performance command, counter remaining number command, special game state designation command, etc.) to the performance control device 124. In response to this, the performance control device 124 can restore the performance state (for example, the internal probability state, the display mode of the performance pattern, the performance display mode of the working memory number, the sound output contents, the light emission state of various lamps, etc.) which was being executed at the time of the previous power cutoff.

Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes state return processing. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and restores the game state (for example, the display mode of special symbols, the internal probability state, the working memory contents, various flag states, the random number update state, etc.) which was being executed when the power was cut off last time. Also, the main control CPU 72 restores the value of the PC register that was backed up.

On the other hand, if the RAM clear switch was operated when the power was turned on (step S106: Yes), if the backup validity determination flag was not set (step S107: No), or if the backup information was not normal (step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the storage contents of the RAM 76 other than the prohibited area. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, its contents are erased.
Step S114: The main control CPU72 also initializes the RAM76.

Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes effect control output processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 outputs a command (a command necessary for effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after initial setting.

Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes payout control output processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command to the payout control device 92 to start paying out prize balls.

Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes CTC initial setting processing to initialize the CTC (counter/timer circuit) which is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector register and also sets an interrupt count value (eg 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when the next CTC interrupt occurs, the main control CPU 72 can continue processing from the program address of the backed-up PC register.

After executing the above procedure in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 7 (connection symbol A→A).

Steps S118 and S119: The main control CPU 72 prohibits interrupts, and then executes power failure check processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power interruption detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power interruption (drop in drive voltage). When the power cutoff occurs, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the big winning opening solenoid 89, etc., backs up the entire contents of the work area of the RAM 76 except for the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer, and stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value (for example, "A55AH") in the backup validity determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops processing (NOP). On the other hand, if power shutdown does not occur, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S120. It should be noted that there is a well-known example of programming that causes the CPU to execute such processing when power failure occurs as non-maskable interrupt (NMI) processing.

Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) the initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, various random numbers (for example, jackpot pattern random numbers, reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) are generated on the program except for the jackpot determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) and the hit determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) corresponding to normal symbols. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 9), but in this process, the initial value of the loop counter (all random numbers may not be the target) is changed each time the random value makes a round. The initial value update random number is used to randomly change this initial value, and in step S120, the initial value update random number is updated. The reason why step S120 is executed after prohibiting the interrupt in step S118 is to prevent duplication (competition) with another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 9), since the same process is executed. As described above, in the present embodiment, the jackpot determination random numbers and the winning determination random numbers are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle thereof is faster (eg, several μs) than the timer interrupt cycle (eg, several ms). Therefore, there is no need to update the initial values of the jackpot determination random numbers and the winning determination random numbers.

Steps S121, S122: The main control CPU 72 permits interrupts and executes random number update processing. The random numbers updated in this process are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to determination of winning types (hit types) among software random numbers. This process is performed in the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 9). The content of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure occurrence check process]
FIG. 8 is a flow chart specifically showing a procedure example of the above-described power failure occurrence check process.
Step S130: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 sets the conditions for checking the occurrence of power failure. This check condition can be set, for example, as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power interruption detection signal is continuously output.

Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power interruption detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power interruption detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly shown, a main power disconnection detection switch is mounted, for example, in the main controller 70. This main power disconnection detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power control unit 162, and outputs a main power disconnection detection signal when the voltage level falls below a reference voltage. Note that the main power disconnection detection switch may be incorporated in the power control unit 162 . When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power interruption detection signal is not output at this time (No), it exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, if it is confirmed that the main power disconnection detection signal has been output (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S134.

Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check conditions are satisfied. Specifically, for example, 1 is subtracted from the on-counter value set in the previous step S130, and it is confirmed whether the result is 0 or not. If the on-counter value is still not 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and checks the main power interruption detection switch input port again. Then, when the loop from step S134 to step S132 is repeated and the check condition is satisfied (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S136.

Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and the big winning opening solenoid 89 as described above.

Steps S138, S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the contents of the entire work area of the RAM 76, excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer, in 1-byte units, and repeats until the addition is completed for all areas.
Step S142: When sum calculation is completed for all areas (step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 saves the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores the validity value in the backup validity determination flag area as described above.

Step S146: In addition, the main control CPU 72 stores "01H" representing access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the prohibited area and stack area) of the RAM 76.

Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters a standby loop, and stops all other processes in preparation for the shutdown of the main power supply. After the main power is cut off, backup power is supplied from a backup power supply circuit (not shown, for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70), so that the memory contents of the RAM 76 are retained without loss even after the main power is cut off. The backup power supply circuit may be built in the power control unit 162, for example.

Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (to be added to the sum) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. In addition, the retained memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming that the checksum is normal in the previous reset start process (FIG. 6).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several milliseconds) based on an interrupt request signal from the counter/timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 changes the values of the registers (the accumulator A and flag register F, and the pairs of general-purpose registers B to L) used during the execution of the main loop to R
Save to the save area of AM76. Another value can be written to the registers (A to L) after saving the values during the interrupt management process.

Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes lottery random number update processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76 and looped within a prescribed range. Various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers.

Step S202: The main control CPU 72 also executes the initial value update random number update process here. The contents of the processing are the same as those described above.

Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from an input/output (I/O) port 79 . Specifically, it reads the input state (ON/OFF) of the passing detection signal from the gate switch 78, the first start winning opening switch 80, the normal winning opening switch 81, the second starting winning opening switch 82, the count switch 84, the specific area switch 85a, and the non-specific area switch 85b.

Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the gate switch 78, the first start winning opening switch 80, the normal winning opening switch 81, the second starting winning opening switch 82, the count switch 84, the specific area switch 85a, based on the passage detection signal from the non-specific area switch 85b to determine the event that occurred during the game, and further processing is executed according to the event that occurred respectively. The specific contents of the switch input event processing will be described later using another flowchart.

In this embodiment, when the winning detection signal (ON) is input from the first start winning opening switch 80 or the second starting winning opening switch 82, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event that triggers an internal lottery (lottery opportunity) corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol has occurred. Also, when the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event that triggers the lottery corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. When determining that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes processing according to each occurrence event. The process executed when the winning detection signal is input from the first start winning opening switch 80 or the second starting winning opening switch 82 will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S205, step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol game process and the normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically advancing the game in the pachinko machine 1 . Among these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, controls the variable display and stop display by the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, and controls the operation of the variable winning device 30 according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later using another flowchart.

In addition, in the normal symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, or controls the operation of the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (determined random number per normal symbol) obtained in the previous switch input event process (step S204) triggered by passage through the start gate 20, reads out the random number from the memory in the normal symbol game process, and determines whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery executing means). When the random number falls within the winning range, the normal symbol display device 33 variably displays the normal symbols and stops and displays the normal symbols in a predetermined winning mode, after which the main control CPU 72 excites the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 to operate the variable starting winning device 28 (movable piece operating means). On the other hand, if the random number is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs stop display of normal symbols in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signal input from the various switches 81, 82, 84, 85a, 85b in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction command for instructing the number of prize balls is output to the payout control device 92.

Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 stores the above-described external information signals (e.g. winning ball information, door opening information, number of symbol determination information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160 in the port output request buffer.

In the present embodiment, among various external information signals, for example, by outputting "jackpot 1" to "jackpot 5" as jackpot information to the outside, it is possible to provide various jackpot information to external electronic devices (data display device and hall computer) connected to the pachinko machine 1 (external information signal output means). In other words, by outputting the jackpot information from multiple "jackpot 1" to "big hit 5", it is tied and managed with a hole computer that does not shown a jackpot type (winning type) from these combinations, recognizing the internal probability status (low probability status or high probability status) and the shorter status of the pattern fluctuation time. However, it is possible to summarize and manage the occurrence of a small hit that is not classified as a "jackpot" (a condition that the conditional device does not work). In addition, based on the big win information, for example, a data display device (not shown) can count and display the number of occurrences of big wins within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, recognize whether each machine is currently in a big win, or recognize whether each machine is currently in a shortened state of pattern variation time. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls in detail the output state (set of ON or OFF) of each of "jackpot 1" to "jackpot 5".

Step S209: The main control CPU 72 also executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its own internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation) and stores them in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main control device 70, for example.

Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting states of the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, and the like. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer in the special symbol game process (step S205) or the normal symbol game process (step S206) is port-output. The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode in which symbols are displayed in a variable manner, a stop display, a working memory number display, a game state display, etc.).

Step S211: The main control CPU 72 also executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). In addition, the main control CPU 72 combines the driving signals of the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and the big winning opening solenoid 89 stored in the port output request buffer, the test signal, etc., and outputs them from the port.

Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes effect control output processing. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for performance control) to be transmitted to the performance control device 124 by the main control CPU 72 in the command buffer, and if there is an unsent command, the command to be output is port-output.

Step S213: Then, the main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored in this CTC interrupt.

It should be noted that, in the present embodiment, an example of executing the processing of steps S205 to S212 (game control program module) as a timer interrupt processing is given, but these processing are executed by incorporating them into the main loop of the CPU.There is also a known programming example.

Step S214: After completing the above processing, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) designating the end of the interrupt in the interrupt program counter and ends the CTC interrupt.

Steps S215, S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the values of the saved registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. After that, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (the program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of switch input event processing (step S204 in FIG. 9). Each procedure will be described below.

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

Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input (a lottery opportunity has occurred) from the second start winning opening switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Here, similarly, the specific contents of the processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no winning detection signal input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input from the count switch 84 corresponding to the big winning opening 30b of the variable winning device 30 or not. When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 and executes the big winning opening counting process. On the other hand, if the winning detection signal has not been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

Step S20: In the big winning hole counting process, the main control CPU72 counts the number of winning balls to the variable winning device 30 for each round during the big winning game. Then, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

Step S22: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal has been input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of this passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes normal symbol memory update processing. In the normal symbol memory updating process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current normal symbol working memory number is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit number, acquires a random number per normal symbol. Also, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol working memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the obtained random number value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 . On the other hand, if the passage detection signal has not been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S26.

Step S26a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passing detection signal has been input from the specific area switch 85a corresponding to the specific area 30d in the variable winning device 30 (that is, the big winning opening 30b). When the input of the passage detection signal corresponding to the specific area 30d is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S27 and executes the specific area passing process. On the other hand, if the input of the passage detection signal corresponding to the specific area 30d is not confirmed (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S26b.

Step S26b: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal has been input from the non-specific area switch 85b corresponding to the non-specific area 30e in the variable winning device 30 (that is, the big winning opening 30b). When the input of the passage detection signal corresponding to the non-specific area 30e is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S28 and executes the non-specific area passage processing. On the other hand, if the input of the passage detection signal corresponding to the non-specific area 30e is not confirmed (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 9).

Step S27: In the specific area passing process, the main control CPU72 stores in the storage area of the RAM76 that the passage of the specific area 30d has been confirmed. It also generates a specific area pass command indicating that the specific area 30d has been passed. A specific area passing command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9).

Step S28: In the non-specific area passing process, the main control CPU 72 generates a non-specific area passing command indicating that the non-specific area 30e has been passed. The non-specific area passage command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory updating process (step S12 in FIG. 10). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory updating process will be described step by step.

Step S30: Here, first, the main control CPU72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter, and confirms whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of the jackpot determination random numbers, the jackpot pattern random numbers, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 . Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into 4 sections for the first special pattern and 4 sections for the second special pattern (for example, 2 bytes each), and each section can store a set (set) of one big win decision random number and one big win pattern random number. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31. In addition, in this embodiment, the number of working memories in the first special symbol, that is, the maximum number of reserved memories in the first special symbol is set to four.

Step S31: The main control CPU72 adds one to the first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol working memory number counter is stored, for example, in the working memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9).

Step S32: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires a big hit determination random value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of the first lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). A random number is obtained by designating the pin address of the random number generator 75 . When the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, address designation is performed in two batches of 1 byte each for the high order and low order. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number from the specified address, it saves it as the jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol at the transfer destination address.

Step S33: Next, the main control CPU72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM76. Acquisition of this random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot design random number from the designated address, it saves it as the jackpot design random number corresponding to the first special design at the transfer destination address.

Step S34: In addition, the main control CPU72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM76 as the random value related to the variation condition of the first special symbol (variation pattern determining element acquisition means). Acquisition of these random numbers is similarly performed by designating the address of the variable random number counter area. Then, when the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the specified address, it saves them to the transfer destination address.

Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot pattern random number, reach determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and stores these random numbers as a set in an empty section in the area (storage means, lottery element storage means). An order (for example, 1st to 4th) is set for a plurality of sections, and if all the 1st to 4th sections are empty at the present stage, each random number is stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, each random number is stored in order from the second section. Note that reading from the random number storage area is in FIFO (First In First Out) format.

Step S38: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the production command when the number of working memories increases with respect to the first special symbol. Specifically, a 1-word-length effect command is generated by adding the increased number of working memories (eg, "01H" to "04H") to the lower byte of the preceding value (eg, "BBH") of the upper byte representing the command type. At this time, the second digit of the low-order byte is set to "0" by default to indicate that the value is "the result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)". In other words, if the lower byte is "01H", it indicates that the current working memory number is "01H" as a result of incrementing by one from the previous working memory number "00H". Similarly, if the lower byte is "02H" to "04H", it indicates that the number of working memories of this time is "02H" to "04H" as a result of increasing the number of working memories from "01H" to "03H" up to the previous time by one. In addition, the preceding value "BBH" is a value indicating that the current production command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S39: Then, the main control CPU72 executes the effect command output setting process regarding the first special symbol. This process is for transmitting the effect command generated at step S38 to the effect control device 124 (storage number notifying means).

If the above procedure is completed, or if the number of first special symbol working memories has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory updating process (step S16 in FIG. 10). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory updating process will be described step by step.

Step S40: The main control CPU72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter and checks whether the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol working memory number counter also indicates the number (number of sets) of the jackpot decision random numbers and jackpot pattern random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 . At this time, if the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and subsequent steps. In addition, in this embodiment, the number of working memories in the second special symbol, that is, the maximum number of reserved memories in the second special symbol is set to three.

Step S41: The main control CPU72 adds one to the second special symbol working memory number (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similar to the previous step S31 (FIG. 11), based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9).

Step S42: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires the big hit determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of the second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method of obtaining the random number value is the same as in step S32 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S43: Next, the main control CPU72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM76. The method of obtaining the random value is the same as in step S33 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S44: In addition, the main control CPU72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number regarding the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means). Acquisition of these random numbers is also performed in the same manner as in step S34 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot pattern random number, reach determination random number, and fluctuation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and stores these random numbers as a set in an empty section within the area (storage means). The method of storage is the same as that of step S35 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the production command when the number of working memories increases with respect to the second special symbol. Here, an effect command of 1 word length is generated by adding the increased working memory number (eg, "01H" to "04H") to the lower byte of the leading value (eg, "BCH") of the upper byte representing the command type. Similarly, for the second special symbol, by setting the second digit of the lower byte to "0" by default, it is possible to express that the value is "the result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)". It should be noted that the preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the current production command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S49: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output setting process regarding the second special symbol. As a result, preparations are made for transmitting the production command or the like to the production control device 124 when the number of working memories increases with respect to the second special symbol (means for notifying the number of memories). Also, after completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 10).

[Special symbol game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 9) will be described. FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of special symbol game processing. The special symbol game processing includes subroutines (program modules) of execution selection processing (step S1000), special symbol variation preprocessing (step S2000), special symbol variation processing (step S3000), special symbol stop display processing (step S4000), and variable winning device management processing (step S5000). Here, first, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S2000 to S5000) from the "jump table". For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the address of the jump destination, and sets the end of the special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the address of the return destination.

Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbols have not yet started variable display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing is already completed (special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and if the special symbol variation process is completed (special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop display process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In the present embodiment, the jump destination address is specified in the "jump table" to select the process, but apart from such a selection method, there is also a well-known programming example in which the CPU selects the process to be executed next using a "process flag" or a "process selection flag". In such a programming example, the CPU calls each process once, and conditionally branches (continues/returns) by referring to the flags one by one at the first step, but in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control CPU 72 does not need to call each process one by one.

Step S2000: In the special symbol variation preprocessing, the main control CPU72 performs the work of preparing the conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbols. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S3000: In the special symbol fluctuation process, the main control CPU72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1-byte data) is output to each segment and dot (numbers 0 to 7) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, and thereby the variable display of the special symbols is performed.

Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. FIG. In this case as well, an ON or OFF drive signal is output to each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, thereby performing the stop display of the special symbol.

Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. It should be noted that a big hit game or a small hit game is started according to the manner in which the special symbols are stopped and displayed.

[Jackpot game]
For example, when the special symbols are stopped and displayed in the form of a 7-round big win, there is an opportunity to shift from the normal state up to that point to a big win game state (special game state advantageous to the player). During the jackpot game, the jump destination is set to the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of the special symbols is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 89 is energized for a certain period of time (for example, 29 seconds or until 10 winnings are counted) for a preset number of continuous operations (for example, 7 times), whereby the variable winning device 30 opens and closes in a determined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). During this time, the variable winning device 30 is allowed to intensively win game balls, so that the player is given an opportunity to win a large number of prize balls (special game executing means). The opening and closing operation of the variable prize winning device 30 at the time of the big hit is called "round", and if the number of continuous operations is seven times in total, these are sometimes collectively called "seven rounds". In this embodiment, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided for the 7-round jackpot. As types of jackpots, not only the 7-round jackpot, but also a plurality of types of 4-round jackpot and 2-round jackpot may be provided.

In addition, when the main control CPU 72 sets a large winning opening opening pattern (the number of rounds, the number of opening/closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning apparatus management process, the value of the round number counter is incremented by 1 each time the opening/closing operation of the variable winning apparatus 30 for one round is completed. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big win game (big role) for that round only.

Then, when the jackpot game ends, the main control CPU72 changes the state (time saving state) after the jackpot game ends based on the game state flag (time saving flag) (time saving state transition means). In the ``time saving state'', the time shortening function is activated, the fluctuation time of the normal symbols is shortened, and the opening time of the variable starting prize winning device 28 is extended to increase the number of times of opening (so-called electric chewing support is performed).

[small hit game]
In addition, in this embodiment, a small win is provided as a winning type other than non-winning (losing). When a small win is won, a small win game is performed separately from the big win game, and the variable winning device 30 opens and closes (special game executing means). For example, when the special symbols are stopped and displayed in the form of a small win, there is an opportunity to shift from the previous normal state to a small win state (a special game state advantageous to the player). During the small hit, the jump destination is set to the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of the special symbol is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the big winning opening solenoid 89 is energized for a predetermined period of time (eg 29 seconds) or until 10 winnings are counted, for a preset number of times (eg 10 times), whereby the variable winning device 30 opens and closes in a determined pattern (operation of the special electric accessory). During this time, the player is given an opportunity to win a certain amount of prize balls by intensively winning the game balls to the variable prize winning device 30 (special game execution means).

In addition, in the variable winning device management process during the small winning, the game ball entering the variable winning device 30 passes through the specific area 30d, thereby giving the player an opportunity to start the big winning game. That is, it is determined whether or not the game ball passes through the specific area 30d during the small hit, or not to start the big hit game.

In addition, when the game with a small win ends without the game ball passing through the specific area 30d, the ``time shortening function'' is not newly activated, so the privilege of shifting to the ``time saving state'' is not given (it is not a precondition for that) (except when the upper limit number of times is reached).

[Multiple Winning Types]
In this embodiment, in addition to the above-described "7-round big win", "10-round big win" is provided as a plurality of winning types. These big wins are started when the special symbols are stop-displayed in the big-win mode, and sometimes started when the special symbols are stop-displayed in the small-win mode and the game ball passes through the specific area 30d during the small win. When a game ball passes through the specific area 30d during a small win and a big win is started, the number of rounds is counted as the first round of the small win.

The above "7 rounds big win" and "10 rounds big win" correspond to the types of the first special symbol or the second special symbol to be stop-displayed at the time of winning. For this reason, hereinafter, the "winning type" is appropriately referred to as "winning design".

[7 rounds jackpot design]
When the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of '7 round symbol' in the previous special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity is generated to shift from the normal state to the jackpot game state (special game executing means). In this case, the big winning opening 30b is opened once from the first round over a sufficiently long time (for example, the maximum opening time is 29.0 seconds), and this continues until the seventh round (final round). In this winning game, 7 rounds worth of balls (prize balls) can be awarded to the player (specific value special game). Also, the big winning opening 30b is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse when a specified number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur within one round. By activating, for example, the "time reduction function" after the end of the jackpot game, the player is given a privilege of transitioning to the "time reduction state" as a result.

[10 rounds jackpot design]
When the second special pattern is stopped and displayed in the mode of ``10 round pattern'' in the previous special pattern stop display process, an opportunity is generated to shift from the normal state to the jackpot game state (special game executing means). In this case, the opening of the big winning opening 30b is performed once for a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the 1st round, and this continues until the 10th round (final round). In this winning game, 10 rounds worth of balls (prize balls) can be awarded to the player (specific value special game). Also, the big winning opening 30b is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse when a specified number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur within one round. By activating, for example, the "time reduction function" after the end of the jackpot game, the player is given a privilege of transitioning to the "time reduction state" as a result.

[7 round small hit pattern]
When the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "7-round small win symbol" in the previous special symbol stop display process, an opportunity is generated to shift from the normal state to the small win state. Then, when the game ball passes through the specific area 30d during the small hit, an opportunity to shift from the small win to the big win game state is generated. From the second round, the opening of the big winning opening is performed once for a sufficiently long time (for example, the maximum opening time is 29.0 seconds), and this continues until the seventh round (final round). This "7-round small winning pattern" jackpot game can provide the player with 7 rounds worth of balls (prize balls) (specific value special game). Also, the big winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse when a specified number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur within one round.

[10 round small hit pattern]
When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "10 rounds small win symbol" in the previous special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the small win state is generated. Then, when the game ball passes through the specific area 30d during the small hit, an opportunity to shift from the small win to the big win game state is generated. From the second round, the big winning opening is opened once for a sufficiently long time (for example, the maximum opening time is 29.0 seconds), and this continues until the tenth round (final round). This "10-round small winning pattern" jackpot game can provide the player with 10 rounds worth of balls (prize balls) (specific value special game). Also, the big winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse when a specified number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur within one round.

In this embodiment, it is possible to obtain 1050 prize balls for the jackpot of 7 rounds and 1500 prize balls for the jackpot of 10 rounds. Therefore, about 6,000 prize balls can be obtained by four consecutive 10-round jackpots.

In addition, in this embodiment, according to the type of the symbol, the player is given the privilege of shifting the internal state to the "time saving state" after the jackpot game ends. In addition, when a game ball passes through the specific area 30d during a small win and a big win game is started, the player is given a privilege of shifting the internal state to a "time saving state" after the big win game ends. In addition, when a small win is won in the internal lottery in the 'time saving state' and the game ball passes through the specific area 30d during the small winning and the big win game is started, the 'time saving state' is continued (restarted) even after the big win game is finished.

In this embodiment, the second special symbol has a higher probability of a small hit than the first special symbol, but the second special symbol makes it easier for the game ball to pass through the specific area 30d than the first special symbol, or the small win is won only in the second special symbol.

[Special symbol variation preprocessing]
FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of special symbol variation preprocessing. Each procedure will be described below.

Step S2100: First, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76 . When the working memory numbers of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol are 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the demonstration setting process of step S2500.

Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9). When the demonstration setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. When returning, it returns to the end address as described above (same hereafter).

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

Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random number, big win pattern random number, random number for the first special pattern variation) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the second special pattern. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections (only the first special symbol applies), the main control CPU 72 reads and erases (consumes) the random numbers in order from the top section, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. The read random number is saved, for example, in another temporary storage area. When the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU72 reads the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next big hit determination process. As a result, in this embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially performed over the first special symbol. It should be noted that the program may be a program in which the random numbers are simply read out in the order in which they are stored without providing such a priority order for each special symbol. In this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts 1 from the value of the working memory number counter (the first special symbol or the second special symbol, whichever has the random number shifted) stored in the RAM 76, and sets the value after the subtraction to the "working memory number at the start of fluctuation". As a result, the display mode of the number stored by the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a changes (decrease by 1) in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9). After completing the procedure up to this point, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2300.

[Special symbol storage area shift process]
FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. In the previous special symbol variation pre-processing, when the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than "0" (step S2100 in FIG. 14: Yes), the main control CPU72 executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Each procedure will be described below.

Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the oldest one in the current working memory corresponds to the first special symbol. That is, the memory area of the RAM 76 is accessed, and if the oldest working memory among them corresponds not to the first special symbol but to the second special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S2212.

Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates the second special symbol as the special symbol to shift the storage area. This designation is performed by setting, for example, "02H" as the target symbol designation value.

Step S2214: On the other hand, if the oldest working memory corresponds to the first special symbol (step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU72 designates the first special symbol as the special symbol to shift the storage area. The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting "01H" as the target symbol designation value.

Step S2216: The main control CPU72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM76 for the target special symbol specified in either step S2212 or step S2214. It should be noted that the specific contents of the processing are as already described in the previous special symbol variation preprocessing.

Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU72 subtracts the value of the working memory counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the object to shift the memory area this time is the second special symbol, the main control CPU72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the "variation start working memory number" from the value of the working memory counter after the subtraction. In addition, here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, after adding the value of the working memory counter, the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation" may be set.

Step S2222: In addition, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the special symbol for which the storage area of this time is to be shifted is the second special symbol.

Step S2224: If the target is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU72 sets the effect command when the working memory number is reduced with respect to the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a command of one word length, but its configuration is in contrast to the above-described "effect command when the number of working memories increases". That is, the effect command for when the number of working memories is reduced is obtained by adding a lower byte value (for example, "00H" to "03H") representing the number of working memories after reduction to the precedence value (for example, "BCH") of the upper byte representing the command type, and further adding (logical sum) to the value of the lower byte (for example, "10H"), which means "decreasing the number of working memories due to consumption". Therefore, for the low-order byte, the addition value "10H" is logically summed, so that the second digit becomes "1", and this value represents "the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories". In other words, if the lower byte of the command is "13H", it means that the number of working memories "4" (command notation is "14H") up to the previous time has decreased by one, resulting in the current working memory number being "3" (command notation is "13H"). Similarly, if the lower byte is "12H" to "10H", it indicates that the number of working memories "3" to "1" (command notation "13H" to "11H") up to the previous time has decreased by one, resulting in the current working memory number being "2" to "0" (command notation "12H" to "10H"). It should be noted that the preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2226: In addition, when the object of this time is the first special symbol (step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets the production command when the working memory number is reduced with respect to the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, "BBH") indicating that it is a working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes effect command output processing. This processing is for transmitting to the effect control device 124 the effect command set at the previous step S2224 or step S2226 (storage number notifying means).
After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 14).

[See Figure 14: Special symbol variation preprocessing]
Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes big hit determination processing (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets the range of the jackpot value, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (internal lottery executing means). If the random number value read at this time is included in the jackpot value range, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot flag (01H) and then proceeds to step S2400.

If the big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 next sets the range of small hit values in the same big hit determination process, and determines whether or not the read random number is included in this range (lottery execution means). The "minor win" referred to here is anything other than non-winning (lose), but has a different nature from the "big win". In other words, the "big hit" generates an opportunity (game turning point) to shift to the "time-saving state", but the "small hit" does not generate such an opportunity. A "minor hit" is positioned as satisfying the condition for activating only the variable winning device 30 (the condition for activating the condition device is not satisfied). Furthermore, when the game ball passes through the specific area 30d during the "small hit", it is positioned as something that develops into a "big hit" (the condition for operating the condition device is satisfied). In any case, if the read random number is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, the range of the big win value and the small win value is defined in advance as the winning range other than the non-winning on the program, but the big win determination table and the small win determination table for each state may be written in the ROM 74 in advance, and the big win determination may be performed while reading them and comparing them with the random numbers.

Here, as a specific example, in this embodiment, in the internal lottery of special symbols, when the special symbol is the first special symbol, the probability of winning the big win is set to about 1/319, and the probability of winning the small win is set to about 1/500. Further, in the case of the second special symbol, the probability of winning the big win is set to about 1/319, and the probability of winning the small win is set to about 1/1. Therefore, when the internal lottery for the second special symbol is executed, it almost means that a small win is won. In order to satisfy the probability of winning the big hit and the probability of winning the small win, the main control CPU 72 sets the range of the big win value and the range of the small win value and compares them with the read random numbers. In addition, it is also possible to set the probability of winning a small hit for the first special symbol to 0 and to win a small win only for the second special symbol.

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

Step S2402: The main control CPU72 determines whether or not the value (01H) has been set to the small hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the small hit flag is not set to the value (01H) (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine a big hit (for example, set 01H) or a small hit (for example, set 0AH) by the value of the common hit flag without preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag separately.

Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes stop symbol determination processing when losing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the stop symbol number data when the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 comes off. Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (when lost) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 . These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9).

In the present embodiment, since 7-segment LEDs are used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol when losing is always one segment (center bar "-"), and the stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value (for example, 64H). In this case, the storage capacity used on the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes fluctuation pattern determination processing at the time of deviation. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines by lottery the variation pattern number at the time of loss for the special symbol (variation pattern selection means). The variation pattern number distinguishes the type (pattern) of the variation display of the special symbol, or corresponds to the variation time required for the variation display.

Here, the fluctuation time at the time of failure may be shortened based on, for example, the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)" set in step S2200, except for the case where the variation for executing the ready-to-win effect is performed (for example, the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display is 0 → about 12.5 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display is 1 → about 8 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display is 2 → about 5 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display is 3 → 2. 5 seconds). It should be noted that the stop display time of the symbol at the time of loss is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variable time (at the time of loss) to the variable timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time at the time of loss to the stop symbol display timer.

In this embodiment, as a result of the internal lottery with the special symbols, when it corresponds to non-winning, control is performed such that, for example, a ``ready-to-win performance'' is generated in the performance to make the game lost, or a ``ready-to-win performance'' is not generated to make the game lost. In the ``variation pattern selection table at the time of losing'', a plurality of types of performances, for example, variation patterns corresponding to ``non-reach performance'' and ``ready-to-win performance'' are defined in advance, and when the game is not won, one of the variation patterns is selected. The reach performance includes various reach performances such as a normal reach performance, a long reach performance, and a super reach performance.

The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is lost (other than non-winning), but the determination result is a big hit (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of a big hit will be explained.

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

[Winning design at the time of jackpot]
In this embodiment, there are roughly two types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The breakdown of the two types includes a ``first winning pattern'' and a ``second winning pattern'', and if the kind of special pattern is the first special pattern, the winning kind is determined as the ``first winning pattern'', and if the kind of the special pattern is the second special pattern, the winning kind is determined as the ``second winning pattern''.

Further, the first winning symbols include "7 rounds big winning symbol 1" and "7 rounds big winning symbol 2", and the second winning symbols include "10 rounds big winning symbol". In this embodiment, the winning symbols selected at the time of the big hit are stored in the RAM 76. - 特許庁

[Special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the configuration columns of the special symbol jackpot time stop symbol selection table.

As shown in FIG. 16(a), when the result of the current big win corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 conducts a selection lottery based on the random number of the big win symbol, and selectively determines the winning symbol shown in the stop symbol selection table at the time of the first special symbol big win. In the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, as shown in the third column from the left, 2-byte command data, for example, is defined as a winning stop symbol command. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value and EVENT value, among which the MODE value "B1H" of the upper byte indicates that the winning symbol of this time is selected when the first special symbol hits the jackpot. Also, the EVENT value "01H" in the lower byte indicates the type of the corresponding winning symbol in the selection table.

When the result of this big win corresponds to the first special pattern and ``7 round big win pattern 1'' is selected as the winning pattern, the stop pattern command at winning is described as ``B1H01H'', and when ``7 round big winning pattern 2'' is selected as the winning pattern, the stop pattern command at the time of winning is described as ``B1H02H''. In addition, in this embodiment, the number of determination values is distributed so that the ratio of selecting ``7 round big winning pattern 1'' is 95% and the ratio of selecting ``7 round big winning pattern 2'' is 5% when winning a big prize.

Further, when "7 round big hit pattern 1" is selected, the time saving state B is selected as the time saving state. Therefore, the condition for ending the time saving state is that the total number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and special figure 2 is 5 times, the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 is 1 time, and the number of fluctuations of normal figure is 200 times.

On the other hand, when "7 round big hit pattern 2" is selected, the time saving state A is selected as the time saving state. Therefore, the condition for ending the time saving state is that the total number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 is 5 times, the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 is 1 time, and the number of fluctuations of normal figure is 10000 times.

As shown in FIG. 16(b), when the result of the current big win corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 conducts a selection lottery based on the big win symbol random number, and selectively determines the winning symbol shown in the stop symbol selection table for the second special symbol big win. Similarly, in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, as shown in the third column from the left, 2-byte command data, for example, is defined as a winning stop symbol command. Here too, the stop symbol command is described by a combination of the above-mentioned MODE value and EVENT value, and the MODE value "B2H" of the upper byte indicates that the winning symbol of this time is selected at the time of the second special symbol jackpot. Also, the EVENT value "01H" in the lower byte indicates the type of the corresponding winning symbol in the selection table. Then, when the result of this big win corresponds to the second special pattern, ``10 round big win pattern'' is selected as the winning pattern, and the stop pattern command is described as ``B2H01H''.

Moreover, when "10 round big hit pattern" is selected, the time saving state C is selected as the time saving state. Therefore, the condition for ending the time saving state is that the total number of fluctuations in special figure 1 and the number of fluctuations in special figure 2 is 5 times, the number of fluctuations in special figure 2 is 1 time, and the number of fluctuations in normal figure is 100 times.

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

[See Figure 14: Special symbol variation preprocessing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol by lottery based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variable time to the variable timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time to the stop symbol display timer. Generally, in the case of jackpot reach variation, a longer variation time than when losing is determined.

In this embodiment, when a big hit is achieved as a result of the internal lottery, for example, a "ready-to-win effect" is generated in the effect to make the game a big win. In the ``variation pattern selection table at the time of big win'', variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of kinds of ``ready-to-win performances'' are defined, and when the game corresponds to a big win, one of the variation patterns is selected from among them. The reach performance includes various reach performances such as a normal reach performance, a long reach performance, and a special reach performance. In addition, when winning with the time shortening function in operation, a variation pattern with a short variation time (variation pattern without ready-to-win performance) is selected without selecting a variation pattern with a long variation time.

A full-rotation ready-to-win pattern is set as a variation pattern that can be selected for a big hit. The all-rotation ready-to-reach pattern is composed of pseudo-fluctuation 1 from pattern start to temporary stop→pseudo-fluctuation 2 from pattern start to fluctuate again after pseudo-fluctuation 1 to temporary stop→pseudo-fluctuation 3 from pattern to start fluctuating again after pseudo-variation 2 to temporary stop→pseudo-fluctuation 4 from pattern to start to stop after pseudo-variation 3 again. Then, in the pseudo variation 4, all-rotation ready-to-win performance is executed in which variation display is performed in a state where the performance symbols are aligned, and a big hit is generated in any combination.

Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes other setting processing at the time of the big hit. In this process, the value (01H) of the time saving flag corresponding to the time saving states A to C as the game state flag corresponding to the winning pattern type (big hit stopping pattern number) determined in the previous step S2410 may be set in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time saving state transition means, time saving function operating means).

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

Next, processing at the time of a small hit will be described.

Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes small hit stop symbol determination processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol at the time of the small win (stop symbol number at the time of the small win) based on the big hit symbol random number. Here, similarly, the relationship between the big hit symbol random number and the type of the winning symbol at the time of the small win is defined in advance in the stop symbol selection table at the time of the small win (winning type defining means). In the present embodiment, the jackpot symbol random number is used to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72 to determine the winning symbol at the time of the small hit, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

[Winning design at the time of small hit]
In this embodiment, there are roughly two types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a small win. The breakdown of the two types includes a ``first winning pattern'' and a ``second winning pattern'', and if the kind of special pattern is the first special pattern, the winning kind is determined as the ``first winning pattern'', and if the kind of the special pattern is the second special pattern, the winning kind is determined as the ``second winning pattern''.

Further, the first winning symbol includes a "7 round small winning symbol", and the second winning symbol includes a "10 round small winning symbol". In this embodiment, the winning symbols selected at the time of the small win are stored in the RAM 76. - 特許庁

[Small hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the configuration columns of the small hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU 72 determines the winning symbol type by referring to the small hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 17, as a result of the small win this time, for example, if the type of the special pattern is the first special pattern, the winning kind is determined as ``7 round small winning pattern'', and if it is the second special pattern, it is decided as ``10 round small winning pattern''. Also in the special symbol small winning stop symbol selection table, as shown in the third column from the left, 2-byte command data, for example, is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning. Here too, the stop symbol command is described by a combination of the above-mentioned MODE value and EVENT value, among which the MODE values ``B1H'' and ``B2H'' of the upper bytes represent that the winning symbols of this time are selected when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are small hits. Also, the EVENT value "01H" in the lower byte represents the type of winning symbol corresponding in the selection table.

Then, when ``7 round small winning pattern'' is selected as the winning pattern as a result of the small winning this time, the stop pattern command is described as ``B1H03H'', and when ``10 round small winning pattern'' is selected as the winning pattern as a result of the small winning this time, the stop pattern command is described as ``B2H02H''.

Further, when the "7 round small winning pattern" is selected, the time saving state A is selected as the time saving state. Therefore, the condition for ending the time saving state is that the total number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 is 5 times, the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 is 1 time, and the number of fluctuations of normal figure is 10000 times.

On the other hand, when the "10 round small winning pattern" is selected, the time saving state C is selected as the time saving state. Therefore, the condition for ending the time saving state is that the total number of fluctuations in special figure 1 and the number of fluctuations in special figure 2 is 5 times, the number of fluctuations in special figure 2 is 1 time, and the number of fluctuations in normal figure is 100 times.

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

[See Figure 14: Special symbol variation preprocessing]
Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol by lottery based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variable time to the variable timer, and sets the value of the stop display time to the stop symbol display timer.

In this embodiment, as a result of the internal lottery, when it corresponds to a small hit, for example, a "ready-to-win effect" is generated on the effect to make a small win. A 'variation pattern selection table at the time of a small win' defines variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of 'ready-to-win performances', and when the game corresponds to a small win, one of the variation patterns is selected. The reach performance includes various reach performances such as a normal reach performance, a long reach performance, and a special reach performance. In addition, when winning with the time shortening function in operation, a variation pattern with a short variation time (variation pattern without ready-to-win performance) is selected without selecting a variation pattern with a long variation time.

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

Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects variation pattern data based on the variation pattern number (when lost/when hit). In addition, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol fluctuation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 . Moreover, when the value (01H) of a time saving flag is set, the process according to a time saving state is performed. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a special figure fluctuation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 . Toku figure fluctuation start command is a command that can specify the fluctuation pattern determined in step S2405, step S2408 and step S2412. This special figure fluctuation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU72 sets the special symbol fluctuation process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

Step S2416: The main control CPU 72 executes a number cutting counter value management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of updating the value of the cut counter value. Specifically, the processing of FIG. 18 is performed for this processing. Then, in FIG. 18, the main control CPU 72 resets the time saving flag when the number of times the variable display of the special symbol is performed in the time saving state reaches the prescribed number of times. Therefore, in the final variation of the time saving state, the time saving state ends before the start of the special symbol variation. Further, such processing may be executed during the special symbol stop display processing.

[Fig. 13: Processing during special symbol fluctuation, processing during special symbol stop display]
In the special symbol fluctuation process, the main control CPU72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then decrements the value of the timer counter according to the passage of time (the number of clock pulses or the value of the interrupt counter). Then, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the timer counter and controls the variable display of the special symbol as described above until the value becomes zero. Then, when the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display process (step S4000) to the next jump destination.

Also, in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the stop display of the special symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407 and S2410 in FIG. 14). Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 . The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time during the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol fluctuation flag.

[Number of cutting counter value management process]
FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the number-of-times counter value management process. An example procedure will be described below.

Step S2420: The main control CPU72 executes the process of loading the number cutting counter value of the first cutting counter (counting the number of fluctuations of the special figure) or the second cutting counter (counting the number of fluctuations of the normal figure). The first cut-off counter is composed of a cut-off counter corresponding to the first special pattern and a cut-off counter corresponding to the second special pattern, so that the number of times of variation of the first special pattern and the number of times of variation of the second special pattern can be counted separately. The "number of times cut counter value" is set in the time saving count area of the RAM 76 in the "time saving state". In this embodiment, when transitioning to the "low-probability time reduction state", the number-of-times cutting counter for the high-probability state is not set, and the number-of-times cutting counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value.

Step S2422: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded counter value is 0. At this time, if the number of cut counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the number cut counter value is not 0 (No), after generating a number cut counter value command (such as a time saving number designation command), the main control CPU72 next executes step S2424.

Step S2424: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the number cutting counter value.

Step S2426: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the result of the subtraction is 0. As a result of the subtraction, if the value of the number cutting counter is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S2428. On the other hand, when the value of the number cutting counter is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 14).

Step S2428: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of resetting the flag when the multiple cutting function is activated. In the present embodiment, when shifting to the "time reduction state", the number cutting counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value, so only the time reduction flag is reset in this case.

When the above processing is finished, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 14). Note that the number-of-times counter value management process may be executed when fluctuation is stopped.

[Variation pattern selection table]
Next, the variation pattern selection table used in steps S2405, S2408 and S2412 of FIG. 14 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 19, the variation pattern selection table is composed of variation pattern selection table A, variation pattern selection table B, variation pattern selection table C, variation pattern selection table D, and variation pattern selection table E.

The variation pattern selection table A is referred to when shifting to the normal state (non-time saving state) and the number of times of variation of the special symbol is the 31st time or later. In the normal state, it is impossible to let the game ball enter the second start winning hole 28b, and the left-handed hitting is performed, so the first special symbol is substantially referred to after the 31st time. In addition, the main control CPU72 starts counting the number of fluctuations after shifting to the normal state when the time saving state ends and returns to the normal state (see FIG. 38(k)).

The variation pattern selection table B is referred to in the time saving state A, the time saving state B, and the time saving state C (see FIG. 38)

The variation pattern selection table C is referred to during one variation of the jackpot in the normal state (see FIG. 38).

The variation pattern selection table D is referred to when the number of times of variation of the special symbol is the first to fifth times after shifting to the normal state (non-time saving state). In the normal state, it is impossible to make the game ball enter the second start winning hole 28b, and the left-handed hitting is performed, so that the first special symbol is substantially referred to in the first to fifth times.

The variation pattern selection table E is referred to when the number of variations of the special symbol is the 6th to 30th times after shifting to the normal state (non-time saving state). In the normal state, it is impossible to make the game ball enter the second start winning hole 28b, and the left-handed hitting is performed, so the first special symbol is substantially referred to when it is the 6th time to the 30th time.

In this embodiment, the variation pattern selection table B is referred to in a time saving state, and the variation pattern selection tables A, C to E are referred to in a normal state, so that the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection table B has a shorter pattern variation time than the variation patterns selected in the variation pattern selection tables A, C to E.

Further, the variation time in the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection table B is set to a constant time. On the other hand, the fluctuation time in the fluctuation pattern selected from the fluctuation pattern selection tables A, C to E is set to the fluctuation time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern.

Next, the configurations of the variation pattern selection tables A to E will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21. FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the variation pattern selection table A is composed of variation pattern selection tables A1 to A5. The variation pattern selection table A1 is referred to when the first special symbol is lost in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table A2 is referred to when the first special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table A3 is referred to when the second special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table A4 is referred to when the first special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table A5 is referred to when the second special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. A plurality of types of variation patterns are set in each of the variation pattern selection tables A1 to A5. A variation time is set according to the selected variation pattern. In addition, since the second special symbol is never lost, a table for losing is not provided.

The fluctuation pattern selection table B is composed of fluctuation pattern selection tables B1 to B5. The variation pattern selection table B1 is referred to when the first special symbol is lost in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table B2 is referred to when the first special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table B3 is referred to when the second special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table B4 is referred to when the first special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table B5 is referred to when the second special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. One type of variation pattern is set in each of the variation pattern selection tables B1 to B5. The variation time of each variation pattern is set to a fixed time. In addition, since the second special symbol is never lost, a table for losing is not provided.

The fluctuation pattern selection table C is composed of fluctuation pattern selection tables C1 to C2. The variation pattern selection table C1 is referred to when the second special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table C2 is referred to when the second special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern table C is referred to when the reserved memory of the second special pattern is digested and one variation continues, and since the big hit determination of the second special pattern is either a big win or a small win, only tables for big wins and small wins are provided. A plurality of types of variation patterns are set in each of the variation pattern selection tables C1 and C2. A variation time is set according to the selected variation pattern.

The fluctuation pattern selection table D is composed of fluctuation pattern selection tables D1 to D5. The variation pattern selection table D1 is referred to when the first special symbol is lost in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table D2 is referred to when the first special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table D3 is referred to when the second special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table D4 is referred to when the first special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table D5 is referred to when the second special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. A plurality of types of variation patterns are set in each of the variation pattern selection tables D1 to D5. A variation time is set according to the selected variation pattern. In addition, since the second special symbol is never lost, a table for losing is not provided.

The fluctuation pattern selection table E is composed of fluctuation pattern selection tables E1 to E5. The variation pattern selection table E1 is referred to when the first special symbol is lost in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table E2 is referred to when the first special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table E3 is referred to when the second special symbol is a big hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table E4 is referred to when the first special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. The variation pattern selection table E5 is referred to when the second special symbol is a small hit in the big hit determination process. A plurality of types of variation patterns are set in each of the variation pattern selection tables E1 to E5. A variation time is set according to the selected variation pattern. In addition, since the second special symbol is never lost, a table for losing is not provided.

[Processing during special symbol stop display]
Next, FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the process during special symbol stop display. Each procedure will be described below.

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

Step S4200: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has expired, based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet expired (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 13) and repeats the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

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

Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. Also, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol-fluctuation flag here. The "stop display time end command" is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbols has ended (elapsed).

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

[When elected]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to "variable winning device management processing". Note that the main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation in this processing. Specifically, the time shortening function is deactivated. Thereby, before the special game (big role) is started, it will be shifted to the normal state (non-time-saving state).

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

[When not elected]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed in cases other than the time of the big hit.
That is, when the main control CPU 72 determines that the jackpot flag value (01H) is not set in step S4300 (No), then step S4600 is executed.

Step S4600: The main control CPU72 then checks whether or not the small hit flag value (01H) is set. Then, the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set, and if it is simply a loss (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602. Also, on the other hand, if the small hit flag value (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4605.

Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the address of the special symbol variation preprocessing (step S2000 in FIG. 13) as the jump destination address of the jump table. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S4610.

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

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a subroutine group of special symbol display setting process (step S1200), normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), state display setting process (step S1220), operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240).

Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are, as already described, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a. It is the process of generating and outputting signals.

The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation count display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting drive signals to be applied to the respective LEDs of the gaming state display device . First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU72 controls lighting of the time saving state display lamp 38e according to the value of the time saving flag. For example, if the time saving flag is set to a value (01H) when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the time saving state display lamp 38e regardless of whether the power is turned on. Furthermore, the main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the firing position designation lamp 38f according to the special game management status. For example, when the variable winning device 30 is activated by a big win game or a small win game, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the launch position designation lamp 38f. Also, if the time saving flag is set to a value (01H), the main control CPU72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f in addition to the time saving state display lamp 38e. In addition, when shifting to the ``time saving state'' after a big win game, the firing position designation lamp 38f lights up from the start of the big win game until the ``time saving state'' ends, and turns off (OFF) when the ``time saving state'' ends.

In addition, the main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation count display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the continuous operation count status. At this time, the target for outputting the lighting signal is any one of the display lamps 38a, 38b corresponding to the jackpot symbol designated by the value of the number of continuous operation status. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "7 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing "7 rounds (7R)". Furthermore, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "10 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a representing "10 rounds (10R)".

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of variable winning device management processing. The variable winning device management process includes a group of subroutines for game process selection processing (step S5100), large winning opening pattern setting processing (step S5200), large winning opening opening/closing operation processing (step S5300), large winning opening closing processing (step S5400), and end processing (step S5500).

Step S5100: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device management process to the stack pointer as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening/closing operation) of the variable winning device 30 has not yet started, the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the large winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening opening/closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and if the large winning opening opening/closing operation process has been completed, selects the large winning opening closing process (step S5400) as the next jump destination. Also, when the large winning opening opening/closing operation process and the large winning opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of consecutive operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects the end process (step S5500) as the next jump destination. Each process will be described in more detail below.

[Big winning opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 25 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process. This processing is for setting conditions such as the number of opening and closing operations of the variable winning device 30 at the time of a big win or a small win, and the time for each opening. Each procedure will be described below.

Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the jackpot flag value (01H) is set. As a result of this confirmation, if the jackpot flag value (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5203. On the other hand, if the big hit flag value (01H) is not set (No), that is, if the small hit flag value (01H) is set, the main control CPU72 then executes step S5204.

Step S5203: The main control CPU 72 executes a big winning opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. In this process, the opening pattern of the big winning opening corresponding to the winning symbol at the time of the big win is set based on the symbol-specific opening pattern setting table at the time of the big win. The specific contents of the processing will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5205.

Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. In this process, the opening pattern of the big winning opening is set based on the small winning symbol opening pattern setting table. The specific contents of the processing will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5205.

Step S5205: After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process, and returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Big winning opening pattern setting process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 26 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of big winning. The contents will be described below according to the procedure example.

Step S5210: The main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device. Here, the "condition device" is a device whose operation is a necessary condition for the operation of the continuous role product actuating device, and the "continuous role product actuating device" is a device capable of continuously operating the variable winning device 30. Therefore, unless this conditional device is operating, the variable winning device 30 does not operate in the jackpot game. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5212.

Step S5212: The main control CPU 72 sets "big win start (during jackpot game)" as an internal state flag for control. In addition, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation count status according to the type of the jackpot symbol. In this embodiment, a value representing "7 rounds" or "10 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status according to the type of the jackpot symbol. Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the jackpot is in progress. A state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5214.

Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 executes the opening pattern selection process for each symbol at the time of the big hit. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the jackpot symbol-by-symbol opening pattern setting table, and selects an opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol type related to the special symbol. Here, the opening pattern represents the setting for operating the variable winning device 30, for example, the number of execution rounds, the opening time, the interval time, and the like. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5216.

Step S<b>5216 : The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the variable winning device 30 . Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the variable winning device 30 as the type of variable winning device to be operated in each round (first round to final round) during the jackpot game based on the release pattern corresponding to the winning symbol. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5218.

Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed during the big hit game based on the release pattern corresponding to the winning symbol. In this embodiment, 7 rounds or 10 rounds are set as the number of rounds to be executed. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5220.

Step S5220: The main control CPU 72 sets a jackpot time open timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (opening timer) per time when opening the big winning opening for each round at the time of the big hit. In this embodiment, it is set for each round based on the release time of the release pattern corresponding to the winning symbol at the time of the big win. For example, the opening time for opening the big winning opening is set to 29.0 seconds. Therefore, if about 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the open timer, the opening time is sufficient time for the first big winning hole to be easily won during one opening (for example, the time for 10 or more game balls to be shot by the launch control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or longer). The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5222.

Step S5222: The main control CPU 72 sets an interval timer at the time of the big hit. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the waiting time (interval timer) between rounds at the time of the big hit. In this embodiment, 1.0 second is set as the interval timer of the release pattern. For example, an interval timer of about 1.0 second is set after the opening of the big winning slot between the first round and the second round is completed and the opening is once closed. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5224.

Step S5224: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation count command. The continuous operation count command can be generated based on the number of execution rounds set in the previous process (step S5218). Therefore, based on the execution round number "7R or 10R" of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol at the time of the big hit, a value representing "7 rounds" or "10 rounds" is generated for the continuous operation count command. The generated continuous actuation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (FIG. 25).

[Small win big winning opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 27 is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure for setting a pattern for opening a big winning opening at the time of a small hit. An example procedure will be described below.

Step S5252: The main control CPU 72 sets "small hit start (during small hit game)" as an internal state flag for control. In addition, the main control CPU72 generates a state command indicating that the small hit is in progress. The state command indicating that the small hit is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5254.

Step S5254: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit opening pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the small hit opening pattern setting table and selects an opening pattern. Here, the opening pattern represents the setting for operating the variable winning device 30, for example, the setting of the number of times of opening, opening time, interval time, and the like. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5256.

Step S 5256 : The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the variable winning device 30 . Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the variable winning device 30 as the type of variable winning device to be operated during the small winning, based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small winning. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5258.

Step S5258: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times of opening. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of opening times to be executed during the small hit based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In this embodiment, one time is set as the number of openings of the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5260.

Step S5260: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hit opening timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (opening timer) per time when opening the big winning opening based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In this embodiment, 0.5 seconds or 1.8 seconds is set based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5262.

Step S5262: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hit interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the waiting time (interval timer) between the opening of the big winning opening based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In this embodiment, since the number of openings of the big winning opening is one, the interval timer is not set (0.0 second is set). The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5264.

Step S5264: The main control CPU72 sets an open timer for the specific area 30d. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (opening timer) of the specific area 30d based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In this embodiment, the specific area 30d is always open, so this process is omitted.

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (FIG. 25).

[Grand Prize Opening/Closing Operation Processing]
FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the big winning opening opening/closing operation process. This processing is mainly for controlling the opening/closing operation of the variable winning device 30 . The procedure will be described below.

Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current internal state is "in duty". Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the current internal state is 'during a big win' by checking whether or not the flag 'during a big win (during a big winning game)' is set as an internal state flag for control. It should be noted that the "during a big win (during a jackpot game)" flag is set by the main control CPU 72 during the previous process (during the big win opening pattern setting process at the time of the big win: step S5212) or during the process when passing through a specific area to be described later. As a result of this confirmation, if the current internal state is "during heavy duty" (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5306. On the other hand, if the current internal state is not "during heavy duty" (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5304.

Step S5304: The main control CPU 72 executes a big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a small hit. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the variable winning device 30 (outputs a drive signal to be applied to the big winning opening solenoid 89) to open and close the big winning opening 30b based on the set opening pattern. The specific contents of the processing will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

Step S5306: The main control CPU 72 executes a big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a big hit. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the variable winning device 30 (outputs a drive signal to be applied to the big winning opening solenoid 89) to open and close the big winning opening 30b based on the set opening pattern. The specific contents of the processing will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process (FIG. 24).

[Big winning opening opening/closing operation processing at the time of small hit]
FIG. 29 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the small winning big winning opening opening/closing operation process. The contents will be described below according to the procedure example.

Step S5310: The main control CPU 72 opens the big winning opening 30b. Specifically, it outputs a drive signal to be applied to the big winning opening solenoid 89 . As a result, the variable prize winning device 30 operates and shifts from the closed state to the open state. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5310b. It should be noted that the main control CPU72 executes step S5316 when the big winning opening 30b has already been opened.

Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 executes open timer countdown processing. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the timer set in the previous process (steps S5260, S5264, and S5266 of the small winning opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 27)). The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5313.

Step S5314: The main control CPU 72 executes specific area opening/closing operation processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs a process of outputting a drive signal to be applied to the entrance opening solenoid 86 to open and close the specific area 30d based on the set opening pattern. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5316. Note that in the present embodiment, the specific area 0d is always open, so this process is omitted.

Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the big winning opening 30b has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the open timer for the big winning opening 30b after the countdown process is 0 or less. As a result of this confirmation, if the opening time of the big winning opening 30b has ended (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5322. On the other hand, if the opening time of the big winning opening 30b has not ended (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5317a.

Step S5317a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a game ball has entered the big winning opening 30b. Specifically, it is checked whether or not the winning detection signal input from the count switch 84 has been input. As a result of this confirmation, if the game ball enters the big winning hole 30b (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5318. On the other hand, if the game ball has not entered the big winning hole 30b (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process (FIG. 28) at this stage, so the main control CPU 72 repeats the above steps S5310 to S5316.

Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 executes winning ball count processing. In this process, the number of game balls that have won the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening during opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the count based on the winning detection signal input from the count switch 84 within the open time. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5320.

Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one time at the time of a small win) as described above. If the count number has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process (FIG. 28) at this stage, so the main control CPU 72 repeats the above steps S5310 to S5320.

If it is determined that the open time has ended in step S5316 (Yes), or if it is confirmed that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S5320 (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5322.

Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 closes the big winning opening 30b. Specifically, the output of the driving signal applied to the big winning opening solenoid 89 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5324.

Step S5324: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the specific area passage flag is ON. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the specific area passage flag is ON based on whether the value of the specific area passage flag is 01H. As a result of this confirmation, if the specific area passage flag is ON (Yes), that is, if the game ball passes through the specific area 30d while the big winning opening during the small hit is open, the main control CPU72 next executes step S5326. On the other hand, if the specific area passage flag is not ON (No), that is, if the game ball does not pass through the specific area 30d while the big winning opening during the small hit is open, the main control CPU72 next executes step S5328.

Step S5326: The main control CPU 72 executes specific area passage processing. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operating device based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the specific region 30d during the small winning, and performs the processing for continuously operating the variable winning device 30, that is, the processing for starting the big winning game. The specific contents of the processing will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5328.

Step S5328: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening closing process, and returns to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process (FIG. 28). Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 next executes the big winning opening closing process.

[Process when passing specific area]
FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for processing when passing through a specific area. The contents will be described below according to the procedure example.

Step S5350: The main control CPU72 resets the small hit flag. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and resets the value of the small hit flag to 00H. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5352.

Step S5352: The main control CPU72 declares the end of the small hit. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 erases "during a small hit" from the internal state flag and declares the end of a small hit as an internal state on the control process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5354.

Step S5354: The main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device. As a result, the variable winning device 30 can be operated continuously, and a big win game can be started. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5356.

Step S5356: The main control CPU 72 sets "big win start (during jackpot game)" as an internal state flag for control. In addition, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation count status according to the type of the jackpot symbol. In this embodiment, a value representing "7 rounds" or "10 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status according to the type of the jackpot symbol. Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the jackpot is in progress. A state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5358.

Step S5358: The main control CPU 72 executes the pattern-specific release pattern selection process when passing through a specific area. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the symbol-specific opening pattern setting table when passing through a specific area, and selects an opening pattern corresponding to the type of winning symbol related to the special symbol when a small hit occurs. For example, in the first special symbol, the type of variable winning device to be operated is only the variable winning device 30, and the open pattern in which the number of execution rounds is 7 rounds is selected. In addition, in the second special symbol, an open pattern in which the type of the variable winning device to be operated is only the variable winning device 30 and the number of execution rounds is 10 rounds is selected. Since the number of execution rounds includes the operation of the variable prize winning device 30 opened by the small win, in the big win game to be started from now on, 6 rounds obtained by subtracting 1 round from 7 rounds or 9 rounds obtained by subtracting 1 round from 10 rounds are the actual number of rounds in the big win game. Then, an opening pattern is selected in which the opening time for opening the big winning opening is 29.0 seconds per round and the interval time provided between rounds is 1.0 second. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5350.

Step S5360: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the type of the variable prize winning device to be operated in each round (second round to final round) during the big win game to the variable prize winning device 30 based on the release pattern corresponding to the prize winning pattern related to the special symbol when the small prize is awarded. In the present embodiment, since the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbols related to the special symbols when all the small winnings are achieved, the big winning opening is opened from the second round to the last round, so the operation of the variable winning device 30 is set. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5362.

Step S5362: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed during the big hit game, based on the release pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol when the small hit is achieved. In this embodiment, 7 rounds are set for the first special symbol and 10 rounds are set for the second special symbol as the number of execution rounds of the release pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol when all small hits are achieved. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5364.

Step S5364: The main control CPU 72 sets an opening timer for the big hit. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (opening timer) per time when opening the big winning opening for each round at the time of the big hit. In addition, in this embodiment, it is set for each round based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol at the time of hitting the small hit. For example, the opening time for opening the big winning opening is set to 29.0 seconds. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5366.

Step S5366: The main control CPU 72 sets a jackpot time interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the waiting time (interval timer) between rounds at the time of the big hit. In the present embodiment, 1.0 second is set as the interval timer of the release pattern corresponding to the winning symbol relating to the special symbol at the time of the small hit. For example, an interval timer of about 1.0 second is set after the opening of the big winning slot between the second and third rounds is completed and the opening is temporarily closed. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5368. A waiting period (interval period) from the end of the small win to the start of the big win is also set in the interval timer.

Step S5368: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation count command. The continuous operation count command can be generated based on the number of execution rounds set in the previous process (step S5362). Therefore, based on the execution round number ``7R'' or ``10R'' of the opening pattern corresponding to the winning pattern related to the special pattern when the small prize is applied, the value representing ``7 rounds'' or ``10 rounds'' is generated as the command for the number of times of continuous operation. The generated continuous actuation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

Step S5370: The main control CPU 72 executes the pattern-specific time reduction function setting process when passing through the specific area. In this processing, the value (01H) of the time shortening function operation flag is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 as a game state flag in correspondence with the winning symbol relating to the special symbol when the small hit is made (time shortening state shifting means, time shortening function operating means).

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the small winning big winning opening opening/closing operation process (FIGS. 29 and 24).

[Big Win Opening/Closing Operation Processing During Big Win]
FIG. 31 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a big win. An example procedure will be described below.

Step S5380: The main control CPU72 opens the big winning opening 30b. Specifically, it outputs a drive signal to be applied to the big winning opening solenoid 89 . As a result, the variable prize winning device 30 operates and shifts from the closed state to the open state. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5382.

Step S5382: The main control CPU 72 executes open timer countdown processing. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 counts down the open timer set in the previous process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5386.

Step S5386: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the big winning opening 30b has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the open timer for the big winning opening 30b after the countdown process is 0 or less. As a result of this confirmation, if the opening time of the big winning opening 30b has ended (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5392. On the other hand, if the opening time of the big winning opening has not ended (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5388.

Step S5388: The main control CPU 72 executes winning ball count processing. In this process, the number of game balls that have won the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening during opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the count based on the winning detection signal input from the count switch 84 within the open time. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5390.

Step S5390: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (9). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of prize balls) allowed per opening (one round during a big win) as described above. If the count number has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process at this stage, so the main control CPU 72 repeats the above steps S5380 to S5390.

If it is determined that the opening time has ended in step S5386 (Yes), or if it is confirmed that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S5390 (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5392.

Step S5392: The main control CPU 72 closes the big winning opening. Specifically, the output of the driving signal applied to the big winning opening solenoid 89 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5324.

Step S5394: The main control CPU 72 executes interval standby processing. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 counts down the interval timer set in the previous process (step S5222 of the big winning opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 26) at the time of the big hit, or step S5366 in the specific area passing process (in FIG. 30)). The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5314. When the interval timer value becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5395. Although not particularly shown here, until the interval time elapses (until the interval timer value becomes 0), the main control CPU 72 returns to the end address of the variable winning device management process (FIG. 24) that is the caller from step S5394 for each interrupt. Then, when the big winning opening opening/closing operation process is executed in the next call, step S5394 is executed directly instead of from the top step S5380.

Step S5395: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter. The value of the open number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

Step S5396: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open number counter after increment has reached the number set in the current round. Here, the reason why ``the number of times set in the current round'' is determined is to correspond to the opening pattern of ``opening the variable prize winning device 30 a plurality of times in one round during the big win'', for example. In this embodiment, since such an opening pattern is not particularly adopted, the "number of times set in the current round" is set to once in each round. Therefore, since the counter value usually reaches the set number of times in one opening/closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5398 next.

If a pattern is adopted in which opening and closing operations are repeated a plurality of times within one round as described above, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening operation (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process at this stage, so the above steps S5380 to S5390 are repeatedly executed. As a result, the opening counter is incremented in step S5395, and when the counter value reaches the set number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5398.

Step S5398: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening closing process, and returns to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process (FIG. 28). Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 next executes the big winning opening closing process.

[Grand Prize Opening Closing Process]
FIG. 32 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening closing process. This big winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the variable winning device 30 or ending the operation. The procedure will be described below.

Step S5401: First, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the current game is in a big win (jackpot game), and if it is in a big win (Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S5402.

Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. As a result, for example, the first round is completed, and the value of the round number counter is "1" at the stage toward the second round. When the game ball passes through the specific area 30d during the small winning and the big winning game is started after the small winning is finished, the opening of the big winning opening at the time of the small winning is treated as the first round, and the first round in which the big winning game is started is treated as the second round.

Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the incremented round number counter has reached the set execution round number. Specifically, the main control CPU72 refers to the incremented round number counter value (1 to 7, 1 to 10), and if the value is less than the set execution round number (6 or 9 after subtracting 1) (No), then step S5405 is executed.

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

Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 24), the main control CPU 72 executes the big winning opening opening/closing operation process, which is the next jump destination. After executing the large winning opening opening/closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the large winning opening closing process again after executing the large winning opening closing process, and repeats the above steps S5402 to S5408. Thus, the opening/closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is continuously performed until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of rounds to be executed (15 times or 16 times).

When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

Steps S5410, S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets (=0) the round number counter, the next jump destination is set to end processing.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[At the time of small hit]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation executing means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not in a big role (step S5401: No), it increments the value of the opening number counter.

Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open number counter after incrementing has reached the set open number. The number of times of opening is set in the previous big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of small winning (step S5258 in FIG. 27). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process. Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process (step S5408).

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 24), the main control CPU 72 executes the big winning opening opening/closing operation process, which is the next jump destination. Then, after executing the big winning opening opening/closing operation process, the main control CPU72 executes the big winning opening closing process again after executing the big winning opening closing process, and repeats steps S5416 and S5408 via the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No). As a result, the opening/closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is repeatedly performed until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of times of opening. In this embodiment, since the number of times of opening is set to 1, the opening/closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is finished without being repeatedly executed.

When the actual number of times of opening at the time of the small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5414.

Steps S5414, S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets (=0) the open number counter, the next jump destination is set to end processing.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[End processing]
FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of termination processing. This ending process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the variable winning device 30 . An example procedure will be described below.

Step S5502: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S5503.

Step S5503, step S5504: In this case, the main control CPU72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit game state ends in the control processing of the main control CPU 72 . Also, the main control CPU 72 erases "big hit" from the internal state flag here, and declares the end of the big win as an internal state on the control process. The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation count status.

Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the time reduction function activation flag value (01H) is set. This flag is also set at the time of the big hit during the previous special symbol variation preprocessing (step S2414 in FIG. 14), and at the time of passing the specific area during the previous processing at the time of passing the specific area (step S5370 in FIG. 30).

Step S5512: If the value of the time reduction function activation flag (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the time reduction flag) is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU72 sets the number of times of time reduction. In the present embodiment, the conditions for ending the time-saving state are that the number of times the normal symbols change or the number of times the special symbols change reaches a predetermined number (see FIGS. 16 and 17). A first cutting counter for counting the number of times of variation of the special pattern in the time saving state and a second cutting counter for counting the number of times of variation of the normal pattern in the time saving state are provided in the time saving count area of the RAM 76.例文帳に追加And in this process, the value according to the kind of time saving state is set to the 1st times cutting counter and the 2nd times cutting counter as the number of times of time saving (it may be abbreviated as the number of times of time saving hereafter). If the value of the time reduction function activation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU72 does not execute step S5512 and proceeds to step S5514.

Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on the flag. Specifically, in accordance with the reset of the jackpot flag or the end of the big win, a state designation command representing "normal" as the game state is generated. Moreover, if the time-saving flag is set, the state designation|designated command showing "during time reduction (time-saving state)" is produced|generated according to the kind of time-saving state as an internal state. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

The procedure up to this point is for the case of a big hit, but in the case of a small hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

Step S5520, step S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H), and erases "small hit" from the internal state flag. It should be noted that in the case of a small win, such a procedure is merely for the purpose of clearing the flag, especially since the internal conditioning device is not activated. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5524.

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

Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 13) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol variation pre-process. After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Normal symbol game processing]
Next, the details of the normal symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 9) will be described. FIG. 34 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of normal symbol game processing. The normal symbol game processing includes a subroutine (program module) group of execution selection processing (step S1001), normal symbol variation preprocessing (step S2001), normal symbol variation processing (step S3001), normal symbol stop display processing (step S4001), and variable start winning device management processing (step S5001). Here, first, the basic flow of the normal symbol game processing will be described along with each processing.

Step S1001: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S2001 to S5001) from the "jump table". For example, the main control CPU72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the address of the jump destination, and sets the end of the normal symbol game process to the stack pointer as the address of the return destination.

Which process is selected as the next jump destination varies depending on the progress of the processes performed so far (normal symbol game management status). For example, if normal symbols have not yet started variable display (normal symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects normal symbol variation pre-processing (step S2001) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the normal symbol variation preprocessing has already been completed (normal symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the normal symbol variation process (step S3001) as the next jump destination, and if the normal symbol variation process is completed (normal symbol game management status: 02H), the normal symbol stop display process (step S4001) is selected as the next jump destination. In the present embodiment, the jump destination address is specified in the "jump table" to select the process, but apart from such a selection method, there is also a well-known programming example in which the CPU selects the process to be executed next using a "process flag" or a "process selection flag". In such a programming example, the CPU calls each process once, and conditionally branches (continues/returns) by referring to the flags one by one at the first step, but in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control CPU 72 does not need to call each process one by one.

Step S2001: In the normal symbol variation preprocessing, the main control CPU72 performs the work of adjusting the conditions for starting the variation display of the normal symbols. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S3001: In the process during normal design fluctuation, the main control CPU72 performs drive control of the normal design display device 33 while counting the fluctuation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1-byte data) is output to each dot of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, and thus the variable display of normal symbols is performed.

Step S4001: In the normal symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the driving of the normal symbol display device 33. In this case as well, an ON or OFF drive signal is output to each dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, so that the normal symbols are stopped and displayed.

Step S5001: The variable starting winning device management process is selected when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (mode other than non-winning) in the previous normal symbol stop display process.

[Normal symbol change preprocessing]
FIG. 35 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of normal symbol variation preprocessing. Each procedure will be described below.

Step S2600: First, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the number of normal symbol working memories remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76 . When the working memory number of normal symbols is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 ends the process.

On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter of any of the normal symbols is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2602.

Step S2602: The main control CPU 72 executes normal symbol storage area shift processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 reads the lottery random number (normal symbol variation random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM76. The read random number is saved, for example, in another temporary storage area. The random numbers stored in the temporary storage area are used for the internal lottery in the next hit determination process. Also, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one from the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76, and sets the value after the subtraction as the "variation start working memory number". As a result, the display mode of the number stored by the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes (decrease by 1) in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9). After completing the procedure up to this point, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2604.

Step S2604: The main control CPU 72 executes a hit determination process (normal drawing lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets the range of hit values, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (normal pattern lottery executing means). Here, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a hit in the general pattern lottery is set to 1/1, and when the general pattern lottery is performed, it will always be a hit. Then, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S2606.

Step S2606: The main control CPU 72 executes stop symbol determination processing. The relationship between the random number and the type of stop symbol is defined in advance in the normal symbol determination data table (winning type determination means). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 can refer to the stop symbol selection table in the stop symbol determination process, and can determine the type of the stop symbol based on the symbol random number from the stored contents. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data by the normal symbol display device 33 . Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 . These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9). Then, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S2608.

Step S2608: The main control CPU 72 determines whether the determined stop symbol corresponds to long opening or short opening. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the long open flag (01H) in the case of long open and proceeds to step S2612, and sets the short open flag (01H) in the case of short open and proceeds to step S2610.

In addition, in this embodiment, long opening can be selected according to the stop pattern only in the time saving state, and long opening is not selected regardless of the stop pattern in the non-time saving state. That is, only open short is selected in the non-time saving state. Further, in the present embodiment, either long open or short open is determined according to the stop symbol, but it may be configured to determine either long open or short open by another process.

Step S2610: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the process of determining the fluctuation pattern when the short circuit is open. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern number at the time of short opening for normal symbols (variation pattern selection means). The variation pattern number distinguishes the type (pattern) of the variation display of normal symbols, or corresponds to the variation time required for the variation display.

In the present embodiment, when short opening occurs, control is performed such that, for example, "ready-to-win effect" is generated in the performance to make it lose, or "reach-to-win effect" is not generated to make it lose. In the ``variation pattern selection table when short circuit is opened'', variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of performances, for example, ``non-reach performance'' and ``ready-to-win performance'' are defined in advance, and one of the variation patterns is selected from among them when the game is not won. The reach performance includes various reach performances such as a normal reach performance, a long reach performance, and a super reach performance.

The above step S2610 is a control procedure for short opening, but if the determination result is long opening (step S2608: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure.

Step S2612: The main control CPU 72 executes long release time variation pattern determination processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the normal design based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variable time to the variable timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time to the stop symbol display timer.

In this embodiment, as a result of the normal figure lottery, when it corresponds to long opening, for example, "reach effect" is generated on the effect and control is performed to win. A ``variation pattern selection table at the time of a big hit'' defines variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of ``ready-to-win performances'', and one of the variation patterns is selected when long opening occurs. The reach performance includes various reach performances such as a normal reach performance, a long reach performance, and a special reach performance. In addition, when winning with the time shortening function in operation, a variation pattern with a short variation time (variation pattern without ready-to-win performance) is selected without selecting a variation pattern with a long variation time.

Step S2616: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes normal symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the variation pattern data based on the variation pattern number (short open/long open). In addition, the main control CPU 72 sets a normal pattern fluctuation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 . Moreover, when the value (01H) of a time saving flag is set, the process according to a time saving state is performed. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a normal figure fluctuation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 . Normal figure for fluctuation start command, step S2405, step S2408, it is the command which can specify the fluctuation pattern which is decided with step S2412. This normal figure fluctuation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU72 sets the normal symbol fluctuation process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and returns to the normal symbol game process.

Step S2618: The main control CPU 72 executes a number cutting counter value management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of updating the value of the cut counter value. Specifically, the processing of FIG. 18 is performed for this processing. Then, in FIG. 18, the main control CPU 72 resets the time saving flag when the number of times the variable display of normal symbols is performed in the time saving state reaches a specified number of times. Therefore, in the final variation of the time saving state, the time saving state ends before the start of the normal symbol variation. In addition, such a process may be executed during the normal symbol stop display process.

[Fig. 34: normal symbol fluctuation process, normal symbol stop display process]
In the normal symbol fluctuation process, the main control CPU72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then decrements the value of the timer counter according to the passage of time (the number of clock pulses or the value of the interrupt counter). Then, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the timer counter, and controls the variable display of normal symbols as described above until the value becomes 0. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the normal symbol stop display processing (step S4001) to the next jump destination.

Also, in the normal symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the stop display of normal symbols based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (step S2606 in FIG. 35). Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 . The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. When the stop symbols are displayed for a predetermined period of time during the normal symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol fluctuation flag.

[Normal pattern fluctuation time]
FIG. 36(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the fluctuation time of normal symbols.

As shown in FIG. 36(a), in the non-shortening state, the variation time of normal symbols is set to 30 seconds. In addition, in the time shortening state, the fluctuation time of normal symbols is set to 0.5 seconds. In addition, in the normal drawing lottery, for example, a value in the range of "1" to "65536" is extracted, and the random number value to be hit is a value in the range of "1" to "65536". Therefore, the winning probability of the normal drawing lottery is 65536/65536, that is, 1/1.

[Opening pattern of variable start winning device]
FIG. 36(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the opening patterns of the variable starting winning device and the types of normal symbols. In this embodiment, normal symbols 1 to 5 are provided as stop symbols that can be stopped when the normal symbols are variably displayed. Short opening and long opening are provided as opening patterns of the variable starting prize winning device 28 . Short opening is an opening pattern in which the variable start winning device 28 is opened for 0.044 seconds. Long opening is an opening pattern in which the variable start winning device 28 is opened for 0.1 seconds followed by an interval of 2.7 seconds for 5.8 seconds. Therefore, substantially, the game ball cannot win when the short opening is performed, and the game ball can win when the long opening is performed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 36(b), in the non-time-saving state, when the normal symbol 1 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 2 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 3 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 4 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 5 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened.

Therefore, in the non-time-saving state, even if any normal symbol is selected as the stop symbol, the long-opening does not occur (in other words, in the non-time-saving state, only the short-opening is selected).

In addition, in the case of the time saving state B, when the normal symbol 1 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Also, when the normal symbol 2 is selected as the stop symbol, it becomes a long release. Further, when the normal symbol 3 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 4 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 5 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened.

Therefore, in the case of the time saving state B, when the normal symbol 2 is selected as the stop symbol, the long game is opened.

Further, in the case of the time saving state A, when the normal symbol 1 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 2 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Also, when the normal symbol 3 is selected as the stop symbol, it becomes a long release. Further, when the normal symbol 4 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 5 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened.

Therefore, in the case of the time saving state A, when the normal symbol 3 is selected as the stop symbol, the long opening is performed.

Further, in the case of the time saving state C, when the normal symbol 1 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 2 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 3 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened. Further, when the normal symbol 4 is selected as the stop symbol, it becomes a long release. Further, when the normal symbol 5 is selected as the stop symbol, the short circuit is opened.

Therefore, in the case of the time saving state C, when the normal symbol 4 is selected as the stop symbol, the long opening is performed.

[Selection probability of normal pattern]
FIG.37(c) is explanatory drawing which shows the selection probability of the normal design in step S2606 of FIG.45.

As shown in FIG. 37(c), in this embodiment, when determining the type of the stop symbol when the variable display of normal symbols is performed, for example, a value in the range of "1" to "65536" is extracted. Then, the probability that normal symbol 1 is selected is 55111/65536 (1/1.2), the probability that normal symbol 2 is selected is 225/65536 (1/291.3), the probability that normal symbol 3 is selected is 10000/65536 (1/6.6), the probability that normal symbol 4 is selected is 180/65536 (1/364.1), the probability that normal symbol 5 is selected. are distributed so as to be 20/65536 (1/3276.8).

[Long open selection ratio]
FIG. 37(d) is an explanatory diagram showing the probability that long opening is selected in the variable starting prize winning device 28 as a result of the normal drawing lottery. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 36(b), the types of normal symbols for which long opening is selected are different depending on the type of time saving state. And each normal design is selected with the probability shown in FIG.37(c).

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 37(d), the selection probability of long opening is 1/291.3 in the time saving state B, 1/6.6 in the time saving state A, and 1/364.1 in the time saving state C. In this embodiment, the normal drawing is performed even during the big win game, but since the same lottery table as the time saving state C is used during the big win game, the selection probability of long open is 1/364.1 during the big win game. In addition, during the jackpot game, a lottery may be drawn using a lottery table used in a normal state (non-time-saving state) instead of the time-saving state.

[Game flow]
FIG. 38 is a diagram explaining a game flow developed in a pachinko machine. A game by the pachinko machine 1 progresses by driving (shooting) game balls into the game area 9a according to the operation of the player. In the following description, reference numerals a to k, etc. in the drawings are appropriately shown in parentheses. Also, "winning" used in the following description means "handling the detected entering ball as valid". The contents will be described below according to each internal state or each trigger.

For example, it is assumed that the internal state (game state) of the pachinko machine 1 is "normally playing" when the player starts playing with the pachinko machine 1 . In this embodiment, the state of "normal game" is "non-time-saving state (long open non-election)" for normal patterns (normal drawing lottery), and "non-time-saving state" for special patterns (internal lottery).

During the normal state (non-time-saving state), a game is played by hitting left to shoot a game ball so that the game ball flows down the left side of the game area 9a. Then, when a game ball wins in the first starting prize winning port 26, an internal lottery for the first special symbol is executed, and then variable display of the first special symbol over a predetermined variable time is started.

As a result of the internal lottery for the first special pattern, when a small win (7 round small win pattern) is won (winning probability 1/399), a small win game is started after the end of the variable display (stop display) of the first special pattern. In this embodiment, since the game ball always passes through the specific area 30d during the small winning game, the big winning game (7 rounds) is started following the small winning game (a).

In addition, as a result of the internal lottery for the first special pattern, when the big win (7th round big win pattern 2) is won (winning probability 1/319), the big win game (7 rounds) is started after the end of the variable display (stop display) of the first special pattern (b).

In addition, as a result of the internal lottery for the first special pattern, when the jackpot (7th round jackpot pattern 1) is won (winning probability 1/319), the jackpot game (7 rounds) is started after the end of the variable display (stop display) of the first special pattern (c).

As a result of the internal lottery for the first special symbol, if the game is not won (lost), the small winning game and the big winning game are not started, and preparations are made for a state in which the next special symbol can be variably displayed.

The jackpot game is played by hitting to the right by shooting a game ball so that the game ball flows down the right side of the game area 9a. When the jackpot game is started, the variable prize winning device 30 is activated, and the jackpot opening 30b is opened based on the opening pattern corresponding to the type of the prize winning symbol relating to the first special symbol at the time of the jackpot. Then, when the jackpot game ends, the internal state (game state) is set to the time-saving state based on the winning symbols. At this time, in the case of the 7-round small winning pattern or the 7-round big winning pattern 2, the time saving state A is set (a, b). On the other hand, in the case of the 7-round big hit pattern 1, the time saving state B is set (c). When a big win is won, the 7 round big win pattern 2 is selected at a rate of 5% (5/100), and the 7 round big win pattern 1 is selected at a rate of 95% (95/100).

In this embodiment, the state of ``playing time saving'' means ``time saving state (long open winning possible)'' for normal patterns (normal drawing lottery) and ``time saving state'' for special patterns (internal lottery).

In the time saving state A, the probability of winning the normal drawing lottery is 1/1, and the probability of long opening is 6.5/1. Then, the number of fluctuations of normal figure reaches 10000 times, or the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 reaches 1 time, or the total number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and special figure 2 reaches 5 times.

In the time saving state B, the probability of winning the normal drawing lottery is 1/1, and the probability of long opening is 291.2/1. The number of fluctuations of normal figure reaches 200 times, or the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 reaches 1 time, or the total number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and special figure 2 reaches 5 times.

During the time saving state, the game is played by hitting to the right. Then, when the game ball passes through the start gate 20 and wins the normal drawing lottery, the variable start prize winning device 28 is activated and the second start prize winning port 28b is opened. In addition, in this embodiment, since the winning probability of the normal figure lottery is set to 1/1, when the game ball passes through the start gate 20, the second start winning opening 28b is always opened.

When the game ball wins when the second starting prize winning port 28b is opened, an internal lottery regarding the second special symbol is executed, and thereafter the variable display of the second special symbol over a predetermined variable time is started. In this embodiment, as a result of the internal lottery for the second special symbol, there is no case of non-winning (loss), and a small win or big win is always won.

Then, in the time-saving state A or the time-saving state B, as a result of the internal lottery for the second special pattern, when a small win (10-round small win pattern) is won (winning probability 1/003), a small win game is started after the end of the variable display (stop display) of the second special pattern. In this embodiment, since the game ball always passes through the specific area 30d during the small winning game, the big winning game (10 rounds) is started following the small winning game (d, f).

In addition, in the time-saving state A or the time-saving state B, as a result of the internal lottery for the second special pattern, when a big win (10 round big win pattern) is won (winning probability 1/319), a big win game (10 rounds) is started after the variable display (stop display) of the second special pattern is finished (e, g).

In this embodiment, either short opening or long opening is selected as the opening pattern of the variable starting prize winning device 28 . When the short opening is selected, it is impossible to let the game ball enter the second start winning hole 28b, but when the long opening is selected, the game ball can enter the second starting winning hole 28b. When the long opening is performed, a plurality of game balls can be won in the second start winning opening 28b, so that the suspension of the variable display of the second special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as special symbol suspension) is likely to occur. It should be noted that it is possible to store 3 special figure reserves in the upper limit in the second starting winning port 28b, and it is possible to win 4 game balls at a time.

When the variable starting prize winning device 28 is opened for a long time and the upper limit of four game balls enters the second starting prize winning port 28b, first, a small win or a big win is generated based on the first prize, and the game is controlled to a big win game state. In the first variation after the end of the big win game state, the reservation of the first special figure is canceled and a small win or a big win occurs again to control to the big win game state. After the big win game state based on the first special figure reservation is completed, the second special figure reservation is digested at the first variation, and a small win or a big win is generated again to control to the big win game state. Then, in the first variation after the big win game state based on the second special figure reservation is finished, the third special figure reservation is digested and a small win or a big win is generated again to control to the big win game state.

Therefore, when the upper limit of four game balls enter the second start winning hole 28b when the long opening is performed, the jackpot game state (first prize) → small win or big win occurs in the first variation → big win game state (first special figure reserved) → small win or big win occurs in the first variation → big win game state (second special figure reserved) → small win or big win occurs in the first variation → big win game state (three balls) It is possible to make a big hit four times through one change in the flow of special drawing reservation of eyes) → time saving state. As a result, about 1,500 prize balls can be obtained with 10 rounds of big wins, so about 6,000 game balls can be obtained with four consecutive big wins.

Since one variation during the big win series is after the end of the big win game state, it is controlled to the time saving state as the actual game state, but the time saving state ends when the second special pattern starts to change. Then, when the last big hit game state related to the big hit series is completed by the digestion of the third special figure reservation, the time saving state C is set (h).

In the time saving state C, the probability of winning the normal drawing lottery is 1/1, and the probability of long opening is 364.1/1. The number of fluctuations of normal figure reaches 100 times, or the number of fluctuations of special figure 2 reaches 1 time, or the total of the number of fluctuations of special figure 1 and the number of variations of special figure 2 reaches 5 times.

Then, when the long opening is performed in the time-saving state C and the game ball wins the second start winning hole 28b, a small win (10 round small win pattern) or a big win (10 round big win pattern) is generated, and the game is controlled to the big win game state again (i, j). At this time, if four game balls are made to enter the second starting prize-winning hole 28b, four big hits will occur as described above. Then, when the last big hit game state related to the big hit series is completed by the digestion of the third special figure reservation, it is controlled to the time saving state C again.

In addition, when the end condition of the time saving state C is satisfied without the long opening being performed in the time saving state C and the game ball not entering the second start winning opening 28b, it is controlled to the normal state (k).

[Regarding the opening time of the variable start winning device and the fluctuation time of the second special symbol]
Next, the relationship between the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 and the variation time of the second special symbol in this embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 39, when the long opening is selected as the opening pattern of the variable starting prize winning device 28 ("electric chew" in the figure), the second starting prize winning port 28b is opened for the opening time t1 (about 10 seconds). Then, when the first game ball wins a prize ("N1" in the figure) in the second start winning hole 28b, the variable display of the second special pattern is started, but the variable time t2 of the second special pattern is set longer than the open time t1. Therefore, the start of opening of the variable winning device 30 ("attacker" in the figure) can be made after the variable start winning device 28 is closed. Therefore, while the second special symbol is being variably displayed, a plurality of (for example, three) game balls can be won ("N2" to "N4" in the figure) by the variable starting prize winning device 28.

In this embodiment, the variable starting winning device 28 is arranged downstream of the variable winning device 30 on the downstream path of the game ball. Therefore, when the variable prize winning device 30 is open, most of the game balls enter the variable prize winning device 30, so the number of game balls flowing down to the variable starting prize winning device 28 is reduced. Then, in this embodiment, when the second special symbol is variably displayed, a small hit or a big hit always occurs.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 40, if the variation time t2 of the second special symbol is set to a time shorter than the opening time t1 of the variable start-up winning device 28, the variable start-up winning device 28 opens and the first game ball wins the second start-up winning port 28b ("N1" in the figure), and when a small win or a big win occurs based on the winning N1, the variable winning device 30 is opened while the variable start-up winning device 28 is open. Opening is started.

In this case, the game ball flowing down the game area 9a enters the variable prize winning device 30 (in other words, the attacker wins), making it difficult to enter the variable starting prize winning device 28. Therefore, even though the variable starting prize winning device 28 is long released, it becomes impossible to win four game balls.

In addition, since the winning probability of long opening is low during a small winning game or a big winning game (same probability as the time saving state C), it is difficult to let a game ball enter the variable starting winning device 28 during a small winning game or a big winning game. Therefore, when the variable starting prize winning device 28 is opened for a long time during the time saving state, if a plurality of game balls cannot enter, it is impossible to make a succession of big wins.

However, in this embodiment, since the variable time t2 of the second special symbol is set longer than the opening time t1 of the variable starting prize winning device 28, the opening of the variable winning prize device 30 ("attacker" in the figure) can be started after the variable starting prize winning device 28 is closed. Therefore, a plurality of game balls can be won by the variable starting prize winning device 28 while the second special symbol is variably displayed. As a result, a series of big wins can be made, and a large number of prize balls can be obtained, so that the interest in the game can be enhanced.

In the long opening of the present embodiment, opening for 5.8 seconds (about 10 seconds in total) is performed with an interval after opening for 0.1 second. Then, when the ball is released for 0.1 second, a right-handed display is displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, suggesting that a right-handed shot is to be performed. Also, the interval period is set in consideration of the period until the game ball reaches the variable starting winning device 28 when the game ball is shot. The open period after the interval period is set to a period during which four game balls can be won.

[Specific example of variable display of production pattern]
Next, the variable display of the performance symbols performed on the liquid crystal display 42 will be specifically described. When the pachinko machine 1 performs an internal lottery for special symbols, a variation pattern (in other words, variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and variation display with the first and second special symbols is performed.

Further, when the normal pattern lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern (in other words, variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the variation display by the normal symbol is performed.

However, as described above, since the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the normal symbol itself are lighting/blinking display by the 7-segment LED, they are poor in visual appeal. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, the variable display effects using the effect symbols are performed as described above.

As shown in FIG. 41, the performance pattern 43 includes, for example, a left performance pattern 43L, a middle performance pattern 43C and a right performance pattern 43R, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.例文帳に追加Each production pattern represents, for example, numbers "1" to "9". Here, the left effect pattern 43L, the middle effect pattern 43C, and the right effect pattern 43R all constitute a pattern row in which numbers "9" to "1" are arranged in descending order. Such a pattern row is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left area, the middle area, and the right area on the screen.

In this embodiment, the production pattern includes a production pattern corresponding to the special pattern (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a special pattern production pattern) and a production pattern corresponding to the normal pattern (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a normal pattern production pattern). Then, depending on the game state, the variable display of the special figure production pattern or the normal figure production pattern is performed. Concretely, during the normal state and during the jackpot, the variable display of the special-figure production pattern is performed. In the time saving state, the variable display of the production pattern for the normal figure is performed.

The display mode of the special-figure performance pattern and the display mode of the normal-figure performance pattern are the same, and it is configured such that it is impossible to identify from the performance pattern whether the variable display of the special-figure performance pattern or the general-figure performance pattern is performed. In addition, in FIG. 41, an example in which the special figure production pattern corresponding to the first special symbol is variably displayed will be explained, but the special figure production symbol variability display corresponding to the second special symbol and the general figure performance symbol variability display are also performed in the same manner. In addition, the display mode of the special figure production pattern and the display mode of the normal figure production pattern may not be the same as long as the identification is difficult. For example, the shape may be slightly deformed, the color may be slightly different, the transparency may be slightly different, and the size may be slightly different.

FIG. 41 is a series of diagrams showing examples of effect images corresponding to variable display and stop display of special symbols. It should be noted that here, regarding the variation of the special symbols at the time of non-winning (lost), an example of a variable display effect and a stop display effect (result display effect) performed using the effect symbols is shown. This variable display performance corresponds to a series of performances performed from the start of the variable display of the special pattern (here, it is the first special pattern, but it may be the second special pattern) to the stop display (including the fixed stop). In addition, the stop display effect is a effect showing that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time as a combination of effect symbols. Here, before describing the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the variable display effect and the stop display effect for each variation adopted in the present embodiment will be described first.

[Before change display]
In FIG. 41(a): For example, in the state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate (the state in which the demonstration effect is not in progress), three rows of performance symbols are displayed in a large size on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. At this time, along with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect symbol is also stopped and displayed.

In addition, at the bottom of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a pending display (marked with reference signs M1 and M2 in the figure) representing the working memory numbers of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is displayed. These reserved displays M1 and M2 can be displayed when the special symbol performance pattern is subject to change, and the number of displays indicates the number of working memories of the corresponding first special pattern and second special pattern (the number of display of the first special pattern working memory lamp 34a and the number of second special pattern working memory lamps 35a), and the number of displays increases or decreases interlocking with the change of the working memory number during the game. In order to facilitate visual discrimination, the pending display M1 corresponding to the first special pattern is displayed in the form of a circle (○), for example, and the pending display M2 corresponding to the second special pattern is displayed in the form of, for example, a heart. In the example of FIG. 41(a), all four of the reserved displays M1 are illuminated to indicate that the number of working memories of the first special symbol is four, and all of the reserved displays M2 are hidden (indicated by broken lines) to indicate that the number of working memories of the second special symbol is 0 (memory number display effect executing means).

Further, the reserved display M1 is also displayed when the normal pattern performance pattern is subject to change (in this case, the reserved display M2 is not displayed), the number of display of the reserved display M1 indicates the working memory number of the corresponding normal patterns (the number of display of the normal pattern working memory lamp 33a), and the display number increases or decreases interlocking with the change of the working memory number during the game.

Also, in the sub-display area Z at the bottom right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a mini pattern and a fourth pattern (see FIG. 42) are displayed. The mini symbol and the fourth symbol are the "fourth effect symbol" following the left, middle and right effect symbols, and are variably displayed in synchronism with the variable display of the special symbol and the normal symbol.

In FIG. 41(b): For example, in synchronism with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, three symbol rows scroll and fluctuate on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 to start a variable display effect (effect executing means). That is, in synchronism with the start of variation of the first special pattern, the variable display performance is started such that the columns of the left performance pattern 43L, the middle performance pattern 43C and the right performance pattern 43R are vertically scrolled (flowed) within the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 42.例文帳に追加The pending displays M1 and M2 are displayed in the pre-variation display region X1 of the belt-shaped portion in the lower part of the liquid crystal display 42 before the start of the variation, but after the start of the variation, they move to the display region X2 during the variation by the pedestal image displayed in the lower left part of the liquid crystal display 42, and continue to be displayed until the variation of the special pattern (performance pattern) is stopped and displayed (memory display performance during the variation). In addition, in the figure, the variable display of the production pattern is simply indicated by a downward arrow. In addition, during the variable display, each performance pattern is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), so that an image (background image) serving as a background of the performance pattern is displayed in the display screen in an easily visible state.

Also, in the sub display area Z at the lower right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, the mini symbols and the fourth symbols are variably displayed.

(c) in FIG. 41: For example, when a certain amount of time (approximately half the variation time) has passed, the left effect symbol 43L stops varying first. In this example, it indicates that the effect symbol representing the number "8" has stopped on the left side of the screen. Note that illustration of the background image is omitted here (same hereafter).

Here, as shown in FIG. 41(b) above, since the number of working memories of the first special symbol is reduced by one with the start of fluctuation, the number of display of the pending display M1 is reduced by one. For example, if there are four working memory numbers until then, only one memory number display of the earliest (oldest) in the pending display M1 is moved to the changing display area X2, and the performance consumed by internal lottery is also performed. As a result, it is possible to teach the player that the number of working memories has been consumed with respect to the first special symbol.

Then, in the example of FIG. 41(c), since the pending display M1 that was at the top in the storage order moves to the changing display region X2, there are three remaining displays in the pre-change display region X1. As a result, the context of the change in the number of working memories can be accurately expressed on the performance, and the player can be instructed intuitively and easily to understand that ``the working memory is consumed and reduced by one'' and ``the special pattern is fluctuating due to the consumption of the working memory''.

(d) in FIG. 41: Following the left performance symbol 43L, the right performance symbol 43R stops changing thereafter. In this example, it indicates that the effect symbol representing the number "3" has stopped at the middle position of the screen. At this point, it has already been determined that the reach state will not occur, so it is almost clear visually that this fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. It should be noted that reach fluctuations due to slip patterns and the like are excluded here. The "sliding pattern" means that, for example, after the effect pattern representing the number "7" stops once, the pattern row slides by one pattern and the effect symbol representing the number "8" stops, thereby developing into a reach. Alternatively, there is also a pattern in which after the performance symbol representing the number ``9'' is once stopped, the symbol row slides in the reverse direction by one symbol and the performance symbol representing the number ``8'' is stopped, thereby developing into a reach. In addition, there is also a pattern in which, for example, after a performance pattern representing a completely different number such as ``5'' stops temporarily, when a character appears on the screen and the right performance pattern row is changed again, the performance pattern representing the number ``8'' stops and develops into reach.

(e) in FIG. 41: In synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol, the last medium effect symbol 43C is stopped. When the result of the current internal lottery is non-winning and the first special pattern is stop-displayed in a non-winning (losing) mode, the performance pattern is similarly stop-displayed in a non-winning (losing) mode. That is, in the example shown in the drawing, it indicates that the production pattern representing the number "1" has stopped at the middle position of the screen, and in this case, the combination of production patterns is the misalignment of "8"-"1"-"3". At this time, the fourth symbol and the mini symbols are stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the loss.

Further, when the stop display effect is performed, the pending display M1 that has been moved to the changing display area X2 and continued to be displayed is also hidden. Therefore, it is possible to intuitively and easily teach the player that "variation of the special symbols has ended".

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

In addition, the above example is for the time of non-winning, but after the ready-to-win performance is executed during the variable display performance at the time of the big win (winning), the performance symbols are stop-displayed in the mode of the big win in the stop display performance (for example, the mode in which the same numbers such as '7'-'7'-'7' are aligned). At this time, the stop display mode of the performance pattern is basically selected corresponding to the winning pattern (the stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35) internally selected by the main control CPU 72.例文帳に追加In addition, when a small win (winning) is made, the performance pattern is stop-displayed in a stop display performance in a mode of a small win (for example, a mode associated with a small win according to a certain rule, such as '1'-'3'-'5').

In the present embodiment, the variable display by the normal figure production pattern is performed during the time saving state, and the variable display by the special figure production pattern is performed during the big hit consecutive game, so long opening is selected during the time saving state, and when four game balls win the second start winning opening 28b, it is displayed that the long opening has been won by the normal figure production pattern. After that, a right-handed display is performed, and after the start performance of the big win, the state shifts to the big win game state. Then, in the first variation after the end of the big win game (one variation in the series of big wins), the big win pattern is stopped and displayed by the special figure production pattern. Therefore, when the big wins are repeated, the stop display of the big win patterns by the special pattern is not performed at the start of the first big win game, but the stop display of the big win patterns by the special pattern is performed during one variation during the consecutive games.

[Example of mini design and fourth design]
Next, the mini symbols and fourth symbols displayed in the sub-display area Z within the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 of FIG. 41 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 42(a), the mini symbols include a special symbol mini symbol 300 corresponding to the special symbol (including both the first special symbol and the second special symbol) and a general symbol mini symbol 302 corresponding to the normal symbol. The special figure mini symbol 300 and the normal figure mini symbol 302 are arranged vertically. Specifically, the special figure mini symbol 300 is arranged on the upper stage, and the normal figure mini symbol 302 is arranged on the lower stage. The mini-symbol 300 for the special figure and the mini-symbol 302 for the general-purpose figure are production symbols smaller than the production pattern 43.例文帳に追加

The special figure mini-patterns 300 include three left mini-patterns 300L, middle mini-patterns 300C and right mini-patterns 300R. Each mini symbol represents, for example, numbers "1" to "9". Here, the left mini-symbols 300L, the middle mini-symbols 300C, and the right mini-symbols 300R all constitute a symbol row in which numbers "9" to "1" are arranged in descending order. Such a pattern row is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left area, the middle area, and the right area on the screen. The special figure mini-pattern 300 and the general figure mini-pattern 302 may be arranged on the left and right, or may be displayed separately at the four corners of the liquid crystal screen (lower left → special figure mini-pattern, lower right → general figure mini-pattern).

Similarly, the mini-patterns 302 for the normal figure include three of a left mini-pattern 302L, a middle mini-pattern 302C and a right mini-pattern 302R. Each mini symbol represents, for example, numbers "1" to "9". Here, the left mini-symbols 302L, the middle mini-symbols 302C, and the right mini-symbols 302R all form a pattern row in which the numbers "9" to "1" are arranged in descending order. Such a pattern row is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left area, the middle area, and the right area on the screen.

The special figure mini-symbols 300 are displayed with a white background, the left mini-symbol 300L in green, the middle mini-symbol 300C in blue, and the right mini-symbol 300R in red. In addition, the mini-symbols 302 for the general pattern are displayed with a blue background, a light blue left mini-symbol 302L, a purple middle mini-symbol 302C, and a yellow right mini-symbol 302R. That is, the display colors of each mini pattern and the background color are different from each other. Therefore, it is possible to easily identify which special symbol or normal symbol the mini symbol corresponding to which variable display is being performed. In addition, as long as the mini-symbol 300 for a special figure and the mini-symbol 302 for a general-purpose figure can be identified, the background image may be in the same mode.

In this embodiment, the variable display of the mini-symbols 300 for special symbols is performed in synchronization with the variable display of the special symbols, and the variable display of the mini-symbols 302 for normal symbols is performed in synchronization with the variable display of the normal symbols. In addition, the special figure mini pattern 300 is stopped and displayed so that the same number as the special figure performance pattern is stopped, and the normal figure mini pattern 302 is stopped and displayed so that the same number as the normal figure performance pattern is stopped. Symbols (numbers) to be stopped and displayed may not be of the same form as long as the form of winning or losing can be identified.

Then, the mini symbols corresponding to the symbols for which the effect symbols are displayed in a variable manner are surrounded by a red variable target notification frame 304 . As a result, it is suggested whether the variable display of the effect pattern corresponding to the special pattern or the normal pattern is performed. That is, when the special figure mini symbol 300 is surrounded by the variable target notification frame 304, it is suggested that the special figure effect symbol is displayed in a variable manner. On the other hand, when the mini symbol 302 for the normal pattern is surrounded by the variable target notification frame 304, it is suggested that the variable display of the production pattern for the normal pattern is being performed. As a result, it is possible to clearly display which of the special-figure production patterns and the general-figure production patterns the variable display is being performed. If it is possible to display whether the variable display of the special figure production pattern or the normal figure production pattern is being performed, it is possible to simply highlight the target pattern instead of the variable target notification frame (change the brightness, change the size, change the transparency, etc.).

In the upper part of the sub-display area Z of the liquid crystal display 42, a fourth pattern 306 corresponding to the first special pattern ("special pattern 1" in the drawing) and a fourth pattern 308 corresponding to the second special pattern ("special pattern 2" in the drawing) are arranged side by side.

The fourth symbols 306 and 308 alternately display 'o' and 'x' to perform a variable display. Then, when the fluctuation time is finished, the stopped design of the fourth design is fixedly displayed at the start of the design fixing period. In this case, when a big win is achieved, the big win symbol "O" is stopped and displayed. In addition, when a small win is obtained, "Δ" is stopped and displayed as a small win symbol. In addition, when it is lost, it is stopped and displayed in a state where "x" is stopped.

A fourth pattern 310 corresponding to the normal pattern (“normal pattern” in the drawing) is arranged at the bottom of the liquid crystal display 42 . This fourth design 310 is a "fourth production design" following the left, middle, and right production designs. The fourth symbol 310 performs a variable display by alternately displaying "o" and "x". Then, when the fluctuation time is finished, the stopped design of the fourth design is fixedly displayed at the start of the design fixing period. In this case, in the case of long opening, the big hit symbol "O" is stopped and displayed. In addition, when the short circuit is opened, "x" is stopped and displayed as a missing symbol. It should be noted that, during fluctuation, a symbol "- (bar)" or the like, which is not displayed as a stop display result, may be displayed.

The fourth symbol 306 is variably displayed with a white mark on a deep light blue background in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol. The fourth symbol 308 is variably displayed with a white mark on a red background in synchronization with the variable display of the second special symbol. The fourth symbol 310 is variably displayed with a white mark on a green background in synchronization with the variable display of the normal symbol. That is, each fourth pattern has a different display color. For this reason, it is possible to easily identify which of the special symbol 1, the special symbol 2, and the normal symbol the fourth symbol corresponding to which the variable display of the fourth symbol is being performed.

[Variable display of special mini symbols]
As shown in FIG. 42(b), for example, when the variable display of the special symbol effect pattern is performed (in this example, the first special symbol), the variable target notification frame 304 moves to a position surrounding the special symbol mini symbol 300. Then, in synchronism with the start of variation of the special pattern (in other words, in synchronism with the start of variation of the performance pattern for the special figure), the variable display performance is started by scrolling the three pattern rows of the mini symbols 300 for the special figure on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 42 (symbol performance executing means). Namely, in synchronism with the start of the variation of the special pattern, the variable display performance is started such that the columns of the left mini-pattern 300L, the middle mini-pattern 300C and the right mini-pattern 300R are vertically scrolled (flowed) within the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 42.例文帳に追加In addition, in the figure, the variable display of the production pattern is simply indicated by a downward arrow.

In addition, while the mini-pattern 300 for the special figure is variably displayed, the fourth pattern 306 is variably displayed on the upper part of the screen of the liquid crystal display device 42, and the fourth pattern 306 expresses the variable display by alternately changing ``o'' and ``x''.

Then, first, the left mini symbol 300L is stopped in synchronization with the stop of the left effect symbol 43L. At this time, the same number pattern as the left effect pattern 43L stops. Next, following the left mini-symbol 300L, the right mini-symbol 300R stops fluctuating in synchronism with the stop of the right production design 43R. Then, following the right mini-symbol 300R, the middle mini-symbol 300C stops fluctuating in synchronization with the stop of the middle effect design 43C. When the result of the internal lottery this time is non-winning and the special pattern is stop-displayed in a non-winning (losing) mode, the stop display presentation is similarly performed in a non-winning (losing) mode for the mini-symbols. On the other hand, when a big win (win) or a small win is won, after the ready-to-win performance is executed during the variable display performance, the mini symbols are stop-displayed in the mode of the big win or the mode of the small win in the stop display performance. At this time, the stop display mode of the performance pattern is basically selected corresponding to the winning pattern (the stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35) internally selected by the main control CPU 72.例文帳に追加It should be noted that the variable display is performed in the same manner when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed.

[Variable display of mini symbols for normal maps]
As shown in FIG. 42(c), for example, when variable display of the normal pattern effect pattern is performed, the variable target notification frame 304 moves to a position surrounding the normal pattern mini symbol 302. FIG. Then, in synchronism with the start of fluctuation of the normal pattern (in other words, in synchronism with the start of fluctuation of the performance pattern for the normal pattern), the variable display performance is started by scrolling the three pattern rows of the mini patterns 302 for the normal pattern on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 42 (symbol performance executing means). Namely, in synchronism with the start of variation of normal patterns, the variable display performance is started such that the columns of the left mini-pattern 302L, the middle mini-pattern 302C and the right mini-pattern 302R are vertically scrolled (flowed) within the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42.例文帳に追加In addition, in the figure, the variable display of the production pattern is simply indicated by a downward arrow.

In addition, during the variable display of the mini pattern 302 for the general pattern, the fourth pattern 306 is variably displayed on the upper part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth pattern 310 expresses the variable display by alternately changing ``o'' and ``x''.

Then, first, the left mini symbol 302L is stopped in synchronization with the stop of the left effect symbol 43L. At this time, the same number pattern as the left effect pattern 43L stops. Next, following the left mini-symbol 302L, the right mini-symbol 302R stops fluctuating in synchronization with the stop of the right production design 43R. Then, following the right mini-symbol 302R, the middle mini-symbol 302C stops fluctuating in synchronism with the stop of the middle effect design 43C. When the result of the internal lottery this time is non-winning and the normal symbols are stop-displayed in the short-open mode, the mini-symbols are also stop-displayed in the lost mode. On the other hand, in the case of long open winning, after the ready-to-win effect is executed during the variable display effect, the mini symbol is stop-displayed in the winning mode in the stop display effect. At this time, the stop display mode of the effect pattern is basically selected corresponding to the winning pattern (the stop display mode of the normal symbol display device 33) internally selected by the main control CPU72. In the stop display of the mini symbols, all symbols may be changed until the symbols are determined, and all the symbols may be stopped at the same time when the symbols are determined.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 43 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. As shown in FIG. This effect control process is executed in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from reset start (main) process (not shown), for example. The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a cycle of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

The effect control process includes subroutine groups of command reception process (step S400), working memory effect management process (step S401), effect pattern management process (step S402), display output process (step S404), lamp drive process (step S406), sound drive process (step S408), effect random number update process (step S410) and other processes (step S412). The basic flow of the effect control process will be described below along with each process.

Step S400: In the command reception process, the effect control CPU 126 receives a command for effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72. Also, the effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 by type.

The production commands sent from the main control CPU 72 include, for example, (special pattern, normal pattern) production command when the number of working memories increases, (special pattern, normal pattern) production command when the number of working memories decreases, start winning sound control command indicating that the start winning opening has been won, demonstration production command indicating that the transition to the demo state, lottery result command indicating the result of internal lottery or general drawing lottery, variation pattern command indicating the fluctuation pattern, variation start command indicating that the special symbol or normal symbol has started to fluctuate. , stop design command indicating the stop design of the special design or normal design, design stop command indicating that the special design or normal design will stop after fluctuation, state designation command indicating the game state, round number command indicating the number of rounds of the big hit, firing position designation command, error notification command indicating the occurrence and type of error, jackpot end production command indicating that the ending period at the end of the jackpot will be produced, number of times cut counter value command indicating the remaining time reduction number, variation pattern of the suspended fluctuation display There are a variation pattern destination determination command indicating the determination result of , and a stop display time end command indicating that the stop display time at the end of pattern variation has ended.

Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls execution of the memory number display effect described above and the pre-reading notice effect using the pending displays M1 and M2. The contents of the operation memory effect management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbols, and controls the effect contents when the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed. In addition, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 initially sets the display mode of the effect pattern (material setting means) or changes the initial settings (material setting changing means). Also, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects effect patterns of various advance notice effects (before the occurrence of reach, notice effect after the occurrence of reach, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) the basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of working memory of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the working memory effect pattern number, the pre-reading notice effect pattern number, the fluctuation effect pattern number, the notice effect number at the time of fluctuation, the background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146 and VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect executing means).

Step S405: In the chance lamp-related processing, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not to light the chance lamp 53b according to the game situation, and sets lighting data based on the lighting pattern (in other words, light emission pattern) in the RAM 130 when lighting the chance lamp 53b. In addition, voice data for turning on the chance lamp 53b is also set in the RAM 130. FIG.

Step S<b>406 : In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132 . In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes luminance gradation, etc.) the various frame lamps 46 and 50, the board surface lamp 53a, and the like based on the control signal. When the lighting data is set in step S405, the effect control CPU 126 performs light emission control of the chance lamp 53b or the like according to the lighting data in this process.

Step S408: In the next sound drive process, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the sound drive circuit 134 of the effect contents (for example, during the variable display effect, during the ready-to-win effect, during the mode transition effect, and during the jackpot effect, BGM, audio data, etc.). As a result, sounds corresponding to the content of the presentation are output from the speakers 54a to 54d. In addition, the effect control CPU 126 performs output control of the sound according to the sound data in this processing when the sound data is set in step S405.

Step S410: In effect random number update processing, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. FIG. The effect random number includes, for example, a random number used for advance notice selection, a random number used for a normal background change lottery (effect lottery), and the like.

Step S412: In other processing, for example, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the IC for driving the movable body for effect. The movable bodies for presentation operate with the corresponding solenoid as a drive source, and perform presentation in synchronism with the display of the image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.

In addition, when the production control CPU 126 receives a state designation command (see step S5514 in FIG. 33) representing the time saving state, it controls the production state to the time saving state. As a result, the background displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 and the effect sounds output from the speakers 54a to 54d correspond to the time-saving state. In addition, the performance control CPU 126 is provided with a time saving number counter for counting the number of times of normal pattern fluctuation and the number of special pattern fluctuations in the time saving state, and sets the number of times of normal pattern fluctuation and the number of special pattern fluctuations in the time saving state identified from the state designation command in the time saving number counter.

Then, in the effect symbol stop display process (S506) in FIG. 45, the value of the time saving number counter is subtracted when control is performed to stop the effect symbol. At this time, if the value of the time saving number counter is not 0, it is determined that the time saving state continues and the performance symbol management process of FIG. As a result, the presentation state shifts from the time saving state to the normal state.

As described above, in step S2416 of FIG. 14 and step S2618 of FIG. 35, in the final variation of the time saving state, the main control CPU72 ends the time saving state before the start of the special symbol or normal symbol variation, and shifts the game state from the time saving state to the normal state. On the other hand, the effect control CPU 126 terminates the time saving state after the effect symbol stops in the effect symbol stop display process of step S506 in FIG. 45, and shifts the effect state from the time saving state to the normal state. Thus, the timing at which the game state shifts from the time saving state to the normal state and the timing at which the production state shifts from the time saving state to the normal state are different.

Through the effect control processing described above, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1 . Next, the contents of the effect symbol management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Working Memory Effect Management Processing]
FIG. 44 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the operation storage effect management process. The contents will be described below according to the procedure example.

Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories transmitted from the main control CPU 72 is received by the game ball entering the first start winning port 26, the starting gate 20, and the second starting winning port 28b. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories is saved. When it is confirmed that the production command for increasing the number of working memories is saved (step S700: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes steps S702 and S703. In addition, when it cannot confirm that the production|presentation command at the time of an increase in working memory number is preserve|saved (step S700: No), production|presentation control CPU126 does not perform step S702 and step S703.

Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes the effect selection process when the number of working memories is increased. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect to display the pending displays M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol, the normal symbol, and the second special symbol.

Step S703: The effect control CPU 126 executes a prefetch effect management process when displaying the pending displays M1 and M2. In this processing, a performance control CPU 126 executes processing for determining by lottery whether or not to execute the read-ahead performance, and when it is determined to execute the read-ahead performance, executes processing for determining what content of the read-ahead performance is to be executed.

Lottery probabilities are set so that the read-ahead performance is more likely to be executed in the case of a big win or a small win in the case of special symbols, and in the case of a long opening in the case of normal symbols. Then, when it is determined to execute the look-ahead effect, the effect control CPU 126 executes the look-ahead effect in steps S404 to S408 of FIG.

As described above, when the stop symbol corresponding to the long opening is selected in the normal symbols, winning to the second start winning opening 28b is facilitated when the long opening is performed. Then, the probability of a small win is about 1/1 at the second start prize winning port 28b, and when a small win is achieved, there is a possibility that the small win will develop into a big win, and even when the small win is not achieved, a big win can be made, so the degree of expectation for a big win is suggested by suggesting that the stop pattern of long open is selected by the look-ahead performance.

Various modes are provided for the look-ahead performance, such as changing the mode of pending display, cutting in a performance image, changing the mode of background display on the liquid crystal display 42, and making characters corresponding to the look-ahead performance appear. When the mode of the reserved display changes, the color of the reserved display changes each time the reserved memory stored before the reserved display to be read ahead is digested to suggest the degree of expectation of big win, or the form of the expectation of big win is suggested by changing the shape of the reserved display to a different shape.

Step S704: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not it has received a production command from the main control CPU 72 when the number of working memories is reduced. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the effect command is stored when the number of working memories is reduced. When it is confirmed that the production command is saved when the number of working memories is reduced (step S704: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706. In addition, when it cannot be confirmed that the production command is saved when the number of working memories decreases (step S704: No), the production control CPU 126 does not execute step S706.

Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect selection processing when the number of working memories is reduced. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes the effect of sliding the pending displays M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol. In addition, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect of moving the pending display corresponding to the lottery element consumed by the internal lottery from the pre-variation display area X1 to the during-variation display area X2. The memory pending display moved to the changing display area X2 is erased when the change ends.

After completing the above procedure, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 43).

[Production pattern management process]
FIG. 45 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes a subroutine group of execution selection process (step S500), effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), effect symbol change process (step S504), effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and variable winning device operation time process (step S508). The basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described below along with each process.

Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the "jump table" as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variable display effect has not yet started, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol change pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the performance symbol variation preprocessing has already been completed, the performance control CPU 126 selects the performance symbol variation process (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the performance symbol variation processing is completed, the performance symbol stop display processing (step S506) is selected as the next jump destination. Also, the variable winning device operation time processing (step S508) is selected as a jump destination when the variable winning device management processing (step S5000 in FIG. 13) is selected in the main control CPU72. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

Step S502: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs the work of adjusting the conditions for starting the variable display effect using the effect symbol. In this process, the performance control CPU 126 selects the contents of the ready-to-win performance according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, variation pattern, etc.), or selects performance patterns for the notice performance (announcement pattern before occurrence of ready-to-win, notice pattern after occurrence of reach, etc., other than pre-reading notice performance pattern). In addition, the effect control CPU 126 also controls a demonstration effect when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information to instruct the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing a performance using a performance button 45 during execution of a variable display performance using a performance pattern, a performance control CPU 126 monitors whether or not a performance button is operated by a player, and instructs a display control CPU 146 with control information of performance contents (button performance) according to the result. In addition, in the effect symbol fluctuation process, the effect control CPU 126 also executes a process of executing a pseudo-variation (pseudo-continuous advance notice).

Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the stop display effect using effect symbols and moving images in a mode according to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) actually terminates the variable display effect that has been executed so far in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the stop display effect. As a result, the stop display performance is executed substantially in synchronism with the stop display of the special symbols, and the result of the internal lottery can be instructed (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player in a performance manner (performance executing means). It should be noted that, at the time of the small hit, the stop display effect can be executed in a manner similar to or similar to the loss.

Step S508: In the process when the variable winning device is activated, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit or the big hit (special game effect executing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the effect during the big role according to various conditions (for example, winning type). For example, in the case of a 10-round big hit, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 10-round big win effect pattern as the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and instructs it to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). As a result, the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 displays the image of the effect during the important role, and the content of the effect changes as the round progresses.

[Production pattern change preprocessing]
46 to 48 are flow charts showing an example of the procedure for effect symbol variation preprocessing. An example procedure will be described below.

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

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

After completing the above procedure, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the address at the end of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control processing as it is, and controls the content of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the following display output process (step S404 in FIG. 43) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 43).

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

Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the game state is a normal state (non-time-saving state). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a state designation command indicating the normal state is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the state designation command indicating the normal state is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. Conversely, when it is confirmed that the state designation command indicating the normal state is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S630.

Step S606: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not it has received a general-purpose drawing production start command. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the command for starting the effect for the general pattern is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the production start command for normal figure is stored (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S608.

On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the production start command for normal figure is not saved (No), the production control CPU 126 executes step S610.

Step S608: The production control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting the variation pattern of the variation display of the mini symbol for the general pattern and the fourth symbol of the general pattern based on the variation pattern of the normal pattern. Thus, in the normal state, the variable display of the production pattern for the general pattern is restricted, and the variable display of the production pattern for the general pattern is not performed, but the mini pattern for the general pattern and the fourth pattern of the general pattern are displayed in a variable manner. After completing this process, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process, and returns to the effect control process as it is.

Step S610: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the special figure production start command is received. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the special figure effect start command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the special figure production start command is saved (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S612.

On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the special figure production start command is not saved (No), the production control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the production design management process.

Step S612: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the normal pattern production pattern is being displayed in a variable manner. In addition, in the final variation of the time saving state, the normal state is shifted from the time saving state to the normal state before the start of the normal symbol variation (step S2618 in FIG. 32, see FIG. 18). Therefore, when the variable display of the production pattern for the normal figure is performed in the final variation of the time saving state, the game state is shifted to the normal state. In addition, since the variable object in the normal state is the performance pattern for the special figure, even if the game ball passes through the starting gate 20 in the normal state and the normal pattern is variably displayed, the performance symbol for the normal figure is not variably displayed. Therefore, it can be said that the variation display of the production pattern for the normal figure is performed in the normal state, which is the final variation in the time saving state.

Then, when it is confirmed that the production pattern for the normal figure of the final fluctuation of the time saving state is being changed (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S614. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the general pattern production pattern is not changing (No), the production control CPU 126 executes step S620.

Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current special symbol variation is a big hit or a small hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big win or the small win is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big hit or the small hit is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S616.

Conversely, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big win or the small win is not stored, that is, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of losing (at the time of non-winning) is stored (No), the performance control CPU 126 executes step S618.

Since the second starting prize winning port 28b is opened when the display result of the variable display of the normal pattern is displayed, it can be said that the reception of the special drawing performance start command during the fluctuation of the normal drawing performance pattern means that the game ball wins in the first starting prize winning port 26 and the variation of the first special pattern. Therefore, in this step, it can be said that it is confirmed whether the variation of the first special symbol is a big hit or a small hit.

Step S616: The effect control CPU 126 executes a first specific effect selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72 . A performance pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to a variation pattern command, and a performance control CPU 126 can refer to a performance pattern selection table (not shown) to select a performance pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. Thereby, the variable display of the production pattern for the normal figure is switched to the variable display of the production pattern for the special figure. Also, the effect control CPU 126 sets the execution data of the first specific effect. Incidentally, the effect control CPU 126 ends the first specific effect when receiving a state specifying command indicating a big hit or a small win. Also, the first specific effect will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 59 and 61. FIG. Also, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 selects a variation pattern (specifically, a variation pattern number) for variation display of the special symbol mini symbol and the special symbol 4th symbol based on the variation pattern of the special symbol. Furthermore, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 simultaneously selects the effect pattern in which the variable target notification frame surrounds the special figure mini symbol.

The above procedure corresponds to the case of "big hit or small hit", but if it does not correspond to the big hit or small hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms "not the big hit or small hit" in step S614 (No). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S618.

Step S618: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a variation pattern (specifically, a variation pattern number) for variation display of the special symbol mini symbol and the special symbol 4th symbol based on the variation pattern of the special symbol. Then, the effect control CPU 126 continues the variable display of the normal pattern without switching to the special pattern during the variable display of the normal pattern. Therefore, the effect control CPU 126 leaves the variable target notification frame surrounding the mini symbol for the general pattern. In this step, the effect control CPU 126 sets data for executing the second specific effect at the time of switching to the special-figure effect pattern after the variable display of the normal-figure effect pattern.

Step S620: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the variation of the special symbol of this time is lost (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S628. Conversely, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S622.

Step S622: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (lost) (step S608: No), then the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not this time's special symbol variation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S626. Conversely, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command for the big win is not stored (No), since only the lottery result command for the small win remains, the performance control CPU 126 executes step S624 in this case.

Step S624: The effect control CPU 126 executes a small hit time fluctuation effect pattern selection process corresponding to the special symbol. That is, the variation pattern at the time of the small hit in the special figure production pattern is selected. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72 . A performance pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to a variation pattern command, and a performance control CPU 126 can refer to a performance pattern selection table (not shown) to select a performance pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. Incidentally, the effect pattern number may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern command, or a plurality of numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command. In addition, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 selects a variation pattern (specifically, a variation pattern number) for variation display of the mini symbol for the general pattern and the fourth symbol of the general pattern based on the variation pattern of the normal symbol. Furthermore, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 simultaneously selects the effect pattern in which the variable target notification frame surrounds the special figure mini symbol.

When a performance pattern number is selected, a performance control CPU 126 refers to a performance table (not shown) to determine a variation schedule (contents of variable display performance and stop display performance) of performance patterns corresponding to the variable performance pattern number at that time, a mode of stop display, and the like. It should be noted that all the types of performance symbols determined here correspond to the "combination of symbols at the time of a small win".

The above procedure is for the case of a "minor hit", but if it corresponds to a big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is a "big hit" in step S622 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S626.

Step S626: The effect control CPU 126 executes a variation effect pattern selection process at the time of a big hit corresponding to the special symbol. That is, the variation pattern at the time of the big hit in the special figure production pattern is selected. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “E0H00H” to “F0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72 . In the big-hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be branched according to the big-hit stop symbol. Also, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a variation pattern (specifically, a variation pattern number) of the mini symbol for the general pattern and the fourth symbol of the general pattern based on the variation pattern of the normal pattern. Furthermore, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 simultaneously selects the effect pattern in which the variable target notification frame surrounds the special figure mini symbol.

In addition, in the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. That is, when the production control CPU 126 confirms that there is a deviation in step S620 (Yes), it then executes step S628.

Step S628: The effect control CPU 126 executes a variation effect pattern selection process at the time of loss corresponding to the special symbol. That is, the variation pattern at the time of loss is selected in the special figure production pattern. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of loss based on the variation pattern command (for example, "A0H00H" to "A6H7FH") received from the main control CPU 72. The performance pattern numbers for losing are classified into "normal variation of losing reach", "variation of reach of losing", etc. Further, the "variation of reach of losing" defines a fine reach variation pattern. Incidentally, which effect pattern number the effect control CPU 126 selects is determined by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72 . Also, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a variation pattern (specifically, a variation pattern number) of the mini symbol for the general pattern and the fourth symbol of the general pattern based on the variation pattern of the normal pattern. Furthermore, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 simultaneously selects the effect pattern in which the variable target notification frame surrounds the special figure mini symbol.

When the performance pattern number at the time of loss is selected, the performance control CPU 126 refers to a performance table (not shown) to determine the variation schedule of the performance pattern corresponding to the variation performance pattern number at that time and the mode of stop display (for example, '7'-'2'-'4', etc.).

The above procedure is when the game state corresponds to the normal state, but when the game state is the time saving state, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S630.

Step S630: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the special figure production start command is received. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the special figure effect start command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the special figure production start command is saved (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S640.

On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the special figure production start command is not saved (No), the production control CPU 126 executes step S632.

Step S632: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not it has received a general-purpose drawing production start command. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the command for starting the effect for the general pattern is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the production start command for normal figure is saved (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S634. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the general pattern production start command is not saved (No), the production control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the production design management process.

Step S634: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the change in the current normal symbol corresponds to the short opening. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command for short opening is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command for short opening is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S636. Conversely, when it is confirmed that the short open lottery result command is not saved (No), since only the long open lottery result command remains, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S638 in this case.

Step S636: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process for selecting a short-circuited variable effect pattern corresponding to the normal symbol. That is, the variable production pattern for short in the production pattern for the normal figure is selected. Since the game ball does not enter the second start winning opening 28b when the short opening is executed, the fluctuation pattern that is not selected is selected as the short opening fluctuation effect pattern. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72 . A performance pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to a variation pattern command, and a performance control CPU 126 can refer to a performance pattern selection table (not shown) to select a performance pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. Incidentally, the effect pattern number may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern command, or a plurality of numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command. In addition, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 selects the normal pattern mini symbol and the variation pattern of the fourth symbol (specifically, variation pattern number) based on the variation pattern of the normal symbol.

The above procedure corresponds to "short open", but if it corresponds to long open, the effect control CPU 126 confirms "long open" in step S634 (No). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S638.

Step S638: The production control CPU 126 executes a long opening time fluctuation production pattern selection process corresponding to the normal symbol. That is, the variation pattern at the time of long in the production pattern for the general pattern is selected. When the long opening is executed, the game ball can enter the second start winning opening 28b, so the variation pattern that becomes a hit is selected as the variation effect pattern at the time of long opening. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72 . In addition, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 selects the normal pattern mini symbol and the variation pattern of the fourth symbol (specifically, variation pattern number) based on the variation pattern of the normal symbol.

When a performance pattern number is selected in step S636 or step S638, a performance control CPU 126 refers to a performance table (not shown) to determine a variation schedule (contents of variable display performance or stop display performance) of performance patterns corresponding to the variable performance pattern number at that time, a mode of stop display, and the like. In addition, the type of effect pattern determined here corresponds to "combination of symbols at the time of losing" at the time of short opening, and "combination of symbols at the time of winning" at the time of long opening.

The above procedure corresponds to the case of ``when the special figure production start command is not received'', but when the special figure production start command is received, the performance control CPU 126 confirms that ``the special figure performance start command is received'' in step S630 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S640.

Step S640: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the change in the current special symbol (in this step, the first special symbol) is a big hit or a small hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big win or the small win is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big hit or the small hit is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S642.

Conversely, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big win or the small win is not stored, that is, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of losing (at the time of non-winning) is stored (No), the performance control CPU 126 executes step S644.

Step S642: The effect control CPU 126 executes a second specific effect selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72 . A performance pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to a variation pattern command, and a performance control CPU 126 can refer to a performance pattern selection table (not shown) to select a performance pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. Thereby, the variable display of the production pattern for the normal figure is switched to the variable display of the production pattern for the special figure. Then, the execution data of the second specific effect are set. In addition, since the fluctuation time of the special symbol is fixed time in the time saving state, the effect control CPU 126 sets the execution data of the second specific effect that ends in the fixed time. Also, the second specific effect will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 59 and 60. FIG. Also, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 selects a variation pattern (specifically, a variation pattern number) for variation display of the special symbol mini symbol and the special symbol 4th symbol based on the variation pattern of the special symbol. Furthermore, in this step, the effect control CPU 126 simultaneously selects the effect pattern in which the variable target notification frame surrounds the special figure mini symbol.

In the time-saving state, the display result of the variable display of normal symbols is displayed, and when the second start winning opening 28b is opened and the game ball wins, the second special symbols always become a big hit or a small win. Therefore, when receiving the special symbol performance start command of the second special symbol, the performance control CPU 126 performs only the process of selecting the variation pattern of the special symbol mini symbol and the special symbol fourth symbol without going through step S640. Thus, after the display result of the variable display of the performance pattern for the normal pattern is displayed, the mini pattern for the special pattern and the fourth pattern of the special pattern are stopped, and the time saving state is shifted to the big win game state or the small win game state.

The above procedure is for the case where the first special symbol corresponds to the ``big hit or small hit'', but if the first special symbol does not correspond to the ``big hit or small hit'', the performance control CPU 126 confirms in step S640 that the first special symbol is ``not a big hit or a small hit'' (No). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S644.

Step S644: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a variation pattern (specifically, a variation pattern number) for variation display of the special symbol mini symbol and the special symbol 4th symbol based on the variation pattern of the special symbol. In addition, the effect control CPU 126 continues the variable display of the normal pattern without switching to the special pattern during the variable display of the normal pattern. Therefore, the effect control CPU 126 keeps the variable target notification frame surrounding the mini-symbol for the general pattern.

Although illustration is omitted, in the jackpot game state, the variation pattern of the performance symbol corresponding to the normal symbol is selected. At this time, the performance design corresponding to the special design is hidden.

After completing the above procedure, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). As a result, in the subsequent processing during performance symbol variation (step S504 in FIG. 36), the variable display performance, the stop display performance, the first specific performance, and the second specific performance are executed (performance executing means) based on the execution data of the actually selected variable performance pattern, the first specific performance, and the second specific performance, and the advance notice performance is executed based on various advance notice performance patterns.

In addition, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect data of the normal effect screen when selecting the variation pattern of the special symbol effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol, because it is in the normal state. In addition, when selecting the variation pattern of the performance symbol for the special figure corresponding to the second special symbol, it is determined that the big win will occur, so the performance data of the big win preparation screen is selected. In addition, when selecting the variation pattern of the production pattern for the normal pattern corresponding to the normal pattern, since it is in the time saving state, the production data of the time saving production screen is selected.

When selecting the performance data of the normal performance screen, the jackpot preparation screen, and the time saving performance screen, the performance displayed on each screen is also selected. Then, the effect control CPU 126 displays the selected effect screen and executes the selected effect in the subsequent process during effect symbol fluctuation (step S504 in FIG. 36).

[Suggestion of production pattern to be changed]
Next, a specific example of suggesting the performance symbol to be changed according to the game state will be described. In this embodiment, by selecting the variation patterns of the mini symbols and the fourth symbols as shown in FIGS. 46 to 48, the mini symbols to be varied are variably displayed as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 49(a), when the game state is the normal state, the effect pattern to be varied becomes a special figure effect pattern. Therefore, the variable target notification frame 304 moves to a position surrounding the special figure mini symbol 300 .

As shown in FIG. 49(b), when the game state is the time-saving state, the effect pattern to be varied becomes the normal pattern effect pattern. Therefore, the variable target notification frame 304 moves to a position surrounding the mini symbol 302 for the general pattern.

As shown in FIG. 49(c), when the game state is during a big win consecutive game (one change between big win game states), the effect pattern to be varied becomes a special figure effect pattern. Therefore, the variable target notification frame 304 moves to a position surrounding the special figure mini symbol 300 .

As shown in FIG. 49(d), when the game state is the jackpot game state, the effect pattern to be varied becomes the normal pattern effect pattern. Therefore, the variable target notification frame 304 moves to a position surrounding the mini symbol 302 for the general pattern. Also, when the game state is the jackpot game state, since the special symbols are not displayed in a variable manner, the special symbol mini symbol 303 is not displayed (only the fourth symbols 306 and 308 are continuously displayed). At this time, it becomes non-display at the time of confirmation display of the production design. In the jackpot game state, the long opening is performed with the same probability as in the time saving state C, so in the normal pattern mini symbol 302, variable display and stop display are performed according to the result of the normal drawing lottery for long opening or short opening.

In this way, even when the variable display of the special figure performance pattern or the normal figure performance pattern is performed by the same performance pattern 43 according to the game state, by surrounding the special figure mini pattern 300 or the normal figure mini pattern 302 with the variable object notification frame 304, it is possible to clearly display which of the special figure performance pattern or the normal figure performance pattern is variably displayed. Therefore, the content of the game can be made easy to understand, and the interest in the game can be enhanced.

In this embodiment, the special figure mini symbol 300, the normal figure mini symbol 302, and the fourth symbols 306, 308, and 310 are arranged at positions where the visibility is not lowered by the movable body when the movable body for presentation is moved, and are displayed in the highest layer with respect to the display of the image on the liquid crystal display 42. This makes it possible to clarify the content of the game regardless of the situation.

Further, in the present embodiment, for example, when the game ball passes through the starting gate 20 while winning the game ball in the first start winning opening 26 or the second starting winning opening 28b, or when there are reserved memories of special symbols and reserved memories of ordinary symbols, special symbols and ordinary symbols may be changed simultaneously.

In this case, with regard to the symbols not corresponding to the game state (that is, the symbols for which the performance symbols are not variably displayed), the mini symbols and the fourth symbols are variably displayed while the performance symbols are not variably displayed when the variably displayed symbols are performed. Then, it is possible to configure so that a demonstration screen is displayed when a demonstration effect command is received.

In addition, even when a pattern not corresponding to the game state (that is, a pattern in which the performance pattern is not variable-displayed) results in a specific lottery result (big hit, small hit, long open, normal hit), the display of the demonstration screen can be continued while the demonstration screen is being displayed.

In the case of applying the present invention, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be configured to be variably displayed at the same time, the effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol or the effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol may be variably displayed according to the game state, and which of the effect symbols is being variably displayed may be indicated by the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 controlled by the main control CPU 72. There is. In this case also, the same configuration can be used. As for the patterns not corresponding to the game state (that is, the patterns for which the variable display of the performance patterns is not performed), when the variable display of the performance patterns is performed, the variable display of the performance patterns is not performed, but the variable display of the mini patterns and the fourth patterns is performed. Then, it is possible to configure so that a demonstration screen is displayed when a demonstration effect command is received. In addition, even when a pattern not corresponding to the game state (that is, a pattern in which the performance pattern is not variable-displayed) results in a specific lottery result (big win, small win), the display of the demonstration screen can be continued while the demonstration screen is being displayed.

[Regarding the switching timing of the production screen]
Next, the switching timing of the effect screen when shifting from the time-saving state to the normal state in the present embodiment will be described. In this example, an example when shifting from the time saving state A to the normal state will be described.

As shown in FIG. 50 , in the time saving state A, a time saving effect screen is displayed from the liquid crystal display 42 . The time-saving performance screen is a performance screen on which variable display of the performance pattern for the normal figure can be executed. Then, in the time saving state, the time saving state A ends when the number of fluctuations of the first special symbol reaches 5 times and the time saving end condition is satisfied. Then, when the fifth variation of the first special symbol is completed and the symbol fixation time after the fifth variation of the first special symbol is completed elapses, the game state is changed from the time saving state A to the normal state. When it is controlled to the normal state, the liquid crystal display 42 is switched from the time saving performance screen to the normal performance screen. At this time, the screen is switched to the normal effect screen regardless of whether or not the variable display of the effect pattern for the normal pattern is being performed. Therefore, it is possible to switch to the normal production screen even during the variable display of the production pattern for the normal figure. The normal effect screen is a effect screen in which the variable display of the effect pattern for the special figure can be executed.

In this case, the variable display of normal symbols (variable display by the normal symbol display device 33 in FIG. 4) is started before the stop of the first special symbol, and the variable display is continued even after being controlled to the normal state. This variable display of normal symbols is based on the fact that the game ball passes through the starting gate 20 during the time saving state and the normal pattern lottery is performed. And, in this embodiment, only short opening is selected in the normal drawing lottery in the normal state, but long opening may be selected in the normal drawing drawing in the time saving state. Therefore, even after being controlled to the normal state, the long opening may occur.

Then, it is assumed that the long opening is won in the normal drawing lottery, and the pattern corresponding to the long opening (ordinary pattern 2 shown in FIG. 36(b)) stops when the variable display of the normal pattern continued even after being controlled to the normal state is stopped. In this case, although it is a normal performance screen, a right-handed promotion screen is displayed in a part of the screen display area (hereinafter also referred to as a small window) of the liquid crystal display 42 to prompt the game ball to be shot toward the variable start winning device 28 (that is, to prompt the right-handed operation). As a result, a game ball can win in the variable starting winning device 28 (that is, the second starting winning port 28b) opened for a long time by switching the left-handed operation to the right-handed operation in the normal state. That is, in parallel with the variable display of special-figure effect symbols on the normal effect screen, a right-handed promotion screen (second start opening winning suggestion image) is displayed.

After that, when the game ball wins in the second start winning hole 28b, the variable display of the second special symbol is started based on the winning. This example shows an example in which four game balls have won (wins N1 to N4), but the variable display of the second special symbol is started based on the first win N1. In this embodiment, when a game ball wins in the second start winning hole 28b, it always becomes a small win or a big win, and even if it is a small win, it develops into a big win, so that the liquid crystal display 42 is switched from the normal performance screen to the big win preparation screen when the second special pattern starts to fluctuate. The jackpot preparation screen is displayed in the entire image display area of the liquid crystal display 42 . On the jackpot preparation screen, an image for notifying the start of the jackpot and an image for prompting a player to hit to the right are displayed.

That is, even during the variable display of the special symbol effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol, the screen is switched to the big hit preparation screen (the effect image related to the second special symbol). The image for prompting the player to hit right on the jackpot preparation screen may be the same image as the image displayed in parallel during the variable display of the performance pattern for the special figure corresponding to the first special pattern, or may be another image.

When the short opening is won in the normal drawing lottery in the time saving state, and when the pattern corresponding to the short opening stops when the fluctuation display of the normal pattern continued after being controlled to the normal state stops, the game ball does not enter the second start prize winning port 28b, and as a result, the big hit does not occur, so the display of the normal performance screen is continued on the liquid crystal display 42. - 特許庁

[Specific example of switching the effect screen]
51 and 52, the switching of the effect screen performed on the liquid crystal display 42 described with reference to FIG. 50 will be specifically described. When the pachinko machine 1 performs an internal lottery for special symbols, a variation pattern (in other words, variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and variation display with the first and second special symbols is performed.

[Before change display]
(a) in FIG. 51: For example, in the time saving state A, the time saving effect screen 500 is displayed. On the time-saving effect screen, regardless of whether the special symbol is being variably displayed (variable display by the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 shown in FIG. 4), the variable display of the normal symbol (in this embodiment, the variable display by the normal symbol display device 33 in FIG. 4) is not performed.

(b) in FIG. 51: In synchronism with the start of fluctuation of the normal symbols, the variable display of the production symbols for normal symbols is performed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (arrow in the figure). At this time, in the sub-display area Z at the bottom right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, the mini-symbols 302 for general patterns and the fourth pattern 310 corresponding to the normal patterns are variably displayed. Also, at this time, it is assumed that the variable display of the first special symbol is being performed. In this case, the special figure effect pattern is not variably displayed, but the special figure mini symbol 300 and the fourth symbol 306 corresponding to the special symbol are variably displayed.

(c) in FIG. 51: And, there is a case where the ready-to-win announcement effect is performed during the variable display of the effect pattern for the general pattern. In this example, the message "Destroy the enemy!" is displayed, and it is announced that the reach will occur and the accompanying reach effect will be executed.

(d) in FIG. 51: Next, the special symbol mini symbol 300 and the fourth symbol 306 corresponding to the special symbol stop at the missing symbol ("156" in the figure), and when the number of times of the variable display of the first special symbol reaches 5 times, the time saving state A is controlled to the normal state. At this time, the time saving performance screen 500 is switched to the normal performance screen 502 even during the variable display of the performance symbols for the normal figure. For this reason, the variable display of the production pattern for the general pattern is forcibly ended without deriving the display result by the variable display of the production pattern for the general pattern.

At this time, the variable display of the normal pattern production pattern is terminated, but the variable display of the normal pattern is continued. Then, on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a left-handed hitting promotion screen 504 is displayed to prompt the left-handed operation. As a result, the player switches from the right-handed operation to the left-handed operation during the time-saving state. In this case, even if the screen is switched to the normal effect screen, the variable display of the mini symbol 302 for the general pattern and the fourth symbol 310 is continued. In other words, the variable display of the normal pattern effect symbols is terminated, but the variable display of the normal symbols and the variable display of the mini symbol 302 and the fourth symbol 310 for the normal pattern are continued even in the normal state.

(e) in FIG. 51: When a predetermined time elapses after the display of the left-handed promotion screen 504 is started, the special figure effect symbol (the effect symbol 43 in the figure) is switched to a state in which it is stopped and displayed ("156" in this example).

(f) in FIG. 52: After switching to the normal effect screen 502, it is assumed that the variable display of the normal pattern that has been variably displayed continuously from the time-saving state is stopped, and the pattern corresponding to the long open (normal pattern 2 shown in FIG. 36(b)) is stopped. At this time, the variable start winning device 28 is opened for long.

In this case, a small window 506 is displayed in part of the image display area of the liquid crystal display 42 . That is, when the normal pattern corresponding to the long opening is stopped and displayed, the right-hand hitting promotion screen which can be executed in the time saving state is superimposed and displayed on the normal performance screen corresponding to the normal state. Then, in the small window 506, a right-handed promotion screen 508 (special shot division suggestion display) is displayed to prompt the shooting of the game ball toward the variable starting prize-winning device 28. FIG. In addition, the image displayed in the small window 506 is a special image that is executed only when the condition other than the time saving end condition due to the normal figure fluctuation is satisfied in transferring from the time saving state to the normal state. Specifically, "RIGHT HIT READY" is displayed. As a result, a game ball can win in the variable starting winning device 28 (that is, the second starting winning port 28b) opened for a long time by switching the left-handed operation to the right-handed operation in the normal state.

In this example, even in the area outside the small window 506, a character image prompting right-handed hitting (“Please hit right” in the figure: normal hitting indication) is always displayed when shifting to the right-handed state (time-saving state/hit state). It should be noted that the variable display of the mini symbols 302 for normal symbols and the fourth symbol 310 is stopped in synchronization with the stop of the normal symbols. Then, the symbol corresponding to the long release stops.

(g) in FIG. 52: Then, after a predetermined period of time (for example, two seconds) has elapsed, the aspect of the right-handing promotion screen 508 changes. Specifically, "Right shot FIRE" is displayed.

(h) in FIG. 52: After a predetermined period of time (for example, 1 second) has elapsed, the aspect of the right-handing promotion screen 508 further changes. Specifically, "Right shot, aim!" is displayed. In this manner, the display mode of the right-handed promotion screen 508 changes step by step. As a result, the player can more clearly recognize that a right-handed operation is to be performed. In addition, by making the image ("Aim right-handed!") that directly instructs the player longer than the other right-handed promotion screens, the right-handed operation can be clearly communicated to the player.

(i) in FIG. 52: Next, when the game ball wins in the long-opened variable start winning device 28 and the variable display of the second special symbol starts, the display of the right-handed promotion screen 508 in the small window 42c ends. Then, when the display of the right-handed promotion screen 508 ends, the normal effect screen is switched to a big hit preparation screen 510 by the entire screen display area (full screen). The jackpot preparation screen includes characters 510a (“CHARGE” in the figure) prompting a right-handed hit, characters 510b (“prepare to start round 1” in the figure) announcing the start of the jackpot, and a meter 510c indicating the number of prizes awarded to the variable starting prize device 28.

When switching to the big win preparation screen 510, the big win preparation screen 510 may be displayed on a layer higher than the normal performance screen 502, or the normal performance screen 502 may be erased and the big win preparation screen 510 may be displayed. In addition, with the winning of the game ball to the variable start winning device 28 opened for a long time, the display of the right-handed promotion screen 508 may be switched to a different aspect of the right-handed promotion screen, such as by further enlarging the display area, or by changing the right-handed promotion screen 508 ("Aim right") to characters 510a ("CHARGE") encouraging right-handed hitting.

As described above, in the time-saving state, the variable display of the normal pattern corresponding to the normal pattern is performed as the production pattern. Therefore, it can be said that the normal pattern is the main pattern in the time saving state. When the time saving state ends based on the variable display of the special pattern which is not the main pattern in the time saving state, the time saving performance screen is switched to the normal performance screen even during the normal pattern fluctuation. Also, even if long opening is won with normal symbols while the normal performance screen is displayed, a big hit preparation screen is displayed with the winning of the variable starting prize winning device 28 as an opportunity. In this way, even if the time-saving state ends due to the variable display of the special pattern which is not the main pattern, the performance screen smoothly transitions according to the situation (the winning timing of the long opening, the variation start timing of the second special pattern). Therefore, the interest in the game can be enhanced without making the player feel uncomfortable.

In this example, the winning probability of the normal pattern lottery is set to 1/1, and either long opening or short opening is determined, but it may be determined whether to open the variable starting prize device 28 according to the lottery result of the normal pattern lottery. Even in the case of such a constitution, after switching from the time saving performance screen to the normal performance screen, the normal patterns continuously and variably displayed from the time saving state are stopped at winning patterns, and when the variable start winning device 28 is opened, the right-handed promotion screen can be displayed in a small window.

[Chance lamp-related processing]
Next, the chance lamp related processing executed in step S405 of FIG. 43 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

Step S700: The effect control CPU 126, based on the command received from the main control CPU72, confirms whether the game state is the normal state or the time saving state. As a result, when it is confirmed that it is in the normal state or the time saving state (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S702. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that it is not the normal state or the time saving state (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S716.

Step S702: The effect control CPU 126, based on the command received from the main control CPU 72, confirms whether or not a game ball has entered the first start prize winning port 26, the start gate 20, or the second start prize winning port 28b and a hold has occurred. That is, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not working memory (in other words, reserved memory) has occurred based on whether or not the working memory number increase command has been received. When suspension occurs (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S704. Moreover, when suspension has not occurred (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S710.

Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the pre-reading effect lottery executed in step S703 of FIG. 44 is won. If the prefetch effect lottery is won (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S706. Moreover, when the prefetching effect lottery is not won (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process of FIG.

Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 sets lighting data indicating the lighting pattern of the chance lamp 53b in the RAM 130. FIG. Next, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S708.

Step S708: The production control CPU 126 sets the sound data corresponding to the lighting pattern of the chance lamp 53b in step S706 to the RAM130. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process of FIG.

Step S710: Production control CPU126, based on the command received from the main control CPU72, confirms whether or not the time saving state. If it is in the time saving state (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S712. Moreover, when it is not a time saving state (namely, when it is a normal state) (No), production|presentation control CPU126 performs step S714.

Step S712: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not it is time to finish the pending display when there is a pending display to be read ahead. This pending display includes both the pending display digested before the pending display to be read ahead and the pending display to be read ahead. When it is time to finish the pending display (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes steps S706 and S708 in the same manner as described above, and returns to the effect control process of FIG. Also, if it is not the time to finish the pending display (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process of FIG.

Step S714: The effect control CPU 126, based on the command received from the main control CPU 72, confirms whether or not it is the start timing of the pseudo fluctuation 4 of the full rotation reach pattern. If it is the start timing of the pseudo fluctuation 4 of the full rotation reach pattern (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes steps S706 and S708 in the same manner as described above and returns to the effect control process of FIG. Moreover, when it is not the start timing of the pseudo variation 4 of the full rotation reach pattern (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process of FIG. 43 .

Step S716: Based on the command received from the main control CPU72, the effect control CPU126 confirms whether or not it is in the big hit game state. If it is in the jackpot gaming state (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S718. Moreover, when it is not a jackpot game state (No), the production control CPU 126 returns to the production control process of FIG.

Step S718: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not over-winning has occurred based on the winning command transmitted from the main control CPU 72 . It should be noted that whether or not over-winning has occurred is detected, for example, by whether or not the tenth game ball of the upper limit number has been detected within a predetermined time. A game ball detected within a prescribed period of time after the detection of the tenth game ball is accepted as an over-winning game ball, and winning after the prescribed period of time is subject to error determination. Winning exceeding the allowable number of over-winning is subject to error determination as excessive winning. Note that the method of detecting over-winning is not limited to the example of this embodiment, and other methods may be used.

Then, when over winning occurs (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes steps S706 and S708 in the same manner as described above, and returns to the effect control process of FIG. Also, when over winning has not occurred (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process of FIG.

When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process, and in the subsequent lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 43) and sound output process (step S408 in FIG. 43), the chance lamp 53b based on the data set in the RAM 130. Control the emission of the chance lamp 53b and the sound output control of the speakers 54a to 54d.

When the frame lamps 46 and 50, the board surface lamp 53a, and the attacker lamp 53c are to be lit in accordance with the chance lamp 53b, the lighting data is also set in the RAM 130. FIG.

[Regarding the lighting mode of the chance lamp]
Next, the lighting mode of the chance lamp 53b will be described with reference to FIGS. 54 and 55. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 54(a), in a normal state, for example, when a game ball enters the first start winning hole 26 and a working memory is generated ("suspended occurrence" in the figure), and the prefetching effect lottery is won, the effect sound is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and the chance lamp 53b blinks in a single color (for example, red). Incidentally, when the chance lamp 53b lights up or blinks, the decorative portion 61 emits light. The same applies hereinafter.

At this time, the board surface lamp 53a and the frame lamps 46, 50 also flash in a single color (eg, red) in synchronization with the flashing of the chance lamp 53b. Also, on the liquid crystal display 42, execution of a look-ahead effect is started. The look-ahead effect on the liquid crystal display 42 continues until the working memory of the look-ahead target is consumed.

After that, the board lamp 53a is extinguished at the end timing of outputting the effect sound, but the chance lamp 53b and the frame lamps 46 and 50 continue blinking. Then, the chance lamp 53b and the frame lamps 46, 50 continue blinking until 3 seconds elapse after the working memory of the prefetch object is digested ("holding digestion of the prefetch object" in the figure) and the variable display of the performance pattern is started, and then extinguished.

Note that, in this embodiment, a variation pattern of 3 seconds or more is selected when the pending memory to be read ahead is consumed.

As shown in FIG. 54(b), in a normal state, for example, the game ball wins the first start winning hole 26 ("start winning prize occurrence" in the figure), and the full rotation reach pattern is selected by lottery.

Then, when the variable display of the pseudo-variation 4 is started, the chance lamp 53b lights up in a plurality of colors (for example, rainbow colors). At this time, the board surface lamp 53a and the frame lamps 46 and 50 also light up in a plurality of colors (for example, rainbow colors) in synchronization with the blinking of the chance lamp 53b. As a result, the effect unit 40, the accessory 60, and the decoration section 61 emit light.

Then, when the variable display of the production pattern ends, the chance lamp 53b, the board surface lamp 53a, and the frame lamps 46 and 50 are extinguished. It is also possible to configure such that when the variation speed of the production pattern slows down in the pseudo variation 4, the chance lamp 53b, board surface lamp 53a, frame lamps 46 and 50 are once turned off, and the chance lamp 53b is turned on again.

As shown in FIG. 55(c), in the time-saving state, for example, when a game ball passes through the starting gate 20 and a working memory is generated ("suspended occurrence" in the figure), and the prefetching effect lottery is won, the speaker 54a to 54d outputs a line by a character related to the model of the pachinko machine 1, "maybe a chance", and only the chance lamp 53b blinks in a single color (for example, red) for the same time as the line output time. Then, the chance lamp 53b is extinguished when the same time as the speech output time elapses. Also, on the liquid crystal display 42, execution of a look-ahead effect is started. The look-ahead effect on the liquid crystal display 42 continues until the working memory of the look-ahead target is consumed.

When there is a working memory memorized before the working memory to be read ahead, even when this working memory is digested ("suspended digestion before the target to be read ahead" in the drawing), a line by the character "maybe a chance comes" is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and only the chance lamp 53b blinks in a single color (for example, red) for the same time as the output time of the line. Then, the chance lamp 53b is extinguished when the same time as the speech output time elapses.

After that, when the working memory of the object to be read ahead is digested ("suspended digestion of the object to be read ahead" in the figure) and the variable display of the performance pattern is started, the line by the character "I have a chance" is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and only the chance lamp 53b blinks in a single color (for example, red) for the same time as the output time of the line. Then, when the same time as the speech output time elapses, the chance lamp is extinguished.

As shown in FIG. 55(d), in the jackpot game state, the chance lamp 53b is turned off during the round game. Then, when a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls enter the big winning port 30b of the variable winning device 30, the round game is finished, and the variable winning device 30 is closed, the game balls enter the big winning port 30b to cause over winning.

Then, when an over winning occurs, during the interval period between the round games, a line by the character saying "wonderful" is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and the chance lamp 53b flashes in a plurality of colors (for example, rainbow color) for the same time as the output time of the line.

At this time, the attacker lamp 53c also lights in a plurality of colors (for example, rainbow colors) in synchronization with the flashing of the chance lamp 53b. Then, when the same time as the speech output time elapses, the chance lamp 53b and the attacker lamp 53c are extinguished.

In addition, during the jackpot game state, the frame lamps 46, 50 and the board lamp 53a are lit in accordance with the music output during the jackpot game, so they are not lit when over winning occurs.

[Regarding the relationship between flashing of the chance lamp and the output timing of the sound]
Next, the relationship between the lighting timing of the chance lamp and the output timing of the sound will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 56, a case where "wonderful" is output from speakers 54a to 54d will be described as an example. In this case, the chance lamp 53b is lit when "su" is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and the chance lamp 53b is extinguished when the output of "su" is completed.

Similarly, the chance lamp 53b is lit when "ba" is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and the chance lamp 53b is extinguished when the output of "ba" is completed. Similarly, the chance lamp 53b is lit when "ra" is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and the chance lamp 53b is extinguished when the output of "ra" is completed. Similarly, the chance lamp 53b is lit when "shi" is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and the chance lamp 53b is extinguished when the output of "shi" is completed. Similarly, the chance lamp 53b is lit when "i" is output from the speakers 54a to 54d, and the chance lamp 53b is extinguished when the output of "i" is completed.

In this way, the chance lamp 53b is illuminated corresponding to the output timing of the lines output from the speakers 54a to 54d, so that the chance lamp 53b blinks for the same time as the output time of the lines.

As shown in FIGS. 54 and 55, since the number of characters of lines output differs depending on the game situation, the flashing time and number of flashes of the chance lamp 53b, i.e., the light emission pattern of the light emitted from the chance lamp 53b, changes according to the game situation. This makes it possible to make the game situation easier to understand.

[Specific example when the chance lamp lights up]
Next, a specific example when the chance lamp 53b is lit will be described with reference to FIGS. 57 and 58. FIG.

First, a specific example in the time-saving state will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 57(a), in the time-saving state, for example, during the variable display of performance symbols in a state where there is one normal holding display M1 (the arrow in the figure indicates that the variable display is being performed), it is assumed that a start winning occurs and the prefetching performance lottery is won. At this time, the second pending display M1 to be prefetched is newly displayed in the pre-change display region X1. The display mode of the pending display M1 to be prefetched is displayed in a mode different from usual. In this example, the pending display M1 that is not targeted for prefetching is displayed in a circular shape, but the pending display M1 that is targeted for prefetching is displayed in a star shape. Then, when the star-shaped pending display M1 is displayed and the execution of the look-ahead effect is started, the speaker 54a to 54d outputs the line "Maybe a chance" and the chance lamp 53b blinks in red.

Then, as shown in FIG. 57(b), the variable display of the performance symbols is completed, and as shown in FIG. 57(c), the pending display M1 displayed before the pending display M1 to be read ahead moves from the pre-variation display region X1 to the variable display region X2, and the variable display of the performance symbols is started.

At this time, the speaker 54a to 54d again outputs the words "I might have a chance", and the chance lamp 53b blinks in red.

Then, as shown in FIG. 57(d), the variable display of the performance symbols is completed, and as shown in FIG. 57(e), the reserved display M1 to be read ahead moves from the pre-variation display region X1 to the variable display region X2, and the variable display of the performance symbols is started.

At this time, the speaker 54a to 54d outputs the line "I have a chance" and the chance lamp 53b blinks in red.

In this way, when the look-ahead effect is executed, the look-ahead notice is performed each time the working memory is consumed until the variable display relating to the hold display M1 to be read-ahead is started.

Next, a specific example of the jackpot game state will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 58(a), in the jackpot game state, for example, it is assumed that the game is being played in the first round. The example shown in FIG. 58(a) shows an example in which the liquid crystal display 42 displays that 6 game balls have entered the big winning hole 30b and 80 game balls have been paid out as prize balls.

Then, as shown in FIG. 58(b), in the jackpot game state, it is assumed that 10 game balls have won the jackpot 30b and the end condition of the round game has been satisfied. At this time, the liquid crystal display 42 displays that 150 game balls have been paid out as prize balls.

Then, as shown in FIG. 58(c), when the big winning opening 30b is closed, the game ball wins and the over winning occurs. At this time, if an over-win occurs, the prize balls due to the over-win are paid out, but the liquid crystal display 42 still displays 150 prize balls. That is, the number of prize balls due to over winning is not displayed. At this time, the liquid crystal display 42 displays that the first round is finished.

On the other hand, when an over-win occurs, the speaker 54a to 54d outputs the words "wonderful" and the chance lamp 53b flashes in rainbow colors.

In the conventional game machine, various notifications regarding an advantageous state (for example, a look-ahead effect at the start of winning, a winning suggestion at the start of variation, a winning notification, a promotion notification during a round, and an over winning notification) were carried out by lighting lamps at various locations such as the game board 9 and the integrated door unit 4. However, from the player's point of view, various notifications are distributed to a plurality of locations, which makes it complicated and difficult to understand.

However, in this embodiment, the information suggesting that the prefetching performance lottery is won, the information suggesting the occurrence of over winning, and the information that the all-rotation ready-to-win pattern is selected and the big win is confirmed are collectively performed by the light emission of the chance lamp 53b. That is, only the chance lamp 53b is configured to emit light in any situation.

Then, when the look-ahead effect is performed, the expectation for the big hit increases. That is, expectations for winning a prize ball by making a game ball enter the big prize winning opening 30b of the variable prize winning device 30 in the big hit increase. Also, when the all-rotation reach pattern is selected, the expectation for a big hit increases. In this case as well, expectations for winning a prize ball by winning a game ball in the big prize winning opening 30b of the variable prize winning device 30 are heightened. In addition, in the case of over-winning, the over-winning occurs at the big winning opening 30b of the variable winning device 30, and the satisfaction of getting the prize ball is obtained.

In this way, even when the chance lamp 53b is lit in any situation, the interest in the game is heightened by winning a prize ball from the big prize winning opening 30b of the variable prize winning device 30. FIG. Therefore, by providing a chance lamp 53b in the vicinity of the variable prize winning device 30 and concentrating each information on the light emission of the chance lamp 53b, it is possible to intuitively and easily suggest to the player that an advantageous game result expected for the generation of prize balls can be obtained.

Since each notification is concentrated on the light emission of the chance lamp 53b, it can be effectively performed with a small number of parts, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the pachinko machine 1.例文帳に追加

Also, the light emission pattern of the chance lamp 53b changes according to the game situation. This makes it possible to make the game situation easier to understand.

[About the production when the special pattern changes during the time saving state]
Next, the execution timing of the effect executed when the first special symbol becomes a big hit or a small hit during the time saving state will be described with reference to FIG. In this example, the time saving state A will be described as an example, but the same applies to the time saving state B and the time saving state C (see FIG. 38).

As shown in FIG. 59, when the game state shifts to the time saving state A, the effect state also shifts to the time saving state A. Then, in the time-saving state A, right-handed hitting is usually performed. Then, every time a game ball passes through the starting gate 20 and the variable display of the normal symbols is performed, the variable display of the production symbols for the normal pattern is performed. Since the production pattern for the general pattern is displayed in a variable manner in synchronization with the normal pattern, the number of fluctuations in the normal pattern and the number of fluctuations in the production pattern for the general pattern are the same.

In the time-saving state A, even when the variable display of normal symbols is performed, a game ball can be won in the first starting prize-winning hole 26 by hitting left. Therefore, in the time-saving state A, there is a possibility that a game ball will enter the first start winning hole 26 during variable display of normal symbols, and variable display of the first special symbol will be performed. In addition, since the second start winning opening 28b is opened after the variable display result of the normal symbol is displayed, the variable display of the second special symbol is not performed during the variable display of the normal symbol.

Then, when the variation display of the normal symbols is a variation display other than the final variation, that is, when the number of times of variation of the normal symbols is 1st to 9999th (in other words, less than 10000 times), when the first special symbol wins big or small during the variation display of the normal symbols, the performance symbols for normal symbols are switched to the performance symbols for special symbols, and the second specific performance is executed. In addition, the variable display of the mini symbol for the special figure and the fourth symbol of the special figure is performed.

On the other hand, when the variation display of the normal pattern is the variation display of the final variation, that is, when the number of times of variation of the normal pattern is the 10000th, when the first special pattern becomes a big hit or a small hit during the variation display of the normal pattern, the performance pattern for the normal pattern is switched to the performance pattern for the special pattern, and the first specific performance is executed. In addition, the variable display of the mini symbol for the special figure and the fourth symbol of the special figure is performed.

In addition, when the variable display of the first special pattern is started during the variable display of the normal pattern in the time saving state A but the first special pattern is lost, the first specific performance and the second specific performance are not executed, and the display of the performance pattern for the normal pattern is continued without being switched to the performance pattern for the special pattern. Then, only the variable display of the mini symbol for special figure and the fourth symbol of special figure is performed.

Then, in the present embodiment, as the first specific effect and the second specific effect, a shutter effect is executed in which the special-figure effect pattern switched from the normal-figure effect pattern is made invisible. The shutter effect includes a first effect part in which the shutter changes from an open state to a closed state, and a second effect part in which the closed state of the shutter is maintained. The first specific effect and the second specific effect have the same execution time of the first effect part, but different execution times of the second effect part. In the present embodiment, the execution time of the second performance part is longer in the first specified performance than in the second specified performance, so the first specified performance is called shutter performance (long) and the second specified performance is called shutter performance (short).

In fluctuations other than the final fluctuation in the time saving state, a fluctuation pattern dedicated to time saving is selected from a fluctuation pattern selection table B when a big win or a small win occurs, and the fluctuation pattern ends in a fixed time, so that the execution time of the second performance part becomes constant and the shutter performance (short) ends in a fixed time. Therefore, in fluctuations other than the final fluctuation in the time saving state, when a fluctuation pattern dedicated to time saving is selected from the fluctuation pattern selection table B, the execution data of the shutter performance (short) ending in a fixed time is set, and when the shutter performance (short) is finished, the informing performance for informing that a big win or a small win is achieved is executed at a fixed timing.

On the other hand, in the final variation in the time saving state, when a big win or a small win is made, a variation pattern for the normal state is selected from the variation pattern selection table D, and the variation time of the variation pattern changes according to the variation pattern. Since processing becomes complicated if the execution time of the shutter performance (long) is managed according to the variation pattern, the performance control CPU 126 is configured to end the shutter performance (long) when receiving a state designation command indicating a big win or a small win from the main control CPU 72 after the variable display of the special pattern. Along with this, the execution time of the second performance part changes according to the variation time of the variation pattern, and the end timing of the shutter performance (long) changes according to the variation pattern, so that the notification performance cannot be executed at a fixed timing in the shutter performance (long). In addition, if the execution time of the shutter effect (long) is managed and the notification effect is performed in conjunction with the end timing of the shutter effect (long), the processing becomes complicated and the amount of data increases. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the shutter effect (long) ends, the notification effect is not executed, and the screen directly shifts to the start screen of the big win or the small win (for example, the screen of the first round).

In addition, in any shutter effect, when the special figure effect pattern is stopped, the fixed effect symbol is not displayed, but the special figure mini symbol and the fourth symbol are stopped.

In this embodiment, when the variation display of the first special symbol is performed in the time saving state A, the variation pattern selection table B is referred to (see FIG. 19). Therefore, the effect control CPU 126 executes the second specific effect for the time saving state when receiving the variation pattern command of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection table B from the main control CPU 72 .

However, when the variable display of normal symbols is the final variation in the time saving state A, the game state shifts from the time saving state A to the normal state before the start of the variable display of normal symbols (step S2618 in FIG. 32, see FIG. 18). Therefore, when it is the final variation in the time saving state A, the game state is shifted to the normal state during the variable display of the normal symbols. Therefore, when the variable display of the first special symbol is started during the variable display of the normal symbol in the final variation in the time saving state A, the variation pattern selection table B referred to during the time saving is not referred to, but the variation pattern selection table D referred to during the normal state is referred (see FIG. 19).

On the other hand, in the final variation of the time saving state A, the effect state is the time saving state until the variable display of the normal pattern effect pattern is completed (see step S506 in FIG. 45). However, when a variation pattern selection table D referred to during a normal state is referred to and a variation pattern command is transmitted from the main control CPU 72, the performance control CPU 126 starts the variation display of the performance pattern for the special figure in accordance with the variation pattern selected from the variation pattern selection table D and executes the performance at the time of the variation display even though the performance pattern for the normal figure is being variably displayed. For this reason, although the production state is the time-saving state, the production in the normal state is executed, and inconsistency in production occurs.

Therefore, in this embodiment, when the variation pattern command of the variation pattern selected from the variation pattern selection table D is received from the main control CPU 72 in the final variation of the time saving state A, the performance control CPU 126 switches from the normal figure performance pattern to the special figure performance pattern and executes the shutter performance (long) as the first specific performance. Since the variation pattern selected from the variation pattern selection table D differs in variation time according to the variation pattern, the performance control CPU 126 changes the execution time of the second performance part of the shutter performance (long) with the time corresponding to the variation pattern.

Thus, when the first special pattern starts to fluctuate during the final fluctuation in the time saving state A, the performance pattern for the special figure can be made invisible until the start of the big win or the small win, so that the performance associated with the variable display of the performance pattern for the special figure in the normal state is not executed, and the sense of incompatibility can be prevented.

The variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection table B is shorter than the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection table D. Moreover, the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection table B is a fixed time. Therefore, when a variation pattern command is received from the main control CPU 72 during fluctuations other than the final fluctuation in the time saving state A, the performance control CPU 126 makes the execution time of the second performance part of the shutter performance (short) constant. In this case also, even if the normal-figure production pattern is switched to the special-figure production pattern, the special-figure production pattern becomes invisible, so that a sense of incongruity can be prevented.

In addition, when the variable display of the first special pattern is started during the variable display of the normal pattern in the final variation of the time saving state A, but the first special pattern is lost, the performance control CPU 126 executes the second specific performance, that is, the shutter performance (short) after the variation of the normal pattern is finished, and switches to the special symbol performance pattern.

In the present embodiment, the shutter performance (long) is terminated when a state specifying command indicating a big win or a small win is received after the variable display of the special pattern, but the shutter performance (long) may be terminated by time management according to the variable time.

[Specific examples of first specific effect and second specific effect]
Next, specific examples of the first specific effect and the second specific effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 60 and 61. FIG. FIG. 60 is a specific example of the second specific effect, and FIG. 61 is a specific example of the first specific effect.

[Specific example of the second specific effect]
As shown in FIG. 60(a), it is assumed that variable display of normal symbols is started in one of the time saving states A to C (hereinafter collectively referred to as the time saving state). At this time, it is assumed that the change display is a change other than the final change in the time saving state.

Then, as shown in FIG. 60(b), when a game ball enters the first start prize winning port 26 during the variable display of the normal symbols and becomes a big hit, and the variable display of the first special symbols is started, the shutter performance (short) is executed, and the first performance part of changing the shutter from the open state to the closed state is executed on the liquid crystal display 42.例文帳に追加At this time, the production pattern for the normal figure is switched to the production pattern for the special figure, but the production pattern for the special figure becomes invisible due to the shutter production. In addition, the variable display of the mini symbol for special figure and the fourth symbol of special figure is started.

Next, as shown in FIG. 60(c), the liquid crystal display 42 executes the second effect part for maintaining the closed state of the shutter. When the variable display of the first special symbol ends, the mini symbol for special symbol and the fourth symbol variable display of the special symbol are stopped to indicate a big win. In addition, in fluctuations other than the final fluctuation in the time saving state, since the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is constant, the execution time of the second production part is constant.

Next, as shown in FIG. 60(d), on the liquid crystal display 42, the shutter is opened to end the shutter effect, and the notification effect of notifying a big hit is executed.

[Specific example of the first specific effect]
As shown in FIG. 61(a), it is assumed that variable display of normal symbols is started in one of the time saving states A to C (hereinafter collectively referred to as the time saving state). At this time, it is assumed that the change display is the final change in the time saving state.

Then, as shown in FIG. 61(b), when a game ball enters the first start prize-winning port 26 during variable display of normal symbols to result in a big hit, and variable display of the first special symbols is started, the shutter performance (long) is executed, and the first performance part in which the shutter changes from the open state to the closed state is executed on the liquid crystal display 42.例文帳に追加At this time, the production pattern for the normal figure is switched to the production pattern for the special figure, but the production pattern for the special figure becomes invisible due to the shutter production. In addition, the variable display of the mini symbol for special figure and the fourth symbol of special figure is started.

Next, as shown in FIG. 61(c), the liquid crystal display 42 executes the second effect part in which the shutter is kept closed. When the variable display of the first special symbol ends, the mini symbol for special symbol and the fourth symbol variable display of the special symbol are stopped to indicate a big win. In the final fluctuation of the time saving state, since the fluctuation time of the first special symbol differs according to the fluctuation pattern, the execution time of the second production part changes according to the fluctuation pattern.

Next, as shown in FIG. 61(d), the liquid crystal display 42 opens the shutter to end the shutter effect and displays the start screen of the first round of the big win.

In the example of FIGS. 60 and 61, the execution time of the first effect part is common to the shutter effect (long) and the shutter effect (short), but the execution time of the second effect part is different between the shutter effect (long) and the shutter effect (short), and the shutter effect (long) is longer than the shutter effect (short).

[Effect of the above embodiment]
In the above embodiment,
A gaming machine (in this example, pachinko machine 1) capable of executing variable display of identification information (first special symbol, second special symbol, normal symbol),
A state control means (in this example, FIG. 33) that can be controlled to a plurality of types of game states including a specific game state (in this example, time saving state);
A production execution means (in this example, FIG. 42) capable of executing production,
The effect executing means can execute a variable display effect (in this example, variable display of effect patterns) corresponding to the variable display of the identification information (in this example, FIGS. 46 to 48),
The variable display effect includes a first variable display effect (in this example, a special drawing pattern) and a second variable display effect (in this example, a normal drawing pattern),
The state control means can end the specific game state when the variable display of the identification information is executed a predetermined number of times (in this example, FIG. 38) in the specific game state (in this example, step S2416 in FIG. 14, step S2618 in FIG. 35, and FIG. 18),
The production executing means is
When the switching condition of the variable display effect is satisfied in the specific game state (in this example, when the first special symbol becomes a big hit or a small hit), it is possible to switch from the first variable display effect to the second variable display effect (in this example, FIGS. 46 to 48),
When the switching condition is met while the identification information is being variably displayed for the predetermined number of times in the specific game state, the first specific effect (in this example, shutter effect (long)) can be executed (in this example, (in this example, steps S614 and S616 in FIG. 46, FIG. 59), FIG. 59, FIG. 61),
When the switching condition is satisfied when the identification information is variably displayed less than the predetermined number of times in the specific game state, a second specific effect (in this example, shutter effect (short)) can be executed (in this example, steps S640 and S642 in FIG. 46, FIG. 59, FIG. 60),
The first specific effect and the second specific effect include a first effect part (in this example, a part in which the shutter changes from an open state to a closed state) and a second effect part (in this example, a part in which the shutter is kept closed) executed after the first effect part (FIGS. 59, 60, and 61 in this example),
The execution time of the second effect part differs between the first specific effect and the second specific effect (in this example, FIG. 59).
Therefore, by executing the first specific performance and the second specific performance in accordance with the game situation when switching the variable display performance, it is possible to eliminate the sense of incongruity when switching the variable display performance, thereby enhancing the interest of the game.
In addition, the above embodiment includes the following inventions and has the following effects.
A gaming machine (in this example, pachinko machine 1) capable of executing variable display of identification information (first special symbol, second special symbol, normal symbol),
A state control means (in this example, FIG. 33) that can be controlled to a plurality of types of game states including a specific game state (in this example, time saving state);
A production execution means (in this example, FIG. 42) capable of executing production,
The effect executing means can execute a variable display effect (in this example, variable display of effect patterns) corresponding to the variable display of the identification information (in this example, FIGS. 46 to 48),
The variable display effect includes a first variable display effect (in this example, a special drawing pattern) and a second variable display effect (in this example, a normal drawing pattern),
The state control means can end the specific game state when the variable display of the identification information is executed a predetermined number of times (in this example, FIG. 38) in the specific game state (in this example, step S2416 in FIG. 14, step S2618 in FIG. 35, and FIG. 18),
The production executing means is
The first variable display effect or the second variable display effect can be executed according to the game state (FIGS. 46 to 48 in this example),
When the first variable display effect is executed in the specific game state and the switching condition of the variable display effect is satisfied (in this example, when the first special symbol is a big hit or a small hit), it is possible to switch from the first variable display effect to the second variable display effect and execute the second variable display effect (in this example, FIGS. 46 to 48),
When the switching condition is met while the identification information is being variably displayed for the predetermined number of times in the specific game state, the first specific effect (in this example, shutter effect (long)) can be executed (in this example, (in this example, steps S614 and S616 in FIG. 46, FIG. 59), FIG. 59, FIG. 61),
When the switching condition is satisfied when the identification information is displayed in a variable manner less than the predetermined number of times in the specific game state, a second specific effect (in this example, a shutter effect (short)) can be executed (in this example, steps S640 and S642 in FIG. 46, FIG. 59, and FIG. 60),
The first specific effect and the second specific effect include a first effect part (in this example, a part in which the shutter changes from an open state to a closed state) and a second effect part (in this example, a part in which the shutter is kept closed) executed after the first effect part (FIGS. 59, 60, and 61 in this example),
The execution time of the second effect part differs between the first specific effect and the second specific effect,
The first specific effect can change the execution time of the second effect part according to the variable display time of the identification information (in this example, FIG. 59).
Therefore, by executing the first specific performance and the second specific performance in accordance with the game situation when switching the variable display performance, it is possible to eliminate the sense of incongruity when switching the variable display performance, thereby enhancing the interest of the game.

Moreover, in the above embodiment,
The identification information includes first identification information (in this example, normal design) and second identification information (in this example, first special design),
The first identification information and the second identification information can be independently and variably displayed at the same time (as shown in FIG. 9, the processes of FIGS. 14 and 35 are performed separately and can be executed at the same time),
The first identification information corresponds to the first variable display effect (in this example, the effect pattern for the general pattern),
The second identification information corresponds to the second variable display effect (in this example, a special figure effect pattern),
The switching condition is that the variable display result of the second identification information becomes a specific display result (in this example, a big hit or a small hit) in the specific game state (steps S614 and S616 in FIG. 46, FIG. 59 in this example).
Therefore, it is possible to switch the variable display effect according to the result of the variable display of the identification information, thereby making the game more interesting.

When the switching condition is not satisfied in the specific game state (when the variable display result of the second identification information is a display result other than the specific display result), the effect executing means can continue to execute the first variable display effect without switching to the second variable display effect (step S644 in FIG. 46 and FIG. 59 in this example).
Therefore, it is possible to switch the variable display effect according to the result of the variable display of the identification information, thereby making the game more interesting.

When the variable display of the identification information is performed in the specific game state and the switching condition is not satisfied when the number of times of variable display of the identification information is the predetermined number of times (when the result of variable display of the second identification information is a display result other than the specific display result), the effect execution means can execute a second specific effect (step S618 in FIG. 46, FIG. 59 in this example).
Therefore, by executing the second specific performance when the specific game state is terminated and the variable display performance is switched, it is possible to eliminate the sense of incongruity when switching the variable display performance, so that the amusement of the game can be enhanced.

[Modification]

In the above-described embodiment, the time saving state was described as an example of the specific game state.

In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific game state ends when the number of times the normal symbols change is a predetermined number in the specific game state, but for example, the specific game state ends when the number of times the second special symbol changes is a predetermined number. In this case, when the number of variations of the second special symbol is a predetermined number of times, the performance symbol is switched and the first specific performance is executed when the variable display of the first special symbol or the normal symbol is started, and when the number of times of variation of the second special symbol is less than the predetermined number of times, the performance symbol is switched and the second specific performance is executed when the variable display of the first special symbol or the normal symbol is started.

In the above-described embodiment, the predetermined lottery based on the entry of the game ball into the starting area is used as a prefetch effect lottery. A lottery different from the above embodiment, such as a promotion effect lottery, may be used as the predetermined lottery.

In the above embodiment, an example of displaying the normal effect image when the first end condition is satisfied while being controlled to the special state was given, but the normal effect image may not be displayed when the special state is controlled to the predetermined state even if the first end condition is satisfied while being controlled to the special state.

In the above embodiment, the normal effect image is displayed when the first end condition is satisfied while being controlled to the special state, and the firing promotion image is displayed when the display result of the variable display of the second identification information after the display of the normal effect image is the specific display result. However, when the first end condition is satisfied while being controlled to the special state, the normal effect image is displayed, and when the display result of the second identification information is the specific display result during the display of the normal effect image, the firing promotion image is changed to a special firing promotion image that is different from the normal effect image. A configuration may be adopted in which a launch promotion image is displayed.

In the above embodiment, when the first end condition is satisfied while being controlled to the special state, the normal effect image is displayed without suggesting that the normal effect image is displayed.

It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which an end suggesting performance suggesting the end of the special state is executed when the first end condition is satisfied while being controlled to the special state and when the second end condition is satisfied while being controlled to the special state, and the end suggesting performance may be different. For example, it is possible to vary the execution time of the end-suggesting effect and the content of the effect. Specifically, when the first termination condition is satisfied, the execution time of the termination suggestion effect can be made shorter than when the second termination condition is satisfied.

In the above embodiment, as an example of limiting the execution of the performance identification information, the example of not performing the variable display of the special design and the general design is given, but for example, the performance design to be restricted may be displayed in a variable manner by reducing the transparency of the performance design, or the performance design to be restricted may be displayed in a smaller size than the other performance design.

In the time-saving state, during the variable display of the special symbols, the variable display of the special symbols is not performed, and only the mini symbols and the fourth symbols for special symbols are displayed. However, at this time, if the result of the variable display of the special symbols is a big hit or a small hit, the liquid crystal display 42 forcibly displays the shutter on the general symbols and hides the general symbols even during the variation of the general symbols, suggesting a big hit or a small hit. , It may be configured to execute a suggestive performance of a big win or a small win by a performance image other than a performance pattern.

In the above embodiment, an example of providing the time saving state A to the time saving state C with different end conditions as the time saving state was given, but for example, a time saving state that ends when a small hit occurs a predetermined number of times (for example, three times).

In the above-described embodiment, the conditions for ending the time saving state A to the time saving state C are exemplified by the cases where the number of variations of the normal symbol is executed 10000 times, 200 times, and 100 times. It may be used as a condition.

In the above embodiment, both the mini symbols for the special symbols and the mini symbols for the normal symbols are displayed, the variable target notification frame is moved according to the game state, and an example is given to suggest the variable target production pattern. In addition, the mini symbols for the special symbols and the mini symbols for the normal symbols may be arranged in different display modes and only one of them may be displayed so that the display mode of the displayed mini symbols suggests which of the special symbols or h normal symbols is changing.

In the above embodiment, an example of one variable winning device has been described, but a plurality of variable winning devices may be provided, such as separately providing a variable winning device for small winning and a variable winning device for big winning.

In the above embodiment, an example of winning a small prize with the first special symbol has been described, but a configuration may be adopted in which a small prize is not won with the first special symbol. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which does not win a big hit with a 2nd special design.

In the above embodiment, an example of control to the time-saving state after the end of the big win was given, but it may be configured to be controlled to the time-saving state even if the next big win does not occur even after the pachinko machine is powered on or after the occurrence of the big win, even if the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (for example, 500 times). A predetermined number of times (for example, 500 times) of variable display is performed after the occurrence of a big hit is called reaching the ceiling, and a time saving state controlled by this is called a ceiling time saving.

In addition, it is preferable to define the number of times of fluctuation n and the number of times of reduction of working hours N in the reduction of working hours until the ceiling working hours are controlled as follows.
2.5P≤n≤3.0P
0.4P≦N≦3.8P
(P = denominator of jackpot probability ML, n = number of times of operation, N = number of times of time saving)
Specifically, for example, when the jackpot probability is 1/300, the number of fluctuations n is 750-900, and the number of time reductions N is 120-1140.

And, for example, it may be configured to control to the time saving state A or the time saving state B of the above-described embodiment when it is controlled to the ceiling time saving.

The present invention can be modified in various ways without being limited to the above-described embodiment. The mode of presentation given in one embodiment is an example, and is not limited to the mode of presentation described above.

The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and can be appropriately modified. Also, the structure, board configuration, specific numerical values, etc. of the pachinko machine 1, including those shown in the drawings, are preferred examples, and it goes without saying that these can be modified as appropriate.

1 pachinko machine 8 game board unit 8a game area 20 start gate 28 variable start winning device 33 normal symbol display device 33a normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 first special symbol display device 35 second special symbol display device 34a first special symbol operation memory lamp 35a second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 game state display device 42 liquid crystal display 45 effect button 70 Main controller 72 Main control CPU
74 ROMs
76 RAM
124 effect control device 126 effect control CPU

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of executing variable display of identification information,
A state control means capable of controlling a plurality of types of game states including a specific game state;
and a production execution means capable of executing production,
The effect executing means can execute a variable display effect corresponding to the variable display of the identification information,
The variable display effect includes a first variable display effect and a second variable display effect,
The state control means is capable of ending the specific game state when variable display of the identification information is executed a predetermined number of times in the specific game state,
The production executing means is
switching from the first variable display effect to the second variable display effect when a condition for switching the variable display effect is satisfied in the specific game state;
When the switching condition is met while the identification information is being variably displayed for the predetermined number of times in the specific game state, a first specific effect can be executed,
A second specific effect can be executed when the switching condition is met while the identification information is being variably displayed less than the predetermined number of times in the specific game state,
The first specific effect and the second specific effect include a first effect part and a second effect part executed after the first effect part,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the execution time of the second performance part differs between the first specific performance and the second specific performance.