JP2023106673A - game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of preventing a player from being dissatisfied even if the game machine cannot be played.SOLUTION: A game machine is configured so as not to execute a read-ahead performance for suggesting at least a jackpot type to reservation for granting a jackpot for satisfying a condition that a maximum difference ball number reaches a reference value while calculating the maximum difference ball number as a difference between a minimum value and a maximum value in a shift of a difference ball number of the game machine from predetermined count start timing to the present point of time and shifting to a game disabled state in which a game cannot be played by the game machine on the basis of arrival of the maximum difference ball number at a set reference value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 30

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko game machine.

As a gaming machine, for example, a pachinko gaming machine that plays a game using game balls (pachinko balls) is known. In this pachinko game machine, a game area is formed on the front side of a game board arranged inside the machine, and a plurality of types of ball entrances are scattered in the game area. Moreover, the pachinko game machine is configured to award a prize ball according to the type of the ball entrance when a game ball enters the ball entrance. In addition, when a pachinko ball wins a prize in a starting prize-winning hole in the game area, the symbols displayed on the image display device start to change, and are stopped after a certain period of time. A game is started and the player can win a lot of pachinko balls (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-5605).

JP 2016-5605 A

In the pachinko machine, there are states that are advantageous to the player, such as a variable probability state and a time-saving state that make it easier to win the big win, and a small win rush state that makes it easier to win consecutive small wins. It is relatively easy to acquire a large number of prize balls in a normal game state. However, if the number of prize balls that the player can acquire becomes excessively large, it is not preferable because it will arouse the gambling spirit of the player. Therefore, in recent years, consideration has been given to limiting the number of prize balls given to players. When limiting the number of prize balls to be given to the player in this way, for example, the number of difference balls and the maximum number of difference balls are managed in real time, and when the number of difference balls or the maximum number of difference balls reaches the upper limit, the pachinko machine is operated. This will end the operation of the machine (make it impossible to play).

However, the problem with adopting such a system is that the number of difference balls or the maximum number of difference balls reaches the upper limit as the player plays the game, and the player suddenly becomes unable to play on the gaming machine. There is no choice but to forcibly end the game at an unexpected timing. In addition, the timing when the number of difference balls or the maximum number of difference balls reaches the upper limit is basically assumed to be in a state advantageous to the player as described above. may feel dissatisfied.

The present invention has been made to solve the problems in the conventional art, and a look-ahead effect that preliminarily suggests the type of jackpot for a hold that grants a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for shifting the gaming machine to a non-playable state. To provide a game machine capable of avoiding as much as possible a situation that makes a player feel dissatisfied by not performing

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention comprises game information acquisition means for acquiring game information based on the establishment of a starting condition, and determining whether or not to award a big win based on the game information. A bonus award determination means, a jackpot game executing means for executing a jackpot game for allowing a player to obtain a number of game media corresponding to the type of jackpot when it is determined that the jackpot is awarded, and a pattern variation. a notification means for notifying the determination result of the privilege provision determination means; Hold storage means for storing holds as hold in chronological order and newly digesting the oldest hold stored at the stage when notification by the notification means is finished; Prefetch effect executing means to be executed, measuring means for measuring a specific measurement number based on the game medium given to the player, and a game on the gaming machine triggered by the specific measurement number reaching a set reference value and a game-disabled state transition means for shifting to a game-disabled state in which the game cannot be performed, and the prefetching effect execution means holds a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the specific count number to reach the reference value. On the other hand, it is characterized by not performing a look-ahead effect suggesting the type of jackpot when the jackpot is won in the holding.
The "specific count" is, for example, the difference between the lowest and highest values in the transition of the number of difference balls in the gaming machine from a predetermined counting start timing to the current time, or the "maximum number of difference balls", or The difference between the number of acquired balls, which is the total number of game balls acquired by each player from the predetermined counting start timing to the present time, and the number of consumed balls, which is the total number of game balls consumed in the game. ”, etc.
In addition, "reaching the reference value" basically increases the number of difference balls (if the specific measurement number is the maximum number of difference balls, the maximum value of the number of difference It is premised that the specific measurement number reaches the reference value by increasing the maximum difference number of balls, but the difference number decreases (if the specific measurement number is the maximum difference number of balls, the difference number of balls The maximum number of difference balls, which is the difference from the maximum value, increases by lowering the minimum value of ), so that the specific count number reaches the reference value.

According to the gaming machine according to the present invention having the above-described configuration, it has a function of shifting to a non-playable state in which it is impossible to play a game on the gaming machine when the specific count reaches a set reference value. In order to make the player feel dissatisfied, he dared not perform a look-ahead effect that suggests the type of jackpot in advance for the reservation of granting a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the specific count number to reach the reference value. situation can be avoided as much as possible.

1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1. It is explanatory drawing which expands and shows the display devices provided in the pachinko game machine shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed about the storage device with which a pachinko game machine is provided. 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows with a block the electrical structure of the main-control board and peripheral equipment provided in the pachinko game machine shown in FIG. 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows with a block the electrical structure of the sub-control board and peripheral device which were provided in the pachinko game machine shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing of a big-hit determination table. It is explanatory drawing of a jackpot classification determination table. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a reach determination table; It is an explanatory diagram of a special figure variation pattern selection table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the memory content of a 1st special figure reservation memory|storage part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the memory content of a 2nd special figure reservation memory|storage part. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a performance selection table; It is explanatory drawing of the 1st special-figure reservation|reservation effect storage part. It is an explanatory diagram of a second special figure pending effect storage unit. It is a flow chart of the main side main control processing executed by the game control microcomputer. 16 is a flowchart of a main side timer interrupt process executed by a game control microcomputer in the main side main control process shown in FIG. 15. FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a starting opening sensor detection process executed by a game control microcomputer in the main side timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 17 is a flowchart of special symbol standby processing executed by the game control microcomputer in the main side timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 16; 19 is a flowchart of a second special figure jackpot determination process executed by the game control microcomputer in the special symbol standby process shown in FIG. 18. FIG. It is a flow chart of the second special figure variation pattern selection process executed by the game control microcomputer in the special symbol standby process shown in FIG. FIG. 21 is a flow chart following the flow chart of FIG. 20; FIG. 17 is a flowchart of special symbol variation processing executed by the game control microcomputer in the main side timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 16; 17 is a flow chart of extra ball-related processing executed by the game control microcomputer in the main side timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 16. FIG. It is a flowchart of the sub-side main control processing executed by the effect control microcomputer. 24. It is a flowchart of the 1ms timer interruption process which the microcomputer for production|presentation control performs in the sub side main control process shown in FIG. 24. It is a flowchart of the 10ms timer interruption process which the microcomputer for production|presentation control performs in the sub side main control process shown in FIG. 26. It is a flowchart of the receiving command analysis process which the microcomputer for production|presentation control performs in the 10ms timer interruption process shown in FIG. 28. It is a flowchart of the fluctuation production|presentation start process which the microcomputer for production|presentation control performs in the reception command analysis process shown in FIG. 28 is a flowchart of prefetching effect processing executed by the effect control microcomputer in the received command analysis processing shown in FIG. 27. FIG. It is an example of the screen of the effect display device when the look-ahead effect is performed. 28 is a flowchart of a promotion effect process executed by the effect control microcomputer in the received command analysis process shown in FIG. 27. FIG. It is an example of the screen of the effect display device when the promotion effect is performed. 28 is a flowchart of difference ball notification processing executed by the effect control microcomputer in the received command analysis processing shown in FIG. 27; It is an example of the screen of the effect display device that guides the reaching state of the maximum difference number of balls to the reference value. 28 is a flowchart of game impossibility notification processing executed by the effect control microcomputer in the received command analysis processing shown in FIG. 27; It is an example of the screen of the effect display device that is displayed when the pachinko gaming machine shifts to a non-playable state.

A gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko game machine will be described as a game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the following explanation, when explaining the direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine, the direction viewed from the player playing the game facing the pachinko gaming machine is used as a reference. Specifically, the left-right direction and the up-down direction of each part of the pachinko game machine are the left-right direction and the up-down direction viewed from the player. Also, the direction toward the player is defined as the front, and the direction away from the player is defined as the rear.

[Main Configuration of Pachinko Machines]
As shown in FIG. 1 , the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a gaming machine frame 16 . The game machine frame 16 is composed of a front frame 18, an inner frame (not shown), and an outer frame (not shown) in order from the front side. The front frame 18 includes a speaker 8, a left side lamp 23a, and a right side lamp 23b in addition to an operation console 25, which will be described later.

Here, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is a so-called "managed gaming machine" (also called "smart pachinko") that circulates and uses game balls enclosed inside the machine by an internal ball circulation mechanism. . This type of gaming machine electromagnetically stores and manages the "number of balls held" by the player, and does not physically pay out game balls. In other words, when a player performs a ball lending operation, the pachinko gaming machine 1 adds the number of game balls to be lent to the player to the number of balls possessed on the data and stores it. When game balls are used (shot) in a game, the number of game balls corresponding to that amount is subtracted from the number of balls and stored. Also, when prize balls are provided in accordance with the game played by the player, the number of game balls corresponding to the prize balls is added to the number of held balls on the data and stored. When the count value (stored value) of the number of possessed balls is 0, it means that the player does not own the game balls used in the game, and the player cannot play the game. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not require the player to directly handle the game balls, and thus does not have a ball tray for storing the game balls so that the game balls can be put in and taken out as described later. 25 (FIG. 1) are arranged so as to be positioned below the front frame 18 .

In the following explanation, it is assumed that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is the above management gaming machine. It may be a general pachinko game machine that performs physical payouts.

Here, the operation table 25 has a shape projecting forward from the lower portion of the front frame 18, that is, is provided so as to approach the player side. The operation console 25 is provided with a handle 4, a performance button 9, a performance lever 6, a ball lending button 251, a return button 252, and a game ball number display 26. - 特許庁

The handle 4 is provided on the right side of the operation table 25 (bottom right of the front frame 18), that is, at a position where a player playing a game facing the pachinko gaming machine 1 can hold it with the right hand. The handle 4 includes a touch switch 92 (FIG. 4), a firing lever 4a, and a firing stop button 4b. The touch switch 92 outputs a signal indicating that the player has touched the handle 4, and is arranged at a portion touched by the right hand of the player holding the handle 4. As shown in FIG. The shooting lever 4a is for adjusting the shooting intensity of the game ball by the shooting device 90, and is rotatably provided on the handle 4. As shown in FIG. The shooting stop button 4b is for stopping the shooting of the game ball when the game ball is being shot, and is provided at a position that can be operated by the thumb of the right hand holding the handle 4.例文帳に追加

The production button 9 is provided on the upper surface of the operation table 25. - 特許庁In other words, the effect button 9 is provided at a position where the player can press it with his or her right hand or left hand, and at a position where a player who is operating the handle 4 with his right hand can press it with his left hand. there is In this embodiment, the effect button 9 is a push-on type button switch. The performance button 9 incorporates a performance button lamp 9c (Fig. 5) and a performance button vibration motor 9b (Fig. 5). The performance button lamp 9c lights up or flashes when the performance button 9 is pressed during the period when the performance button 9 is valid. The surface of the effect button 9 is formed of a translucent material, and is devised so that the player can visually recognize the light emitted from the effect button lamp 9c. The production button vibrating motor 9b vibrates the production button 9, and vibrates at a predetermined timing during a period when the production button 9 is effectively pressed. In this embodiment, the effect button lamp 9c is an LED.
The performance button 9 has a built-in elastic member (not shown) such as a spring for returning the pressed performance button 9 to the position before the pressing operation, and the performance button 9 is released from the pressed state. Then, the state before the pressing operation is restored by the restoring force of the elastic member. When the player presses the performance button 9 during the period in which the pressing operation of the performance button 9 is valid, a specific performance is performed. Hereinafter, a specific effect triggered by the operation of the effect button 9 will be referred to as a button effect.

The production lever 6 is provided in the lower left part of the operation table 25, that is, near the left end of the lower side of the front frame 18. - 特許庁In other words, the effect lever 6 is provided at a position where the player operating the handle 4 or the effect button 9 with the right hand can press it with the left hand.
The performance lever 6 is formed in a bar shape that can be grasped with the left hand, and can be pushed backward in addition to the rotation operation of right rotation or left rotation. In addition, the production lever 6 is provided with a production lever vibration motor 6d (FIG. 5). The production lever vibrating motor 6d vibrates the production lever 6, and vibrates at a predetermined timing in a period when the operation of the production lever 6 is valid. When the player operates the performance lever 6 during a period when the operation of the performance lever 6 is valid, a specific performance is performed. Hereinafter, a specific effect triggered by the operation of the effect lever 6 will be referred to as a lever effect.

On the other hand, the ball lending button 251 and the returning button 252 are provided on the upper surface of the operation table 25 in the front frame 18 . In the game parlor, a vertically long card unit 76 (FIG. 4) is arranged on the side (left side) of the pachinko game machine 1, and this card unit 76 is electrically connected to the pachinko game machine 1. . Although the specific structure is not shown, the card unit 76 has an insertion slot for inserting bills and an insertion slot for inserting a readable storage medium such as an IC card that stores money amount information. The money amount information corresponding to the banknote received or the amount information stored in the storage medium is output to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (more specifically, the frame control board 150 described later). Here, the pachinko game machine 1 inputs amount information managed by the card unit 76, and accepts rental of game balls up to the number corresponding to the amount information. For example, if the amount information is 1,000 yen, the lending of game balls is permitted within the range of the number of game balls corresponding to 1,000 yen (for example, up to 250). For example, when the player operates the ball lending button 251 to request the lending of game balls worth 500 yen, the pachinko gaming machine 1 lends a number of gaming balls (for example, 125 balls) corresponding to the 500 yen worth ( data). Specifically, the number of rental balls (125) is added to the number of balls held by the player (data). On the other hand, when the player operates the return button 252, the pachinko gaming machine 1 outputs game end information to the card unit 76 and resets the stored value of the number of balls (data) stored. The card unit 76, which receives the game end information from the pachinko game machine 1, releases the storage medium storing the amount information corresponding to the remaining amount at that point in time, and releases the storage medium. A part of it is exposed from the insertion slot so that it can be taken out.

In addition to the money amount information, the storage medium can also store the number of balls owned by the player (data). That is, when the player operates the return button 252, the pachinko gaming machine 1 resets the stored value of the number of balls (data) stored, and at the same time, sends the game end information and the balls to the card unit 76. If there is, the stored number of balls (data) is also output. Then, the card unit 76 stores the number of balls output from the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the storage medium, and then discharges the game medium storing the number of balls. On the other hand, when the player inserts the storage medium storing the number of balls in the card unit 76, the number of balls in the storage medium is stored in the pachinko machine 1 (more specifically, the frame control board described later). 150) and stored as the number of balls held. That is, by inserting a storage medium storing the number of balls in a player's possession into the card unit of another pachinko game machine, the player can play a game by moving the balls in his possession between a plurality of gaming machines (however, (Limited to stores where table movement is permitted).

The game ball number display 26 is provided on the upper surface of the operation table 25 (on the right side of the effect button 9) so that the display surface is horizontal or has a slightly downward angle. In other words, the display surface of the number-of-game-balls display 26 faces the side where the face of the player is positioned, making it easier to see when the player lowers his or her line of sight. The game ball number display 26 displays the aforementioned "number of balls" corresponding to the number of game balls owned by the player. On the other hand, the "number of difference balls" corresponding to the difference between the number of balls acquired and the number of consumption balls played in the pachinko machine 1 is also counted, and the lowest value in the transition of the "number of difference balls" on the day. And the difference between the highest value "maximum number of difference balls" is also counted. Also, based on the "maximum number of difference balls", a transition to a non-playable state, which will be described later, is performed. It should be noted that the "number of difference balls" and the "maximum number of difference balls" may be displayed on the game ball number display 26 as well.

Here, the "number of possession balls" is the number of rental balls, which is the number of game balls lent according to the ball lending operation, the number of acquired balls, which is the number of game balls given as prize balls according to the game, and the number of consumption balls. In relation to the number of balls, it is the number of balls calculated by the formula of "number of rental balls + number of acquired balls - number of consumed balls". As described above, the number of possessed balls is reset when the player finishes the game, that is, when the return button 252 is operated. Transfer to storage media. The current "number of balls held" is stored in the RAM (RWM) of the frame control board 150, for example.
On the other hand, the "number of difference balls" is the relationship between the total number of acquired balls and the total number of consumed balls in the game performed from the start of operation to the end of operation of the pachinko machine 1. It is the number of balls calculated by the formula of "number". The transition (history) of the "number of difference balls" up to the present including the current "number of difference balls" is stored in the RAM (RWM) of the main control board 60, for example. Unlike the above-described number of balls, this change in the number of difference balls is not reset when the player finishes the game (when the return button 252 is operated), but is set in advance by the employee of the game parlor. Reset based on operation. Output to the card unit 76 (transfer to a storage medium) is also not performed. That is, the transition of the "number of difference balls" is not counted and stored for each player, but is determined by a plurality of players who have played on the same gaming machine from a predetermined count start timing (specifically, at the time of the previous reset). The transition of the number of difference balls based on the game result of is counted and stored. In this embodiment, for example, by turning on the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1, the change in the number of difference balls is configured to be reset. However, it is also possible to reset the transition of the difference number only when the power is turned off, or when a special operation is performed in addition to the power being turned on.

Furthermore, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the maximum difference number of balls (the difference between the minimum value and the maximum value in the transition of the number of difference balls from the counting start timing) is a predetermined "reference value" due to the increase in the number of acquired balls. is reached, the player is configured to shift to a non-playable state (a state in which the game for the day is finished) in which the player cannot play the game. For example, the standard value is 95,000, but the standard value can be changed as appropriate. In addition, "reach the reference value" basically assumes that the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value as the difference number of balls increases (highest value = current difference number of balls). A case where the maximum number of difference balls reaches the reference value due to the decrease in number (minimum value = current number of difference balls) may be included. In that case, when the maximum difference number of balls reaches a predetermined "reference number" due to an increase in the number of consumed balls, the game will be shifted to a non-playable state. In addition, after the pachinko machine 1 shifts to a non-playable state, not only the player who was playing the game but also the new player cannot play on the machine, and a special By operating, for example, starting (ram clearing) with the RAM clear switch 66 provided on the main control board 60 pressed down, the non-playable state is released. However, considering the purpose of shifting to the unplayable state (suppression of gambling), it is desirable to avoid canceling the unplayable state until business hours are over on the day of transition to the unplayable state. Basically, the non-playable state is released after the end of business hours and before the start of the next business hours.

In addition, the maximum ball difference is basically calculated on a business day basis, and the maximum ball difference across days is not calculated (however, when operating in a special business form such as all-night operation) exception). That is, the day's game performed in the pachinko game machine 1 is terminated according to the result of the transition of the number of difference balls for each business day (every operation) of the game parlor. Therefore, for this reason, when an employee of the game parlor resets the past change in the number of difference balls, the operation is normally performed after the end of the business hours (operating time of the pachinko game machine 1) every business day. Must be done before the start of the next business hour.
The details of the transition to the non-playable state based on the maximum number of difference balls will be described later.

A left side lamp 23a is provided on the left side of the front frame 18, and a right side lamp 23b is provided on the right side. A portion of the front frame 18 where the left side lamp 23a and the right side lamp 23b are provided is translucent, and a plurality of LEDs are arranged inside the translucent portion. Each LED is capable of emitting light in a plurality of colors, lights up or blinks according to the content of the presentation, and further changes the color of light emitted. The speakers 8 are provided in the upper left and right corners of the front frame 18, respectively, and output sounds such as music, sound effects, and notification sounds according to the content of the presentation.

Also, the pachinko game machine 1 includes a game board 2, a glass plate 5, and an effect display device 7. - 特許庁The game board 2 is arranged substantially in the center of the game board 2, that is, at a position substantially facing the player's face. The performance display device 7 is arranged on the rear side of the game board 2, and its screen is exposed from substantially the center of the game board 2.例文帳に追加The game board 2 includes a fixed winning device 10, a big winning device 30, a gate 12, a normal variable winning device (also referred to as a normal electric accessory or electric chew) 20, a general winning port 13, and displays 50. , a center decoration 14 and a rail member 17.

A game area 3 in which game balls flow down (roll) is formed on the board surface of the game board 2 . The game area 3 has a left game area 3 a formed on the left side of the screen of the effect display device 7 and a right game area 3 b formed on the right side of the screen of the effect display device 7 . A plurality of game nails (not shown) are driven into the board surface of the game board 2 for changing the flowing direction of the game ball. The front side of the board surface of the game board 2 is covered with a transparent glass plate 5. - 特許庁Also, although not shown in FIG. 1, LEDs are provided at a plurality of locations on the game board 2 . These LEDs are collectively referred to as board lamps (indicated by reference numeral 2a in FIG. 5). Each LED that constitutes the board lamp 2a can emit light in a plurality of colors, lights up or blinks according to the content of the effect, and further changes the color of the emitted light. That is, the pachinko game machine 1 lights or blinks the left side lamp 23a, the right side lamp 23b and the board lamp 2a according to the content of the effect during game control, and outputs sound from each speaker 8. - 特許庁

The fixed prize winning device 10 is arranged substantially in the center of the lower side of the game board 2 . The fixed winning device 10 has a first starting port 11 that allows one game ball to win (enter a ball). The first starting port 11 is always open, and the probability that the game ball wins the first starting port 11 does not substantially change. The gate 12 is arranged in the right game area 3b, and is configured so that game balls flowing down the right game area 3b can pass therethrough. The normal variable winning device 20 is arranged below the gate 12 in the right game area 3b. The normal variable winning device 20 has a movable member (electric tulip) 21 . The movable member 21 is configured to be rotatable with its proximal end serving as a rotation axis, and the opening and closing of the movable member 21 opens and closes the second starting port 22 . When the movable member 21 is opened, the second starting port 22 is opened, and the game balls enter the second starting port 22 one by one (entering a ball) easily. Further, when the movable member 21 is closed, the second starting port 22 is closed and the game ball cannot enter the second starting port 22.例文帳に追加
In the example shown in FIG. 1, the normal variable winning device 20 is arranged on the right side of the game area 3, but it may be arranged on the lower side of the game area 3.

The big winning device 30 is arranged on the right side of the fixed winning device 10 in the game board 2 . The big prize winning device 30 includes an opening/closing member 31 that opens and closes the big prize opening 32 . The big winning opening 32 is formed in a size that allows a plurality of game balls to win (enter the ball). In this embodiment, the opening/closing member 31 is formed in a plate shape elongated in the left-right direction, and is configured to be rotatable about the left and right lower ends as the rotation axis.

The display device 50 is provided outside the game area 3 of the game board 2 and below the big winning device 30 . As shown in FIG. 2, the display devices 50 include a first special symbol display device 51 that variably displays a first special symbol (also referred to as a first special symbol) and a second special symbol (also referred to as a second special symbol). and a normal symbol display 53 for variably displaying a normal symbol (also referred to as a normal symbol). In addition, the display devices 50 display the first special symbol reservation display 51a that displays the number of memory of operation suspension of the first special symbol display 51, and the number of memory of operation suspension of the second special symbol display 52. It is provided with a second special figure suspension display 52a and a normal figure suspension display 53a for displaying the number of memory of operation suspension of the normal pattern display 53. - 特許庁Hereinafter, when describing matters common to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, it is simply referred to as a special symbol. In addition, when describing matters common to the first special symbol display device 51 and the second special symbol display device 52, they are simply referred to as special symbol display devices.

In this embodiment, the first special symbol display device 51 and the second special symbol display device 52 are each composed of eight LEDs. Lighted LEDs (□) and unlit LEDs (■) represent special symbols, and the state in which the LEDs light up in a predetermined direction (for example, from left to right) represents a variable display of the special symbols. Hereinafter, the variation pattern of the special symbol from when the special symbol starts the variable display until the special symbol is confirmed and displayed is called the special symbol variation pattern.
Further, in this embodiment, the normal symbol display 53 is composed of two LEDs. Lighted LEDs (□) and lighted LEDs (▪) represent normal symbols, and the state in which each LED is alternately lit represents a variable display of normal symbols. Further, when the game ball passes through the gate 12, a lottery for normal symbols is executed to determine whether or not the game ball wins, and the normal symbol display 53 variably displays the normal symbols. Then, the normal symbol display device 53 confirms and displays the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol after the lapse of a predetermined time from the start of the variable display of the normal symbol. When the normal pattern determined and displayed by the normal pattern display 53 is the normal pattern indicating winning, the normal variable winning device 20 operates to open and close the movable member 21 and the second starting port 22 to open and close.

When the game ball wins the first starting port 11, big win determination (also called big win lottery) for determining whether or not it is a big win is executed, and the first special symbol display 51 variably displays the first special symbol. Then, the first special symbol display device 51 confirms and displays the first special symbol corresponding to the result of the big hit determination after a predetermined time has passed since the variable display of the first special symbol is started. Here, when the first special symbol confirmed and displayed is a special symbol indicating a big win, a big win occurs, the big winning device 30 operates to open and close the opening/closing member 31, and the big winning opening 32 opens and closes. do. When the game ball wins the first starting port 11 while the first special symbol display 51 is displaying the first special symbol, the operation of the first special symbol display 51 is triggered by the winning. The memory number indicating the number of pending operations is displayed by the first special figure pending display 51a. Hereinafter, the memory number of operation suspension of the first special symbol display device 51 is referred to as the first special symbol suspension number.

Also, when the game ball wins the second starting hole 22, big hit determination (also called big hit lottery) is executed, and the second special symbol display 52 variably displays the second special symbol. Then, the second special symbol display device 52 confirms and displays the second special symbol corresponding to the result of the big hit determination after a predetermined time has passed since the variable display of the second special symbol is started. Here, when the second special symbol confirmed and displayed is a special symbol indicating a big win, a big win occurs, the big winning device 30 operates to open and close the opening/closing member 31, and the big winning opening 32 opens and closes. do. When the game ball wins the second starting port 22 while the second special symbol display 52 is displaying the second special symbol, the operation of the second special symbol display 52 is triggered by the winning. The memory number indicating the number of pending operations is displayed by the second special figure pending display 52a. Hereinafter, the memory number of the operation suspension of the second special symbol display device 52 is referred to as the second special symbol suspension number. In addition, when describing the matter common to the first special figure reservation number and the second special figure reservation number, it is simply referred to as the special figure reservation number.

Hereinafter, the period from when the special symbol display device starts the variable display of the special symbols to when the special symbols are fixedly displayed is referred to as one variation of the special symbols. In addition, the fact that the special figure reservation number decreases by one each time the special symbol is changed once is called digestion of the special figure reservation number. Also, the period required from the opening of the large winning slot until it closes is called the opening period of the large winning slot, and the period from the opening of the large winning slot to the next opening is called the round. Also, a game from the start of the first round to the end of the final round is called a jackpot game. Also, when it is determined as a big win in the big win determination, the type of the big win is determined by lottery. Depending on the type of jackpot, the opening period of the jackpot, the maximum number of executable rounds, etc. differ.

The pachinko machine 1 has a normal probability (hereinafter referred to as a normal probability) and a probability higher than the normal probability (hereinafter referred to as a high probability) as the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the jackpot determination (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot probability). and are set. Hereinafter, the game state in which the jackpot probability is set to the normal probability is called the normal probability state, and the game state in which the jackpot probability is set to the high probability is called the high probability state. It should be noted that which of the high probability state and the normal probability state is shifted to is basically determined by a lottery at the time of the big win. The pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is a model called a so-called variable machine.

The general prize winning port 13 is arranged on the left side of the fixed prize winning device 10 in the game board 2 . The rail member 17 is arranged along the circumference of the game board 2 . The rail member 17 guides the game ball shot by the shooting device 90 ( FIG. 3 ) to the game area 3 . At the bottom center of the game board 2, an out port 19 for discharging game balls that have not won anywhere is opened. The center decorative body 14 is arranged on the upper part of the game board 2. - 特許庁The center decorative body 14 has translucency, and is provided with a plurality of LEDs that light up and blink in accordance with the contents of the performance.
The pachinko game machine 1 also includes a movable body 15 . The movable body 15 is arranged behind the center decorative body 14 . FIG. 1 shows a state in which the movable body 15 is substantially hidden by the center decorative body 14. FIG. The movable body 15 descends downward at a predetermined timing according to the content of the effect, and is displaced to a state visible to the player.

The effect display device 7 displays moving images and still images such as effect images, message images, and demonstration images. The player plays the game while looking at those images from the front of the pachinko game machine 1.例文帳に追加A performance display device 7 variably displays a performance (decorative) pattern as a performance image in synchronization with the variable display of the special pattern. In this embodiment, the production pattern is a pattern representing Arabic numerals 1-9. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as will be described later, special numbers different from the above 1 to 9 are used as symbols that are stopped and displayed only when a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value is awarded. A pattern exists. For example, it is assumed that the pattern is composed of English letters "ED (abbreviation of Ending)" (see FIG. 32). Incidentally, the performance symbols may include symbols other than the Arabic numerals and alphabetic characters. In this embodiment, a left effect symbol display area, a middle effect symbol display area, and a right effect symbol display area are set in order from the left as areas in which the effect display device 7 variably displays the effect symbols. A left performance symbol 9L is variably displayed in the left performance symbol display area, a middle performance symbol 9C is variably displayed in the medium performance symbol display area, and a right performance symbol 9R is variably displayed in the right performance symbol display area. Hereinafter, when describing items common to the left effect symbol display area, the middle effect symbol display area and the right effect symbol display area, they are simply referred to as the effect symbol display area.

In this embodiment, the main variation pattern (variation mode) of each effect pattern is a variation pattern that moves from the top to the bottom of the screen so that the numbers represented by the effect symbols are in ascending order, that is, a variation pattern that scrolls in the vertical direction. is. As a variation pattern, it is possible to use a horizontal scroll method in which the effect pattern moves from one side of the screen to the other, or a method in which the effect pattern is displayed at the same display position in ascending numerical order. Incidentally, even when the above-mentioned special production patterns are finally stopped and displayed, basically during the fluctuation of the production patterns, the production patterns consisting of Arabic numerals 1 to 9 are changed except for the special production patterns. Let That is, even when a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value is awarded, the same pattern as usual is varied, and the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value in the stage of pattern variation. To prevent a player from knowing that a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the purpose is awarded. However, it is also possible to include a special effect pattern in the changing pattern in the changing stage. In addition, the effect display device 7 displays a background image as the effect image in the background of each effect symbol. For example, the background image is a moving image such as a TV drama or a movie, a moving image obtained by converting the moving image into animation, an animation, or an original moving image of a pachinko machine manufacturer. In this embodiment, the effect display device 7 is a liquid crystal display device. As the effect display device 7, an organic EL display device, a display device using a dot matrix LED, or the like can be used.
A performance display device 7 variably displays each performance design in synchronism with the variable display of the special design, determines and displays each performance design at the same time as the special design is determined and displayed, and displays the big win determination result. Here, the fixed display means a stop display state in which the production pattern is completely stopped without fluctuating up and down or fluctuating again.

Hereinafter, the performance pattern indicating that the result of the big hit determination is a big hit is called a big hit performance pattern, and the performance pattern that shows that the result of the big hit determination is a loss is called a loss performance pattern. In the present embodiment, the jackpot effect pattern is a state in which each effect pattern is aligned with the effect patterns representing the same number, that is, a state of so-called double eyes. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the confirmed displayed left effect symbol 9L, middle effect symbol 9C and right effect symbol 9R are all set to "7". Further, the jackpot performance patterns include a combination of performance patterns that are fixedly displayed at the time of the probability variable jackpot and a combination of performance patterns that are fixedly displayed at the time of the normal jackpot, and the type of the jackpot can also be notified by the fixedly displayed performance patterns. It should be noted that, exceptionally, in the case that a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value is awarded, the left production pattern 9L, the middle production pattern 9C and the right production pattern 9R are displayed regardless of the type of the jackpot. The production pattern of "ED (abbreviation of Ending)" is determined and displayed. In addition, the lost performance pattern is a state in which the performance symbols representing the same number are not aligned, that is, the pattern is not in a grid pattern. For example, the confirmed and displayed left effect symbol 9L is "7", the middle effect symbol 9C is "6", and the right effect symbol 9R is "7".
Hereinafter, the production pattern displayed by the production display device 7 synchronously with the special pattern is referred to as a production design variation pattern, and the image displayed in the background of the production design variation pattern is referred to as a background image. A background image is a still image or a moving image.

The performance symbol variation pattern is variably displayed in synchronism with the variation display of the special symbol variation pattern, and when the suspension of the operation of the special symbol display device occurs, the operation of the performance display device 7 is also suspended. That is, the number of pending operations of the special symbol display and the number of pending operations of the effect display device 7 are the same. In addition, the operation pending number of the effect display device 7 corresponding to the first special figure pending number and the operation pending number of the effect display device 7 corresponding to the second special figure pending number are displayed on the effect display device 7 by the pending image be. Therefore, the player can know the first special figure pending number and the second special figure pending number by counting the number of pending images displayed on the effect display device 7, and the first special figure pending number and the second special figure pending number. It is possible to know the operation pending number of the effect display device 7 resulting from the second special figure pending number. It should be noted that the operation pending number of the effect display device 7 may not be displayed on the effect display device 7 but may be notified to the player using a lamp or the like around the effect display device 7 .

In addition, in the pachinko game machine 1, in addition to the notification of the result of the jackpot determination by the above-mentioned performance symbols, the background image displayed on the performance display device 7, the sound output from the speaker 8, the lighting of the board lamp 2a, the accessories The result of the jackpot determination is notified by using a combination of motions and the like. Specifically, various effects such as advance notice effects and ready-to-win effects are applicable.

Furthermore, in the pachinko game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the state of reaching the reference value of the maximum difference number of balls at the present time is displayed on the effect display device 7 . As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 shifts to a non-playable state in which it is not possible to play a game when the maximum number of difference balls reaches the set reference value, so that the player can operate the effect display device. By visually checking the state of reaching the reference value of the maximum difference number of balls displayed in 7, it is possible to predict in advance that the game will be shifted to the unplayable state. It should be noted that the state of reaching the reference value of the maximum difference number of balls may be always displayed on the performance display device 7 while the player is playing the game, or may be displayed only at a specific timing.

[Storage device]
Next, the storage device 27 provided in the inner frame of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
The storage device 27 is a device that constitutes a part of the ball circulation mechanism in the pachinko gaming machine 1, which is a management gaming machine. Specifically, based on the rotating operation of the handle 4, the game balls stored in the storage device 27 are shot toward the game area 3, and after shooting, the game balls flow down the game area 3 and are provided in the game area 3. It is a device for re-storing game balls that have entered each of the ball entrances and game balls that have been discharged from the out port 19 without entering any of the ball entrances (that is, circulate the game balls).

The storage device 27 includes a storage portion 28 capable of storing a predetermined number of game balls, and a ball-striking mallet that hits the game balls stored in the storage portion 28 one by one with a shooting intensity corresponding to the rotation angle of the handle 4. 29. A game ball hit by the hitting mallet 29 goes to the game area 3 through a shooting path 36 extending upward from the storage part 28 . In addition, as long as the game ball that has passed through the launch path 36 can flow down the game area 3, the communication destination of the launch path 36 does not matter. For example, by connecting the shooting path 36 to the lower part of the rail member 17, the game ball is shot from the lower part to the upper part of the rail member 17, and the game ball that has passed through the rail member 17 reaches the rail member 17. You may make it flow down toward the game area 3 from the upper part of the rail member 17 along. Also, the shooting path 36 may be communicated with the upper end of the rail member 17 shown in FIG.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, a shot ball sensor 36a for detecting game balls passing through the shooting path 36 is arranged in the middle of the shooting path 36. As shown in FIG. Therefore, every time a game ball is shot from the storage device 27, the game ball is detected by the shot ball sensor 36a. A game ball that has passed through the shooting path 36 and is shot into the game area 3 is a game ball that has been consumed in the game. decreases by one as the game ball is shot. Similarly, the "number of difference balls" stored in the RAM (RWM) of the main control board 60 is also decreased by one ball (in the case of the difference plus).

[Main electrical configuration of pachinko machine]
Next, the main electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG.
The pachinko game machine 1 includes a main control board 60 (FIG. 4), a frame control board 150 (FIG. 4), a sub control board 100 (FIG. 5), an image control board 200 (FIG. 5), and a lamp control board 79. (FIG. 5) and an audio control board 78 (FIG. 5).

As shown in FIG. 3, on the main control board 60, a game control one-chip microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as a game control microcomputer) 61 is mounted. The game control microcomputer 61 includes a CPU 62 , a ROM 63 , a RAM 64 and an input/output circuit 65 . The CPU 62 executes detection of prize winning, determination of a big hit, updating of various random numbers, and the like. The ROM 63 contains a computer program executed by the CPU 62, a jackpot determination table Ta1 (FIG. 6), a jackpot determination table Ta2 (FIG. 7), a reach determination table Ta3 (FIG. 8), and a special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 9). Various tables such as The game control microcomputer 61 generates random numbers used in various determinations (lottery), such as jackpot random numbers, jackpot type random numbers, reach random numbers, and variation pattern random numbers.

RAM 64 is used as a work memory or the like when CPU 62 executes a computer program. Further, the RAM 64 is provided with a first special figure reservation storage unit 64a, a second special figure reservation storage unit 64b, and a general figure reservation storage unit 64c. As shown in FIG. 10, the first special figure reservation storage unit 64a includes first to fourth storage areas. That is, the maximum number of first special figure reservations that can be stored is four. In each storage area, a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number and a variation pattern random number obtained by the game control microcomputer 61 due to the game ball winning the first start hole 11 (FIG. 1) are stored. be. When the game ball wins the first starting port 11 (FIG. 1) while the first special symbol display device 51 (FIG. 2) is displaying the first special symbol, the first special resulting from the winning The variable display of the symbol is temporarily suspended (operation suspended), and the jackpot random number or the like acquired due to the winning is stored in the first special figure suspension storage section 64a.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11, the second special figure reservation storage unit 64b has first to fourth storage areas. That is, the maximum number of second special figure reservations that can be stored is four. Each storage area stores a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number acquired by the game control microcomputer 61 due to the game ball winning the second start hole 22 (FIG. 1). be. When the game ball wins the second starting port 22 (FIG. 1) while the second special symbol display 52 (FIG. 2) is displaying the second special symbol, the second special resulting from the winning The fluctuation display of the symbol is temporarily suspended (operation suspended), and the big hit random number or the like acquired due to the winning is stored in the second special figure suspension storage section 64b.

The jackpot random numbers are stored in the order of occurrence of operation suspension, ie, the order of acquisition by the game control microcomputer 61, from the first storage areas of the first special figure suspension storage section 64a and the second special figure suspension storage section 64b. Therefore, when the jackpot random numbers and the like are stored in the first to fourth storage areas, the jackpot random numbers and the like stored in the fourth storage area are the most recent information in terms of time, and are stored in the first storage area. The jackpot random numbers and the like are the oldest information in terms of time. The jackpot random numbers and the like stored in each storage area are shifted one by one to the storage area with the older storage order each time the variable display of the special symbols is completed. For example, the jackpot random numbers stored in the second storage area are shifted to the first storage area. Further, the determination (lottery) based on the jackpot random number or the like stored in the first storage area is executed before the variable display of the special symbol by the special symbol display is finished and the next variable display is started.

The normal pattern holding storage unit 64c (Fig. 4) is a normal winning random number acquired by the game control microcomputer 61 due to the game ball passing through the gate 12 (Fig. 1) (determines whether or not the normal pattern is winning) A random number for (lottery) is stored. When the game ball passes through the gate 12 while the normal symbol display 53 is displaying the normal symbols, the operation of the normal symbol display 53 caused by the passage is temporarily suspended (operation suspension), and the passage is performed. The normal random number acquired due to is stored in the normal pattern reservation storage unit 64c. The variation display of the normal symbols withheld is performed after the current variation display of the normal symbols is completed. In this embodiment, the general pattern suspension storage unit 64c has a storage area for performing a total of four suspensions, and the number of storage of operation suspensions of the normal design display device 53 is four at maximum. Hereinafter, the memory number of operation suspension of the normal symbol display 53 is referred to as the normal symbol suspension number.

The differential ball number storage unit 64d (FIG. 4) is a storage unit that stores the transition (history) of the differential ball number up to the present including the current differential ball number. The number of difference balls is the number of balls calculated by the formula of "number of acquired balls - number of consumed balls" as described above, and the number of difference balls is calculated according to the detection by the fired ball sensor 36a (occurrence of the number of consumed balls). The difference ball number stored in the storage unit 64d is subtracted. Also, when a game ball wins in a specific winning hole, the number of difference balls is added by the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning hole. For example, when a game ball wins in the first starting hole 11, three game balls (prize balls) are given, and as a result, the number of difference balls is increased by "3". Also, when a game ball wins in the general winning hole 13, 5 game balls (prize balls) are given, and as a result, the number of difference balls is increased by "5". Also, when a game ball wins in the second starting port 22, three game balls (prize balls) are given, and as a result, the number of difference balls is increased by "3". Also, when a game ball wins in the big winning hole 32, 15 game balls (prize balls) are given, and as a result, the number of difference balls is increased by "15". Note that the number of balls described here is merely an example, and can be changed as appropriate. Further, when the maximum number of difference balls based on the number of difference balls after updating reaches a predetermined reference value, the game shifts to a non-playable state in which the player cannot play the game. It should be noted that the difference ball number storage unit 64d may be stored in the frame control board 150, which will be described later, instead of the main control board 60. FIG.

A RAM clear switch 66 is mounted on the main control board 60 . The pachinko game machine 1 initializes the RAM 64 and the RAM 120 (FIG. 5) of the sub-control board 100 when it is started with the RAM clear switch 66 pressed. Also, in a state where the maximum number of difference balls reaches the reference value and the game is disabled, the game disabled state can be canceled by starting the game while the RAM clear switch 66 is pressed. Also, the display devices 50 are electrically connected to the main control board 60 . Furthermore, the main control board 60 has a first starting hole sensor 11a, a second starting hole sensor 22a, a gate sensor 12a, a big winning hole sensor 32a, and a general winning hole sensor 13a via a relay board 74. The electric tuning solenoid 20a, the big winning opening solenoid 30a, and the shot ball sensor 36a are electrically connected.

The first starting hole sensor 11a is provided directly under the first starting hole 11 (FIG. 1), and outputs a signal to the main control board 60 indicating that the game ball has entered the first starting hole 11. The second starting hole sensor 22a is provided directly under the second starting hole 22 (FIG. 1) and outputs a signal to the main control board 60 indicating that the game ball has entered the second starting hole 22. The gate sensor 12a is provided in the game ball passage area of the gate 12 (FIG. 1), and outputs a signal to the main control board 60 indicating that the game ball has passed through the gate 12. FIG. The big winning hole sensor 32a is provided directly under the big winning hole 32 (FIG. 1), and outputs to the main control board 60 a signal indicating that the game ball has entered the big winning hole 32. The general winning hole sensor 13a is provided directly under the general winning hole 13 (FIG. 1), and outputs a signal to the main control board 60 indicating that the game ball has entered the general winning hole 13.

The electric tuning solenoid 20a drives the movable member 21 (FIG. 1) of the normal variable winning device 20 to open and close. The big winning opening solenoid 30a drives the opening/closing member 31 (FIG. 1) of the big winning device 30 to open and close. 3, the shot ball sensor 36a detects a game ball shot to the game area 3 through the shot path 36, that is, a game ball consumed in the game.

Furthermore, the firing control circuit 75 (see FIG. 4) is electrically connected to the main control board 60 via the frame control board 150 . The main control board 60 outputs a launch permission signal to the launch control circuit 75 via the frame control board 150 when it is in a playable state in which it is possible to play a game. A launch device 90 is electrically connected to the launch control circuit 75 . The shooting device 90 includes a shooting motor 91 that drives a ball hitting mallet 29 (FIG. 3) that hits and shoots a game ball, a touch switch 92 that outputs a signal indicating that the player has touched the handle 4, and a shooting lever. A shooting volume 93 is provided for adjusting the strength of hitting the game ball by the ball hitting mallet 29 according to the amount of displacement caused by the rotation of the ball 4a. The shooting control circuit 75 strikes the ball-striking mallet 29 with a striking intensity corresponding to the amount of displacement of the shooting volume 93 in a state in which a shooting permission signal and a signal from the touch switch 92 indicating the player's contact with the handle 4 are input. The shooting motor 91 is controlled so as to be driven to periodically (for example, at intervals of 0.6 seconds) shoot game balls. On the other hand, the firing control circuit 75 stops driving the firing motor 91 in a state in which the firing permission signal is not input (a game disabled state to be described later).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4, the frame control board 150 is electrically connected to the above-described firing control circuit 75, as well as the card unit 76, the ball lending button 251, the return button 252, the game ball number display 26, and the like. It is A frame control one-chip microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as a frame control microcomputer) 151 is mounted on the frame control board 150 .

The frame control microcomputer 151 includes a CPU 152 , a ROM 153 , a RAM 154 and an input/output circuit 155 . The CPU 152 of the frame control microcomputer 151 executes information transmission/reception (signal input/output) with the card unit 76, display control of the game ball number display 26, and the like. A computer program executed by the CPU 152 is stored in the ROM 153 . A RAM 154 is used as a work memory or the like when the CPU 152 executes a computer program. The RAM 154 is also provided with a number-of-balls storage unit 154a for storing the number of balls to be held.

In the pachinko game machine 1 of this embodiment, the frame control board 150 and the sub-control board 100 are connected. It is configured to be able to output information and the like. On the other hand, time information from a later-described RTC (real time clock) 124 mounted on the sub-control board 100 can be input to the frame control board 150 . However, the RTC 124 may be provided in the frame control board 150 . Input/output of information between the frame control board 150 and the sub-control board 100 may be performed via the main control board 60 .

On the other hand, the card unit 76 identifies the bill inserted into the slot or reads the storage medium inserted into the slot to specify the amount (balance) and sends the amount information to the pachinko game machine 1. output. This money amount information is input to the frame control microcomputer 151 of the frame control board 150 . The frame control microcomputer 151 specifies the amount (balance) from the amount information from the card unit 76, and within the range of the number of game balls corresponding to the amount, the number of balls to be rented according to the operation of the ball lending button 251 by the player. Controls granting (renting of game balls). In the case of this lending ball, the frame control microcomputer 151 lends the game balls to the player by adding the number of lending balls to the number of possessing balls stored in the possessing ball storage unit 154a. do. In addition, the frame control microcomputer 151 outputs game end information to the card unit 76 in response to the operation of the return button 252 by the player, and stores the stored value (number of balls) in the number-of-balls storage unit 154a. Reset. Further, the frame control microcomputer 151 resets the stored value of the number of held balls, and outputs the stored number of held balls (data) to the card unit 76 when there is a held ball. The card unit 76 stores the number of balls output from the frame control board 150 in the inserted storage medium, and then ejects the storage medium from the card unit 76 . On the other hand, when the player inserts a storage medium in which the number of balls in possession is stored into the card unit 76, the card unit 76 outputs the number of balls in the possession stored in the storage medium to the frame control board 150, and stores the number of balls in the possession. The number of balls held is stored in the section 154a. That is, by inserting a storage medium storing the number of balls in a player's possession into the card unit of another pachinko game machine, the player can play a game by moving the balls in his possession between a plurality of gaming machines (however, (Limited to stores where table movement is permitted).

The pachinko game machine 1 also includes a power board 70 . The power board 70 supplies power to the main control board 60 and the frame control board 150 . Also, the power board 70 supplies power through the frame control board 150 to each device electrically connected to the frame control board 150 . The power supply board 70 also supplies power from the main control board 60 through the relay board 74 to each sensor and solenoid electrically connected to the relay board 74 . In addition, the power supply board 70 supplies power through the main control board 60 to the displays 50 electrically connected to the main control board 60 .
A backup power supply circuit 71 is provided on the power supply board 70 . The backup power supply circuit 71 supplies power necessary for holding information to the RAM 64 of the main control board 60 and the like when power is not supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 1 from the outside. A power switch 72 is electrically connected to the power board 70 for turning on and off a main power supply that supplies power to the power board 70 .

The main control board 60 transmits various commands to the sub control board 100 (FIG. 5). The main control board 60 can send commands to the sub control board 100 , but the sub control board 100 cannot send commands to the main control board 60 . In other words, the communication between the main control board 60 and the sub-control board 100 is unidirectional communication in which only transmission from the main control board 60 to the sub-control board 100 is possible.

As shown in FIG. 5, the sub-control board 100 is mounted with a one-chip microcomputer for controlling effects (hereinafter referred to as a microcomputer for controlling effects) 101 . The effect control microcomputer 101 includes a CPU 102 , a ROM 110 , a RAM 120 and an input/output circuit 103 . The CPU 102 controls an effect along with the game. The ROM 110 stores a computer program for the CPU 102 to control effects, as well as various tables such as the effect selection table Ta5 (FIG. 12). RAM 120 is used as a work memory when CPU 102 executes a computer program. In addition, the RAM 120 is provided with a first special figure reservation effect storage unit 121, a second special figure reservation effect storage unit 122, and the variation effect storage unit 123. In addition, the microcomputer 101 for production|presentation control is an example of the control means of this invention.

As shown in FIG. 13, the first special figure pending effect storage unit 121 has four storage areas consisting of first to fourth storage areas, each storage area is the first output from the main control board 60 It memorizes the start winning command and the like. The first start winning command is a command including a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a variation pattern random number and a reach random number obtained by the game control microcomputer 61 when the game ball has entered the first start port 11.
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 14, the second special figure pending effect storage unit 122 has four storage areas consisting of first to fourth storage areas, and each storage area is output from the main control board 60. It stores the second start winning command and the like. The second start winning command is a command including a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a variation pattern random number and a reach random number acquired by the game control microcomputer 61 when the game ball has entered the second start port 22.
The variable effect storage unit 123 stores the first start winning command or the second start winning command used for the change of the variable effect pattern.
The input/output circuit 103 transmits data to or receives data from each board connected to the sub-control board 100 .

An image control board 200 is electrically connected to the sub-control board 100 . The image control board 200 includes an image control CPU 202, a VDP 201 (Video Display Processor), a control ROM 203, a control RAM 204, a CGROM (Character Generator Read Only Memory) 205, and a VRAM (Video Random Access Memory) 206. and are implemented. The image control CPU 202 controls the effect display device 7 to display effect images such as a variable effect pattern, a button effect image, a lever effect image and a notice image. The control ROM 203 stores a computer program for the image control CPU 202 to control the effect display device 7 . The control RAM 204 is used as a work memory when the image control CPU 202 executes computer programs. The CGROM 205 stores image data for the effect display device 7 to display effect images. The VDP 201 reads image data from the CGROM 205 according to the display list created by the image control CPU 202 and develops the read image data in the development area in the VRAM 206 . The VDP 201 synthesizes the image data developed in the VRAM 206 and stores the synthesized image data in the frame buffer in the VRAM 206 . The VDP 201 converts the image data stored in the frame buffer in the VRAM 206 into RGB signals and outputs them to the effect display device 7 . Thereby, the effect display device 7 displays the effect image. The CGROM 205 is an example of the effect storage means of the present invention.

The sub-control board 100 is electrically connected to the left side lamp 23a, the right side lamp 23b, and the board lamp 2a via the lamp control board 79. As shown in FIG. The effect control microcomputer 101 uses data stored in the ROM 110 to create light emission pattern data that determines the light emission mode of each lamp, and transmits the light emission pattern data to the lamp control board 79 . Then, the lamp control board 79 performs light emission control of each lamp according to the received light emission pattern data. The left side lamp 23a, the right side lamp 23b, the board lamp 2a, the effect button lamp, and the lamp control board 79 are examples of the effect means of the present invention.
The movable body 15 is electrically connected to the lamp control board 79 via the relay board 77 . A device (not shown) for operating the movable body 15 is connected to the movable body 15, and a movable body motor (not shown) for driving the device is connected to the device. . The production control microcomputer 101 creates operation pattern data for determining the operation pattern of the movable body 15 using data stored in the ROM 110 and transmits the operation pattern data to the lamp control board 79 . The lamp control board 79 that has received the operation pattern data drives the movable body motor via the relay board 77 according to the operation pattern, and controls the movement of the movable body 15 .

Each speaker 8 is electrically connected to the sub-control board 100 via the audio control board 78 . The audio control board 78 is equipped with an audio control CPU (not shown), an audio data ROM (not shown), an audio synthesizing circuit (not shown), and an amplifier (not shown). . The audio data ROM stores audio data for each speaker 8 to output sounds such as music and sound effects. The voice control CPU reads voice data from the voice data ROM based on the command received from the sub-control board 100, and outputs the read voice data to the voice synthesizing circuit. The speech synthesizing circuit synthesizes the input speech data, converts the synthesized synthesized speech data into an analog speech signal, and outputs the analog speech signal to the amplifier. The amplifier amplifies the input audio signal and outputs it to each speaker 8 . Each speaker 8 outputs a sound indicated by the input audio signal.

Also, the sub-control board 100 is electrically connected to the production button detection switch 9a, the production lever push detection switch 6g, the production lever rotation detection switch 6h, the production button vibration motor 9b, and the production lever vibration motor 6d. It is The production button detection switch 9a outputs a signal indicating that the production button 9 has been pressed to the sub-control board 100, and the production control microcomputer 101 performs button production based on the signal input from the production button detection switch 9a. to run. The production lever push-in detection switch 6g outputs a signal indicating that the production lever 6 has been pushed in to the sub-control board 100, and the production control microcomputer 101, based on the signal input from the production lever push-in detection switch 6g, A lever performance performed when a performance lever 6 is pushed is executed. The effect lever rotation detection switch 6h outputs a signal indicating that the effect lever 6 has been rotated to the sub-control board 100, and the effect control microcomputer 101, based on the signal input from the effect lever rotation detection switch 6h, A lever performance performed when a performance lever 6 is rotated is executed.

The production button vibration motor 9b is a member for vibrating the production button 9 and is housed inside the production button 9. - 特許庁The effect lever vibration motor 6d is a member that vibrates the effect lever 6, and is provided in a portion that contacts the effect lever 6 or inside the effect lever 6. The ROM 110 stores motion pattern data for determining the motion pattern of the performance button vibration motor 9b and motion pattern data for determining the motion pattern of the performance lever vibration motor 6d. A performance control microcomputer 101 reads operation pattern data from a ROM 110 when the performance timing for vibrating the performance button 9 comes, and drives and controls a performance button vibration motor 9b based on the read operation pattern data. In addition, the performance control microcomputer 101 reads the operation pattern data from the ROM 110 when the performance timing for vibrating the performance lever 6 comes, and drives and controls the performance lever vibration motor 6d based on the read operation pattern data.

A real-time clock (RTC) 124 is mounted on the sub-control board 100 . The RTC 124 measures the current date and time (date and time). For example, when power is supplied from an external power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1, the RTC 124 operates by the power, and when power is not supplied from the external power supply, the backup power supply circuit 71 provided on the power supply board 70 is operated. operated by power supplied from Therefore, the RTC 124 can measure the current date and time even when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not powered on. A backup power supply circuit for supplying power to the RTC 124 may be provided in the sub-control board 100 .

[Explanation of game state]
Next, the game state of the pachinko game machine 1 will be described. A special symbol display device and a normal symbol display device 53 of the pachinko game machine 1 are provided with a probability variation function and a variation time shortening function, respectively. The state in which the probability variation function of the special symbol display is operating is called "high probability state", and the state in which it is not operating is called "normal probability state (non-high probability state)". In the high probability state, the jackpot probability is higher than in the normal probability state.
In addition, the state in which the variable time reduction function of the special symbol display is operating is called "time-saving state", and the state in which it is not operating is called "non-time-saving state". In the time saving state, the fluctuation time of the special symbol (the time required from the start of the fluctuation display to the final display) is shorter than the non-time saving state.

The probability variation function and the variation time shortening function of the special symbol display may operate simultaneously, or only one of them may operate. The probability variation function and the variation time shortening function of the normal symbol display 53 operate in synchronization with the variation time shortening function of the special symbol display. That is, the probability variation function and the variation time reduction function of the normal symbol display 53 operate in the time saving state and do not operate in the non time saving state. Therefore, in the time-saving state, the probability of being determined as winning in the lottery of normal symbols is higher than in the non-time-saving state. That is, when the probability variation function of the normal symbol display device 53 is activated, the normal symbol that the normal symbol display device 53 confirms and displays is a normal winning symbol (determined as winning in the normal symbol lottery) The probability of becoming a normal symbol indicating that it has been done increases.

In addition, in the time saving state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shorter than in the non-working time saving state. For example, the variation time of normal symbols is 10 seconds in the non-time saving state, but is 1 second in the time saving state. Furthermore, in the time-saving state, the opening time of the normal variable winning device 20 is longer than in the non-time-saving state. That is, the opening time extension function of the normal variable winning device 20 is operating. In addition, in the time-saving state, the number of times the normal variable winning device 20 is opened in the auxiliary game is greater than in the non-time-saving state. In other words, the function of increasing the number of opening times of the normal variable winning device 20 is activated. The auxiliary game is a game of opening and closing the second starting port 22 in an opening pattern according to the current game state when the confirmed and displayed normal symbol is a predetermined specific normal symbol.

When the probability variation function and variation time shortening function of the normal symbol display device 53 and the opening time extension function and opening frequency increasing function of the normal variable winning device 20 are operating, when these functions are not operating. , the variable prize winning device 20 is opened frequently, and game balls enter the second starting port 22 frequently. As a result, since the ratio of the number of prize balls to the number of shot balls increases, the player can aim for a big win without greatly reducing the number of game balls in hand. In this way, under the condition that the probability variation function and the variation time shortening function of the normal symbol display 53 and the opening time extension function and the opening frequency increasing function of the normal variable winning device 20 are operating, the normal variable winning The control that supports the winning of the second starting port 22 by the device 20 is called electric support control.
In the pachinko game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the game state after the jackpot game after winning the probability variable jackpot described later is a high-probability state and a time-saving state while electric support control is performed. This game state is temporarily terminated when a big win is won and the big win game is executed, and the high probability state is started again when the won big win is again a variable probability big win.

In addition, when the normal jackpot is won, the game state after the jackpot game ends is the normal probability state and the time saving state as well as the electric support control is performed. This game state ends when the variable display of the special symbols is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 50 times), or when a big win is won and the big win game is executed.
In addition, when the pachinko game machine 1 is played for the first time, the game state after power-on is a normal probability state and a non-time saving state while not performing electric support control.

[Jackpot determination table]
The big hit determination table Ta1 shown in FIG. 6 is a table that the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 4) refers to when executing the big hit determination as to whether or not the game is a big win. The jackpot determination table Ta1 is configured by associating a game state with a jackpot random number. The jackpot random number is a predetermined random number selected from the jackpot random numbers generated by the jackpot random number counter. A computer program for operating the jackpot random number counter is stored in the ROM 63, and the CPU 62 executes the computer program to operate the jackpot random number counter and generate a jackpot random number. The jackpot random number counter may use a random number generation circuit such as a counter IC. In this embodiment, the jackpot random number counter counts 65536 jackpot random numbers from 0 to 65535 in total. That is, a total of 65536 jackpot random numbers from 0 to 65535 are generated. In this embodiment, a total of 205 jackpot random numbers from 0 to 204 are set in the jackpot determination table Ta1 as jackpot random numbers when the game state is the normal probability state. When the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the jackpot random number acquired from the jackpot random number counter is any one of 0 to 204 when the game state is the normal probability state, the game control microcomputer 61 determines that it is a jackpot in the jackpot determination, and If it is other than 0 to 204, it is determined that it is not a big hit, that is, it is lost.

In addition, in this embodiment, a total of 1310 jackpot random numbers from 0 to 1309 are set in the jackpot determination table Ta1 as jackpot random numbers when the gaming state is in a high probability state. That is, more jackpot random numbers are set than in the normal probability state, and the probability of being determined as a jackpot in the jackpot determination is higher than in the normal probability state. When the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the jackpot random number acquired from the jackpot random number counter is any one of 0 to 1309 when the game state is in the high probability state, the game control microcomputer 61 determines that it is a jackpot in the jackpot determination, If it is other than 0 to 1309, it is determined that it is not a big hit, that is, it is lost. Incidentally, the jackpot determination table Ta1 is common to the lottery of the special figure 1 and the lottery of the special figure 2.

[Jackpot type determination table]
The jackpot type determination table Ta2 shown in FIG. 7 is a table referred to when the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 4) executes the jackpot type determination when it is determined as a jackpot. The jackpot type determination table Ta2 is configured by associating the type of lottery (either the lottery of the special figure 1 or the lottery of the special figure 2) and the jackpot type random number. The jackpot type random number is a predetermined random number selected from the jackpot type random numbers generated by the jackpot type random number counter. A computer program for operating the jackpot type random number counter is stored in the ROM 63, and when the CPU 62 executes the computer program, the jackpot type random number counter operates and a jackpot type random number is generated. The jackpot type random number counter may use a random number generation circuit such as a counter IC. In this embodiment, the jackpot type random number counter counts a total of 10 jackpot type random numbers from 0 to 9. That is, a total of 10 jackpot type random numbers from 0 to 9 are generated. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, there are "10R normal jackpot" and "10R variable jackpot" as types of jackpots. Then, in the pachinko game machine 1, as shown in FIG. 7, in the lottery for the first special symbol (lottery of special figure 1), if the jackpot type random number is a value within the range of 0 to 3, it will be "10R normal jackpot". It is determined that you have won, and if the value is within the range of 4 to 9, it is determined that you have won the "10R probability variable jackpot". On the other hand, the same table is used in the lottery of the second special symbol (lottery of special figure 2). However, the sorting of the types of big hits may be changed between the lottery for the first special symbol and the lottery for the second special symbol. The number of game balls that the player can obtain during the jackpot game is determined for each type of jackpot.

In addition, the number of times of time saving of a time saving after the jackpot game is set for each type of jackpot. The number of time-saving a time-saving shows the upper limit for maintaining the time-saving game state in which the electric support control that shifts after the jackpot game is completed is performed and the time-saving state is maintained. For example, for "10R normal jackpot", the number of times of time saving is set to 50 times, and the time saving game state is maintained with the upper limit of 50 times of variable display of special symbols. In addition, when a jackpot is won before reaching the upper limit number of times of time saving of a time saving, a time saving is temporarily terminated by executing the jackpot game. In addition, for the "10R probability variable jackpot", the number of time-saving a is set until the next jackpot, and the electric support control and time-saving game state continue until the next jackpot is won. In addition, since the time-saving a state is a high-probability state, the player hardly reduces the number of balls in his possession and wins the next big win in a short period of time after that, so that the next big win is substantially guaranteed. .

[Reach determination table]
Reach determination table Ta3 shown in FIG. 8, when the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 4) determines whether or not to select a special figure variation pattern in which reach appears when the result of the big hit determination is a loss is a table that refers to Here, the reach means a state in which only one special symbol remains among a plurality of special symbols that is variably displayed, and it depends on which special symbol the variably displayed special symbol is fixedly displayed. It is a state in which special symbols are combined to indicate a big hit. In addition, the ready-to-win state is a state in which one of the performance symbols variably displayed in each of the plurality of display areas of the performance display device 7 remains, and is variably displayed. It is a state in which the combination of the big hit production pattern depends on which production pattern the existing production pattern is fixedly displayed.
For example, when one of the combinations of the jackpot performance symbols is "777", "7" is confirmed and displayed as the left performance symbol 9L in the left performance symbol display area, and as the right performance symbol 9R in the right performance symbol display area. It is a state in which "7" is fixedly displayed and the middle effect symbol 9C is variably displayed in the middle effect symbol display area. The concept of reach includes a state in which the medium effect pattern 9C is scrolled, a state in which it is swaying, a state in which expansion and contraction are repeated, and the like.

The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not to select a special figure variation pattern in which reach appears when the result of the jackpot determination is a loss. The reach determination table Ta3 is configured by associating a game state with a reach random number. The reach random number is a predetermined random number selected from the reach random numbers generated by the reach random number counter. In this embodiment, the reach random number counter counts 256 reach random numbers from 0 to 255 in total. That is, a total of 256 reach random numbers from 0 to 256 are generated. A computer program for operating the reach random number counter is stored in the ROM 63, and when the CPU 62 executes the computer program, the reach random number counter operates to generate reach random numbers. In this embodiment, a total of 28 reach random numbers from 0 to 27 are set as the reach random numbers when the gaming state is a non-time saving state. The game control microcomputer 61 determines that there is a reach in the reach determination when the reach random number obtained from the reach random number counter when the game state is a non-time saving state is either 0 to 27, and determines that there is a reach in the reach determination. If it is other than 0 to 27, it is determined that there is no reach.

In addition, in this embodiment, a total of 12 reach random numbers from 0 to 11 are set as the reach random numbers when the game state is the time saving state. The game control microcomputer 61 determines that there is a reach in the reach determination when the reach random number acquired from the reach random number counter when the game state is a time saving state is any one of 0 to 11, and out of 0 to 255. If it is other than 0 to 11, it is determined that there is no reach.
Reach random numbers that are determined to have reach are set less in the time saving state than in the non-working time saving state. Thereby, the probability that it is determined that there is reach in the time saving state is lower than in the non time saving state. That is, since the probability of being determined to be without reach increases, the probability of selecting a special figure variation pattern without reach increases accordingly when selecting a special figure variation pattern. For this reason, in the time saving state, the pace of digestion of the number of reserved special figures becomes faster.

Incidentally, FIG. 8 basically shows a ready-to-win determination table corresponding to the first special symbol. The ready-to-reach determination table corresponding to the second special symbol may have the same content as the first special symbol, or may be a different table.

[Special figure variation pattern selection table]
The special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 shown in FIG. 9 is a table referred to when the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 4) determines the special figure variation pattern by lottery. The special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 corresponds to the game state, the judgment (jackpot judgment and reach judgment) result, the special figure pending number, the fluctuation pattern random number, the special figure fluctuation pattern, the fluctuation time, and the stop time It is configured with In addition, you may match about a jackpot classification. The variation effect pattern in the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 is a variation effect pattern that is variably displayed by the effect display device 7 corresponding to the selected special figure variation pattern, and is described for reference. The variation pattern random number is a predetermined random number selected from the variation pattern random numbers generated by the variation pattern random number counter. In this embodiment, the variation pattern random number counter counts a total of 100 variation pattern random numbers from 0 to 99. FIG. That is, a total of 100 variation pattern random numbers from 0 to 99 are generated. A computer program for operating the variation pattern random number counter is stored in the ROM 63, and when the CPU 62 executes the computer program, the variation pattern random number counter operates to generate variation pattern random numbers.

If the game state is determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination when the game state is a non-time saving state, and the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is either 0 to 94, regardless of the number of special figures pending, special figures Variation pattern P1 is selected. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P1 is selected is 95%. Also, if the variation pattern random number is any one of 95 to 99, the special figure variation pattern P2 is selected regardless of the number of balls on hold. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P2 is selected is 5%. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P1 is 400,000 ms, and the stop time of the special symbol, that is, the time during which the special symbol is fixedly displayed is 500 ms. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P2 is 150,000 ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500 ms. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P1 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays SP (super) reach developed from the ready-to-win state as the variable effect pattern. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P2 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays normal reach as the variation effect pattern.

In addition, when the gaming state is determined to be lost when the non-time saving state, and when it is determined that there is reach in the reach determination, that is, in the case of loss with reach, the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is any one of 0 to 9, regardless of the special figure reservation number, the special figure variation pattern P3 is selected. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P3 is selected is 10%. Also, if the variation pattern random number is any one of 10 to 99, the special figure variation pattern P4 is selected regardless of the number of balls on hold. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P4 is selected is 90%. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P3 is 400,000 ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500 ms. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P4 is 150,000 ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500 ms. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P3 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays SP reach developed from the reach state as the variation effect pattern. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P4 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays normal reach as the variation effect pattern.

In addition, when the gaming state is determined to be lost when the non-time-saving state, and when it is determined that there is no reach in the reach determination, that is, in the case of reach without loss, the number of special figures pending is 0 to 2 There, if the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is any of 0 to 99, the special figure variation pattern P5 is selected. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P5 is selected is 100%. In addition, when the number of special figures pending is 3 to 4 and the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is any one of 0 to 99, the special figure variation pattern P6 is selected. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P6 is selected is 100%. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P5 is 10,000 ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500 ms. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P6 is 5,000 ms, and the special symbol stop time is 500 ms. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P5 or the special figure variation pattern P6 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays normal variation as the variation effect pattern.

When the gaming state is determined to be a big hit when the time saving state, and the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is either 0 to 99, regardless of the special figure pending number, the special figure variation pattern P11 selected. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P11 is selected is 100%. In addition, when the gaming state is determined to be lost when the time saving state, and when it is determined that there is reach in the reach determination, that is, in the case of loss with reach, the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is If it is one of 0 to 99, regardless of the special figure reservation number, the special figure variation pattern P12 is selected. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P12 is selected is 100%. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P11 and the special figure variation pattern P12 is 400,000ms respectively, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500ms each. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P11 or the special figure variation pattern P12 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays the SP reach developed from the ready-to-win state as the variation effect pattern.

Also, when the game state is determined to be lost when the time saving state, and when it is determined that there is no reach in the reach determination, that is, in the case of no reach loss, the number of special figure reservations is 0 to 1 , If the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is any of 0 to 99, the special figure variation pattern P13 is selected. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P13 is selected is 100%. In addition, the number of special figures pending is 2 to 4, and when the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is either 0 to 99, the special figure variation pattern P14 is selected. That is, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P14 is selected is 100%. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P13 is 10,000 ms, and the special symbol stop time is 500 ms. The variation time of the special figure variation pattern P14 is 2,500 ms, and the special symbol stop time is 500 ms. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P13 or the special figure variation pattern P14 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays normal variation as the variation effect pattern.

As described above, the probability that development is selected to SP reach when in a non-time saving state is 95% if it is determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination, but it is determined to be a loss in the jackpot determination, and there is a reach is 10%. In addition, the probability that the normal reach stop is selected in the non-time saving state is 5% if it is determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination, but if it is determined to be a loss in the big hit determination and it is determined that there is a reach is 90%.
In other words, when the effect display device 7 develops to SP reach as a variable effect pattern, there is a high possibility that a big hit will occur. In other words, SP reach is a variation performance pattern in which the degree of expectation for the occurrence of a big win is higher than in the case of stopping at normal reach.

Incidentally, FIG. 9 basically shows a special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 corresponding to the first special symbol. The special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 corresponding to the second special symbol may have the same content as the first special symbol, or may be a different table.

[Direction selection table]
The effect selection table Ta5 shown in FIG. 12 is a table that the effect control microcomputer 101 (FIG. 5) refers to when selecting the effect contents to be executed by the effect display device 7, the speaker 8, and the like. The effect selection table Ta5 includes a special figure variation pattern, a jackpot determination result, a jackpot type in the case of a jackpot, and a judgment result as to whether or not the jackpot satisfies the conditions for the maximum difference number of balls to reach a reference value. , effect selection random numbers and effect contents are associated with each other. The special figure variation pattern and the jackpot determination result correspond to the special figure variation pattern and the determination result set in the above-described special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 9), and the execution time is the special figure It is the same as the variation time of the special figure variation pattern set in the variation pattern selection table Ta4. The effect selection random number is a predetermined random number selected from the effect selection random numbers generated by the effect selection random number counter. In this embodiment, the effect selection random number counter counts 100 effect selection random numbers from 0 to 99 in total. That is, a total of 100 effect selection random numbers from 0 to 99 are generated. In addition, the jackpot that satisfies the condition that the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value means that the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value during the jackpot game (that is, after the current jackpot game is over, the game is shifted to a non-playable state. ) is a big hit.

In addition, in FIG. 12, the effect selection table Ta5 used when the special figure variation pattern P1 is selected as the special figure variation pattern will be described as an example. Although the explanation is omitted, the effect selection table Ta5 corresponding to the variation patterns other than the variation pattern P1 is also provided.

For example, when the special figure variation pattern P1 is selected as the special figure variation pattern, the jackpot type is the probability variable jackpot and the maximum difference number of balls does not reach the reference value, and the effect selection random number counter is not the jackpot. If the production selection random number obtained from is one of 0 to 33, various advance notices are made from normal fluctuation as production content, and the design that suggests a probability variation jackpot as a production pattern (hereinafter referred to as a probability variation pattern) becomes a reach. After that, it further develops into SP reach, finally performs an effect of informing a big hit, and selects the content of stopping and displaying the probability variable symbol. Incidentally, in the present embodiment, the production pattern is a pattern representing the Arabic numerals 1 to 9, and the probability variation pattern is the odd numbered Arabic numeral.
In addition, if the effect selection random number obtained from the effect selection random number counter is any of 34 to 99, various notices are given from normal fluctuation as the effect content, and a pattern that suggests a normal jackpot as a effect pattern (hereinafter referred to as normal pattern After becoming a reach in ), it further develops into SP reach and finally performs a production to notify the jackpot, and then performs a promotion effect of the pattern and after promoting to the probability variation pattern, the probability variation pattern is stopped and displayed. content is selected. Incidentally, in this embodiment, the production patterns are patterns representing Arabic numerals from 1 to 9, and the normal patterns are the even numbers of Arabic numerals.
On the other hand, when the special figure variation pattern P1 is selected as the special figure variation pattern, the jackpot type is a probability variable jackpot and the condition for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value is a jackpot, and the effect selection random number When the production selection random number obtained from the counter is any one of 0 to 99, various notices are given from normal fluctuation as production contents, and after becoming reach with normal design as production pattern, it further develops into SP reach. Finally, a performance for notifying a big hit is performed, and after that, the pattern promotion performance is performed, and after promotion to a special performance pattern, the contents of stopping and displaying the special performance pattern are selected. In addition, in this embodiment, special production patterns different from the Arabic numerals 1 to 9 above are displayed as symbols that are stopped and displayed only when a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value is awarded. exist. For example, it is assumed that the pattern is composed of English letters of "ED (abbreviation of Ending)". The special effect pattern is stopped and displayed regardless of whether the jackpot is a variable jackpot or a normal jackpot when a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value is awarded. . In other words, it should not be intentionally suggested whether it is a variable probability jackpot or a normal jackpot.

In addition, when the special figure variation pattern P1 is selected as the special figure variation pattern, the jackpot type is the normal jackpot and the maximum difference number of balls does not reach the reference value. When the production selection random number obtained from the counter is any of 0 to 33, various notices are given from normal fluctuation as production contents, and after becoming reach with normal design as production pattern, it further develops into SP reach. Finally, an effect for notifying a big hit is performed, and the contents of stopping and displaying the normal symbols are selected.
In addition, when the performance selection random number obtained from the performance selection random number counter is any one of 34 to 99, various notices are given from the normal fluctuation as the performance contents, and after reaching reach with the normal design as the performance pattern, SP is further added. Develops into a reach and finally performs a performance to notify a big hit, and then performs a promotion performance of the pattern, but selects the content of stopping and displaying the normal pattern without promoting to the probability variation pattern.
On the other hand, when the special figure variation pattern P1 is selected as the special figure variation pattern, the jackpot type is a probability variable jackpot and the condition for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value is a jackpot, and the effect selection random number When the production selection random number obtained from the counter is any one of 0 to 99, various notices are given from normal fluctuation as production contents, and after becoming reach with normal design as production pattern, it further develops into SP reach. Finally, a performance for notifying a big hit is performed, and after that, the pattern promotion performance is performed, and after promotion to a special performance pattern, the contents of stopping and displaying the special performance pattern are selected.

[Main processing of game control microcomputer 61]
Next, the main processing executed by the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 4) will be described with reference to the drawings.
(Main side main control processing)
First, the contents of the main side main control process executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be described with reference to FIG.
When the pachinko game machine 1 is powered on, the game control microcomputer 61 reads out and executes a computer program for main side main control processing shown in FIG. 15 from the ROM 63 (FIG. 4). The game control microcomputer 61 performs initial setting first. However, when the power is turned on while the RAM clear switch 66 is pressed (S1: YES), the RAM (RWM) 64 is also initialized (deleted memory contents). Furthermore, the command is also transmitted to the sub-control board 100, and the RAM (RWM) 120 of the sub-control board 100 is also initialized. On the other hand, when the game machine is powered on while the RAM clear switch 66 is not pressed (S1: NO), the RAM 64 and RAM 120 are not initialized (that is, the pending information stored in the RAM 64, The game state such as time reduction and probability variation, and the count of the number of variations are maintained in the state before the power is turned off). However, the transition (history) of the number of difference balls up to the present stored in the number of difference number storage unit 64d of the RAM 64 is reset (initialized) when the power is turned on regardless of whether the RAM clear switch 66 is operated or not. )do. By resetting the change in the number of difference balls, the maximum number of difference balls, which is the difference between the lowest value and the highest value, is also reset. However, it is also possible to reset the change in the number of difference balls only when a special operation is performed in addition to turning on the power. It should be noted that it is possible to store the difference ball number storage unit 64d in the RAM 154 of the frame control board 150 instead of the main control board 60. A reset command for the number of difference balls is sent to request resetting of the transition of the number of difference balls.

Here, the change in the number of difference balls is the total number of game balls acquired in the game from the predetermined count start timing (specifically, the time of the previous reset) to the present time as described above, and the number of acquired balls and the number of balls consumed in the game. It shows the transition of the difference from the number of consumed balls, which is the total number of game balls, and is updated in real time using the detection results of various sensors in the later-described difference ball-related processing (S20). Further, the change in the number of difference balls is not counted for each player, but the transition of the number of difference balls based on the game results of a plurality of players who have played on the same gaming machine from the counting start timing is recorded and counted.

In this initialization (S2, S3), in addition to initialization of the RAM 64 and RAM 120, for example, stack setting, constant setting, interrupt time setting, CPU 62 setting, SIO (System Input/Output), PIO (Parallel) Input/Output), CTC (Counter/Timer Circuit: circuit for managing interrupt time), etc.

Furthermore, when the power is turned on while the RAM clear switch 66 is pressed (S1: YES), and when the game is disabled in the later-described ball-related processing (FIG. 23), , to return from the unplayable state to the playable state (S4). Specifically, the detection of all of the plurality of winning detection sensors is enabled, driving means such as the big winning opening solenoid 30a and the electric chewing solenoid 20a can be driven, and the shooting operation of the game ball by the shooting device 90 (ball hitting mallet 29). enable Also, all the LEDs of the indicators 50 (special symbol indicators 51, 52, normal symbol indicator 53, etc.) return to the lighting state. Then, it returns to the state where the variable display of the special figure and the variable display of the normal figure being executed are possible. In addition, the game control microcomputer 61 also transmits to the sub-control board 100 a game-ready notification command indicating that the game-ready state has been restored.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes interruption prohibition (S5), and executes a normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S6). In this normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process, the initial value of each random number counter that generates the aforementioned jackpot random number, jackpot type random number, reach random number and variation pattern random number is updated by adding "1" to each. When the count value of each random number counter reaches the upper limit, it returns to "0" and "1" is added again. The initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0", or may be changed randomly. Further, the count value of each random number counter may be updated by adding a numerical value of "2" or more. Also, each random number may be a so-called hardware random number generated using a known random number generating circuit such as a counter IC. If this hardware random number is used, the random number updating process (S6) by software is not required.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes interruption permission (S7). While the interrupt is enabled, the main side timer interrupt processing (S8) can be executed. The main-side timer interrupt processing (S8) is executed, for example, based on an interrupt pulse input to the CPU 62 at a 4 msec cycle. That is, it is executed at a 4 msec cycle. Then, after the main side timer interrupt processing (S8) is completed, until the next main side timer interrupt processing (S8) is started, the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update processing (S6) Initial value update processing of various counters is executed. If an interrupt pulse is input to the CPU 62 in the interrupt disabled state, the main timer interrupt processing (S8) is not started immediately, but is started after the interrupt permission (S7) is executed. be.

(Main-side timer interrupt processing)
Next, the contents of the main timer interrupt process (S8 in FIG. 15) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be described with reference to FIG.
The game control microcomputer 61 executes output processing (S10). In this output process, the commands set in the output buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) of the main control board 60 in each process described below are sent to the sub control board 100 (FIG. 5) and the frame control board 150 (FIG. 4). 4) and so on. Especially in this embodiment, when the normal pattern starts to change, the normal pattern fluctuation start command, which indicates that the pattern has started to fluctuate, and the special pattern indicates that the special pattern has started to fluctuate. It also outputs the special figure fluctuation start command. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes input processing (S11). In this input process, various sensors (first starting hole sensor 11a, second starting hole sensor 22a, big winning hole sensor 32a, gate sensor 12a, etc. (FIG. 4)) mainly attached to the pachinko game machine 1 detect read each detected signal. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes timer update processing (S12). In this timer update process, a subtraction counter operating as a timer is updated (decremented). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes prize ball control processing (S13). In this prize ball control process, a payout command for paying out prize balls corresponding to the type of winning hole is set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 based on the detection signals of the various sensors read in the input process (S11). A payout command is a command output to the frame control board 150 . However, since the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is a so-called "management gaming machine", the number of game balls for prize balls is added to the number of balls held on the data without physically putting out the game balls. , payout is performed by storing. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S14). This normal design/special design main random number update process is the same as the normal design/special design main random number update process (S6) executed in the main side main control process of FIG. That is, the process of updating the initial value of each random number counter consists of the execution period of the main timer interrupt process (S8) and the other period (after the main timer interrupt process (S8) is completed, the next main timer interrupt process is performed). (period until the load processing (S8) is started).

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 performs starting sensor detection processing (S15), normal operation processing (S16), special symbol standby processing (S17), special symbol variation processing (S18), and difference ball related processing (S19), which will be described later. ), other processing (S20) is executed, and the main side timer interrupt processing (S8) ends. Other processing (S20) includes security control processing to detect and report fraudulent winning, magnetic detection processing to detect and report fraudulent activity using magnetism, and detection of opening of front frame 18 (Fig. 1) and inner frame. a door opening process for notifying by pressing a door, a fraudulent radio wave detection process for detecting and notifying fraudulent activity using radio waves, and an impact detection process for detecting and notifying fraudulent activity by vibrating the pachinko game machine 1, and the like. Then, until the next interrupt pulse is input to the CPU 62, the processing of S5 to S7 of the main side main control processing is repeatedly executed (FIG. 15), and when the interrupt pulse is input (after about 4 msec), Main side timer interrupt processing (S8) is executed. In the output processing (S10) of the main-side timer interrupt processing (S8) executed again, the commands set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) in the previous main-side timer interrupt processing (S8) Output to the board.

(Starting port sensor detection process)
Next, the content of the starting opening sensor detection process (S15 in FIG. 16) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be described with reference to FIG.
The game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the gate 12 (FIG. 1) (S30). ). In this gate passage processing, it is determined whether or not the normal pattern reservation number is 4 or more. A process of acquiring and storing a winning random number is performed.

Also, in S30, when it is determined that the game ball has not passed through the gate 12 (S30: No), it is determined whether or not the game ball has won the second starting port 22 (Fig. 1) (S32). . Here, when it is determined that the game ball has won the second starting port 22 (S32: Yes), it is determined whether or not the second special figure reservation number U2 has reached the upper limit value "4" (S33) . Here, if it is determined that the second special figure reservation number U2 has reached "4" (S33: Yes), the process proceeds to S38, but if the second special figure reservation number U2 has not reached "4" When determined (S33: No), 1 is added to the second special figure reservation number U2 (S34). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a second special figure related random number acquisition process (S35). In this second special figure related random number acquisition process, the jackpot random number counted by the jackpot random number counter, the jackpot type random number counted by the jackpot type random number counter, the reach random number counted by the reach random number counter, and the variation pattern random number counter counted A variation pattern random number is acquired, and each random number acquired is stored in a storage area corresponding to the current second special figure reservation number out of the second special figure reservation storage unit 64b (FIG. 11). For example, when the current second special figure pending number is "3", each random number is stored in the fourth storage area.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a second start winning command creation process (S36). In this second starting winning command creation process, a second starting winning command is created based on each random number group stored in the second special figure reservation storage unit 64b in S35. This second starting winning command is composed of data indicating that the game ball has won the second starting opening, data indicating each random number stored in the second special figure reservation storage unit 64b in S35, and the like. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the second starting winning command created in S36 to the output buffer of the RAM 64 (S37). This set second start winning command is output to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 5) in the output process (S10 in FIG. 16), and the effect control microcomputer 101 is based on each random number included in the second starting winning command. to execute the performance.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the game ball has won the first starting hole 11 (FIG. 1) (S38). Here, if it is determined that the game ball has won the first start port 11 (S38: Yes), it is determined whether the first special figure reservation number U1 has reached the upper limit value "4" (S39) . Here, when it is determined that the first special figure reservation number U1 has reached "4" (S39: Yes), this starting opening sensor detection process is terminated, but the first special figure reservation number U1 is "4 " is not reached (S39: No), 1 is added to the first special figure reservation number U1 (S40). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a first special figure related random number acquisition process (S41). In this first special figure related random number acquisition process, a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number are acquired, and the acquired random numbers are stored in the first special figure reservation storage unit 64a (FIG. 10) Among them, it is stored in a storage area corresponding to the current number of first special figure reservations. For example, when the current number of the first special figure reservation is "3", each random number is stored in the fourth storage area.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes first start winning command creation processing (S42). In this first starting winning command specifying process, a first starting winning command is created based on each random number group stored in the first special figure reservation storage unit 64a in S41. This first start winning command is composed of data indicating that the game ball has won the first start opening 11, data indicating each random number stored in the first special figure reservation storage unit 64a in S41, and the like. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the first starting winning command created in S42 to the output buffer of the RAM 64 (S43). This set first start winning command is output to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 5) in the output process (S10 in FIG. 16), and the effect control microcomputer 101 is based on each random number included in the first starting winning command. to execute the performance.

(Normal operation processing)
Next, the contents of the normal operation process (S17 in FIG. 16) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be described.
The game control microcomputer 61 adds the number of reserved normal patterns, displays variable normal patterns by the normal pattern display 53, determines whether the normal patterns are hit or not, and normal variable when the result of the hit determination is hit. Processing such as opening and closing operation of the winning device 20 is performed.

(Special symbol standby process)
Next, the contents of the special symbol standby process (S18 in FIG. 16) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be described with reference to FIG.
The game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the second special figure reservation number U2 is "0" (S60). A special figure jackpot determination process (FIG. 19) is executed (S61). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes second special figure variation pattern selection processing (FIGS. 20 and 21), which will be described later (S62). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 subtracts "1" from the second special figure reservation number U2 (S63), each stored in each storage area of the second special figure reservation storage unit 64b (FIG. 11) The data is shifted one by one to the storage area having the earlier storage order, that is, to the read side (S64). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a second special figure fluctuation start process (S65). That is, the second special symbol display device 52 is the second special symbol in the order in which the game control microcomputer 61 executes the win/loss determination based on the jackpot random numbers stored in the second special symbol reservation storage unit 64b (FIG. 11). Performs variable display. In addition, each time the second special symbol display device 52 performs the variable display of the second special symbol, each data stored in each storage area of the second special symbol reservation storage unit 64b, the order of storage is older. Shifted to storage.
In this second special figure fluctuation start process, a fluctuation start command is set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 to start the fluctuation display of the second special symbol. The fluctuation start command to be set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 includes the data of the special figure stop pattern set in the second special figure jackpot determination process (FIG. 19) described later and the second special figure variation pattern selection process (FIG. 20, FIG. 21) contains the data of the special figure variation pattern set in.

Further, when the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the second special figure reservation number U2 is "0" in S40 (S60: Yes), whether the first special figure reservation number U1 is "0" It is determined whether or not (S66), and if it is determined that it is not "0" (S66: No), the first special figure jackpot determination process (FIG. 19) described later is executed (S67). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a first special figure variation pattern selection process (FIGS. 20 and 21), which will be described later (S68). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 subtracts "1" from the first special figure reservation number U1 (S69), each stored in each storage area of the first special figure reservation storage unit 64a (FIG. 10) The data is shifted one by one to the storage area having the earlier storage order, that is, to the read side (S70). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a first special figure fluctuation start process (S71). That is, the first special symbol display device 51 is the order in which the game control microcomputer 61 executes the win/loss determination based on the jackpot random numbers stored in the first special symbol reservation storage unit 64a (FIG. 10). Performs variable display. In addition, each time the first special symbol display device 51 performs the variable display of the first special symbol, each data stored in each storage area of the first special symbol reservation storage unit 64a, the order of storage is older. Shifted to storage.
In this first special figure variation start process, a variation start command is set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 to start the variation display of the first special symbol. The fluctuation start command to be set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 includes the data of the special figure stop pattern set in the first special figure jackpot determination process (FIG. 19) described later and the first special figure variation pattern selection process (FIG. 20, FIG. 21) contains the data of the variation pattern set in .

In addition, when the game control microcomputer 61 determines in S46 that the first special figure reservation number U1 is "0" (S66: Yes), the effect display device 7 displays the standby screen (demonstration screen for customer waiting). ) is displayed (S72). Here, when it is determined that the standby screen is displayed (S72: Yes), this special symbol standby process is terminated, and when it is determined that the standby screen is not displayed (S72: No), the standby screen A setting process is executed (S73). In this standby screen setting process, after a predetermined standby time has passed, a customer waiting standby command for displaying the standby screen is set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 .
Further, in this embodiment, the variable display of the first special symbol based on the first special figure reservation is performed only when the second special figure reservation number U2 is "0" (S60: Yes). That is, digestion of the second special figure reservation is executed with priority over digestion of the first special figure reservation.
However, if one of the special symbols is fluctuating, the special symbol standby processing is terminated without performing the processing after S60.

(Second special figure jackpot determination process (first special figure jackpot determination process))
Next, the contents of the second special figure jackpot determination process (first special figure jackpot determination process) executed by the game control microcomputer 61: S61 in FIG. 18) will be described with reference to FIG. The second special figure jackpot determination process (S61 in FIG. 18) and the first special figure jackpot determination process (S67 in FIG. 18) have the same process flow, so they will be described together. In addition, when describing matters common to the first special figure reservation storage unit 64a and the second special figure reservation storage unit 64b, they are simply referred to as special figure reservation storage units.

The game control microcomputer 61 reads the jackpot random number stored in the first storage area (FIGS. 10 and 11) of the special figure reservation storage section of the RAM 64 (S80), and refers to the jackpot determination table Ta1 (FIG. 6). (S81). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the variable probability flag is ON, that is, whether or not the current game state is a high probability state (S82). The variable probability flag is turned ON when one of the variable probability jackpots is won, and is turned OFF when one of the normal jackpots is won. Here, when it is determined that the variable probability flag is not ON, that is, the normal probability state (S82: No), the jackpot random number in the normal probability state is referred to in the jackpot determination table Ta1, and read in S80. Whether or not the same random number as the jackpot random number exists, that is, whether or not it is a jackpot is determined (S83). For example, if the jackpot random number read in S80 is "7", it is determined as a jackpot because "7" exists in the jackpot random numbers 0 to 204 in the normal probability state in the jackpot determination table Ta1 ( S83: Yes).

When the game control microcomputer 61 determines that it is a jackpot in S83 (S83: Yes), the jackpot type random number stored in the first storage area (FIGS. 10 and 11) of the special figure reservation storage unit is read, and a plurality of The type of the jackpot is determined by referring to the jackpot type determination table Ta2 (FIG. 7) in which the types of the jackpot are set (S85). Depending on the type of jackpot, the jackpot pattern of the special pattern, the stop pattern of the special pattern, the distribution rate, the maximum number of rounds, and the jackpot effect pattern are different. Here, the distribution rate is the probability that a predetermined jackpot is selected from among a plurality of types of jackpots set in the jackpot type determination table. Also, the maximum number of rounds is the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the jackpot game.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 turns on a jackpot flag indicating that a jackpot is determined in the jackpot determination (S86), and confirms and displays a special jackpot pattern corresponding to the type of jackpot determined in S85. (S87), and the second special figure jackpot determination process is finished. Also, in S83, when it is determined that the game is not a big hit, that is, it is determined to be a loss (S83: No), the special figure stop pattern data for confirming and displaying the special figure losing pattern is set in the special figure buffer (S87), This second special figure jackpot determination process is finished.
In addition, the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the probability variation flag is ON in S82, that is, the current game state is a high probability state (S82: Yes), the high With reference to the probability state jackpot random numbers, it is determined whether or not there is a random number that is the same as the jackpot random number read in S80, that is, whether or not it is a jackpot (S84). For example, if the jackpot random number read in S80 is "600", it is determined as a jackpot because "600" exists among the jackpot random numbers 0 to 1309 in the high probability state in the jackpot determination table Ta1 ( S84: Yes). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 determines the type of the jackpot (S85), turns on the jackpot flag (S86), sets the special figure stop design data in the special figure buffer (S87), and this second special figure. Finish the jackpot determination process.

(Second special figure variation pattern selection process (first special figure variation pattern selection process))
Next, the second special figure variation pattern selection process (first special figure variation pattern selection process) executed by the game control microcomputer 61: S62, S68 in FIG. 18) See FIGS. 20 and 21 showing the contents I will explain as I go along. The second special figure variation pattern selection process (S62 in FIG. 18) and the first special figure variation pattern selection process (S68 in FIG. 18) are the same in process flow, so they will be collectively described. In addition, when describing matters common to the first special figure reservation storage unit 64a and the second special figure reservation storage unit 64b, they are simply referred to as special figure reservation storage units.

The game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the game state is in the time saving state (S90), and when it is determined that it is not in the time saving state (S90: No), whether or not the jackpot flag is ON. is determined (S91). Here, when it is determined that the jackpot flag is ON (S91: Yes), the special figure variation pattern is selected with reference to the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 9) (S92). Specifically, among the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4, reference is made to the variation pattern random number in the case of a jackpot in a non-working time saving state. Then, the variation pattern random number stored in the first storage area (FIGS. 10 and 11) of the special figure reservation storage unit is acquired, and the special figure associated with the same variation pattern random number as the acquired variation pattern random number Choose a variation pattern.
Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the variation pattern data indicating the selected variation pattern to the special figure variation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) (S96), and performs this second special figure variation pattern selection process. Finish.

In addition, the game control microcomputer 61 does not turn on the big hit flag in S91, that is, when it determines that it is lost (S91: No), the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit (FIGS. 10 and 11) , and determines whether or not the acquired reach random number is a reach establishment random number (S93). That is, the reach random number acquired from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit determines whether it is the reach random number set to the non-time saving state in the reach determination table Ta3 (FIG. 8). For example, when the reach random number obtained from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit is "20", the reach random number "20" is present in the reach random numbers 0 to 27 that are set to the non-time saving state Therefore, it is determined to be reach establishment random numbers (S93: Yes). Here, when the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the reach random number is the reach establishment random number (S93: Yes), the special figure fluctuation pattern is selected with reference to the special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 9). (S94). Specifically, among the special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4, reference is made to the fluctuation pattern random number in the case of loss with reach in a non-time saving state. Then, the variation pattern random number stored in the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit is acquired, and the special figure variation pattern associated with the same variation pattern random number as the acquired variation pattern random number is selected. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the variation pattern data indicating the selected variation pattern to the special figure variation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) (S96), and performs this second special figure variation pattern selection process. Finish.

In addition, the game control microcomputer 61, when it is determined that the reach random number is not the reach establishment random number in S93 (S93: No), the special figure fluctuation pattern with reference to the special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (Fig. 9) Select (S95).
Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the variation pattern data indicating the selected variation pattern to a special figure variation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) (S96), and performs this second special figure variation pattern selection process. Finish.

Further, when the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the game is in the time saving state in S70 (S90: Yes), it determines whether or not the jackpot flag is ON (S97 in FIG. 21). Here, when it is determined that the jackpot flag is ON (S97: Yes), the special figure variation pattern is selected with reference to the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 9) (S98). Specifically, among the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4, reference is made to the variation pattern random number in the case of a jackpot in the time saving state. Then, the variation pattern random number stored in the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit is acquired, and the special figure variation pattern associated with the same variation pattern random number as the acquired variation pattern random number is selected. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the variation pattern data indicating the selected variation pattern in the special figure variation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) (S96 in FIG. 20), and this second special figure variation pattern Finish the selection process.

In addition, the game control microcomputer 61 does not turn on the jackpot flag in S97, that is, when it determines that it is lost (S97: No), the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit (FIGS. 10 and 11) , and determines whether or not the acquired reach random number is a reach establishment random number (S99). That is, the reach random number acquired from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit determines whether or not the reach random number is set to the time saving state in the reach determination table Ta3 (FIG. 8). For example, if the reach random number obtained from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit is "8", the reach random number "8" is set in the time saving state because it exists in the reach random numbers 0 to 11 , is determined to be a reach establishment random number (S99: Yes). Here, when the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the reach random number is the reach establishment random number (S99: Yes), the special figure fluctuation pattern is selected with reference to the special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 9). (S100). Specifically, among the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4, refer to the variation pattern random number in the case of loss with reach in the time saving state. Then, the variation pattern random number stored in the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit is acquired, and the special figure variation pattern associated with the same variation pattern random number as the acquired variation pattern random number is selected. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the variation pattern data indicating the selected variation pattern in the special figure variation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) (S96 in FIG. 20), and this second special figure variation pattern Finish the selection process.

In addition, the game control microcomputer 61, when it is determined that the reach random number is not the reach establishment random number in S99 (S99: No), the special figure fluctuation pattern with reference to the special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (Fig. 9) Select (S101). Specifically, among the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4, reference is made to the variation pattern random number in the case of reachless loss in the time saving state. Then, the variation pattern random number stored in the first storage area (FIGS. 10 and 11) of the special figure reservation storage unit is acquired, and the special figure associated with the same variation pattern random number as the acquired variation pattern random number Choose a variation pattern. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the variation pattern data indicating the selected variation pattern in the special figure variation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) (S96 in FIG. 20), and this second special figure variation pattern Finish the selection process.

The variation pattern data set in the special figure variation pattern buffer in S96 is included in the variation start command set in S65 (FIG. 18) of the special symbol standby process described above, and output processing of the main side timer interrupt process (FIG. 16 S10), it is output to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 5). In addition, the first special figure variation pattern selection process is also executed in the same flow as the second special figure variation pattern selection process, and the variation pattern data set in the special figure variation pattern buffer at S96 is S71 ( 18), and is output to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 5) by the output processing (S10 in FIG. 16) of the main-side timer interrupt processing.

(Special symbol variation processing)
Next, the contents of the special symbol variation process (S19 in FIG. 16) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be described with reference to FIG.
The game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the special symbol variation time (variation time determined according to the special symbol variation pattern selected in S62 or S68 of FIG. 18, see FIG. 9) has ended (S110). . Here, if it is determined that the process has not ended (S110: No), this special symbol variation process ends. As a result, the variable display of the special symbols is continued. On the other hand, if it is determined that the game has ended (S110: Yes), a variable stop command for stopping the variable display of the special symbol is set in the command buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 4) (S111). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 changes the display of the special symbols according to the special symbol stop symbol data set in S85 (FIG. 19) of the second special symbol jackpot determination processing (first special symbol jackpot determination processing). A special symbol stop process is executed to stop at a symbol (a special symbol jackpot symbol or a special symbol losing symbol) (S112). Thereby, the special pattern is determined. In addition, the special symbol continues the stopped state (continues the fixed state of the special symbol) only for the stop time (for example, 500 ms) corresponding to the variation pattern selected in the special symbol variation pattern selection table Ta4, and then the next special Variation of the design is started.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a game state management process (S113). In this game state management process, for example, in the ST machine, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON. 1 is subtracted from the value of the variable probability counter to be counted, and it is determined whether or not the value of the variable probability counter is "0". And when it determines with it being "0", a probability variation flag is turned OFF. However, since the pachinko game machine 1 of this embodiment is not an ST machine, the probability variation flag is not changed according to the number of variations. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the time saving flag is ON, and if it is determined that it is ON, 1 is subtracted from the value of the time saving counter that counts the number of fluctuations of the special symbol in the time saving state by the subtraction method. , determines whether the value of the time saving counter is "0". In addition, the time-saving counter is a value predetermined according to the type of jackpot at the end of the jackpot game (in this embodiment, "50" at the end of the normal jackpot game, and "10000" at the end of the probability variable jackpot game. (substantially until the next big hit)”) is set. In addition, when the time saving flag is ON and the value of the time saving counter is "0", the change in the number of time saving times determined by the type of jackpot after the jackpot game ends (that is, the final change in the time saving game state) Since it shows that it has ended, the time saving flag is turned OFF with the end of this fluctuation.

The game control microcomputer 61 sets the game state designation command including the information of each flag in the output buffer of the RAM 64, and ends the game state management process. The game state designation command set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 is output to the sub-control board 100 in the output process (S10 in FIG. 16) of the main side timer interrupt process.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the jackpot flag is ON (S114), and when it is determined that it is ON (S114: Yes), it executes a game state reset process. (S115). In this game state reset process, it is determined whether or not the variable probability flag is ON, and if it is determined that the variable probability flag is ON, the variable probability flag is turned OFF. Further, it is determined whether or not the time saving flag is ON, and when it is determined that it is ON, the time saving flag is turned OFF. In other words, during execution of the jackpot game, it is controlled to the normal probability state and non-time saving state.
Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 performs a jackpot opening setting to start a jackpot game (S116), and sets an opening command for executing the jackpot opening (S117). The opening of the big win is an effect such as displaying an effect image celebrating the occurrence of the big win on the effect display device 7 or reproducing a music piece celebrating the occurrence of the big win from each speaker 8 . In the opening setting, the execution time of the opening of the jackpot game is set to a predetermined timer.
Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the value of the special electric role operation effective counter (S118), and ends this special symbol variation process. The special electric role operation effective counter is a counter that counts the remaining number of rounds in the jackpot game. Also, when it is determined in S114 that the jackpot flag is not ON (S114: No), this special symbol variation process is finished.

(Processing related to difference balls)
Next, the details of the extra ball-related processing (S20 in FIG. 16) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be described with reference to FIG.
The game control microcomputer 61, in the extra ball-related processing, first detects the ball sensor 36a (FIG. 3) provided in the shooting path 36 or the sensor corresponding to each winning hole provided in the game area 3 (for example, the first start It is determined whether or not the game ball is detected by the opening sensor 11a, the general winning opening sensor 13a, the second starting opening sensor 22a, and the big winning opening sensor 32a). In addition, the shot ball sensor 36a detects the game ball shot to the game area 3 through the shot path 36, that is, the game ball consumed in the game. On the other hand, a sensor corresponding to each winning hole provided in the game area 3 detects that a game ball has won in each winning hole.

Then, when it is determined that the game ball is detected by the ball sensor 36a provided in the shooting path 36 or the sensor corresponding to each winning hole provided in the game area 3 (S120: Yes), the process proceeds to S121. Then, the transition (history) of the number of difference balls stored in the number of difference number storage unit 64d of the RAM 64 is updated. More specifically, the number of game balls acquired by the player by winning the winning slot and the number of game balls consumed by the player in the game are respectively counted, and the current number of difference balls is calculated based on the count results. Update. For example, the difference ball number is subtracted according to the number of game balls detected by the shot ball sensor 36a. Also, when a game ball wins in the first start hole 11, three game balls (prize balls) are given, so the number of difference balls per one game ball detected by the first start hole sensor 11a is increased by "3". . Also, when a game ball wins in the general winning hole 13, five game balls (prize balls) are given, so the number of difference balls per one game ball detected by the general winning hole sensor 13a is increased by "5". Also, when a game ball wins in the second start hole 22, three game balls (prize balls) are given, so the number of difference balls per one game ball detected by the second start hole sensor 22a is increased by "3". . In addition, since 15 game balls (prize balls) are given when a game ball wins in the big winning hole 32, the number of difference balls per one game ball detected by the big winning hole sensor 32a is increased by "15".

After that, the game control microcomputer 61 reads the transition (history) of the number of difference balls stored in the number of difference number storage unit 64d of the RAM 64, and the maximum number of difference balls, which is the difference between the lowest value and the highest value, is the "reference value". value” is reached (S122). The reference value is, for example, 95,000, but the reference value can be changed as appropriate. In addition, "reach the reference value" basically assumes that the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value by increasing the difference number of balls, but the maximum difference number may include the case where reaches the reference value.

When the game control microcomputer 61 determines in S122 that the maximum difference number of balls has reached the "reference value" (S122: YES), the game control microcomputer 61 further determines whether a jackpot game is currently being executed in the pachinko gaming machine 1. It is determined whether or not (S123). Then, when it is determined that the maximum difference number of balls has not reached the "reference value" in S122 (S122: No) and when it is determined that the jackpot game is in progress even if it reaches the reference value (S123: YES ), the process ends without transitioning to a game-disabled state. In addition, when it is determined that the jackpot game is in progress even if the reference value is reached (S123: YES), the process proceeds to S124 at the timing when the jackpot game ends. That is, regarding the jackpot game started before the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value, even if the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value during the jackpot game, the game is not forcibly ended during the jackpot game. , the game can be continuously executed at least until the jackpot game ends.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the maximum number of difference balls has reached the "reference value" and the jackpot game is not in progress (S123: No), a process for shifting from the playable state to the non-playable state is executed. Specifically, first, a game stop process is executed (S124). In this game stop processing, the detection of all winning detection sensors that detect winning to each winning port of the game board 2 is disabled, and S15 to S19, etc. in the above-described main side timer interrupt processing (FIG. 16) are disabled. Stop the execution of the process. As a result, the winning detection of each winning opening becomes impossible, the large winning opening and the second start opening 22 are kept closed, and the LEDs of the indicators 50 (special symbol indicators 51, 52 and normal symbols display device 53, etc.) will be turned off (the fluctuation display of special and normal maps will not be displayed), and the measurement of the fluctuation time will be stopped (or interrupted) for the fluctuation display of special and normal maps that was in progress. . When this game stop processing (S124) ends, the game control microcomputer 61 next executes firing stop processing (S125). In this firing stop process, the firing permission signal that is always output in the normal state (game-enabled state) is stopped. As a result, the drive control of the shooting device 90 by the shooting control circuit 75 is stopped, and the game ball shooting operation becomes impossible. In this manner, the game stop processing (S124) and the firing stop processing (S125) are executed by the game control microcomputer 61, thereby shifting from the play-enabled state to the play-disabled state. It should be noted that the transition to the non-playable state may be executed by only one of the game stop processing and the firing stop processing.

It should be noted that once the playable state shifts to the unplayable state, the unplayable state continues until the power is turned on with the RAM clear switch 66 pressed (S4). That is, basically, simply by repeatedly turning on and off the power supply, even if the change in the difference number of balls is reset, the unplayable state is not canceled.

After completing S125, the game control microcomputer 61 sets a game impossibility notification command for executing notification regarding the game impossibility state under the control of the effect control microcomputer 101 (S126). This game impossibility notification command is transmitted to the sub control board 100 (the effect control microcomputer 101) and the frame control board 150 in the output process (S10) of the main side timer interrupt process (FIG. 16) described above.

(Sub-side main control processing)
Next, the sub-side main control processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 (FIG. 5) will be described with reference to FIG.
First, the effect control microcomputer 101 performs initial setting (S150). In this initial setting, for example, stack setting, constant setting, interrupt time setting, CPU 102 (FIG. 5) setting, SIO (System Input/Output), PIO (Parallel Input/Output), CTC (Counter/Timer) Circuit (circuit for managing interrupt time), resets various flags, counters and timers. Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the power-off signal is ON and the contents of the RAM 120 (FIG. 5) are normal (S151). S151: No), initializes the RAM 120 (S152), and proceeds to S153. If the determination in S151 is affirmative (S151: Yes), the process proceeds to S153 without initializing the RAM 120 . That is, if the power-off signal is not ON, or if the contents of the RAM 120 are not normal even if the power-off signal is ON (S151: No), the RAM 120 is initialized. If the power-off signal is turned ON but the contents of the RAM 120 are maintained normally (S151: Yes), the RAM 120 is not initialized. Note that when the RAM 120 is initialized, the values of various flags, counters and timers are reset. Also, these S150 to S152 are executed only once after the power is turned on, and are not executed thereafter.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 prohibits interruption (S153), and executes random number update processing (S154). In this random number update process, the initial values of various effect determination random number counters are updated. Incidentally, the random number for determining the effect includes a variable effect pattern random number for determining a variable effect pattern, and an advance notice effect random number for determining various advance notice effects. The method of updating the random number can be the same method as the random number updating process performed by the game control microcomputer 61 described above. Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes command transmission processing (S155). In this command transmission process, various commands stored in the output buffer in the RAM 120 of the effect control microcomputer 101 are transmitted to the image control board 200, the sound control board 78, the lamp control board 79, and the like. Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes interruption permission (S156). Thereafter, S153 to S156 are repeatedly executed. Further, while the interrupt is enabled, it is possible to execute the reception interrupt process (S157), the 1 ms timer interrupt process (S158) and the 10 ms timer interrupt process (S159).

(Receive interrupt processing)
Next, the reception interruption process (S157 in FIG. 24) executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 will be described.
The effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether the signal level of the strobe signal (STB signal) given to the external INT (interrupt) input section of the effect control microcomputer 101 from the main control board 60 (FIG. 4) has changed. That is, it is determined whether or not it is time to receive a command. Specifically, for example, it is determined whether or not the signal level of the strobe signal has changed from high level to low level. If it is determined that it is not time to receive, the reception interrupt process is terminated, and if it is determined that it is time to receive, various commands transmitted from the main control board 60 are received, The received various commands are stored in the reception buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 4). This reception interrupt process is a process that is executed with priority over other interrupt processes (S158, S159).

(1 ms timer interrupt processing)
Next, it demonstrates, referring FIG. 25 which shows it about 1ms timer interrupt processing (S158 of FIG. 24) which the microcomputer 101 for production control performs.
The effect control microcomputer 101 executes this 1 ms timer interrupt process every time an interrupt pulse of 1 msec cycle is input to the sub-control board 100 . The effect control microcomputer 101 executes input processing (S160). In this input process, switch data (edge data and level data). Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes output processing (S161). In this output process, a variation start command set in the command buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 5) is output to the image control board 200 in S205 (FIG. 28) of the variation effect start process to be described later.

In addition, in order to light the board lamp 2a, the left side lamp 23a and the right side lamp 23b (FIG. 5) in accordance with the display of the effect display device 7, the lamp processing (S173 in FIG. 26) in the 10ms timer interrupt processing described later is performed. The lamp data created in the above manner is output to the lamp control board 79 (FIG. 5). That is, the board lamp 2a, the left side lamp 23a, and the right side lamp 23b are caused to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode according to the lamp data. Also, in order to drive the movable body 15 (FIG. 5) in accordance with the display of the effect display device 7, drive data (data for driving the movable body 15) is created, and the created drive data is output. That is, the movable body 15 is driven in a predetermined operation pattern according to the drive data.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not a variation start command has been output (S162). The variable start command is set in the command buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 5) at S205 (FIG. 28) of the variable effect start process to be described later, and is output to the image control board 200 at S161. Here, when the production control microcomputer 101 determines that the fluctuation start command is output (S162: Yes), it starts measuring the fluctuation time of the fluctuation production pattern (S163). Subsequently, watchdog timer processing for resetting the watchdog timer is performed (S164), and this 1ms timer interrupt processing is completed.

(10 ms timer interrupt processing)
Next, the 10 ms timer interrupt processing (S159 in FIG. 24) executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG.
The effect control microcomputer 101 executes this 10 ms timer interrupt process every time an interrupt pulse with a period of 10 msec is input to the sub-control board 100 . The effect control microcomputer 101 executes received command analysis processing (FIG. 27), which will be described later (S170), and executes switch state acquisition processing (S171). In this switch state acquisition process, the switch data created in the input process of the 1 ms timer interrupt process (S160 in FIG. 25) is stored in the RAM 120 as switch data for the 10 ms timer interrupt process. Subsequently, based on the switch data stored in the switch state acquisition process, a switch process for setting display contents such as button effects and lever effects displayed by the effect display device 7 is executed (S172). Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes lamp processing (S173). In this lamp processing, lamp data is created for controlling the light emission of each lamp (board lamp 2a, left side lamp 23a, right side lamp 23b, etc.) according to the display of the effect display device 7, time management of light emission effect, etc. I do. As a result, each lamp performs a light emitting effect that matches the display of the effect display device 7. - 特許庁

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes sound control processing (S174). In this audio control processing, audio control data (data for controlling the output of audio from each speaker 8) is created, the created audio control data is output to the audio control board 78 (FIG. 5), and audio production is performed. Time management, etc. As a result, the sound is output from each speaker 8 in accordance with the display of the effect display device 7 . Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes other processing (S175), and ends this 10ms timer interrupt processing. In other processing (S175), processing such as updating the variable effect pattern random number, the notice effect random number for determining the notice effect, and the like is executed.

(Received command analysis processing)
Next, the reception command analysis process (S170 in FIG. 26) executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG.
The effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the game state designation command is received from the main control board 60 (FIG. 4) (S180). A setting process is executed (S181). The game state specifying command includes information indicating the game state (regular probability state or high probability state, time saving state or non-time saving state). In this sub-side game state setting process, the received game state designation command is analyzed, and the game state flag is set based on the information included in the game state designation command. The game state flag is a flag indicating the currently set game state. When the information included in the game state designation command indicates the normal probability state and the non-time saving state, the game state flag "1" is set. In addition, when the normal probability state and time saving state are shown, the game state flag "2" is set. Moreover, when the high probability state and the time saving state are shown, the game state flag "3" is set. The game state designation command also includes a game-disabled notification command indicating that the game has shifted to the game-disabled state, and a game-enabled notification command that indicates that the game has returned to the game-enabled state. Then, when the information included in the game state designation command indicates a transition to the game disabled state, the game disabled state flag indicating the game disabled state is turned ON. While the game-impossible state flag is ON, in the game-impossible notification process (FIG. 35) described later, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is notified to the surroundings that the game is not possible. On the other hand, if the information included in the game state designation command indicates that the game state has returned to the game enabled state, the game disabled state flag is switched from ON to OFF.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not an opening command has been received from the main control board 60 (S182), and when it is determined that it has been received (S182: Yes), the opening effect selection process is executed. (S183). In this opening effect selection process, the opening command is analyzed, and based on the analysis result, the pattern (contents) of the opening effect to be executed during the opening of the jackpot game is selected. Specifically, an opening performance pattern selection table (not shown) in which an opening performance pattern is set in association with each opening command is referred to, and an opening performance pattern associated with the received opening command is selected. Then, an opening effect start command for starting the opening effect in the selected opening effect pattern is set in the output buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 5).
Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the round designation command is received from the main control board 60 (S184), and when it is determined that the command is received (S184: Yes), the round effect selection process is executed. (S185). In this round effect selection process, the type of effect to be executed in each round of the jackpot game is selected. This production is produced by images displayed by the production display device 7 and sounds output by the speakers 8, and differs depending on the type of the jackpot. Specifically, a round performance table (not shown) in which a round performance is associated with each jackpot type and each round designation command is referred to, and a round performance associated with the received round designation command is selected.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not an ending command has been received from the main control board 60 (S186), and when it is determined that it has been received (S186: Yes), an ending effect selection process is executed. (S187). In this ending effect selection process, the type of ending effect to be executed by the effect display device 7 and each speaker 8 at the end of the big win is selected according to the type of the big win that triggered the jackpot game being executed. . Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not a variation start command is received from the main control board 60 (S188), and when it is determined that it has been received (S188: Yes), a variation effect start process to be described later. (FIG. 28) is executed (S189).

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes the later-described prefetch effect processing (FIG. 29) that suggests the type of jackpot in the event of a big win for the reserve using a reserved image as one of the predictive effects ( S190).

Next, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes a promotion effect process (FIG. 31) for performing a promotion effect (S191).

Furthermore, the production control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the fluctuation stop command is received from the main control board 60 (S192), and when it is judged to have been received (S192: Yes), the fluctuation production end processing is executed. (S193). In this fluctuation production end processing, the production control microcomputer 101 sets a fluctuation production end command for ending the fluctuation production in the output buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 5). When the set variable effect end command is transmitted to the image control board 200 (FIG. 5) by the command transmission process (S155 in FIG. 9C and the right effect pattern 9R (FIG. 1) are confirmed and displayed through a predetermined stop pattern.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes the differential ball notification process (FIG. 33) for providing guidance suggesting that the current maximum differential ball number has reached the reference value (S194).

In addition, when the maximum number of difference balls of the pachinko game machine 1 reaches the reference value and the game is disabled (S124, S125), the effect control microcomputer 101 notifies the surroundings of the game disabled state. A game impossibility notification process (FIG. 35) is executed (S195).

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes other processing (S196), and ends this received command analysis processing. In other processing (S196), processing based on commands other than the above commands (for example, a normal symbol variation start command and a normal symbol variation stop command) is performed.

(Variation production start processing)
Next, the variable effect start process (S189 in FIG. 27) executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG. 28 showing it.
The effect control microcomputer 101 analyzes the received variation start command (S200). In the variation start command, the second special figure variation pattern selection process (first special figure variation pattern selection process): S92, S94, S95, S98, S100, S101 of FIG. 20) Second special figure variation pattern set in Information of, or information of the first special figure fluctuation pattern is included. Subsequently, if the variation start command analyzed in S220 is the first special figure variation start command, the effect control microcomputer 101 subtracts "1" from the value of the first special figure reservation effect counter, and the second special figure When it is a fluctuation start command, "1" is subtracted from the value of the second special figure pending effect counter (S201). Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 is stored in the special figure reservation effect storage unit (first special figure reservation effect storage unit 121 or second special figure reservation effect storage unit 122: FIG. 13, FIG. 14) Start winning Data such as commands and prefetch jackpot flags are shifted to older storage areas (S202).

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the current variation is a big hit variation based on the analysis result of the variation start command in S200 (S203). Then, when it is determined that the current variation is the variation of the jackpot (S203: Yes), in S204, the transition of the number of difference balls including the current number of difference balls of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the current (that is, the jackpot) Get the maximum number of difference balls at the start of fluctuation). The change in the number of difference balls of the pachinko game machine 1 up to the present time is stored in the number of difference number storage unit 64d of the main control board 60. Information specifying the transition is also sent to the sub-control board 100 as appropriate. Then, the current maximum ball difference number is also acquired from the difference between the lowest value and the highest value in the transition of the ball difference number up to the present. The process of calculating the maximum number of difference balls from the transition of the number of difference balls may be performed by the main control board 60 or may be performed by the sub control board 100 . In S201, the reference value is also acquired, and it may be acquired from the main control board 60 together with the maximum difference number of balls. it's okay to

Next, in S205, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not to award a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value in this variation. Specifically, the current ball difference number is the maximum value of the difference ball number in the transition of the game machine's difference ball number from the counting start timing (last power ON) to the present, and is the current maximum ball difference acquired in S204. If the value obtained by adding the number of game balls that the player can acquire in this jackpot game to the number of difference balls reaches the standard value, the condition for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the standard value due to this change It is determined that a jackpot that satisfies is given.

Then, if it is determined that the current variation is not a jackpot variation (S203: NO), and even if the current variation is a jackpot variation, the conditions for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value must not be a jackpot. When the determination is made (S205: No), the effect control microcomputer 101 selects the left effect pattern 9L, the middle effect pattern 9C and the right effect that are finally displayed when the effect display device 7 displays the variable effect pattern. A combination of symbols 9R (FIG. 1) is selected by referring to a performance symbol selection table (not shown) (S206). Here, especially when the judgment result of the variation of this time is a big hit, the combination of the left production pattern 9L, the middle production pattern 9C and the right production pattern 9R to be confirmed and displayed is determined in advance based on the type of the winning jackpot. When winning a probability variable jackpot, a combination of performance symbols to be fixedly displayed is selected from among the same combinations of probability variable symbols (for example, ``3.3.3'', ``7.7.7'', etc.). On the other hand, when winning the normal jackpot, the combination of performance symbols to be fixedly displayed is selected from among the same normal symbol combinations (for example, ``2.2.2'', ``6.6.6'', etc.). Thereby, the player is notified of the type of the winning jackpot.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the current variation is a jackpot variation and that the condition for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value is met (S205: Yes), the effect control microcomputer 101 makes a decision. , When the effect display device 7 displays the variable effect pattern, the combination of the left effect pattern 9L, the middle effect pattern 9C and the right effect pattern 9R (Fig. 1) that are finally displayed is usually set regardless of the type of jackpot. A combination of special performance symbols that are not displayed stop is selected (S207). For example, it is assumed that the pattern is composed of English letters of "ED (abbreviation of Ending)". That is, when a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value is given, it is intentionally not suggested whether the jackpot is a variable probability jackpot or a normal jackpot. It should be noted that even if the above-mentioned special production pattern is finally stopped and displayed, during the fluctuation of the production pattern (except during promotion production described later), 1 to 9 except for the special production pattern A production pattern consisting of Arabic numerals is varied. In other words, even if a big win satisfying the conditions for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value is given, the player is prevented from noticing it in the fluctuation stage. However, it is also possible to include a special effect pattern in the pattern that fluctuates at the time of fluctuation.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes effect content selection processing (S208). In the effect content selection process, the content of the effect to be performed in the pachinko game machine 1 in accordance with the variation of the effect pattern is selected using the effect selection table Ta5 (FIG. 12). The effect selection table Ta5 includes, as described above, a special figure variation pattern, a jackpot determination result, a jackpot type in the case of a jackpot, and whether or not the jackpot satisfies the conditions for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value. The determination result of , the effect selection random number, and the effect content are associated with each other. The special figure variation pattern corresponds to the special figure variation pattern obtained by the analysis in S200. Furthermore, it is possible to analyze whether or not the current variation is a variation of a jackpot, and if it is a variation of a jackpot, the type of the jackpot. The effect selection random number is a random number selected within the range of random numbers counted by the effect selection random number counter. The effect control microcomputer 101 acquires the effect selection random number counted by the effect selection random number counter. Then, referring to the production selection table Ta5, based on the information such as the special figure fluctuation pattern and the big hit determination obtained by the analysis in S200, among the production contents associated with the special figure fluctuation pattern, the above acquired The performance content associated with the performance selection random number is selected. Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 101 sets the effect symbol variation display start command for causing the effect display device 7 to start displaying the effect contents selected in S208 in the output buffer of the RAM 120 (S209).

(Look-ahead effect processing)
Next, the look-ahead effect processing (S190 in FIG. 27) executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, in S210, the effect control microcomputer 101 refers to each data stored in each storage area of the first special figure reservation effect storage unit 121 and the second special figure reservation effect storage unit 122, and wins a probability variable jackpot. Determines whether a hold is included. However, in the state where the electric sapo control is performed in the pachinko game machine 1, only the suspension (preferentially digested suspension) stored in the second special figure suspension effect storage unit 122 is subject to determination. desirable. In addition, in the first special figure reservation effect storage unit 121 and the second special figure reservation effect storage unit 122, a flag for distinguishing between the reservation that wins the jackpot and the reservation that wins the probability variable jackpot is stored. make it

Then, when it is determined that the reservation for winning the probability variable jackpot is included (S210: Yes), the process proceeds to S211. On the other hand, if it is determined that the reservation for winning the variable probability jackpot is not included (S210: No), the process ends without executing the look-ahead effect.

In S211, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the conditions for starting the look-ahead effect are met. Specifically, it may be the timing (that is, at the time of the start-up winning) when the reservation to win the probability variable jackpot (holding to be the target of the look-ahead effect) is stored, or the reservation to win the probability variable jackpot (the target of the look-ahead effect) Retention) of N (the value of N is appropriately selected between 1 and 4 according to the current number of reservations). It may be at the start of a specific round or ending of a jackpot game. Further, the look-ahead effect is not necessarily performed when the reservation of winning the probability variable jackpot is included, but may be performed with a low probability.

Then, when it is determined that the conditions for starting the look-ahead effect are satisfied (S211: Yes), the process proceeds to S212. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions for starting the look-ahead effect are not satisfied (S211: No), the process ends without performing the look-ahead effect.

After that, in S212, the effect control microcomputer 101 obtains the transition of the number of difference balls including the current number of difference balls of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the current maximum number of difference balls (that is, when the look-ahead effect is started). The change in the number of difference balls of the pachinko game machine 1 up to the present time is stored in the number of difference number storage unit 64d of the main control board 60. Information specifying the transition is also sent to the sub-control board 100 as appropriate. Then, the current maximum number of difference balls is also obtained from the difference between the lowest value and the highest value in the transition of the number of difference balls up to the present. The process of calculating the maximum number of difference balls from the transition of the number of difference balls may be performed by the main control board 60 or may be performed by the sub control board 100 . In S212, the reference value is also acquired, and it may be acquired from the main control board 60 together with the maximum difference number of balls. it's okay to

Next, in S213, the effect control microcomputer 101 gives a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value for the reservation of winning the probability variable jackpot (holding targeted for the look-ahead effect). Determine whether or not Specifically, the current ball difference number is the maximum value of the difference ball number in the transition of the game machine's difference ball number from the counting start timing (previous power ON) to the present, and is the current maximum ball difference acquired in S211. If the value obtained by adding the number of game balls that the player can acquire by the end of the jackpot game of the reservation that wins the probability variable jackpot (holding that is subject to the look-ahead effect) to the number of difference balls reaches the reference value, the maximum It is determined to be a reservation to give a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the number of difference balls to reach the reference value.

For example, if the current maximum number of difference balls is 93500, the reference value is 95000, and the number of prize balls that the player can obtain in one jackpot is 1000, In the case where there is only one reservation to win the probability variable jackpot, the value obtained by adding 1000, which is the number of game balls that the player can obtain until the end of the game of the probability variable jackpot, to the current maximum difference ball number is 94500. is. Therefore, since the reference value is not reached, it is determined that there is no reservation for giving a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value. On the other hand, if there are two reservations that win a probability variable jackpot under the same conditions, the first reservation is not a reservation that gives a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value. However, for the second hold, 2000 (=1000+1000), which is the number of game balls that the player can acquire until the end of the jackpot game of the probability variable jackpot, is added to the current maximum difference ball number. The value obtained is 95500. Therefore, since the reference value is reached, it is determined that a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value is reserved.

Then, when it is determined that the reservation for winning the probability variable jackpot (holding to be the target of the look-ahead effect) is not the reservation for granting the jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value (S213: No). Then, among the pending images currently displayed on the effect display device 7, the corresponding pending image is changed to a pending image suggesting that the probability variable jackpot is won (S214). For example, change to a rainbow-colored reserved image. Thereby, the player is preliminarily suggested that the holding is a probability variable jackpot.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the reservation to win the probability variable jackpot (holding to be the target of the look-ahead effect) is the reservation to give the jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value (S213: Yes ), among the pending images currently displayed on the effect display device 7, the relevant pending image is not particularly changed and ends. Thereby, the player is not suggested in advance that the reservation is a probability variable jackpot. However, it is permissible to suggest that the jackpot is simply a jackpot instead of a variable probability jackpot or that the jackpot is highly reliable.

Here, on the game screen 260 displayed on the effect display device 7 as shown in FIG. Reserved images 261 to 264 are arranged and displayed in chronological order. For example, when the number of reserved first special symbols at present is "4" and the number of reserved second special symbols is "0", four reserved images corresponding to the first special symbols are displayed. The reserved image located on the left becomes a reserved image for the reserved stored at an earlier timing, and the reserved images are sequentially moved to the left as the reservation is digested. In the example shown in FIG. 30, the reserved images 261 to 264 are circular images, but images other than circular images such as polygons, letters, and characters may be used. Further, the design of the pending images 261 to 264 after the change in S214 may be a design different from the design of the pending image before the change.

In FIG. 30, the current maximum number of difference balls is 93,500, the reference value is 95,000, and the number of prize balls that the player can obtain in one big win is 1,000. In the case where there is only one pending game that wins the probability variable jackpot during the reservation, 1000, which is the number of game balls that the player can acquire by the end of the jackpot game of the probability variable jackpot, is added to the current maximum number of difference balls. The added value is 94,500. Therefore, since the reference value is not reached, the corresponding hold will change to a rainbow color. On the other hand, if there is a new hold to win the second variable jackpot after that, the number of game balls that the player can acquire by the end of the jackpot game for the current maximum difference number of balls. A value obtained by adding a certain 2000 is 95500. Therefore, since the reference value is reached, the corresponding hold is not changed. As a result, as shown in FIG. 30, the pending image corresponding to the first definite variable jackpot changes, while the pending image corresponding to the second definite variable jackpot does not change. In this case, the second definite variable jackpot with no change in the pending image is the last jackpot to be executed before shifting to the unplayable state. That is, after the jackpot game, the state shifts to a game-disabled state (S124, S125 in FIG. 23), so there is no difference in profit for the player whether it is a variable probability jackpot or a normal jackpot, and conversely, it is a probability variable jackpot. If the game is notified in advance, the player may feel dissatisfied with the game being terminated in such a situation. Therefore, the game state (that is, the type of jackpot) to which the gaming machine shifts after the jackpot game is intentionally not suggested.

In addition, in the case where the reservation to win the third probability variable jackpot newly occurs from the state shown in FIG. Since it is a reservation that grants a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for , the reservation is not changed as in the second case. In addition, since the jackpot game itself is not performed for the reservation of winning the third variable probability jackpot in that case, the reliability of the jackpot is high in addition to the probability variable jackpot. It is also desirable not to perform the look-ahead effect suggesting that.

In addition, as described above, regarding the suspension of awarding a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value, the prediction effect that suggests a variable probability jackpot will not be performed, but the gaming machine will shift after the jackpot game. If the game state (that is, the type of jackpot) is not suggested, it is permissible to simply suggest a jackpot or to perform a look-ahead effect that suggests that the reliability of the jackpot is high (however, as described above, (Excluding holdings in which the jackpot game itself is not performed). Further, instead of suggesting a variable probability big win, an effect suggesting transition to a game-impossible state may be executed as a look-ahead effect. For example, a pending image of a pending jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the maximum difference number of balls to reach a reference value may be changed to a pending image of "END" characters.

(Promotion processing)
Next, the promotion effect processing (S191 in FIG. 27) executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG.
The production control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the conditions for starting the promotion production are satisfied (S220). It should be noted that the promotion effect is to temporarily stop with a combination of symbols that notify a big win, and then promote the jackpot to a type of jackpot that is more valuable to the player than the jackpot that announces the current winning (in some cases, it will not be promoted). refers to the production of

Then, in S220, the effect control microcomputer 101 satisfies the starting condition of the promotion effect when the effect content for the promotion effect is selected in the effect content selection process of S208 and when the timing for starting the promotion effect has come. I judge that. The timing of starting the promotion performance is the timing of temporary stop with the combination of the symbols for notifying the big hit with respect to the left performance pattern 9L, the middle performance pattern 9C and the right performance pattern 9R.

Then, when it is determined that the conditions for starting the promotion effect are satisfied (S220: Yes), the process proceeds to S221. On the other hand, when it is determined that the conditions for starting the promotion effect are not satisfied (S220: No), the process proceeds to S192.

Next, in S221, the effect control microcomputer 101 temporarily stops the left effect symbol 9L and the middle effect symbol 9L temporarily stopped by the combination of the symbols notifying the big hit on the promotion effect screen 270 displayed on the effect display device 7 as shown in FIG. The production pattern 9C and the right production pattern 9R are changed again. A combination of symbols that announces a big win at the time of temporary stop is a combination of symbols that announces a big win of low value to the player (for example, a normal big win). In the re-variation, the left effect pattern 9L, the middle effect pattern 9C, and the right effect pattern 9R are changed in the same pattern.

Thereafter, in S222, the effect control microcomputer 101 stops and displays the combination of the left effect symbol 9L, the middle effect symbol 9C and the right effect symbol 9R selected in S206 or S207 of the variable effect start process (FIG. 28). Specifically, if the normal big win, the normal symbols are stopped and displayed together, and if the probability variable big win, the probability variable symbols are stopped and displayed together. As a result, the player is notified of the type of jackpot in this variation. However, when a combination of special performance symbols which are not usually stop-displayed is selected in S207, the combination of special performance symbols is stop-displayed. For example, it is assumed that the pattern is composed of English letters of "ED (abbreviation of Ending)". That is, when a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value is given, it is intentionally not suggested whether the jackpot is a variable probability jackpot or a normal jackpot.

(Split ball notification process)
Next, the differential ball notification process (S194 in FIG. 27) executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG.
The effect control microcomputer 101 first determines in S230 whether or not it is time to report the current state of reaching the reference value of the maximum number of difference balls. The timing of notifying the state of reaching the reference value of the maximum number of difference balls includes, for example, the timing when a new player starts a game, the timing when a jackpot game ends, and the counting start timing (previous power ON) to the present. The timing when the difference between the lowest value and the current number of difference balls in the change in the number of difference balls of the gaming machine reaches a sharp value (for example, a multiple of 10,000), the timing from the start timing of counting (the last time the power was turned on) to the present The timing when the difference between the lowest value in the transition of the number of difference balls in the gaming machine and the current number of difference balls reaches a threshold value or more (for example, 90000 or more) can be given.

Then, when it is determined that it is time to notify the current state of the number of difference balls reaching the reference value (S230: YES), the process proceeds to S231. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not the timing to report the current state of reaching the reference value of the maximum difference number of balls (S231: No), the process ends without reporting the state of reaching.

In S231, the effect control microcomputer 101 acquires the minimum value of the difference ball number in the transition of the difference ball number of the pachinko game machine 1 from the counting start timing (previous power ON) to the present, the current difference ball number, and the reference value. . The transition (history) of the number of difference balls up to the present including the current number of difference balls of the pachinko game machine 1 is stored in the difference number storage unit 64d of the main control board 60, and information specifying them. is also sent to the sub-control board 100 as appropriate. The process of calculating the maximum value and the minimum value from the change in the number of difference balls may be performed by the main control board 60 or may be performed by the sub control board 100 . On the other hand, the reference value may be acquired from the main control board 60 together with the difference number of balls.

After that, in S232, the effect control microcomputer 101 calculates the minimum value of the difference ball number in the transition of the difference ball number of the gaming machine from the counting start timing (previous power ON) acquired in S231 to the present and the current difference ball number. Based on the reference value, first, the difference between the minimum ball difference number and the current ball difference number is calculated as the difference difference ball number, and the activation delay difference ball number, which is the difference between the difference difference number and the reference value. Calculate For example, if the current differential ball number is plus 90,000 and the reference value is plus 95,000, the activation delay difference ball number is 5,000. In addition, when the current ball difference number is the maximum value of the difference ball number in the transition of the difference ball number of the gaming machine from the counting start timing (previous power ON) to the present, the difference difference number = maximum difference ball number becomes.

Subsequently, in S233, the effect control microcomputer 101 displays the activation delay difference number of balls calculated in S232 on the effect display device 7. FIG. As a result, it is possible to inform the player of the state of reaching the reference value of the maximum number of difference balls at the present point in time, that is, how long it will take to move to the unplayable state. However, to be precise, the status of reaching the maximum ball difference standard value is the current maximum ball difference in the transition of the game machine's difference ball number from the start of counting to the present. only if it is a value. It should be noted that the activation delay difference ball number may be guided by a specific numerical value, or may be indirectly guided by an image suggesting the numerical value without directly guiding the numerical value.

For example, FIG. 34 shows an example in which the activation delay difference number of balls is guided by a specific numerical value. A sentence 275 is displayed on the upper side of the screen, saying that "XX is left until the game is stopped (XX is the number of delay balls)". As a result, the displayed text 275 allows the player to accurately grasp the state of reaching the reference value of the maximum difference number of balls.

It should be noted that the activation delay difference number of balls displayed on the effect display device 7 in S233 is hidden after a predetermined time has passed since it was displayed. Further, the activation delay difference number of balls displayed on the effect display device 7 may be fixed at the value at the time of display, or the activation delay may be delayed by the player consuming new game balls or obtaining prize balls after the display. When the difference number of balls is changed, the display contents may be updated in real time accordingly. Further, the activation delay difference number of balls may be the difference between the maximum difference number of balls and the reference value instead of the difference between the difference difference number of balls and the reference value. In addition, especially when the number of difference balls is negative (number of balls acquired < number of balls consumed), the difference between the maximum value of the difference number of balls and the current number of difference balls is calculated as the difference number of difference balls. Also good.

(Play impossible notification process)
Next, the game impossibility notification process (S195 in FIG. 27) executed by the effect control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG.
The effect control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the game disabled state flag is turned on in S240. The game-impossible state flag is OFF in the initial state, and is turned ON when a game-impossible notification command indicating that the game has shifted to the game-impossible state is received from the main control board 60, and then the game-enabled state is restored. When a playable notification command indicating is received, it is turned OFF (S181). That is, when the maximum number of difference balls reaches a predetermined reference value and the player shifts to a non-playable state in which the player cannot play a game, the non-playable state flag is turned on until the player returns to the playable state. It will be done.

If it is determined that the game-disabled state flag is ON, that is, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a game-disabled state in which the game cannot be played (S240: YES), the process proceeds to S241. On the other hand, if it is determined that the game-impossible state flag is OFF, that is, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not in the game-impossible state where it is impossible to play (S240: No), the pattern is continued. , and the accompanying effects are executed.

After that, in S241, the effect control microcomputer 101 stops the variation of the decorative symbols displayed on the effect display device 7 (if the decorative symbols have been varied) and hides them. Further, as shown in FIG. 36, a dedicated moving image 276 that is displayed only in the play-disabled state is repeatedly displayed on the effect display device 7 (S242). This moving image 276 is a moving image that notifies the surroundings that the table is in a non-playable state. For example, a voice saying "Please play on another machine" may be played periodically, or text with the same content may be displayed on the effect display device 7. FIG. As a result, it is possible to inform the surroundings that the game is in the unplayable state. In addition, the moving image 276 is continuously displayed until the game is returned from the unplayable state to the playable state.

[Effects of Embodiment]
(1) If the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the above-described embodiment is implemented, a game information acquiring means for acquiring game information based on the establishment of the starting condition, and whether or not to award a jackpot based on the game information a jackpot game executing means for executing a jackpot game in which a player acquires a number of game media corresponding to the type of jackpot when it is decided to give the jackpot, and variation of symbols. and a predetermined maximum reserved storage number until the game information acquired through the game information acquisition means is provided for notification by the notification means. is stored as a hold in chronological order with an upper limit of A prefetch effect executing means for executing a prefetch effect, a measuring means for measuring a specific count number based on a game medium given to a player, and a game machine triggered by the specific count number reaching a set reference value and a game-disabled state transition means for shifting to a game-disabled state in which a game cannot be played at the For the hold to be given, no pre-reading performance suggesting the kind of jackpot when the jackpot is achieved in the hold is not performed. As a result, when the specific count reaches the set reference value, the specific count reaches the reference value while the game machine is equipped with a function to shift to a game-disabled state in which it is not possible to play games. It is possible to avoid a situation that makes the player feel dissatisfied as much as possible by not performing a look-ahead effect that suggests the type of the jackpot in advance for the reservation of granting the jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the purpose. .
(2) In addition, when a plurality of reservations for awarding a jackpot are stored in the reservation storage means, among the plurality of reservations for awarding a jackpot, the condition for the specific count number to reach the reference value is satisfied. When a reservation for giving a jackpot is included, at least for the reservation, no look-ahead performance suggesting the kind of jackpot when the jackpot is achieved is performed. As a result, if the conditions for the specific measurement number to reach the standard value not only for the next jackpot but also for the next and subsequent jackpots, a pre-reading effect that suggests the type of jackpot in advance for the relevant hold will be performed. By not doing so, it is possible to avoid as much as possible situations that make the player feel dissatisfied.
(3) Also, the types of the jackpot are classified according to the game state to which the game is shifted after the jackpot game. As a result, with respect to the suspension of granting a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the specific count number to reach the reference value, by not performing a look-ahead effect that suggests in advance the game state to be shifted after the jackpot game, the player It is possible to avoid situations that cause dissatisfaction as much as possible.
(4) In addition, the look-ahead effect execution means is a type that enters a game state in which the next big win is guaranteed after the big win game with respect to the holding of the big win that satisfies the condition for the specific measurement number to reach the reference value. Do not perform a look-ahead effect that suggests that it will be a big hit. As a result, by not notifying the player of the transition to the unplayable state in the game state in which the next big win is guaranteed, it is possible to avoid the situation that makes the player feel dissatisfied as much as possible.
(5) In addition, the look-ahead effect executing means replaces the look-ahead effect suggesting the type of jackpot with respect to the suspension of granting a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the specific count number to reach the reference value. A look-ahead performance suggesting a transition to a game-impossible state is executed. As a result, the player is dissatisfied by performing a pre-reading effect that suggests in advance that the game will be disabled in response to the suspension of giving a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the specific count number to reach the reference value. It is possible to avoid situations that make you feel as much as possible.
(6) The specific count number is the maximum number of difference balls, which is the difference between the lowest value and the highest value in the transition of the number of difference balls of the gaming machine from a predetermined counting start timing to the present time. As a result, when the maximum difference number of balls reaches the set reference value, it is equipped with a function that makes it impossible to play games on the gaming machine, while the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value. It is possible to avoid situations that make players feel dissatisfied as much as possible by deliberately not performing a look-ahead effect that suggests the type of jackpot in advance for the hold that gives a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for reaching it. becomes.

<Other embodiments>
(1) In the above-described embodiment, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is shifted to a non-playable state in which a game cannot be played, for example, the winning hole sensor is disabled, pattern fluctuation is stopped, or the driving of the motor or solenoid is stopped. However, if it is possible for the player to make a transition to a state in which the game cannot be played, another method can be used to prevent the player from being able to play the game. It can be realized. For example, it is conceivable to forcibly turn off the power, black out the effect display device 7, or repeatedly output a warning sound.
(2) In addition, in the above-described embodiment, even if the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value during the jackpot game, the game is continued at least until the jackpot ends without shifting to the unplayable state. However, when the maximum difference number of balls reaches the reference value during the jackpot game, the game may be shifted to a game-disabled state at that time, that is, the game may be forcibly terminated during the jackpot game.
(3) In addition, in the above-described embodiment, in the look-ahead effect processing (FIG. 29), an effect is performed that suggests that the hold is a definite variable jackpot. You may make it perform the production which suggests.
(4) In the above-described embodiment, the resetting of the transition (history) of the number of difference balls and the recovery from the unplayable state are performed based on the operations of the staff of the amusement arcade. It may be automatically performed on the gaming machine side according to the time and a predetermined time schedule.
(5) In addition, in the above-described embodiment, when the maximum number of difference balls reaches the reference value, the game machine is shifted to a non-playable state in which the game cannot be played. Alternatively, when the difference ball number reaches the reference value, the game machine may be shifted to a non-playable state in which a game cannot be played. In that case, the standard value is basically set by the difference ball (plus difference ball) value when the number of acquired balls is larger than the number of consumed balls (minus the difference ball) when the number of consumed balls is larger than the acquired number of balls You may set it with the value of difference ball).
(6) In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the number of difference balls and the number of balls in possession are managed within the pachinko gaming machine 1, but they may be managed by an external server. Similarly, an external server may be used to determine whether or not the maximum difference number of balls has reached the reference value.
(7) In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the example in which the present invention is applied to the definite variable machine is described, but it can be applied to other than the definite variable machine. For example, a 1-kind 2-kind mixer or an ST machine may be used. In addition, when applied to a type 1 type 2 type mixing machine, in the look-ahead effect processing (Fig. 29), it is suggested that it is a big win that shifts to a rush (shorter time) rather than an effect that suggests that the hold is a variable probability big win. Make a performance. Similarly, in the promotion effect processing (FIG. 31), when the determination result of awarding a jackpot that does not satisfy the condition for the maximum difference number of balls to reach the reference value is notified, the jackpot is a jackpot that shifts to a rush or a jackpot that does not shift to a rush. While changing the production pattern to be stopped depending on whether or not, in the case of informing the judgment result of granting a jackpot that satisfies the conditions for the maximum number of difference balls to reach the reference value, it is a jackpot that shifts to a rush or a jackpot that does not shift to a rush. To stop and display the same special performance pattern regardless of whether there is one.
(8) Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is explained assuming that it is a managed gaming machine (smart pachinko). However, it may be a general pachinko game machine that physically pays out game balls.
(9) The present invention can also be applied to gaming machines other than pachinko gaming machines, such as reel-type gaming machines (also called slot machines or pachislot machines). When the present invention is applied to a reel-type gaming machine, the difference number of medals, which is the game medium of the reel-type gaming machine, corresponds to the difference number of balls, and the maximum number of difference corresponds to the maximum number of difference balls.

1 pachinko game machine 2a board lamp 7 effect display device 8 speaker 23a left side lamp 23b right side lamp 25 operating console 26 game ball number display 27 storage device 76 card unit 78 voice control board 79 lamp control board 101 effect control microcomputer 150 Frame control board 151 Frame control microcomputer 202 Image control CPU
205 CG ROMs

Claims (6)

game information acquisition means for acquiring game information based on the establishment of a starting condition;
privilege grant determination means for determining whether or not to grant a jackpot based on the game information;
a jackpot game executing means for executing a jackpot game in which a player acquires a number of game media corresponding to the type of jackpot when it is determined that the jackpot is awarded;
a notification means for notifying the determination result of the privilege provision determination means using the variation of the symbol;
The game information acquired through the game information acquisition means is stored as pending in chronological order with a predetermined maximum number of pending stored items as an upper limit until the game information is provided for reporting by the reporting means. a pending storage means for newly digesting the oldest stored pending at the end stage;
A prefetch effect executing means for executing a prefetch effect for the hold stored in the hold storage means;
a measuring means for measuring a specific count based on game media given to a player;
a game-disabled state transition means for shifting to a game-disabled state in which a game cannot be played on the gaming machine when the specific count reaches a set reference value;
The look-ahead effect executing means performs a look-ahead effect suggesting a type of jackpot in the event of a big win in the hold, for a hold that grants a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the specific count number to reach the reference value. A game machine characterized by not performing. When a plurality of reservations for giving a jackpot are stored in the reservation storage means,
Among a plurality of reservations for awarding a jackpot, if the reservation for awarding a jackpot includes conditions for the specific count number to reach the reference value, at least for the reservation, the jackpot is a jackpot. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a look-ahead effect suggesting the type of the game is not performed. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the types of the jackpots are classified according to the game state to which the game is shifted after the jackpot game is played. The look-ahead effect executing means is a type of jackpot in which a game state in which the next jackpot is guaranteed after the jackpot game is held with respect to a jackpot holding that satisfies a condition for the specific measurement number to reach the reference value. 4. The game machine according to claim 3, wherein no look-ahead effect suggesting is performed. The look-ahead effect execution means shifts to the non-playable state in place of a look-ahead effect suggesting the type of jackpot for the suspension of granting a jackpot that satisfies the condition for the specific count number to reach the reference value. 5. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a look-ahead effect suggesting that a game is played is executed. 6. Any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the specific count number is a maximum difference ball number that is a difference between a minimum value and a maximum value in transition of the difference ball number of the gaming machine from a predetermined counting start timing to the present time. The game machine described.

Images