JP4346854B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention comprises variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information, and after the predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, the variable information display is started based on the satisfaction of the variable display start condition. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result.
[0002]
[Prior art]
As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information is provided, so that when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result, it can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player. There is something configured.
[0003]
The specific game state means a state advantageous for a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, for example, the right for a game state that is advantageous for a player who is easy to win a hit (a big hit gaming state) or a player's advantageous state occurs, for example, in a specific game state A state in which a predetermined game value is given, such as a state in which a condition for paying out a prize game medium is easily established.
[0004]
In a pachinko gaming machine, the fact that the display result of the variable display means for displaying a special symbol (identification information) is a combination of specific display modes determined in advance is usually called “big hit”. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state in which a hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is ended.
[0005]
In addition, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) on the variable display means continue for a predetermined time and stop, swing, or expand in a state that matches the specific display result. The possibility of big hits continues before the final result is displayed due to a reduced or deformed state, or multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol changing. An effect performed in a state in which the player is in a state (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. In the reach state, the interest of the game is enhanced by making the variation pattern different from the variation pattern in the normal state. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display means does not satisfy the condition for reaching the reach state, it becomes “displaced”, and the variable display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.
[0006]
Some variable display means has a so-called notice function that notifies in advance that a reach mode or a jackpot mode is displayed. The notice effect based on the notice function is provided in the gaming machine, for example, before the final stop symbol is confirmed, when the special symbol variable display mode or background image changes, or a predetermined character appears or changes. This is performed by blinking light emitting means such as lamps / LEDs or outputting sound and sound effects from sound output means such as a speaker provided in the gaming machine.
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The game control means for controlling the overall progress of the game in the gaming machine when the notice effect is performed using each means for effects such as variable display means, light emitting means, and sound output means. It must be controlled and the control burden becomes heavy. In order to lighten the burden on the game control means, a configuration provided with sub-control means for controlling each of the variable display means, the light emitting means and the sound output means may be adopted. In order to execute the effect, the game control means must transmit a command to each sub-control means. Therefore, the burden on the game control means is not reduced so much. In addition, a configuration in which each sub-control unit independently executes a notice effect may be employed. In this case, it is necessary to synchronize the notice effect by each means for effect. Therefore, it is necessary for the sub-control means to perform control synchronized with each other, and the control burden on each sub-control means becomes heavy.
[0008]
In order to lighten the burden on the sub-control means, there is a configuration in which a single sub-control means controls a plurality of types of effect means. It is only executed after it has been started. Therefore, even if it is informed in advance that the reach mode or the big hit mode is displayed, the notice effect is executed only when a change in the symbols that can actually occur is performed. The notice effect is executed in order to enhance the interest of the game. However, since the notice effect is executed only when the design is changed, there is a limit to improving the interest.
[0009]
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can further enhance the interest relating to the notice effect without increasing the burden on the game control means and the sub-control means relating to the control of the notice effect.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  The gaming machine according to the present invention includes variable display means (for example, a variable display device 9) capable of variably displaying identification information,On condition that the hit ball launched into the game area has entered the start area provided in the game areaA variable display of identification information is started, and a specific game state (for example, big hit) advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of identification information becomes a specific display result (for example, the left middle right design is the same design) A gaming machine that can be controlled in a gaming state), and executes an effect related to variable display of identification information based on a game control means (for example, CPU 56) that controls the progress of the game and a command from the game control means Effect control means (for example, CPU 101 for effect control) that controls a plurality of types of effect means (for example, variable display device 9, lamp / LED, speaker 27, effect movable member)AndThe game control meansPredetermining means for determining the display result of the variable display of the identification information when starting the variable display of the identification information, and variable display time determining means for determining the variable display time of the identification information based on the determination result of the predetermining means And when the hitting ball enters the starting area, the pre-determining unit stores the holding information used for determining the display result of the variable display of the identification information, and when starting the variable display of the identification information The variable display result command capable of specifying the determination result of the predetermining means and the variable display time command capable of specifying the variable display time of the identification information determined by the variable display time determining means are transmitted to the effect control means. The variable display command transmission means that performs the display, and when the hit ball enters the start area and the hold information is stored in the hold storage means, any display result of the hold information is obtained. OfMake a decisionOn hold storageDetermination means (for example, a part of the game control means for executing the effect setting process at the time of winning);On hold storageJudgment meansWhen the determination is made,Judgment result command that can specify the judgment result (for example, an extraordinary prize designation, a reach prize designation, a non-specific big hit prize designation, a specific big hit prize designation presentation control command)TheFor production control meansTowardsA determination result command transmission means for transmitting (for example, a portion of steps S166 and S167 in the game control means),Based on the received variable display result command and variable display time command, variable display effect execution means for executing effects related to variable display of identification information;Based on the received judgment result command,The variable display of the identification information whose display result is determined using the determined hold information is started.beforeIt is a notice effect to be executed, Using multiple types of production meansThePredeterminedNoticeAn effect determining means for uniquely determining whether or not to execute an effect (for example, a part of the effect control means for executing steps S638, S642, S654, and S658)And a notice effect executing means for executing a predetermined notice effect according to the determination result of the effect determining means;IncludingThe variable display effect executing means executes the effect related to the variable display of the identification information according to the variable display time of the identification information specified by the variable display time command regardless of the determination result of the effect determining means.It is characterized by that.
  Further, the holding storage time determination means, when the hit ball enters the starting area and stores the hold information in the hold storage means, the display result of the variable display of the identification information is based on the hold information and the specific display result. And when it is determined that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is not a specific display result, it is determined whether or not reach variable display is executed as the content of the variable display of the identification information, The determination result command transmission means includes, as the determination result command, a specific display result determination command capable of specifying that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is a specific display result, and the display result of the variable display of the identification information Reach determination command that can determine that reach variable display is executed as the contents of variable display of identification information that does not result in a specific display result, or variable identification information A non-specific display result determination command capable of specifying that it is determined that the display result is not a specific display result and that reach variable display is not executed as the content of variable display of identification information The effect determining means receives any of the specific display result determination command, the reach determination command, or the non-specific display result command as a determination table used to determine whether or not to execute the predetermined notice effect. In response to this, a table with a different ratio at which execution of the predetermined announcement effect can be determined is selected, and it is configured to determine whether or not to execute the predetermined announcement effect using the selected determination table. It may be.
[0013]
  When a special display result is displayed as a specific display result, including a special display result (for example, a probable variation symbol) and a non-special display result (for example, a non-probable variation symbol). It can be controlled to an advantageous special gaming state (for example, a probability variation state)On hold storageWhen the determination by the determination unit determines that the display result of the identification information is a specific display result, a determination is made as to whether or not the display result of the identification information is a special display result (for example, determination in step S125). It may be configured to include.
  In addition, the game control means performs an initial setting process when power supply is started, and then executes a main routine that repeatedly executes a predetermined process, and a timer interrupt that occurs every predetermined time during the execution of the main routine. Execution means for executing an interrupt routine that is activated by interrupting the main routine, and the execution means sets a specific game state determination numerical value for determining whether or not to enter a specific game state in the interrupt routine. Numerical value update processing for specific gaming state determination to be updated within a predetermined range, and initial value change processing to change the initial value of the specific gaming state determination numerical value to the initial value numerical value stored in the RAM at a predetermined time And a game control process including an initial value numerical value update process for updating an initial value numerical value stored in the RAM, and also in the main routine, as a predetermined process, R Executes the initial value update process for updating the initial value value stored in M, prohibits interrupts by timer interrupts before starting the initial value update process in the main routine, and for initial values. An interruption by a timer interruption may be permitted after completion of the numerical value updating process.
[0014]
  When a special display result is displayed as a specific display result, including a special display result (for example, a probable variation symbol) and a non-special display result (for example, a non-probable variation symbol). It is controllable to an advantageous special game state (for example, a probability change state), and the production determining means has a predetermined game state depending on whether or not it is in a special game stateNoticeIt may be configured to determine that the effect is executed at a different ratio (for example, steps S662A, 662B, 662C).
[0016]
The effect control means may control the effect means based on data (for example, a program) stored in the ROM, and store at least a part of the data related to the control of the plurality of effect means in the same ROM. .
[0017]
An effect control board (for example, effect control board 80) equipped with effect control means, and a driver board (for example, a lamp / LED, etc.) that generates an operation signal for operating the effect means based on a signal output from the effect control board. The speaker 27 and the drive signal for driving the movable member may be provided separately.
[0018]
The effect control means may include an effect control CPU, and an output port (eg, output port 352) connected to the effect control CPU by a bus may be mounted on the driver board (eg, lamp driver board 35).
[0019]
The driver board includes a sound data ROM (for example, audio data ROM 704) that stores data for generating sound output from sound output means (for example, the speaker 27) as effect means, and sound output from the effect control means. A voice synthesizing IC that selects data stored in the sound data ROM based on the designated data (for example, sound number data) and controls the sound output means based on the selected data may be mounted.
[0020]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a first type pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing the front of the game board.
[0021]
The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding game boards described later). Is a structure including
[0022]
As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2, there is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.
[0023]
Near the center of the game area 7, a variable display device (special variable display section) 9 including a plurality of variable display sections each variably displaying a symbol as identification information is provided. The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The variable display section may be a fixed area, but may move or change in size in the display area of the variable display device 9 while the game is in progress. In addition, the variable display device 9 is provided with four special symbol start memory display areas (start memory display areas) 18 for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the start winning memory number. Every time there is an effective start prize (start prize when the start prize memory number is less than 4), the start memory display area 18 for changing the display color (for example, changing from blue display to red display) is increased by one. Each time the variable display of the variable display device 9 is started, the start memory display area 18 in which the display color is changed is reduced by 1 (that is, the display color is returned to the original).
[0024]
In addition, since the symbol display area and the start memory display area 18 are provided separately, the start winning memory number can be displayed even during variable display. The start memory display area 18 may be provided in a part of the symbol display area. In this case, the display of the start winning memory number may be interrupted during variable display. In this embodiment, the start memory display area 18 is provided in the variable display device 9. However, the variable display device 9 is a display (special symbol start memory display) for displaying the start winning memory number. It may be provided separately.
[0025]
Below the variable display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 is provided as a start winning port 14. The winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 14a. A variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes is provided below the start winning opening 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16.
[0026]
An open / close plate 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The opening / closing plate 20 is a means for opening and closing the special winning opening. Of the winning balls guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6, the winning ball entering one (V winning area) is detected by the V winning switch 22, and the winning ball from the opening / closing plate 20 is detected by the count switch 23. Is done. On the back of the game board 6, a solenoid 21A for switching the route in the special winning opening is also provided.
[0027]
When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, a predetermined random number value is extracted if the normal symbol start winning memory has not reached the upper limit. And if it is a state which can start the variable display in which a display state changes in the normal symbol display 10, the variable display of the display of the normal symbol display 10 will be started. If the normal symbol display 10 is not in a state where variable display in which the display state changes can be started, the value of the normal symbol start winning memory is incremented by one. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, there is provided a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of normal symbol start winning memorized numbers. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Then, every time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. The special symbol and the normal symbol can be variably displayed on one variable display device. In that case, the special variable display unit and the normal variable display unit are realized by one variable display device.
[0028]
In this embodiment, the left and right lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized at the time of lighting) are alternately turned on, whereby the normal symbols are variably displayed, and the variable display continues for a predetermined time (for example, 29.2 seconds). If the left lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a win. Whether or not to win is determined by whether or not the value of the random number extracted when the game ball wins the gate 32 matches a predetermined hit determination value. When the display result of the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is a win, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time so that the game ball is likely to win. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 changes from a disadvantageous state to a player's advantageous state when the normal symbol is a winning symbol.
[0029]
Furthermore, in the probability variation state as the special game state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. And more advantageous for the player. Further, in a predetermined state such as a probability change state, the variable display period (fluctuation time) in the normal symbol display 10 may be shortened, which may be more advantageous for the player.
[0030]
The gaming board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39, and winning of the game balls to the winning holes 29, 30, 33 is detected by winning hole switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, respectively. The Around the left and right sides of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 that are blinked and displayed during the game, and at the bottom there is an out mouth 26 that absorbs the hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that emit sound effects and sounds are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided.
[0031]
In this example, a prize ball lamp 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball that is turned on in the vicinity of the top frame lamp 28a when the supply ball is cut. A cut lamp 52 is provided. Further, FIG. 1 also shows a card unit 50 that is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 and enables lending of a ball by inserting a prepaid card.
[0032]
The card unit 50 includes a use indicator lamp 151 that indicates whether or not the card unit 50 is in a usable state, a connection table direction indicator 153 that indicates which side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 corresponds to the card unit 50, a card A card insertion indicator lamp 154 indicating that a card is inserted into the unit 50, a card insertion slot 155 into which a card as a recording medium is inserted, and a card reader / writer mechanism provided on the back surface of the card insertion slot 155 A card unit lock 156 is provided for releasing the card unit 50 when checking the card.
[0033]
The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. When the hit ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch 14a, the variable display device 9 starts variable display (variation) if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If it is not in a state where the variable display of symbols can be started, the start winning memory number is increased by one.
[0034]
The variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of the special symbols at the time of the stop is a jackpot symbol (specific display mode), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of hit balls wins. When the hit ball enters the V winning area while the opening / closing plate 20 is opened and is detected by the V winning switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).
[0035]
When the combination of special symbols in the variable display device 9 at the time of stopping is a combination of jackpot symbols (probability variation symbols) with probability fluctuations, the probability of the next jackpot increases. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state (special game state) for the player, which is a probability change state.
[0036]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration in the main board 31. 3 also shows a payout control board 37, a lamp driver board 35, an audio output board 70, and an effect control board 80. On the main board 31, a basic circuit 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 32a, a start port switch 14a, a V winning switch 22, a count switch 23, winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a and a clear A basic circuit includes a switch circuit 58 that supplies a signal from the switch 921 to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 16 that opens and closes the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid 21 that opens and closes the opening and closing plate 20, and a solenoid 21A that switches a path in the special winning opening. A solenoid circuit 59 that is driven in accordance with a command from 53 is mounted. The clear switch 921 is mounted on, for example, a power supply board installed in the gaming machine.
[0037]
Although not shown in FIG. 3, the count switch short circuit signal is also transmitted to the basic circuit 53 via the switch circuit 58. Further, the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the V winning switch 22, the count switch 23, the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, and other switches may be referred to as sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means is not limited as long as it is a game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball.
[0038]
Further, according to the data given from the basic circuit 53, the jackpot information indicating the occurrence of the jackpot, the effective starting information indicating the number of starting winning balls used for starting the variable display of the symbols in the variable display device 9, the probability variation has occurred. An information output circuit 64 is provided for outputting an information output signal such as probability variation information indicating an error to an external device such as a hall computer via an information terminal board installed on the back of the gaming machine.
[0039]
The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means (means for storing variation data) used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations according to the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and RAM 55 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached or built-in. Since the CPU 56 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, the CPU 56 executes (or performs processing) hereinafter, specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to the program. is there. The same applies to CPUs mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.
[0040]
Further, a part or all of the RAM (may be a CPU built-in RAM) 55 is a backup RAM backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is saved for a predetermined period.
[0041]
In this embodiment, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the normal symbol start memory display 41 and the decoration lamp 25 provided on the game board, and is provided on the frame side. The display control of the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52 is performed. Each lamp may be an LED or other types of light emitters. That is, a lamp or LED is an example of a light emitter, and may hereinafter be collectively referred to as a lamp / LED. Further, a variable display device decoration LED (center decoration LED) is installed at the upper part and the left and right parts of the variable display device 9, and a large prize opening interior decoration LED is installed inside the big prize opening, and on the right and left of the big prize opening. Is provided with a large winning opening left decoration LED and a large winning opening right decoration LED. The effect control means also controls those light emitters.
[0042]
A drive signal for driving the lamp / LED is generated in the lamp driver substrate 35. In addition, when a movable member as a production means is installed in the gaming machine, a drive signal for driving the production drive means 61 such as a motor or a solenoid for driving the movable member is also supplied to the lamp driver board 35. Created in.
[0043]
Further, the display control of the variable display device 9 that variably displays the special symbol and the normal symbol display 10 that variably displays the normal symbol is performed by effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80.
[0044]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a ROM (not shown), and the input driver 102 and the input port according to a strobe signal (effect control INT signal) from the main board 31. An effect control command is received via 103. The effect control CPU 101 performs display control of the variable display device 9 using the LCD via the output port 104 and the LCD drive circuit 106, and the normal symbol display 10 via the output port 104 and the lamp drive circuit 107. Display control.
[0045]
Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104 and the output driver 110. A bus (including an address bus, a data bus, and a control signal line such as a write / read signal) that is input / output to / from the effect control CPU 101 is extended to the lamp driver board 35 via the bus driver 105.
[0046]
In the lamp driver board 35, a bus that is input to and output from the effect control CPU 101 is connected to the output port 352 and the expansion port 353 via the bus receiver 351. A signal for driving each lamp output from the output port 352 is amplified by the lamp driver 354 and supplied to each lamp. A signal for driving each LED output from the output port 352 is amplified by the LED driving circuit 355 and supplied to each LED. A signal for driving the effect driving means 61 is amplified by the drive circuit 356 and supplied to each lamp.
[0047]
In this embodiment, lamps / LEDs and effect driving means provided in the gaming machine are controlled by effect control means including effect CPU 101 mounted on effect control board 80. Further, data for controlling the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, the lamp / LED and the like are stored in the ROM. The effect CPU 101 controls the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, the lamp / LED, and the like based on the data stored in the ROM. Then, the lamp / LED and the driving means for presentation are driven via the output port 352 and each drive circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35. Therefore, when changing the model, if the production control board 80 is replaced with a new one, the model change can be realized without replacing the lamp driver board 35.
[0048]
The effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70 are independent boards, but are installed in a single box on the back of the gaming machine, for example. Further, the expansion port 353 is installed in consideration of the case where the number of lamps / LEDs and the like is increased when changing the model, but it may not be installed. The drive circuit 356 may not be provided when there are no movable members for production, but when changing the model, considering the case where the movable member for production is installed, the movable for production is provided. It is preferably provided even when no member is present.
[0049]
In the audio output board 70, the sound number data from the effect control board 80 is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 by a digital signal processor, for example, via the input driver 702. The voice synthesis IC 703 reads data corresponding to the sound number data from the voice data ROM 704, generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the read data, and outputs them to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27.
[0050]
The data corresponding to the sound number data stored in the sound data ROM 704 is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a predetermined time period (for example, a special symbol fluctuation period) in time series. When the voice number IC 703 receives the sound number data, the voice synthesis IC 703 performs sound output control according to the corresponding data in the voice data ROM 704. The sound output control according to the corresponding data is continued until the next sound number data is input. When the next sound number data is input, the speech synthesis IC 703 performs sound output control according to the data in the sound data ROM 704 corresponding to the newly input sound number data.
[0051]
In this embodiment, the sound and sound output from the speaker 27 are controlled by the effect control means including the effect control CPU 101, but the effect control means outputs the sound number data to the sound output board 70. . In the audio output board 70, the audio data ROM 704 stores a large number of data for realizing sounds and sound effects that may appear as the game progresses, and these data are associated with the sound number data. . Therefore, the production control means can realize sound output control only by outputting the sound number data. Note that the sound number data is, for example, 1-byte data and is transferred to the audio output board 70 via a serial signal line or a parallel signal line.
[0052]
Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the game control means (CPU 56 and peripheral circuits such as ROM and RAM) on the main board 31. When power is turned on to the gaming machine and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high level, the CPU 56 starts main processing after step S1. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.
[0053]
In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, the built-in device register is initialized (step S4). Further, after initialization (step S5) of CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits), the RAM is set in an accessible state (step S6).
[0054]
The CPU 56 used in this embodiment also incorporates an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC). The CTC also includes two external clock / timer trigger inputs CLK / TRG2, 3 and two timer outputs ZC / TO0,1.
[0055]
The CPU 56 used in this embodiment is provided with the following three modes as maskable interrupt modes. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.
[0056]
Interrupt mode 0: The built-in device that has issued the interrupt request sends an RST instruction (1 byte) or a CALL instruction (3 bytes) onto the internal data bus of the CPU. Therefore, the CPU 56 executes the instruction at the address corresponding to the RST instruction or the address specified by the CALL instruction. At reset, the CPU 56 automatically enters interrupt mode 0. Therefore, when setting to interrupt mode 1 or interrupt mode 2, it is necessary to perform a process for setting to interrupt mode 1 or interrupt mode 2 in the initial setting process.
[0057]
Interrupt mode 1: In this mode, when an interrupt is accepted, the mode always jumps to address 0038 (h).
[0058]
Interrupt mode 2: A mode in which the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output by the built-in device indicates the interrupt address It is. That is, the interrupt address is an address indicated by 2 bytes in which the upper address is the value of the specific register and the lower address is the interrupt vector. Therefore, an interrupt process can be set at an arbitrary address (although it is skipped). Each built-in device has a function of sending an interrupt vector when making an interrupt request.
[0059]
Therefore, when the interrupt mode 2 is set, it becomes possible to easily process an interrupt request from each built-in device, and it is possible to install an interrupt process at an arbitrary position in the program. . Furthermore, unlike interrupt mode 1, it is also easy to prepare each interrupt process for each interrupt generation factor. As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 is set to the interrupt mode 2 in step S2 of the initial setting process.
[0060]
Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch 921 input via the input port only once (step S7). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S11 to S14).
[0061]
If the clear switch 921 is not in the on state, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. In this example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, it means that there is no backup (OFF state).
[0062]
After confirming that there is a backup, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example) (step S9). In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.
[0063]
If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped (step S10). ). Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) stored in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the address is restored.
[0064]
In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is stored by using both the backup flag and the check data, but only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the state recovery process.
[0065]
In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S11). In addition, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left middle right symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball out flag, a payout A work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag such as a stop flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state is performed (step S12). Further, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the sub-boards (the payout control board 35 and the effect control board 80 in this embodiment) to each sub-board is executed (step S13). As the initialization command, there are a command indicating the initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 9 (for the effect control board 80), a command for instructing turning off the winning ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52, and the like.
[0066]
Then, a CTC register set in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 ms (step S14). That is, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.
[0067]
When the execution of the initialization process (steps S11 to S14) is completed, the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) are repeatedly executed in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. (Step S19). The display random number is a random number for determining a symbol displayed on the variable display device 9, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. . The initial value random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). In a game control process described later, when the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.
[0068]
Note that when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt is prohibited. The display random number update process is also executed in the timer interrupt process described later, and thus conflicts with the process in the timer interrupt process. This is to avoid that. That is, if a timer interrupt is generated during the process of step S17 and the counter value for generating the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt process, the continuity of the count value is impaired. There is a case. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the process of step S17.
[0069]
When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 performs the register saving process (step S20), and then executes the game control process of steps S21 to S33 shown in FIG. In the game control process, the CPU 56 first inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switch 24a through the switch circuit 58, and determines their state. (Switch process: Step S21).
[0070]
Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (step S22). The CPU 56 further performs processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (steps S23 and S24).
[0071]
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit judgment)
(2) Random 2-1 to 2-3 (Random 2): For determining the left middle right of the special symbol (special symbol left middle right)
(3) Random 3: Determines the combination of special symbols that generate a big hit (for determining big hit symbols)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to reach when no big hit is generated (for reach determination)
(6) Random 6: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine initial value of random 1 (for determining random 1 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Determine initial value of random 6 (for determining random 6 initial value)
[0072]
In step S22 in the game control process shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 56 generates (1) a big hit determination random number, (3) a big hit determination random number, and (6) a normal determination random number. Counter is incremented (added by 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers related to ordinary symbols other than the random numbers (1) to (8) are also used.
[0073]
Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S25). In the special symbol process control, corresponding processing is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S26). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.
[0074]
Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting an effect control command related to the special symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and sending the effect control command (special symbol command control process: step S27). Further, a process for sending an effect control command by setting an effect control command for the normal symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 is performed (normal symbol command control process: step S28).
[0075]
Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).
[0076]
In addition, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the prize opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a (step S30). Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to detection of winning based on any of the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. The payout control CPU mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.
[0077]
And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in the number-of-start-winning memory | storage number (step S31). In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed (step S32). Further, when a predetermined condition is established, a drive command is issued to the solenoid circuit 59 (step S33). The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16, 21, and 21A in response to a drive command in order to open or close the variable winning ball device 15 or the opening / closing plate 20, or to switch the game ball passage in the special winning opening. To do. Thereafter, the contents of the register are restored (step S34), and the interrupt enabled state is set (step S35).
[0078]
With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.
[0079]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process processing program executed by the CPU 56. The special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 is a specific process of step S25 in the flowchart of FIG. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs a variable shortening timer subtraction process (step S310) to detect that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6. If the switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning that causes the game ball to win the start winning opening 14 is generated (step S311), the start opening switch passing process (step S312) is performed, and then according to the internal state. Any one of steps S300 to S308 is performed. The variation shortening timer is a timer for setting the variation time when the variation time of the special symbol is shortened.
[0080]
Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Waits until the variable symbol variable display can be started. When the special symbol variable display can be started, the start winning memory number is confirmed. If the start winning memorization number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win the game as a result of variable display of special symbols. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S301.
[0081]
Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): The stop symbol of the left middle right symbol after variable display of the special symbol is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S302.
[0082]
Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S302): A variation pattern (variable display mode) of variable display of special symbols is determined according to a random 4 value. Also, a variable time timer is started. At this time, the left middle right final stop symbol and information for instructing the variation mode (variation pattern) are transmitted to the effect control board 80. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S303.
[0083]
Special symbol variation process (step S303): When a predetermined time (the time indicated by the variation time timer in step S302) elapses, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S304.
[0084]
Special symbol stop process (step S304): Control is performed so that all symbols displayed on the variable display device 9 are stopped. Specifically, it sets to the state where the production control command which shows special symbol stop is transmitted. If the stop symbol is a combination of jackpot symbols, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.
[0085]
Big winning opening opening process (step S305): Control for opening the big winning opening is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening. Also, the process timer sets the execution time of the big prize opening opening process and sets the big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S306.
[0086]
Processing during opening of a special winning opening (step S306): processing for sending an effect control command for displaying a large winning opening round to the effect control board 80, processing for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special winning opening, and the like are performed. When the closing condition for the last big prize opening is satisfied, the internal state is updated to shift to step S307.
[0087]
Specific area valid time process (step S307): The presence / absence of passing through the V winning switch 22 is monitored, and a process of confirming that the big hit gaming state continuation condition is satisfied is performed. If the condition for continuing the big hit gaming state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state is updated to shift to step S305. In addition, when the big hit gaming state continuation condition is not satisfied within a predetermined effective time, or when all rounds are finished, the internal state is updated to shift to step S308.
[0088]
Big hit end processing (step S308): Control for causing the effect control means to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.
[0089]
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 9, “EXT” indicates the second byte of EXT data in the effect control command having a two-byte structure. “Time” indicates the variation time of the special symbol (variable display period of identification information).
[0090]
The “normal fluctuation” is a fluctuation pattern that does not involve a reach mode. “Normal reach” is a fluctuation pattern that involves a reach mode, but the fluctuation result (stop symbol) does not cause a big hit. “Reach A” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”. Further, the difference in reach mode means that a change mode (speed, rotation direction, etc.), a character, or the like of a different mode appears in the reach change time. For example, in “normal”, the reach mode is realized by only one type of change mode, whereas in “reach A”, a reach mode including a plurality of change modes with different speeds and directions of change is realized.
[0091]
Further, “reach B” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach” and “reach A”. “Reach C” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”, “reach A”, and “reach B”. Note that “reach A”, “reach B”, and “reach C” may or may not be a big hit.
[0092]
In this embodiment, a shortened display pattern is further used. The shortened display pattern is a very short variation pattern in which the variation time of the left middle right symbol is 1.0 seconds, for example.
[0093]
In this embodiment, the fluctuation patterns 1 to 14 are used at high probability (during probability change) and at low probability (non-probability change = normal state), but at high probability, the change patterns 1 to 14 are used. You may make it shorten each fluctuation time. Moreover, the variation pattern group used at the time of high probability (a plurality of variation patterns that can be used) may be separated from the variation pattern group used at the time of low probability.
[0094]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process (step S312). In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the start winning memorized number has reached 4 which is the maximum value (step S111). If the starting winning memory number has not reached 4, the starting winning memory number is increased by 1 (step S112), and random numbers such as jackpot determination random numbers are extracted and stored corresponding to the starting winning memory number value. Store in the area (special symbol determination buffer) (step S113). Note that extracting a random number means reading a count value from a counter for generating a random number and setting the read count value as a random value. In step S114, random numbers 1 to 5 are extracted from the random numbers shown in FIG. Then, a winning effect setting process is executed (step S115).
[0095]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a winning effect setting process. In the winning effect processing, first, the CPU 56 sets a winning flag indicating that there has been a start winning (step S121). The winning flag is referred to in the storage process (step S31) executed after the special symbol process. Next, the CPU 56 extracts random 1 from the counter for generating random 1 (random number for determining big hits) (step S122), and executes the big hit determining module. That is, the big hit determination subroutine is called (step S123). When it is determined in the jackpot determination module that the jackpot is based on a random value of 1 (step S124), it is determined whether or not it is a probability variation jackpot (step S125).
[0096]
In this embodiment, there are twelve special symbols “0” to “11” in the middle left and right, respectively, and the special symbol display changes in order from “0” in the variable display device 9. Fluctuations are realized. Note that the display of the display symbols may change discontinuously during the change of the special symbols. In addition, when the final stop symbols (determined symbols) of the special symbols are aligned to the middle left and right, a big hit is obtained, and when the left and right are aligned, reach is achieved. In the case of a big hit, when the odd symbols are arranged, the game shifts to a high probability state after the big hit game ends. Further, when a big hit occurs in the high probability state or when a special symbol is changed a predetermined number of times, the high probability state ends and returns to the low probability state.
[0097]
Accordingly, in step S124, the CPU 56 extracts a random number 3 (a jackpot symbol determining random number), determines a jackpot symbol based on the extracted random number, and determines that a probable variation jackpot is obtained if the determination result is an anequality symbol. If it is determined that the probability variation big hit is not reached, data indicating a non-specific big win winning designation command is set in the RAM 55 as a winning command (step S126). If it is determined that the probable big hit will be made, data indicating a specific big win winning designation command is set in the RAM 55 as a winning command (step S127).
[0098]
If it is determined in step S124 that the game is not a big hit, random 5 is extracted from the counter for generating random 5 (reach determination random number) (step S131), and the reach determination module is executed. That is, the reach determination subroutine is called (step S132). If the reach determination module determines that the reach is based on the random value of 5 (step S133), the data indicating the reach winning designation command is set in the RAM 55 as a winning command (step S134). If it is determined that the reach is not reached, data indicating a lost winning designation command is set in the RAM 55 as a winning command (step S135).
[0099]
Then, the data set as a winning command in the RAM 55 is stored in an area defined as a winning effect buffer in the RAM 55 (step S136). The data stored in the winning effect buffer is referred to in the storage process (step S31) executed after the special symbol process.
[0100]
FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a jackpot determination table used in the jackpot determination module. FIG. 12B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a reach determination table used in the reach determination module. As shown in FIG. 12A, in this embodiment, the big hit determination value is “3” at the time of low probability (non-probability change), and the big hit determination value is “3” at the time of high probability (when probability change). , “7”, “79”, “103”, “107”. As shown in FIG. 12B, the reach determination values are “0”, “1”, and “11” when the probability is low (non-probability change), and the reach determination value is “0” when the probability is high. , “1”, “9”, “11”, “12”.
[0101]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the jackpot determination module. In the big hit determination process, the CPU 56 first determines whether or not the state at that time is in a probable change (step S141). If the probable change is in the middle, the high in the big hit determination table shown in FIG. It is decided to use the table at the time of probability (step S142). If the probability change is not in progress, it is determined to use the low probability table in the jackpot determination table (step S143).
[0102]
Then, it is determined whether there is a value that matches the extracted random 1 value in the jackpot determination table (steps S144 and S145), and if there is a matching value, the jackpot is determined (step S146). If there is no value to be determined, it is determined that no big hit is made (step S147).
[0103]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the reach determination module. In the reach determination process, the CPU 56 first determines whether or not the state at that time is in the probability change state (step S151), and if it is in the probability change state, the high value in the reach determination table shown in FIG. It is decided to use the table at the time of probability (step S152). If the probability change is not in progress, it is determined to use the low probability table in the reach determination table (step S152).
[0104]
Then, it is determined whether or not there is a value that matches the extracted random value 5 in the reach determination table (steps S154 and S155), and if there is a matching value, the reach is determined (step S156) and the values match. If there is no value, it is decided not to reach (step S157).
[0105]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 is in a state where the variation of the special symbol can be started (for example, when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300) (step S51), the start winning memory is stored. The value of the number is confirmed (step S52). Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter is confirmed. The case where the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is a case where the symbol is not changed in the variable display device 9 and is not in the big hit game.
[0106]
If the starting winning memory number is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S53), and the starting winning memory number 1 is reduced by 1 and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S54). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n−1.
[0107]
Next, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S55), and executes the jackpot determination module (step S56). When it is determined to be a big hit (step S57), the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag (step S58). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S59).
[0108]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S61). When the big hit flag is set, the big hit symbol is determined according to the value of the big hit symbol random number (random 3) (random 3 read in step S53) (step S62). In this embodiment, each symbol of the symbol number set in the jackpot symbol table corresponding to the value of random 3 is determined as a jackpot symbol. In the jackpot symbol table, left, middle and right symbol numbers corresponding to a plurality of types of combinations of jackpot symbols are set. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S63).
[0109]
When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 executes a reach determination module (step S65). Here, in the reach determination module, it is determined whether or not to reach based on the random 3 value read from the storage area in step S53, that is, the value stored in the random value buffer (step S64). Further, the left and right symbols are determined according to the value of random 2-1, and the middle symbol is determined according to the value of random 2-2 (step S67). Here, if the determined middle symbol matches the left and right symbols, the symbol corresponding to the value obtained by adding 1 to the random number corresponding to the middle symbol is set as the stop symbol of the middle symbol so that it does not match the jackpot symbol. To do. Then, the process proceeds to step S63.
[0110]
If it is decided not to reach in step S66, a stop symbol in the case of a loss is determined (step S68). Specifically, the left symbol is determined according to the value read in step S53, that is, the extracted random 2-1 value, the middle symbol is determined according to the random 2-2 value, and the random 2-3 value is determined. The right design is determined according to. Here, when the left and right symbols match, the right symbol is shifted by one symbol so that it does not become reach. Then, the process proceeds to step S63. When the probability variation symbol is determined in step S62, a probability variation flag indicating that the game is shifted to the probability variation state after the big hit game is ended is set.
[0111]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the storage process (step 31) in the 2 ms timer interrupt process. In the storage process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value of the start winning storage counter is the same as the count value of the previous start winning storage counter (step S161). If they are not the same, that is, if there is a change in the number of starting winning memories, the address of the command sending table for starting winning memory designation corresponding to the number of starting winning memories is set in the pointer (step S162), and a command set as a subroutine is set. Processing is executed (step S163). Then, the count value of the starting winning memory counter is set in the previous starting winning memory counter (step S164).
[0112]
An effect control command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 by executing the command set process. In this embodiment, each effect control command that can be transmitted to the effect control means is stored in a ROM command transmission table. In the command set process, the CPU 56 sets the effect control command data stored at the address of the ROM 54 indicated by the pointer as an output port for outputting the effect control command data, and indicates that the command is transmitted. An effect control INT signal is output.
[0113]
If the winning flag is set (step S165), the address of the winning command transmission table corresponding to the data corresponding to the winning command stored in the winning buffer is set to the pointer (step S165). In step S166, a command setting process as a subroutine is executed (step S167).
[0114]
When the start winning memory number is changed by the above processing, an effect control command for designating the start winning memory number is transmitted to the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 (steps S161 to S163). Further, when the starting winning memory number is increased, an effect control command for specifying a special jackpot winning designation, a non-specific big winning prize designation, a reach winning designation, or an extra prize designation is transmitted (steps S112 and S115 shown in FIG. 10, FIG. 11 and steps S166 and S167 shown in FIG. 17). In this embodiment, when it is not a big win, a display control command for specifying a reach winning prize or a lost winning prize is transmitted, but when it is not a big hit, a display control command for specifying a lost winning prize is always transmitted. You may do it. Hereinafter, the effect control commands for specifying a special jackpot winning designation, a non-specific big winning prize designation, a reach winning designation, and an extra prize designation may be referred to as a winning determination result command or a determination result command.
[0115]
Note that the jackpot and reach (see steps S123 and S132) determined when the start winning is generated are conditions (execution conditions, not start conditions) for starting variable display in the variable display device 9. It is determined based on the establishment. When a condition (start condition) that allows variable display to be started in the variable display device 9 is satisfied, it is determined again whether to make a big hit or to make a shift reach (see steps S56 and S65). Based on the determination result, an actual variable display result is derived (see steps S62, S67, and S68). However, the random number value used when the variable display start condition is satisfied is a value extracted when the variable display execution condition is satisfied and stored in the storage area. Therefore, the decision result of whether or not to make a probable big hit when the variable display start condition is met, whether to make a non-probable big hit or not, and the result of deciding whether or not to make the reach reach when the variable display execution condition is met It becomes the same as the decision result.
[0116]
This is because the process of step S113, which is a process of extracting predetermined numerical data used when the variable display start condition is satisfied, and the winning effect setting process corresponding to the determination when the variable display execution condition is satisfied are 1 This is because it is completed within the timer interruption process of the first time and does not change during that time.
[0117]
In addition, the game control means transmits a start winning memory number designation command as a pending memory number command prior to the determination result command (the processes of steps S162 and S163 in the memory process precede the processes of steps S166 and S167). Execution). Therefore, the production control means can make a determination regarding the continuous notice based on the latest number of reserved memories.
[0118]
Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control means to the effect control means will be described. FIG. 18 is an explanatory view showing a signal line of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 18, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 through eight signal lines of the effect control signals D0 to D7. An effect control INT signal signal line for transmitting a strobe signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80. FIG. 18 shows an example of the effect control command, but the control command to other electrical component control boards (in this embodiment, the payout control means) also includes eight signal lines and one control command. It is transmitted by the signal line of the INT signal.
[0119]
In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.
[0120]
As shown in FIG. 19, the 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Therefore, when viewed from the effect control means, the effect control INT signal corresponds to a capture signal that triggers the capture of the effect control command data.
[0121]
The production control command is sent only once so that the production control means can recognize it. In this example, “recognizable” means that the level of the production control INT signal changes, and that it is sent only once so as to be recognizable means that, for example, the first byte and the second byte of the production control command data respectively. Accordingly, the production control INT signal is output in a pulse shape (rectangular wave shape) only once. The effect control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to that shown in FIG.
[0122]
FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control board 80. In the example shown in FIG. 20, commands 8000 (H) to 800E (H) are effect control commands for designating a special symbol variation pattern in the variable display device 9 that variably displays the special symbol. Note that a command for specifying a variation pattern (variation pattern command) also serves as a variation start instruction. Command 800E (H) is a command for designating a shortened display pattern.
[0123]
The command 88XX (H) (X = any value of 4 bits) is an effect control command related to a normal symbol variation pattern. Command 89XX (H) is an effect control command for designating a stop symbol of a normal symbol. Command 8A00 (H) is an effect control command for instructing stop of variable display of normal symbols.
[0124]
Commands 91XX (H), 92XX (H), and 93XX (H) are effect control commands for designating a left middle right stop symbol of a special symbol. A symbol number is set in “XX”. Command A000 (H) is an effect control command for instructing stop of variable symbol special display. The command BXXX (H) is an effect control command that is sent from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game. The commands C000 (H) to EXXXX (H) are effect control commands relating to the display state of the variable display device 9 that are not related to special symbol variations and jackpot games.
[0125]
The command C3XX (H) is a determination result command that is transmitted when a start prize is generated. C300 (H) is an effect control command for specifying an extra prize (extra prize designation command), C301 (H) is an effect control command for specifying a reach prize (reach prize designation command), and C302 (H) is a non-specific big hit. An effect control command (non-specific big hit winning designation command) designated for winning, and C303 (H) is an effect control command (specific big win winning designated command) designated for specific big win. Command D000 (H) is an effect control command for designating a customer waiting demonstration.
[0126]
The command E0XX (H) is an effect control command indicating the number of start memory display areas 18 for changing the display color in the display area for displaying the start winning memory number in the variable display device 9. For example, the effect control means changes the display color of the number of start memory display areas 18 designated by “XX (H)” in each start memory display area 18. That is, the command E0XX (H) is a command for instructing control of a display area provided for informing information on the number of reserved items. Note that the command related to the number of start memory display areas 18 for changing the display color may be configured to indicate increase / decrease in the number of areas for changing the display color. In this embodiment, since the upper limit value of the start winning memory is 4, “XX” is any one of 0-4.
[0127]
The command E400 (H) is a command transmitted when the high probability state is changed to the low probability state, and the command E401 (H) is transmitted when the low probability state is changed to the high probability state. It is a command.
[0128]
When the effect control means of the effect control board 80 receives the above-mentioned effect control command from the game control means of the main board 31, the display state of the variable display device 9 and the normal symbol display 10 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. At the same time, the lamp / LED display state is changed, and if necessary, the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70. In addition, control commands other than the example shown in FIG. 20 are also transmitted from the game control means to the effect control means. For example, a control command indicating the display state of the winning ball lamp 51 or the ball break lamp 52 and the number of lighting of the normal symbol start memory display 41, and a more detailed presentation control command related to the big hit game are also sent from the game control means to the presentation control means. Sent to.
[0129]
The variable display start designation command indicating the start of variable display and the variable display mode designation command capable of specifying the variable display mode are realized by the variation pattern designation effect control command, and the identification information designation command capable of identifying the display result of the identification information. Is realized by an effect control command for designating the left symbol, middle symbol, and right symbol, and a variable display end designating command indicating the end of variable display is realized by an effect control command for stopping the special symbol. In this embodiment, the production control command for specifying the variation pattern is also used as the variable display start specifying command for indicating the start of variable display and the variable display mode specifying command for specifying the variable display mode. The designation command and the variable display mode designation command that can specify the variable display mode may be separated.
[0130]
FIG. 21 shows a notice effect (execution effect) that is executed using the variable display device 9, the gaming state notification lamp / LED (in this embodiment, the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c) and the speaker 27. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the production | presentation for alert | reporting that it may become a big hit or may reach. As illustrated in FIGS. 21A to 21B, in this embodiment, the variable display device 9 performs two types of notice effects by displaying characters and the like appearing in the background (parts other than the symbol display area). It is possible. The advance notice A shown in FIG. 21A and the advance notice B shown in FIG. 21B are a series of advance notices (holding notice: based on the lottery result indicating whether or not to be a jackpot executed at the time of starting winning a prize, This is a notice effect other than the notice effect that is continuously executed up to the maximum number of start winning memories in the variable display of the special symbol multiple times.
[0131]
Also, four types of continuous notice effects as shown in FIGS. 21C to 21F can be performed. The continuous notice A shown in FIG. 21C is a notice effect by displaying characters and the like appearing in the background on the variable display device 9. The continuous notice B shown in FIG. 21D is a notice effect using the variable display device 9 and the speaker 27. The continuous notice C shown in FIG. 21E is a notice effect using the variable display device 9 and lamps / LEDs. The continuous notice D shown in FIG. 21 (F) is a notice effect using the variable display device 9, the lamp / LED, and the speaker 27.
[0132]
Note that the example of the notice effect shown in FIG. 21 is an example, and more kinds of notice effects may be performed. For example, in the continuous notices B and C, different production modes may be realized by changing the sound generation pattern, and in the continuous notices C and D, different production modes are obtained by changing the lamp / LED blinking pattern. It may be realized. Moreover, in continuous notice AD, you may implement | achieve a different production | presentation aspect by changing the kind of character. In addition, even when performing more types of continuous notice effects, which effect means is used to perform the continuous notice and which effect mode is used for the continuous notice is determined by the effect control means. It is determined uniquely based on the reception of the production control command specifying the start winning memory number.
[0133]
Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control CPU 101. In the main process, first, an initialization process is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a 2 ms timer for determining the start interval of effect control (step S701). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 shifts to a loop process for checking the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.
[0134]
In this embodiment, the timer interrupt takes every 2 ms. That is, the effect control process is activated every 2 ms. In this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific effect control process is executed in the main process, but the effect control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process.
[0135]
In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis execution process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state is selected and executed from among the processes corresponding to the control state. And the process which updates a notice random number counter is performed (step S706). Thereafter, the process returns to the process of checking the timer interrupt flag in step S702. Note that the count value of the notice random number counter is used to determine whether or not to perform the notice effect of the notice A or B and which notice effect is to be performed when the continuous notice is not performed.
[0136]
Next, an effect control command reception process from the main board 31 will be described. FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer in the form of a ring buffer capable of storing six 2-byte effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. It is not always necessary to use the ring buffer format. For example, three symbol designating command storage areas (2 × 3 = 6 byte command receiving buffer) and other command storing areas for designating other variation patterns ( (2 × 1 = 2-byte command reception buffer). Similarly, the sound control means and the lamp control means may have a buffer format other than the ring buffer format.
[0137]
An INT signal for effect control from the main board 31 is input to the interrupt terminal of the CPU 101 for effect control. For example, when the INT signal from the main board 31 is turned on, the production control CPU 101 is interrupted. Then, the effect control CPU 101 executes an effect control command reception process in the interrupt process. In the reception process of the effect control command, the effect control CPU 101 stores the received effect control command data in the reception command buffer indicated by the command reception number counter.
[0138]
24 and 25 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.
[0139]
In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the received command is stored in the command receiving buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received command from the command receiving buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by one.
[0140]
If the received effect control command is a special symbol left designation effect control command (91XX (H)) (step S613), the effect control CPU 101 uses the data indicating the left symbol indicated by "XX" as data in the left of the RAM. Store in the symbol storage area (step S614). If it is the special symbol designating control command (92XX (H)) (step S616), the production control CPU 101 stores the data indicating the middle symbol indicated by "XX" in the middle symbol storage area in the RAM. Store (step S617). If the special symbol right designation effect control command (93XX (H)) is obtained (step S618), the effect control CPU 101 stores the data indicating the right symbol indicated by "XX" in the right symbol storage area in the RAM. Store (step S619).
[0141]
If the received effect control command is an effect control command for designating a variation pattern (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 stores the EXT data of the command in the variation pattern data storage area (step S622), and the variation pattern. A reception flag is set (step S623).
[0142]
If the received effect control command is an effect control command for designating the start prize memory number (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 counts the start prize memory number of the start prize number storage area in the RAM as specified by the effect control command. (Step S632). Further, the number of start memory display areas 18 whose display colors change in the variable display device 9 is updated (step S633). Further, the value of the random number counter is incremented by 1 (step S634). The random number counter is a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to execute continuous notice. In this embodiment, the count value of the random number counter takes a value in the range of 0 to 126, and when the count value reaches 127, the value is returned to 0.
[0143]
Also, if the received effect control command is an effect control command for specifying a winning prize (step S635), the effect control CPU 101 increments the value of the random number counter by 1 (step S636) and reads the count value of the random number counter. The random number is extracted by (step S637), and the continuous notice is determined (step S638). Even when the received effect control command is a reach winning designation effect control command (step S639), the value of the random number counter is incremented by 1 (step S640), the random number is extracted (step S641), and the continuous notice determination is performed. This is performed (step S642).
[0144]
Also, when the received effect control command is a non-specific big hit winning designation effect control command (step S651), the value of the random number counter is incremented by 1 (step S652), and a random number is extracted (step S653). The notice is determined (step S654). Further, even when the received effect control command is an effect control command for designating a special big hit prize (step S655), the value of the random number counter is incremented by 1 (step S656), and a random number is extracted (step S657). Is determined (step S658).
[0145]
If the received command read in step S612 is another effect control command, a flag corresponding to the received command is set (step S659).
[0146]
Next, the determination of continuous notice will be described. FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the relationship between the number of start winning memories and the number of times of continuous notice. (A) shows the relationship between the number of start prizes stored and the number of executions of continuous notice when receiving an effect control command for specifying a lost prize, and (B) is the start when receiving an effect control command for specifying a reach prize. The relationship between the number of winning prizes and the number of times of continuous notice is shown, and (C) shows the relation between the number of starting prizes and the number of times of continuous notice when a non-specific big hit prize designation effect control command is received. And (D) shows the relationship between the number of start winning memories and the number of executions of the continuous notice when receiving the effect control command designating the special jackpot winning.
[0147]
As shown in FIG. 26 and FIG. 27, in this embodiment, when an effect control command for specifying a winning prize is received, a continuous notice is given if the random number value matches 29 or 124 (continuous notice judgment value). If the reach control command that can be executed is received, and if the random number value matches 7, 29, 79, or 124 (continuous notice determination value), the continuous notice can be executed and is not specified. When the big win winning designation effect control command is received, the continuous notice can be executed if the random value matches 7 to 27 or 105 to 124 (continuous notice determination value). Then, when an effect control command for designating a special big win is received, a continuous notice can be executed if the value of the random number matches 3 to 67 or 85 to 124 (continuous notice determination value).
[0148]
Further, when the reach control command for the reach winning designation is received, in addition to the continuous notice using the variable display device 9 (continuous notice A), the continuous notice using the variable display device 9 and the speaker 27 or lamp / LED. (Continuous notice B, C) can be executed. Furthermore, when the non-specific big hit winning designation and the special big win winning designation effect control command are received, the continuous notice (continuous notice D) using the variable display device 9, the speaker 27 and the lamp / LED can be executed.
[0149]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of a continuous notice determination process executed in steps S638, S642, S654, and S658. In the continuous notice determination process, the effect control CPU 101 first determines whether or not the continuous notice is being executed (step S661). Whether or not it is being executed can be determined by a continuous advance notice executing flag that is an internal flag set during execution. If the continuous notice is not being executed, the continuous notice determination table is selected (step S662). The continuous notice determination table is a table in which the information shown in FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 is set, and corresponds to the information shown in FIG. 26A when an effect control command for specifying a winning prize is received. When a table is selected and an effect control command specifying reach winning is received, a table corresponding to the information shown in FIG. 26B is selected, and when an effect control command specifying non-specific big win winning is received, FIG. When a table corresponding to the information shown in FIG. 27 (C) is selected and an effect control command designating a specific big win is designated, the table corresponding to the information shown in FIG. 27 (D) is selected.
[0150]
In step S662, specifically, if the gaming state is a high probability state (probability change state) (step S662A), the right side portion of the table in which the information shown in FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 is set is selected ( In step S662B), if the gaming state is not a high probability state (probability variation state), the entire table is selected. In the example shown in FIG. 26A, selecting the right part of the table is to enable continuous notice only when the random number value is 29. Selecting the entire table means that the random value is 29 or 124. It is to enable continuous notice at the time. In the example shown in FIG. 27C, selecting the right part of the table means enabling continuous notice when the random value is 7 to 17 or 105 to 115, and selecting the entire table. Is to enable continuous notice when the random number value is 7 to 17, 18 to 27, 105 to 115, or 116 to 126. In other words, in the high probability state as the special gaming state, the ratio of selecting the continuous notice effect as the predetermined effect is lower than in the low probability state as the non-special gaming state. Such control is effective in the case of shortening the variation time of each of the variation patterns 1 to 14 when the probability is high, or in the gaming machine adopting the short time state of shortening the variation time of the special symbol as the special gaming state. is there. This is because if the appearance ratio of the continuous notice effect as the predetermined effect is lowered in the special game state, the effect due to the variation pattern with a short variation time is prevented from being bothered by the predetermined effect.
[0151]
Then, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the same continuous notice determination value as the extracted random number value is set in the continuous notice determination table (step S663). The corresponding continuous notice type and number of executions are extracted from the notice determination table. If the number of executions is not 0 (step S664), the type of continuous notice is stored in the notice type buffer in the RAM, the number of executions is stored in the execution number buffer in the RAM (step S665), and the continuous notice lottery flag is set. (Step S666).
[0152]
By the above processing, the random number counter advances every time it receives an effect control command for specifying the start winning memory number, outlier winning designation, reach winning designation, non-specific big hit winning designation, specific big hit winning designation, When a reach control command for specifying a reach winning designation, a non-specific big hit winning designation, or a specific big hit winning designation is received, a lottery for determining whether or not to perform a continuous notice is executed. When it is determined to perform the continuous notice, the type of the continuous notice is determined, and a predetermined number of executions is determined according to the number of start winning memories at that time. Which production means is used for continuous announcement and which production mode is used for continuous announcement depends on whether the production control means receives the determination result command and the production control command for specifying the start winning memory number. It will be decided independently.
[0153]
Also, for example, in the continuous notices B and C, different production modes are realized by changing the sound generation pattern, and in the continuous notices C and D, different production modes are realized by changing the lamp / LED blinking pattern. In the continuous notice determination table based on the information shown in FIG. 26 and FIG. 27, even when more types of continuous notice effects are performed by changing the type of character in the continuous notices A to D, If the distribution of a large number of production modes is set, the production control unit determines which production unit is used for continuous notice and which production mode is used for continuous notice. This can be uniquely determined based on the reception of the effect control command designating the winning memory number.
[0154]
As will be described later, when the variable display device 9 performs variable display of the special symbol after the non-zero execution count has been determined, the effect control CPU 101 gives notice in the variable symbol display period of the special symbol for the execution count. Control the production (continuous notice).
[0155]
In this embodiment, the determination result when the start prize memory number is 0 is also set in the continuous notice determination table, but the start control memory number designation effect control command is received before the determination result command. If the start winning memory number is 0, the continuous notice is not performed, and therefore the data when the start winning memory number is 0 may not be set in the continuous notice determining table. Even if it is not set, the effect control means can determine based on the received start control memory number designation effect control command when the start winning memory number is 0 that the continuous notice is not performed.
[0156]
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, any one of steps S800 to S806 is performed according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.
[0157]
Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not an effect control command (variation pattern command) capable of specifying the fluctuation time is received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (variation pattern reception flag) indicating that a variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is set when it is confirmed by command analysis processing that a variation pattern designation effect control command has been received (step S623).
[0158]
Preliminary notice selection process (step S801): It is determined whether or not to perform a notice effect (notice effect that is not a continuous notice) and the type of notice effect when it is performed.
[0159]
All symbol variation start processing (step S802): Control is performed so that variation of the left middle right symbol is started.
[0160]
Symbol variation processing (step S803): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern, and monitors the end of the variation time. In addition, stop control of the left and right symbols is performed.
[0161]
All symbol stop waiting setting process (step S804): If an effect control command (special symbol stop effect control command) for instructing stop of all symbols is received at the end of the variation time, the symbol variation is stopped and the stop symbol ( Control to display the fixed symbol).
[0162]
Big hit display process (step S805): After the end of the fluctuation time, the control of the probability variable big hit display or the normal big hit display is performed.
[0163]
Process during jackpot game (step S806): Control during jackpot game is performed. For example, when an effect control command for display before opening the big winning opening or display when opening the big winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds is performed.
[0164]
FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of process data set for each variation pattern table. The process data is composed of data obtained by collecting a plurality of combinations of process timer set values and presentation control execution data. The effect control execution data includes display control execution data and lamp control execution data. As the display control execution data, data indicating the display state of the variable display device 9 during the variation period of the special symbol is set. For example, the display control execution data 1 is set with data indicating the display state of the variable display device 9 at the start of variable display. The lamp control execution data is set to data indicating the lamp / LED display state during the special symbol fluctuation period. For example, in the lamp control execution data 1, data indicating the lamp / LED display state at the start of variable display is set. When the timing for switching the display state (for example, the timing when a new character appears in the variable display device 9 or the timing when the lamp / LED is switched from the lit state to the unlit state) arrives during the special symbol fluctuation period. Controls the display state of the variable display device 9 and the lamp / LED according to the next effect control execution data in the process data. In the process timer set value, a time corresponding to the switching timing is set.
[0165]
Thus, the effect control means controls the effect means based on the program and process data stored in the ROM, and controls a plurality of effect means (in this embodiment, the variable display device 9 and the lamp / LED). The related program is stored in the ROM mounted on the effect control board 80. And ROM which stores those programs can be comprised as one ROM. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced. Of the process data stored in the ROM, the process timer set value is shared. Therefore, the ROM capacity of the effect control means can be saved. Note that the effect control execution data may be one effect control execution data as long as the display control execution data and the lamp control execution data can be shared. As described above, in this embodiment, at least a part of data related to the control of a plurality of rendering means (in this embodiment, data excluding data stored in the audio data ROM 704) is stored in the same ROM. can do.
[0166]
The process data shown in FIG. 30 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. Further, process data is prepared for each variation pattern. Moreover, it is prepared according to the kind of notice effect. For example, the process data when the notice effect of the notice A is executed with the variation pattern 10 is prepared separately from the process data when the notice effect of the notice B is executed with the change pattern 10. Therefore, the effect control CPU 101 selects process data to be used according to the variation pattern and the type of the notice effect.
[0167]
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variation pattern reception flag is set (step S871). If it is set, the flag is reset (step S872). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the notice selection process (step S801) (step S873).
[0168]
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a notice selection process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the notice selection process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the continuous notice is being executed (step S811). If not being executed, it is confirmed whether or not the continuous notice lottery flag has been set (step S812). If the continuous notice lottery flag has been set, that is, if it has been decided to perform the continuous notice, the continuous notice lottery flag is reset (step S813), and the contents of the execution number buffer are set in the execution number counter. (Step S814). Then, a continuous notice execution flag is set (step S815).
[0169]
Also, a notice start time determination timer corresponding to the decided notice effect is started (step S816). Then, the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to all symbol variation start processing (step S802) (step S817). The notice start time determination timer is a timer for determining the timing for starting the notice effect after the change of the symbol is started in the variable display device 9.
[0170]
If it is confirmed in step S811 that the continuous notice is being executed, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the execution number counter by 1 (step S821), and if the execution number counter is not 0, the process proceeds to step S816 (step S822). When the execution number counter reaches 0, it means that the continuous notice for the determined number of executions has already been completed. In that case, the process proceeds to step S825.
[0171]
In step S812, when it is confirmed that the continuous notice lottery flag has not been set, a notice effect by notice A or notice B is performed. Alternatively, the notice effect is not performed. Specifically, a random number value is extracted from the notice random number counter (step S825), and if a notice is given based on the random number value, a notice effect is performed in either of notice A or notice B if a notice is given. Is determined (step S826). For example, a table in which determination values corresponding to each of no notification / notification A / notification B are set in a ROM, and a notification is made if a notification is made or not by comparing a random value and a determination value. If so, it is determined which of the notice A and the notice B the notice effect is to be performed. When it is decided to perform the notice effect of the notice A or the notice B (step S827), the process proceeds to step S816.
[0172]
FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing all symbol variation start processing (step S802) in the effect control process. In the all symbol variation start processing, the production control CPU 101 first selects process data to be used (step S881). Then, a process timer corresponding to the production execution data 1 is started (step S882). Further, LCD control is performed based on the display control execution data 1 in the process data (step S883). For example, a signal corresponding to the content of the display control execution data 1 is given to the variable display device 9 using an LCD. Note that a ROM address may be set in the display control execution data, and more detailed control data may be stored in an area starting from the address, and LCD control may be performed according to the control data. Further, lamp / LED control is performed based on the lamp control execution data 1 in the process data (step S884). For example, a signal corresponding to the content of the lamp control execution data 1 is given to each lamp / LED. Note that the ROM address is set in the lamp control execution data, and more detailed control data is stored in an area starting from the address, and the lamp / LED control is performed according to the control data. Good.
[0173]
Further, the sound number data corresponding to the variation pattern is output to the sound output board 70 (step S885). In the voice output board 70, the voice synthesis IC 703 reads data corresponding to the sound number data from the voice data ROM 704, generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the read data, and outputs them to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 707 to the speaker 27.
[0174]
Thereafter, a variation time timer (a timer corresponding to the variation time of the special symbol) is started (step S886), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the symbol variation process (step S887).
[0175]
FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the process during symbol change (step S803) in the effect control process. In the symbol variation processing, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the notice start time determination timer has timed out (step S830). If time-out has occurred, it is confirmed whether or not the notice effect determined to be executed is continuous notice B or D (step S831). When the continuous notice B or D is executed, the sound number data corresponding to the continuous notice B or D is output to the sound output board 70 (step S832). In the voice output board 70, the voice synthesis IC 703 reads data corresponding to the sound number data from the voice data ROM 704, generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the read data, and outputs them to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 707 to the speaker 27.
[0176]
The effect control means ends the effect control of the notice effect before the time-out of the change time timer, that is, before the change display result is determined. In this embodiment, the variation display result does not become a jackpot symbol when the special symbol varies due to variation patterns other than the variation patterns 11 to 14 (variation patterns 1 to 10 and 15) (see FIG. 9). The notice effect that is executed during the change of the special symbol by -10 and 15 is based on the instruction command transmitted from the game control means (in this example, the change control designation effect control command) before the change display result is finalized. This is equivalent to a reach notice notification to be executed in order to reach a reach effect display mode. Further, the notice effect that is executed during the change of the special symbol by the change patterns 11 to 14 is a big hit that is executed before the change display result is determined based on the instruction command transmitted from the game control means. It corresponds to the jackpot notice notification. Further, by separating the type of notice used for reach notice notification and the kind of notice used for jackpot notice notification, the variation pattern 2 to the variation pattern 10 (variation pattern in which the fixed symbols on the left, middle and right are not aligned: During the special symbol variation according to FIG. 9), a notice effect of the type used for jackpot notice notification may be performed during the effect period after the left and right symbols are aligned (after reaching reach). Such a notice effect is not actually a notice of the occurrence of a big hit game, but it is effective to enrich variations of the game effect. In addition, the type of the notice used for the non-probable big jackpot notice and the type of the notice used for the probable big jackpot notice are separated, and the non-probable jackpot notice and the probable jackpot notice are executed separately. Good.
[0177]
When the process timer times out (step S833), the effect control CPU 101 switches the effect control execution data in the process data (step S834). That is, in the process data, the next set process timer is started (step S835), and LCD control is performed based on the next set display control execution data (step S836). Further, lamp / LED control is performed based on the lamp control execution data set next in the process data (step S837).
[0178]
If the variable time timer has timed out (step S838), a monitoring timer for monitoring the reception of the special symbol stop display control command is started (step S839), and the value of the effect control process flag is awaited for all symbol stops. A value corresponding to the process is set (step S840).
[0179]
FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing all symbol stop waiting processing (step S804) in the effect control process. In the all symbol stop waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an effect control command (special symbol stop effect control command) for instructing stop of all symbols has been received (step S841). If an effect control command for instructing stop of all symbols has been received, control is performed to stop the symbol with the stored stop symbol (step S842).
[0180]
If the big hit symbol is displayed in step S842, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S805) (step S844). Then, the value of the execution number counter indicating the number of executions of the continuous notice is cleared (step S846), and the continuous notice execution flag is reset (step S847). As a result, even if the continuous notice for the number of executions of the continuous notice is not completed, the control of the continuous notice ends at this point.
[0181]
When the big hit symbol is not displayed in step S842 (when the loss symbol is displayed), the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800). (Step S844).
[0182]
If an effect control command for designating all symbols to be stopped has not been received, it is confirmed whether or not the monitoring timer has timed out (step S848). If the timeout has occurred, it is determined that some abnormality has occurred, and control is performed to display an error screen on the variable display device 9 (step S849). Then, control goes to a step S843.
[0183]
FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of sound number data output from the effect control board 80 to the sound output board 70. As shown in FIG. 35, the sound number data includes sound number data corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol, sound number data during the big hit game, and sound number data corresponding to the continuous notices B and D.
[0184]
As described above, the effect control means as the effect control means reaches the result determined by the game control means at the time of starting winning (whether or not the big hit is generated based on the value of the random number extracted at the time of starting winning) )), It is determined whether or not a continuous notice (hold notice) is to be executed, and if it is to be executed, the number of executions is determined. In addition, during the execution of the continuous notice, the notice effect in the form of notice A and notice B is not performed (because the process proceeds from step S811 to S821). If a big hit occurs, the continuous notice ends even if the continuous notice for the number of executions is not completed (see step S847).
[0185]
For example, it is assumed that when the design of the variable display device 9 is changed, an effect control command indicating that the start winning memorized number is “4” and an effect control command designating a big win winning are received. To do. Then, in the determination of whether or not to perform the continuous notice, it is determined that the continuous notice is given and the number of executions is four. Further, it is assumed that the determination results corresponding to the start winning memories 1, 2, and 3 are not big hits. In this case, after the current symbol variation is completed, a big hit occurs as a result of the fourth symbol variation. In addition, after the currently performed symbol variation is completed, the continuous notice effect is executed when the first to fourth symbol variations are performed. As a result of the fourth symbol variation, a big hit occurs. That is, it is possible to give a predetermined notification (that is, a notice effect) to the player during the symbol change of the previous times that the jackpot will be generated as a result of the fourth symbol change.
[0186]
In addition, for example, when receiving an effect control command indicating that the start winning memorized number is “4” and an effect control command designating a big hit prize, a continuous advance notice is made in determining whether or not to make a continuous advance notice. When the number of executions is 4, and the determination result corresponding to the start winning memory of 3 is a big hit, a big hit occurs after two consecutive notices are executed. Ends.
[0187]
As illustrated in FIG. 34, when it is determined that the big win is made when the start winning is generated, it is decided that the continuous notice is performed with a higher probability than the case where the big win is not made, and the execution is executed. There are many times. Therefore, the reliability of the continuous notice (the rate at which the big hit is actually generated when the continuous notice is executed) is high, and the player can strongly expect the occurrence of the big hit by the occurrence of the continuous notice. Furthermore, it is determined that the continuous advance notice is performed with a higher probability in the case of the probable big hit than in the case of the non-probable big hit. Therefore, in the case of a probable big hit, the probability that the continuous notice is executed is increased, and the continuous notice with higher reliability for the player is realized. That is, the effect control means can perform an effect based on the number of reserved memories that suggests that a big hit or a probable big hit will appear in the future.
[0188]
Then, the effect control means independently determines whether or not to execute the continuous notice and the number of executions based on the determination result command and the effect control command for designating the start winning memory number. At that time, it is also decided uniquely which effecting means (variable display device 9, lamp / LED, speaker 27) to be used. Furthermore, it is also decided uniquely in which production mode the continuous notice is performed. In the case where an effect movable member is provided, the effect control means also uniquely determines whether or not to use the movable member when executing the notice effect.
[0189]
FIG. 37 is a timing chart showing an example of the relationship between the control of the game control means and the effect control means related to the continuous notice, the transmission timing of the effect control command, and the operation of the effect means (variable display device 9, lamp / LED, speaker 27). It is. When the game control means detects the occurrence of the start winning, in the effect setting process at the time of winning, the lottery result based on the start winning (whether or not the result of the variation of the special symbol executed in the future based on the start winning is a big hit Or whether or not to reach. A determination result command based on the determination result (a loss winning command, a reach winning command, a non-specific big hit winning command or a specific big hit winning command) is transmitted to the effect control means of the effect control board 80. An effect control command for starting winning memory designation is transmitted before the determination result command is transmitted. When the condition for starting the variable display of the special symbol is satisfied, the game control means transmits an effect control command for designating a variation pattern indicating the start of variation of the special symbol.
[0190]
When the effect control means receives the effect control command for starting winning memory designation, the effect controlling means updates the start winning memory number managed by itself, and determines continuous notice (see FIG. 28). Then, when the change control designating control command is received, the variable display device 9 performs control so that the change of the special symbol is started. Controls so that the continuous notice effect is executed using part or all of the effect means (variable display device 9, lamp / LED, speaker 27).
[0191]
In this embodiment, when the determination result command is received a plurality of times before the change of the special symbol starts, the continuous notice performed using the determination result command received last before the start of the change of the special symbol. Based on the determination result, if the continuous notice is made or not, the type of the continuous notice is determined, but it is not necessary to do so. For example, it is possible to determine the type of the continuous notice unless the continuous notice is made using the result most preferable for the player among the judgment results of the continuous notice performed using each of the plurality of determination result commands. Good.
[0192]
FIG. 38 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 38, in the game control means 31A, the execution condition satisfaction determination means 31a is a variable that is determined when the variable display start condition is satisfied when the variable display execution condition is satisfied (when the start prize is generated). The determination result related to the display is determined. The start condition satisfaction determining means 31b determines at least whether or not to control to the specific gaming state when the variable display start condition is satisfied. Then, the determination result command transmission unit 31c generates a determination result command that can specify the determination result by the determination unit when the execution condition is established, and the production control unit before the variable display start condition is established based on the establishment of the variable display execution condition. Send to 80A. The effect control means 80A controls the variable display device 9, the lamp / LED and the speaker 27 as effect means. Further, based on the received determination result command, it is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed by some or all of the plurality of effect means before the variable display start condition based on the satisfaction of the variable display execution condition is satisfied. To do.
[0193]
With such a configuration, it is possible to realize effect control such as a notice effect using a plurality of effect means without increasing the burden on the game control means and the effect control means.
[0194]
In the above-described embodiment, the effect control means also performs display control of the start winning memory number, and the game control means includes an effect control command for specifying a lost prize, an effect control command for specifying a reach prize, a non-specific big win winning designation, and Separately from the production control commands designated by the special big prize winning, the production control commands designated by the start winning memory number are transmitted before the production control commands are transmitted. However, the start control memory designation designation effect control command, the extra prize designation effect control command, the reach prize designation effect control command, the non-specific big hit prize designation and the specific big hit prize designation presentation control command are also used. Also good. For example, the pending storage number command may be configured to include information that can specify the determination result by the determination unit when the execution condition is satisfied. For example, 4 bits of the 8-bit EXT data in the E5XX (H) effect control command are assigned to the winning prize designation, the reach prize designation, the non-specific big prize winning designation, and the specific big prize winning designation, and the other four bits are stored in the starting prize memory. You may make it allocate to number specification.
[0195]
In the above embodiment, the game control means transmits an effect control command of non-specific big hit prize designation or specific big hit prize designation to the effect control means when a start winning occurs, Instead of using the control command, an effect control command for designating a big winning prize may be transmitted. In such a configuration, the effect control means may use, for example, the information shown in FIG. 27C when receiving the effect control command for designating the big win.
[0196]
Further, only the big win winning designation effect control command and the off-winning prize designation effect control command may be used as the winning determination result command (that is, the production control means recognizes only the presence or absence of the big win). Further, only the reach control designation effect control command and the missed prize designation effect control command may be used (that is, the effect control means recognizes only the presence or absence of the missed reach).
[0197]
Further, in the above embodiment, the non-specific big hit winning designation presentation control command is a command corresponding to a non-specific big hit, and the specific big hit winning designation presentation control command is a command corresponding to a specific big hit. / If it is determined that a big hit will occur regardless of non-probability change, an effect control command for designating a big winning prize will be transmitted. May be transmitted.
[0198]
In the above embodiment, the process for selecting the variation pattern is not performed in the winning confirmation process (see FIG. 10). However, the process for selecting the variation pattern may be performed in the winning confirmation process.
[0199]
In the above embodiment, the effect control means executes the continuous notice effect based on the winning determination result command. However, the effect is not limited to the continuous notice effect, and other effects may be executed. For example, the overall display from the start of variable display to display of the display result on the variable display device 9, the effect during the big hit game (for example, the effect during the big hit game develops a story, lottery is performed in the effect control means Then, during the big hit game, the contents of the story are determined by lottery from a plurality of stories), and various effects such as an effect of selecting a certain change or a short time may be executed.
[0200]
Further, in the above embodiment, the continuous notice by the variable display device 9 and the effects of the notices A and B are performed by the character, but the notice effect may be in any form, for example, a slide effect ( A notice effect is produced by changing the variation of the special symbol such as the effect of changing the speed of several symbols in the low-speed fluctuation state) or the return effect (the effect of changing in the reverse direction after passing the stop position of the symbol). You may do it. Moreover, you may make it perform a notice effect by changing a background. In particular, when it is decided to execute the continuous notice, the effect control means may select the notice effect by the character and the notice effect by the other variable display device 9.
[0201]
Further, in the above embodiment, the maximum number of start winning memories is four, but other numbers may be used.
[0202]
In the above-described embodiment, the winning effect setting process (step S115) in the start opening switch passage process (see FIG. 10) has been made when there is a winning at the start winning opening. For example, if the variable display is not started unless there are a plurality of winnings, the effect setting process at the time of winning may be executed on condition that there are a plurality of winnings. In addition, winning is permitted only during a period in which a predetermined variable winning device (for example, the second type variable winning ball device) is in an advantageous state (for example, a period from when the opening operation is performed until the predetermined period elapses). In such a case, the winning effect setting process may be started on condition that a game ball has won during that period.
[0203]
In the above embodiment, the lamp driver board 35 connected to the effect CPU 101 for bus control with respect to the light emitter control is provided, and the data from the effect CPU 101 to the audio output board 70 on which the data ROM is mounted for sound control. (Sound number data) is output, but both may be configured similarly. That is, for each of the light emitter control and the sound control, a driver board connected to the effect CPU 101 is provided, or for each of the light emitter control and the sound control, a data ROM is mounted on each of the boards. Data (data specifying a control data number) may be output.
[0204]
Note that the pachinko gaming machine 1 of each of the above embodiments has a predetermined game value given to the player when the special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display device 9 based on the start winning combination is a combination of the predetermined symbols. It is a first-class pachinko gaming machine that can be granted and is a card reader (CR: Card Reader) type first-class pachinko gaming machine that lends a ball with a prepaid card, but lends a ball with a prepaid card It is applicable not only to a CR-type pachinko machine but also to a pachinko machine that lends a ball with cash. Furthermore, when there is a winning in a predetermined area of the electric game that is released based on the start winning, a second type pachinko gaming machine that can give a predetermined game value to the player, or variably displayed based on the starting winning The present invention can be applied even to a third-class pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continues when a winning is made for a predetermined electric combination that is released when the symbol stop symbol becomes a predetermined symbol combination.
[0205]
In the above-described embodiment, the “special game state” means a state advantageous to a player who is likely to make a big hit. Specifically, the “special game state” includes, for example, a probability variation state in which the probability that a special symbol is a big hit symbol is a high probability state, a short time state in which the number of fluctuations of a normal symbol per unit time is increased, a variable winning ball This is a high probability state in which the probability of a big hit such as an open extended state in which the opening period and the number of opening times of the device 15 are increased is increased. In the short-time state, since the number of opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is increased, the number of winnings per unit time is increased, and the variable display number of special symbols per unit time is increased. It can be said that has been raised. Similarly, in the open extended state, since the opening period and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are increased, the number of winnings per unit time is increased, and the number of special symbols variable display times per unit time is increased. Therefore, it can be said that the probability of being a big hit is increased.
[0206]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, in the invention according to claim 1, the game control means isWhen the hit ball enters the start area and the hold information is stored in the hold storage means, which display result is obtained for the hold informationMake a decisionOn hold storageA determination means;On hold storageJudgment meansWhen the determination is made,Judgment result command that can identify judgment resultsTheFor production control meansTowardsA determination result command transmission means for transmitting, and the effect control means based on the received determination result command,The variable display of the identification information whose display result is determined using the determined hold information is started.beforeIt is a notice effect to be executed, Using multiple types of production meansThePredeterminedNoticeProduction determination means for uniquely determining whether to perform productionAnd a notice effect executing means for executing a predetermined notice effect according to the determination result of the effect determining means;IncludingThus, the variable display effect execution means executes the effect related to the variable display of the identification information according to the variable display time of the identification information specified by the variable display time command, regardless of the determination result of the effect determination means.Because it is configured as such, using multiple types of production meansThePredeterminedNoticeEven when an effect is executed, the effect determination control can be integrated by executing the effect by one effect control means, and the control can be simplified and ensured, and the variable display can be performed before the variable display is started. The performance related to the game can be performed and the interest of the game can be improved.
[0209]
  Claim3In the described invention,On hold storageWhen the determination by the determination unit determines that the display result of the identification information is a specific display result, the determination unit includes a determination whether the display result of the identification information is a special display result. So depending on whether or not a special display result will be givenNoticeThe execution can be performed, and the player's sense of expectation can be improved.
[0210]
  In the invention according to claim 5, the effect determining means determines whether or not the predetermined game state is in a predetermined game state.NoticeSince it is configured to determine a decision to execute the effect at a different rate, depending on whether or not it is in a special gaming stateNoticeThe appearance ratio of the production is different, depending on the gaming stateNoticeGive a direct response to the proportion of productionsNoticeIt is possible to prevent a decrease in interest for the production.
[0212]
  Claim6In the described invention, the effect control means controls the effect means based on the data stored in the ROM, and at least a part of the data related to the control of the plurality of effect means is stored in the same ROM. The number of parts can be saved.
[0213]
  Claim7In the described invention, the effect control board on which the effect control means is mounted and a driver board that generates an operation signal for operating the effect means based on a signal output from the effect control board are provided separately. Therefore, it is possible to change the model only by exchanging only the effect control board among the two boards.
[0214]
  Claim8In the described invention, the effect control means includes the effect control CPU, and the driver board is equipped with the output port connected to the effect control CPU by bus, so that the versatility of the driver board can be further enhanced.
[0215]
  Claim9In the described invention, the driver board has a sound data ROM storing data for generating a sound output from the sound output means as the effect means, and a sound based on the sound designation data output from the effect control means. Since the voice synthesis IC for selecting the data stored in the data ROM and controlling the sound output means based on the selected data is installed, the burden of the effect control means mounted on the effect control board can be reduced. it can.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front.
FIG. 2 is a front view showing the front surface of the game board with the glass door frame removed.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of a game control board (main board).
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of an effect control board, a lamp driver board, and an audio output board.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by a CPU on the main board.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a 2 ms timer interrupt process.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing start port switch passing processing;
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a winning effect setting process;
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a big hit determination table and a reach determination table.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a big hit determination module.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a reach determination module.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a special symbol normal process.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop symbol setting process.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a storage process.
FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines for an effect control command.
FIG. 19 is a timing chart showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal that constitute a control command.
FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of contents of an effect control command.
FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notice effect.
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control CPU.
FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of a command reception buffer.
FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing command analysis processing;
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing command analysis processing;
FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the number of start winning memories and the number of times of continuous notice execution.
FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the number of start winning memories and the number of executions of continuous notice.
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing continuous notice determination processing;
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing effect control process processing.
FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of process data.
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command command reception waiting process;
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a notice selection process.
FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing all symbol variation start processing;
FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a process during symbol variation.
FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing all symbol stop waiting processing;
FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of sound number data.
FIG. 37 is a timing chart showing an example of the relationship between the control of the game control means and the effect control means related to the continuous notice, the transmission timing of the effect control command, and the operation of the effect means.
FIG. 38 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Pachinko machine
9 Variable display device
31 Main board
35 Lamp driver board
56 CPU
70 Audio output board
80 Production control board
101 CPU for effect control

Claims (9)

Variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information is provided, and the variable display of the identification information is started on the condition that the hit ball launched into the game area has entered the start area provided in the game area . A gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display becomes a specific display result,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Based on a command from the game control means, and a presentation control means for controlling a plurality of types of effect means for executing an effect related to the variable display of the identification information,
The game control means,
A pre-determining means for determining a display result of variable display of identification information when starting variable display of identification information;
Variable display time determination means for determining the variable display time of the identification information based on the determination result of the prior determination means;
When a hit ball enters the starting area, the pre-determining unit stores holding information used to determine the display result of the variable display of the identification information;
When starting the variable display of the identification information, the variable display result command capable of specifying the determination result of the pre-determining means and the variable display time of the identification information determined by the variable display time determining means can be specified Variable display command transmission means for transmitting a variable display time command to the effect control means;
When the hit ball enters the starting area and the hold information is stored in the hold storage means, the hold storage time determining means for determining which display result is the hold information ;
The pending when the storage time determining means makes a determination, and a determination result command transmission means for transmitting the pending memory when determining means determination result identifiable determination result command towards said attraction control means,
The effect control means,
Based on the received variable display result command and the variable display time command, variable display effect executing means for executing effects related to variable display of the identification information;
Based on the received determination result command, a prediction effect is executed before the variable display of the identification information display result by using the determination has been reserved information is determined is started, directing the plurality of types Effect determining means for uniquely determining whether or not to execute a predetermined notice effect using the means ;
Depending on the determination result of the effect determination unit, viewed contains a prediction effect execution means for executing the predetermined announcement attraction,
The variable display effect execution means executes an effect related to variable display of the identification information according to the variable display time of the identification information specified by the variable display time command, regardless of the determination result of the effect determination means. A featured gaming machine. Whether or not the stored information determining means is a specific display result of the variable display of the identification information based on the hold information when the hitting ball enters the start area and stores the hold information in the hold storage means. And when it is determined that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is not a specific display result, it is determined whether the reach variable display is executed as the content of the variable display of the identification information,
The determination result command transmission means is a specific display result determination command capable of specifying that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is determined to be the specific display result as the determination result command, the display result of the variable display of the identification information Is not the specific display result, but the reach determination command that can determine that the reach variable display is executed as the contents of the variable display of the identification information, or the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific A non-specific display result determination command capable of specifying that it is determined that the reach variable display is not executed as the variable display content of the identification information is transmitted to the effect control means,
The production decision means
Depending on whether the specific display result determination command, the reach determination command or the non-specific display result command is received as a determination table used for determining whether or not to execute a predetermined notice effect, Select a table with a different ratio that can determine the execution of the predetermined notice effect,
Using the selected determination table, it is determined whether or not to execute the predetermined notice effect.
The gaming machine according to claim 1. It includes special display results and non-special display results as specific display results, and when a special display result is displayed as the display result, it can be controlled to a special game state advantageous to the player after the end of the specific game state,
The determination by the holding storage time determination means includes a determination of whether or not the display result of the identification information is the special display result when it is determined that the display result of the identification information is a specific display result.
The gaming machine according to claim 2 . The game control means
After performing the initial setting process when power supply is started, the main routine is repeatedly executed, and the main routine is interrupted in response to a timer interrupt that occurs every predetermined time during the execution of the main routine. Execution means for executing an interrupt routine started
The execution means includes
In the interrupt routine, a specific gaming state determination numerical value update process for updating a specific gaming state determination numerical value for determining whether or not to enter a specific gaming state within a predetermined range, and the specific gaming state at a predetermined time An initial value changing process for changing an initial value for updating a numerical value for determination to an initial value numerical value stored in the RAM, and an initial value updating process for updating the initial value numerical value stored in the RAM. While executing game control processing including
Also in the main routine, as the predetermined process, an initial value numerical value updating process for updating the initial value numerical value stored in the RAM is executed,
The timer interrupt is prohibited before starting the initial value update process in the main routine, and the timer interrupt is allowed after the initial value update process is completed.
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3. It includes special display results and non-special display results as specific display results, and when a special display result is displayed as the display result, it can be controlled to a special game state advantageous to the player after the end of the specific game state,
The game according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the effect determining means determines a decision to execute a predetermined notice effect at a different rate depending on whether or not the game state is the special game state. Machine. The effect control means controls the effect means based on the data stored in the ROM,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein at least a part of data related to control of the plurality of presentation means is stored in the same ROM. A performance control circuit board mounted with presentation control means, based on the signal output from the performance control board, claim from claim 1 and a driver board separately for generating an operation signal for operating the representation section 6. The gaming machine according to any one of six . Includes a production control CPU as production control means,
The driver board is equipped with an output port that is bus-connected to the CPU for effect control.
The gaming machine according to claim 7 . The driver board stores a sound data ROM that stores data for generating sound output from the sound output means as the effect means, and the sound data ROM based on the sound designation data output from the effect control means. Equipped with a speech synthesis IC that selects selected data and controls the sound output means based on the selected data
The gaming machine according to claim 7 or 8 .

Images