JP4418955B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a so-called pachinko gaming machine.

  In pachinko machines, when the game ball passes through the symbol operation gate and the normal symbol that starts to fluctuate stops when it hits the symbol, the start port opens, and the special symbol that fluctuates when the game ball enters the start port is a symbol When it stops, it is configured so that a big win is generated and the big prize opening is opened. When a special symbol is a special symbol and a big hit occurs, a symbol variation time shortening function (so-called time reduction) is adopted that reduces the fluctuation time of the normal symbol and the special symbol after the big hit ends (for example, Patent Document) 1).

When the symbol variation time shortening function is activated, the number of variations of the normal symbol and the special symbol per unit time is increased, which is advantageous to the player, and the opening time of the start port is extended. Normally, the symbol variation time shortening function ends when the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (for example, 100 times).
JP 2004-33636 A

  However, if the normal symbol starts to fluctuate before the jackpot ends, and the normal symbol continues to fluctuate at the end of the jackpot, even if the symbol variation time reduction function is started after the jackpot ends, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is Not shortened. On the other hand, the special symbol that starts changing after the operation of the symbol changing time shortening function starts has a short changing time. For this reason, if the special symbol fluctuates and stops before the normal symbol that has fluctuated before the symbol fluctuation time shortening function starts, the special symbol fluctuates several times before the normal symbol fluctuates and stops. Therefore, the number of effective times for the normal symbol of the symbol variation time shortening function described above is reduced. In this case, there is a problem that the profit of the symbol variation time shortening function that the player can receive is incomplete.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and it is an object of the present invention to enable a player to reliably receive the benefit of the symbol variation time shortening function when the normal symbol is fluctuating at the end of the big hit.

  In order to achieve the above object, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first variable display device in which the first identification symbol is variably displayed, and the game ball enters when the first identification symbol is the first specific symbol. A start port that changes to an easy state, a second variable display device that displays the second identification symbol in a variable manner by entering a game ball into the start port, and a special game when the second identification symbol is a second specific symbol When the special gaming state generating device for generating a state and the second identification symbol is a predetermined one of the second specific symbols, the second identification symbol is changed a predetermined number of times after the operation of the special gaming state generating device is finished. And a symbol variation time shortening means for shortening the variation time of the first identification symbol and the second identification symbol that start varying after the operation of the special gaming state generating device is completed until a predetermined termination condition including .

  The symbol variation time shortening means is used when the first identification symbol is varied when the special game is finished and the variation of the first identification symbol is continued when the second identification symbol starts to vary. The variation time of the second identification symbol is made longer than the remaining variation time of the first identification symbol.

  Thereby, it is possible to prevent the second identification symbol from fluctuating and stopping many times during the fluctuation of the first identification symbol, and the player can fully enjoy the benefit of shortening the symbol variation time. Furthermore, when the symbol identification time shortening means starts operating, the variation time of the second identification symbol is extended when the first identification symbol is varied, by extending the variation time of the second identification symbol. Can be prevented from extending.

  In the invention according to claim 2, the symbol variation time shortening means changes the first identification symbol when the first identification symbol fluctuates when the special game ends and the second identification symbol starts to fluctuate. When the variation of the first identification symbol continues, the remaining variation time of the first identification symbol is compared with the predetermined time. If the remaining variation time of the first identification symbol is longer than the predetermined time, the second variable display device It is characterized by performing reach display using two identification symbols.

  Thereby, when performing the time extension process of a 2nd identification symbol, since the fluctuation | variation aspect of a 2nd identification symbol can be diversified according to the remaining variation time of a 1st identification symbol, game nature is improved. Can do.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a first example showing an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. An embodiment in which the gaming machine of the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) is shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 includes a main body frame 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 9, a game board 20, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The main body frame 2 is an assembly of wooden plate-like bodies in a substantially rectangular frame shape, and constitutes an outer frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic, is fitted inside the main body frame 2, and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 is composed of a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part.

  The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit. Furthermore, although not shown in the lower plate portion, a ball feed count switch for detecting a game ball supplied to the launcher unit 10 and a shot ball count switch for detecting a game ball launched from the launcher unit 10 A foul ball detection switch for detecting a game ball that has not reached the surface of the game board 20 among the game balls launched from the launching device unit 10 is provided. Furthermore, the lower plate portion is provided with a speaker 266 (see FIG. 11) that generates a sound effect or the like corresponding to the gaming state. Note that the speaker 266 of the present embodiment is configured to include a middle / high tone speaker (tweeter) and a low tone speaker (woofer).

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 4 is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is attached to the back surface of the front frame 4.

  The front frame 4 is provided with a left LED display unit 4b, a right LED display unit 4c, an upper left LED display unit 4d, an upper right LED display unit 4e, and an upper LED display unit 4f as lamps for game effects and the like. . The left LED display portion 4b and the right LED display portion 4c are provided in an arc shape on the right side and the left side around the opening 4a, respectively. The upper left LED display portion 4d is provided at the upper left of the left LED display portion 4a, and the upper right LED display portion 4e is provided at the upper right of the right LED display portion 4c. The upper LED display part 4f is formed in a circular shape, and two are provided between the upper end part of the left LED display part 4b and the upper end part of the right LED display part 4c. These LED display portions 4a to 4f are turned on / off or blinking according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the gaming effect.

  In addition, two prize ball LED display portions 4g are provided between the two upper LED display portions 4f. A sector-shaped error LED display unit 4h is provided above the prize ball display LED display unit 4g.

  The upper plate part 5 is provided on the lower side of the front frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The upper plate portion 5 includes a plate outer edge portion 5 a provided with a game ball lending button, a return button, and the like, a discharge port 5 b for discharging the game ball from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and an upper plate portion 5 A ball removal button 5c for discharging the game ball to the lower dish portion 6 is provided.

  Furthermore, a first audio output unit 5d is formed at a substantially central portion of the upper plate portion 5 and has a plurality of long holes and a plurality of small holes formed thereon. The first audio output unit 5d is connected to a middle / high tone speaker (tweeter) of the speakers 266 via a duct, and the sound from the middle / high tone speaker is output via the duct. A volume switch board 267 (see FIG. 11) is provided on the back surface of the upper plate part 5.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate part 6. In addition, a ball hole (not shown) is provided on the bottom surface of the lower plate portion 6. The ball removal hole is normally closed, and is opened when the game ball stored in the lower dish portion 6 is discharged.

  A discharge knob 6b that opens and closes the ball removal hole is provided on the substantially center front side of the lower dish portion 6. The discharge knob 6 b constitutes a part of the peripheral edge of the lower plate part 6. The discharge knob 6b is normally in an upright state, and is rotatable so that the upper end is tilted toward the front side with the lower end as a rotation axis. The ball hole is linked to the discharge knob 6b. When the discharge knob 6b is in an upright state, the ball hole is closed, and the ball hole is opened by tilting the discharge knob 6b to the front side.

  A second audio output unit 6c is provided on the lower surface of the right and left sides of the discharge knob 6b in the lower plate part 6. The second audio output unit 6c is connected to a low-frequency speaker (woofer) among the speakers 266 via a duct, and the audio from the low-frequency speaker is output downward.

  At the right end of the lower plate part 6, a launching handle 8 is provided for a player to operate a launching device unit (not shown). The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed. The firing stop switch 8b of this embodiment is provided in the touch switch circuit and is electrically connected in series with the touch switch 8a.

  The locking device 9 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3 and is used to lock the front frame 4 when it is closed. A prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body that is detachably attached to the middle frame 3 on the front surface side, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board 102 (see FIG. 4) described later. Yes.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular gaming area 21 is formed in the gaming board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface of the gaming board 20. In the game area 21, the production symbol display device 24, the normal symbol operation gate 26, the normal symbol display device 27, the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28, the special symbol display device 29, and the big prize device (special electric accessory) 33, gaming devices such as a left winning port 34, 35, a right winning port 36, 37, and the like are arranged. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, in the game area | region 21, many obstacle nails are arrange | positioned in consideration of the positional balance with each game device.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the effect symbol display device 24 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21. The effect symbol display device 24 includes a symbol display unit 25 that can display an arbitrary symbol. In this example, a large liquid crystal display device is used as the effect symbol display device 24. The effect symbol display device 24 shows one specific example of the variable display means of the present invention. The effect symbol display device 24 will be described later.

  The normal symbol operation gate 26 is provided on the left side of the effect symbol display device 24. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 26, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 26s for detecting the passage of the game ball is provided. When the predetermined condition that the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 26 is established, the normal symbol display device 27 starts the normal symbol variation display. The normal symbol display device 27 is provided below the normal symbol operation gate 26 on the left side of the game area 21.

  FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the normal symbol display device 27 and the special symbol display device 29. As shown in FIG. 3, the normal symbol display device 27 is located below the special symbol display device 29, and the left normal symbol display area 27a in which the left normal symbol is displayed and the right normal symbol in which the right normal symbol is displayed. And a symbol display area 27b. The left normal symbol display area 27a and the right normal symbol display area 27b are each provided with an LED for displaying a normal symbol, and the left normal symbol display area 27a can be lit in green, and the right normal symbol display area 27b can be lit red. The normal symbol indicates a specific example of the first identification symbol of the present invention, and the normal symbol display device 27 indicates a specific example of the first variable display device of the present invention.

  The normal symbol display mode displayed on the normal symbol display device 27 is that the left normal symbol and the right normal symbol are lit, the left normal symbol is lit and the right normal symbol is unlit, the left normal symbol is unlit and the right normal symbol is unlit. There are four modes: lighting, left normal symbol and right normal symbol are extinguished. In the present embodiment, the combination of the normal symbols in which the left normal symbol is turned off and the right normal symbol is lit is the combination of the normal symbol hit symbols (first specific symbol), and other combinations are the normal symbols. It is a combination of outliers.

  In the present embodiment, a random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is provided is prepared. When a game ball passes the normal symbol operating gate, whether or not the starting port (normal electric accessory) 28 is to be operated is determined. Used for. A hit value is set in advance for the normal symbol success / failure determination random number, and the normal symbol success / failure random number acquired at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 26 matches the hit value. It is determined. If the winning symbol is determined, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 27 is determined to be a combination of the winning normal symbols. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is out of place, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 27 is determined as one of the combinations of out symbols. Note that the determination of whether or not the normal symbol is correct and the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  In the normal symbol display unit 27, the normal symbol starts to change as the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 26, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of winning symbols or a combination of falling symbols. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with a combination of hit symbols set in advance, the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds).

  The start port 28 is provided below the center position of the effect symbol display device 24 as shown in FIG. The start port 28 is a so-called tulip type, and is formed so that a pair of wing pieces are opened and closed on the left and right. Inside the start port 28, there are provided a start port winning detection switch 28s (see FIG. 5) for detecting the passage of the game ball and a start port solenoid 28c (see FIG. 7) for operating the wing piece. Yes. When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the game ball is likely to enter the game in an open state, and the pair of wing pieces are erected so that the game ball is less likely to enter. .

  When the game ball enters the start port 28, the special symbol starts to change. The special symbol of the present embodiment is composed of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 29 and the pseudo special symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 24. The special symbol of this embodiment shows a specific example of the second identification symbol of the present invention, and the special symbol display device 29 and the effect symbol display device 24 are a specific example of the second variable display device of the present invention. Show.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the special symbol display device 29 includes a rectangular symbol display region 29a. The symbol display region 28a is provided with a 7-segment display unit 29b and a dot display unit 29c each including seven segments. Yes. This special symbol is configured by combining the display of the 7-segment display unit 29a and the display of the point display unit 29b. In the 7-segment display unit 29a, three types of “A”, “y”, and “-(bar)” are lit up. “A” is displayed in red, green, or orange (referred to as “red A”, “green A”, and “orange A”, respectively), and “y” and “-(bar)” are displayed in green or red, respectively. (Referred to as “green y”, “red y”, “green bar”, and “red bar”), respectively. The point display part 28b is lit and displayed in red, green, or orange.

  The special symbol of this example includes red A orange point, red A red point, green A red point, green A green point, orange A red point, orange A orange point, green y red point, green y green point, There are 12 types of combinations of red y orange point, red y green point, green bar and red bar. Among these special symbol combinations, red A orange point, red A red point, green A red point, green A green point, orange A red point, orange A orange point, green y red point, green y green point, 10 types of combinations of red y orange point and red y green point are combinations of special symbols (second specific symbol) that the winning device (special electric accessory) 33 and the condition device will operate. A combination other than is a special symbol combination.

  The condition device is a device that is a condition for operating the accessory continuous operation device. Specifically, the condition device is composed mainly of a main control unit 200 to be described later, and starts operating when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol, and activates the accessory continuous activation device. The accessory continuous operation device is a device that is mainly configured by a main control unit 200 to be described later, and continuously operates a large winning device 33 to be described later to continuously open the special winning opening 33a. With the start of the operation of the accessory continuous operation device, a special game state (big hit state) in which the big winning opening 33a is continuously opened is started. Note that the accessory continuous operation device is a specific example of the special game state generating device of the present invention.

  Among the above-mentioned special symbol combinations, the combination of five types of symbols, green y red point, red y green point, orange A red point, green A green point, orange A orange point, is the action of the accessory continuous operation device. After completion, the probability variation function is activated and is a combination of probability variation symbols. The probability variation function is activated until the next time the conditional device is activated or until the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (10000 in this example). Here, the probability variation function is a function of the main control unit 200 that changes (improves) the probability of the special symbol success / failure determination after the completion of the operation of the accessory continuous operating device, that is, the probability that the special symbol stops and displays with the specific symbol. Say. Note that the special symbol success / failure determination of the present embodiment shows a specific example of the success / failure determination of the present invention.

  Of the above-mentioned special symbol combinations, five combinations of red A orange point, green A red point, red A red point, green y green point, and red y orange point are the actions of the accessory continuous operation device. It is a combination of time-short symbols that will cause the variable time reduction function to operate after completion. In the present embodiment, among the combinations of winning special symbols, combinations of symbols other than the above-mentioned probability variation symbols are combinations of short-time symbols.

  The variation time shortening function is performed by the main control unit 200, and includes a normal symbol variation time shortening function for shortening a normal symbol variation time, a special symbol variation time shortening function for shortening a special symbol variation time, and a start port ( A normal electric accessory opening extension function for extending the opening time of the normal electric accessory 28) is included. The variation time shortening function operates until the next condition device is activated after the operation of the accessory continuous activation device or until the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (100 in this example). The main control unit 200 corresponds to the symbol variation time shortening means of the present invention.

  In this embodiment, a special symbol success / failure determination random number is prepared. The random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is used is used for determining whether or not the special device is activated when a game ball enters the start port 28. Specifically, in the special symbol success / failure determination random number, a winning value for hit / failure determination is set in advance, and the special symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the start port 28, A hit is determined when the hit value matches. If it is determined that the winning symbol is a winning symbol, the special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 29 is determined as one of the combinations of the winning special symbols. On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol is out, the special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 29 is determined as one of the combinations of the above symbols. The determination of whether or not the special symbol is appropriate, the determination of the variation pattern of the special symbol, and the determination of the stop symbol of the special symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  In the special symbol display unit 28, the special symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the start port 27, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of winning symbols or a combination of falling symbols. Then, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed with a combination of winning symbols set in advance, a large winning device (special electric accessory) 33 described later starts to operate.

  Here, the pseudo special symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 24 will be described. Although not shown in the symbol display unit 25 of the effect symbol display device 24 shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of pseudo special symbols (identification symbols) are displayed while changing one after another in a predetermined direction, and then stopped. A pseudo special symbol display area (identification information display area) is provided. Specifically, the left symbol display area for displaying the left symbol, the middle symbol display area for displaying the middle symbol, and the right symbol display area for displaying the right symbol in this order in the arrangement direction set in a substantially horizontal row. It is formed side by side. Each pseudo special symbol display region has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially perpendicular to the arrangement direction of these display regions, in this case, in the vertical direction. Each symbol display area can display symbols composed of, for example, “0” to “7”.

  The effect symbol display device 24 starts the variable display of each pseudo special symbol displayed on the symbol display unit 25 when the game ball enters the start opening 28, and stops the display after a predetermined time has elapsed. The pseudo special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the symbol display unit 25 is determined to be a combination of pseudo hit symbols composed of “7, 7 and 7”, for example, when it is determined that the special symbol is determined to be a hit. If it is determined that the game is unsuccessful in the determination, it is determined to be a pseudo miss symbol composed of a combination other than the pseudo hit symbol. It should be noted that the determination of the variation pattern of the pseudo special symbol and the determination of the stop symbol of the pseudo special symbol are performed by the sound lamp control unit 260 described later.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared. The variation pattern table includes a normal pattern table used when the variation time shortening function is not operated and a time reduction pattern table used while the variation time shortening function is operating. Each variation pattern table stores a plurality of variations of special symbols. The variation mode included in the time reduction pattern table is set to have a shorter variation time than the variation mode included in the normal pattern table.

  Each variation mode is configured as a variation mode of a different special symbol. Since the variation mode corresponding to the variation mode of the special symbol is selected as the variation mode of the pseudo special symbol, the variation mode of the pseudo special symbol corresponding to the variation mode of the special symbol is also configured differently.

  The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is configured such that reach display using a pseudo special symbol can be performed on the symbol display unit 25 of the effect symbol display device 24. Reach display is a state in which the pseudo special symbol other than the pseudo special symbol that will be the final stop symbol is stopped in a state that matches the specific symbol combination that is a big hit during the pseudo special symbol variation display Thus, it refers to the effect display that is performed in a state where the probability of a big hit is continuing before the pseudo special symbol is stopped and displayed. For example, when three display symbols arranged in the horizontal direction, such as left symbol, middle symbol, and right symbol, stop in the order of left symbol, right symbol, middle symbol, and all these display symbols are aligned in the same symbol It will be a big hit. At this time, a state where the left symbol and the right symbol other than the middle symbol which is the final stop symbol are stopped in the same symbol is referred to as a reach state. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the reach display by the pseudo special symbol of the symbol display unit 25 is a hit determination in the special symbol success / failure determination (winning reach), and a case in which the reach determination is a special symbol success / failure determination This is performed when it is determined that the reach display is to be performed (outgoing reach).

  A normal symbol hold display unit 30 is provided on the right side of the special symbol display device 29, and a special symbol hold display unit 31 is provided on the left side of the special symbol display device 29.

  The normal symbol hold display section 30 is composed of four LEDs, and can hold up to four game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 26 during normal symbol fluctuations. The number of symbol hold is displayed. Each time the next variable display starts, the number of unstarted times (holding number) is consumed, the LEDs of the normal symbol holding display unit 30 are turned off one by one, and the normal symbol holding number is decreased by one.

  The special symbol hold display unit 31 is composed of four LEDs, and can hold up to four game balls that have entered the start opening 28 during the special symbol change, and one LED for each pass for each entry. Lights up and displays the number of special symbol hold. Each time the next special symbol change starts, the number of unstarted times is consumed, the LEDs of the special symbol hold display unit 31 are turned off one by one, and the number of special symbol holds is reduced by one.

  A first state display unit 32 a is provided below the normal symbol hold display unit 30, and a second state display unit 32 b is provided below the special symbol hold display unit 31. These state display parts 32a and 32b are each comprised from LED.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the special winning device 33 is disposed below the start port 31. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for opening / closing the open / close plate 33b). 7) and a winning ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 7) for detecting a winning ball.

  When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 29 is a specific symbol, the main control unit 200 generates a special gaming machine state that is relatively advantageous to the player. In the special gaming machine state, by operating the special winning device 33, a profit is given to the player with respect to the entry of the game ball into the special winning opening 33a. The special game state is realized by repeatedly executing a special electric accessory game process (see FIG. 20) described later.

  With the start of the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened and a gaming ball is received. This game ball receiving state is ended when a predetermined end condition is satisfied, and the open big winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined end condition, when the opening time of the big winning opening 33a after the start of the game ball receiving state reaches a predetermined opening time (30 seconds in this embodiment) or after the start of the gaming ball receiving state, This may be when the number of game balls entering 33a reaches a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment).

  In the case where one round is from the start to the end of the game ball receiving state, the above-described accessory continuous operation device ends when a predetermined round (16 rounds in this example) ends. In the big winning device 33, after a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) has passed since the game ball receiving state is finished, the big winning port 33a is opened to enter the game ball receiving state again, and the next round starts. . The game ball accepting state in which one round is from the start to the end is repeatedly continued until the predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds (16 rounds in this embodiment) is finished and the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is finished. The

  As shown in FIG. 2, a first left winning opening 34 and a second left winning opening 35 are provided obliquely above and to the left of the big winning device 33. Inside these, left winning opening passing detection switches 34s and 35s (see FIG. 7) are respectively provided. A second right winning port 36 and a second right winning port 37 are provided diagonally to the upper right of the big winning device 33. Inside these, right winning opening passing detection switches 36s and 37b (see FIG. 7) are provided.

  Next, the back surface structure of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a front view of the back mechanism board 102 of the gaming machine 1.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the back mechanism board 102 is provided on the opposite surface of the game board 20 in the middle frame 3, and is attached to the middle frame 3 by a pair of hinges 103 so as to be opened and closed. In the upper left part of the back mechanism board 102, a prize ball tank 105 having a tank ball cut detection switch 104 at the bottom is provided. The prize ball tank 105 stores payout game balls supplied from an external supply device. Below the prize ball tank 105, a tank rail 106 connected to the prize ball tank 105 is provided. The tank rail 106 is formed to be inclined from the bottom of the prize ball tank 105 to above the game ball payout device 109. The game balls in the prize ball tank 105 flow down the tank rail 106 from the bottom of the prize ball tank 105.

  A ball removal lever 107 is provided on the right side of the tank rail 106. A game ball payout device 109 is provided on the downstream side of the ball removal lever 107. Further, on the downstream side of the tank rail 106 and above the game ball payout device 109, a case rail for guiding the game ball payout device 109 by changing the traveling direction of the game ball flowing down the tank rail 106 ( A game ball guiding path) 108 is provided.

  Below the tank rail 106, there is a rear case 111 to which the effect symbol display device 24 is attached on the front side and the lamp interface board case 112, the symbol control board case 113, and the sound lamp control board case 114 are respectively attached to the rear side. Is provided. A main control board case 115 is provided below the back case 111, a power supply board case 116 is provided below the main control board case 115, and a payout control board case 118 is provided at the lower right portion of the back mechanism panel 102. Is provided. Various control boards described later are stored in these board cases.

  In the upper right part of the back mechanism board 102, there is provided a frame external terminal board 122 equipped with external connection terminals for gaming machine frames such as jackpot, launcher control, ball break, door opening, prize ball, and rental balls. ing.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the electronic control unit.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the electronic control device includes a main control unit (game control unit) 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a prize ball control unit (payout control unit) 230, a sound lamp control unit 260, and a symbol control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sound lamp control board 260a, and a symbol control board 280a as peripheral control boards, respectively.

  The main control unit 200 is responsible for the progress of the game, and transmits a command signal (command data) instructing the processing contents to each of the sub control units 230, 260 and 280, and each of the sub control units 230, 260 and 280 Various controls are performed based on the command signal.

  For example, a command such as a prize ball instruction signal for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like. Also, various lamp control commands and various audio control commands are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sound lamp control unit 260.

  The main control unit 200 to the symbol control unit 280 via the sound lamp control unit 260, a normal symbol display control command for instructing display control of a normal symbol, or a special symbol display control command for instructing display control of this special symbol. Various symbol control commands including are transmitted. The sound lamp control unit 260 determines the pseudo special symbol variation mode and the stop symbol based on the special special symbol display control command from the main control unit 200, and instructs the special special symbol display control command to display the pseudo special symbol. Is transmitted to the symbol control unit 280. The main control unit 200 corresponds to the variation mode determining means of the present invention.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, and 280 is supplied with power from the power receiving board 128 connected to the main power source 129 via the power board 127 and the power relay board 121. Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each of the control units 200, 230, 260 and 280 via the power supply board 127 and the power supply relay board 121. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the CPU 400 provided on the main control board 200a of the main control unit 200. As shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 400 includes a CPU core 401, a built-in RAM 402 (hereinafter also simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM 403 (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), a memory control circuit 404, a clock generator 405, an address decoder 406, A watchdog timer 407, a counter / timer 408, a parallel input / output port 409, a reset / interrupt controller 410, an external bus interface 411, and an output control circuit 412 are provided.

  The CPU 400 controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM 402 as a work area by a control program stored in the ROM 403. In addition, the main control unit 200 constitutes a go / no-go determination unit that performs the go / no-go determination by the go / no-go determination program stored in the ROM 403, with the CPU 400 as a main body. Note that the control cycle of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 4 ms.

  Returning to FIG. 5, the board external terminal board 201, the start opening winning detection switch 28 s, the normal symbol operation gate detection switch 26 s, the board surface relay board 210, and the game frame relay board 220 are connected to the main control unit 200. The start opening winning detection switch 28 s detects that a game ball has entered the start opening 28. The normal symbol operation gate detection switch 26 s detects that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 26.

  Next, the board surface relay board 210 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing various gaming devices connected to the board surface relay board 210. The board surface relay board 210 relays switch signals and the like between various switches provided on the game board 20 surface and the main control unit 200.

  As shown in FIG. 7, to the board relay board 210, a winning opening passing detection switch 34s, 35s, 36s, 37s, a big winning opening entering detection switch 33s, and various solenoids 28c, 33c are connected.

  The winning opening passing detection switches 34 s, 35 s, 36 s, and 37 s are used to detect the entry of game balls into the winning openings 34, 35, 36, and 37. The big winning opening entrance detection switch 33s detects that a game ball has entered the big winning opening 33a. These game ball detection switches can be configured by proximity switches or photo sensors. As the various solenoids 28c and 33c, there are a start opening solenoid 28c for opening and closing the start opening 28, a large winning opening solenoid 33c for opening and closing a large winning opening, and the like.

  Next, the game frame relay board 220 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing signal input / output with respect to the game frame relay board 220. The game frame relay board 220 relays switch signals and the like mainly between various switches and the like provided on the middle frame 3 and the main control unit 200.

  As shown in FIG. 8, a launch ball count switch 221 and a foul ball detection switch 222 are connected to the frame relay board 220. Further, a ball feed count switch 254 is connected to the frame relay board 220 via a ball feed relay board 251 described later.

  The firing ball count switch 221 detects a game ball launched by the launching device unit. The foul ball detection switch 222 detects a game ball that has returned from the launching unit to the lower plate 6 without reaching the game area 21. The ball feed count switch 254 counts the game balls sent from the upper plate part 5 to the launching device unit.

  Next, returning to FIG. 5, the payout control unit 230 will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, the frame external terminal board 122, the switch relay terminal board 231, the CR connection board 234, the firing control section 250 and the like are connected to the payout control section 230. The switch relay terminal board 231 is connected to a tank ball cut switch 232 and a lower pan full switch 233. The tank ball cut switch 232 is also connected to the frame external terminal board 122.

  The tank ball cut switch 232 detects that the game ball in the prize ball tank 105 has run out. The ball-out signal of the tank ball-out switch 232 is transmitted to the external replenishing device via the frame external terminal board 122, and the game ball is replenished to the prize ball tank 105 from the replenishing device. The lower tray full tank switch 233 detects that the lower tray 6 has become full. The payout control board 230a of the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU having the same configuration as the CPU 400 of the main control board 200a shown in FIG. The control cycle of the payout control unit 230 of this embodiment is set to 1 ms shorter than that of the main control unit 200.

  The payout control unit 230 will be further described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing signal input / output with respect to the payout control unit 230. As shown in FIG. 9, the prepaid card unit 13 and the CR display board 235 are connected to the payout control unit 230 via the CR connection board 234. A ball rental button 236 and a return button 237 are connected to the CR display board 235. The CR display board 235 is a board for inputting / outputting signals such as a rental ball and the remaining number of cards to / from the CR unit 13.

  The payout control unit 230 is connected with a payout motor 109f and payout sensors 109j and 109k via a payout unit relay terminal plate 239, and a prize ball display LED board 241 and an error display via a status display LED relay terminal plate 240. An LED substrate 242 is connected. The payout sensors 109j and 109k count the number of game balls paid out by the game ball payout device 109. The game balls that are paid out by the game ball payout device 109 include prize balls that are paid out in response to winnings and balls that are lent to players.

  The award ball display LED substrate 241 and the error display LED substrate 242 correspond to the award ball display LED display portion 4g and the error LED display portion 4h (see FIG. 1), respectively. The LED on the prize ball display LED board 241 is turned on or blinked when a prize ball is acquired, and the LED on the error LED board 242 is turned on or blinks when an error occurs. The error display LED substrate 242 includes a plurality of types of LEDs, and the error LED display unit 4h can perform a plurality of types of error notification. In this embodiment, the error LED display section 4h is configured to be lit and blinking in red and orange as error notification.

  Next, the firing control unit 250 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing various gaming devices connected to the launch control unit 250. As shown in FIG. 10, the launch control unit 250 is connected to the launch handle 8, the origin sensor 251, the launch motor 252, the ball feed relay terminal plate 253, and the like. A launch start signal from a launch start switch (not shown) indicating whether or not the player has rotated the launch handle 8 by a predetermined amount or more from the launch handle 8 to the launch control unit 250, and the player touches the launch handle 8. A touch signal or the like from the touch switch 8a indicating whether or not there is input.

  The origin sensor 251 detects whether or not the rotation axis of the firing motor 252 is at a predetermined origin position (origin angle). The launch motor 252 operates a spear for driving the game ball sent to the launch position into the game area 21, and operates when the player operates the launch handle 8.

  Connected to the ball feed relay terminal plate 253 are a ball feed solenoid (not shown) and a ball feed count switch 254 for feeding the game balls stored in the upper plate part 5 one by one to the launch position of the launcher unit. Yes. As described above, the signal from the ball feed count switch 254 is transmitted to the main control unit 200 via the game frame relay board 220. The signal from the origin sensor 251 is transmitted to the payout control unit 230 via the firing control unit 250.

  Next, the sound lamp control unit 260 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing various gaming devices connected to the sound lamp control unit 260. The sound lamp control board 260a provided in the sound lamp control unit 260 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) having a CPU, ROM, RAM, input / output ports and the like and a sound generator (not shown). The input / output port is connected to the main control unit 200.

  As shown in FIG. 11, various board surface LED boards 263, various game frame LED boards 264, and the like are connected to the sound lamp control unit 260 via a lamp interface board 261. The lamp interface board 261 is provided with drive circuits for various lamps, and is configured as a separate board independent of the sound lamp control board 260a. A game effect LED board or the like is connected to the board surface LED board 263 and the game frame LED board 264. These lamps are turned on / off or blinking in accordance with the progress of the game to enhance the gaming effect.

  Further, an amplifier board 265 is connected to the sound lamp control unit 260. A speaker 266 and a volume switch board 267 are connected to the amplifier board 265. From the speaker 266, various sounds, sounds, and the like are output in accordance with the progress of the game. The volume switch board 267 is for setting the output volume of the speaker 266 in accordance with an operation of a volume switch (not shown). The sound lamp control unit 260 is provided with a mode switch 268. The mode changeover switch 268 is configured as a DIP switch and is operated by a game hall employee when the power is turned on. The mode changeover switch 268 can change the background and the appearing character in the effect symbol display device 24.

  Next, the symbol control unit 280 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing various gaming devices connected to the symbol control unit 280. Arithmetic circuit components (not shown) having a CPU, RAM, ROM, input / output port, VDP (video display processor), etc. are provided on the symbol control board 280a provided in the symbol controller 280. It is connected to the main control unit 200.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the symbol control unit 280 includes an effect symbol display device substrate 281 that operates the effect symbol display device 24, and a symbol display device substrate 282 that operates the normal symbol display device 27 and the special symbol display device 29. Is connected. In the symbol control unit 280, the CPU performs display control of the effect symbol display device 24, the normal symbol display device 27, and the special symbol display device 29 using the RAM as a work area in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM. Further, special symbol image data and reach display mode image data are stored in the ROM of the symbol control board 280a.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 13 shows an example of a main job executed by the CPU 400 based on a program stored in the ROM of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 13 includes a game start process S200, a normal symbol game process S300, a normal electric game game process S400, a special symbol game process S500, and a special electric game game process S600 after executing the power-on process S100. Each step is repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset. In this embodiment, the reset period is set to 2 ms.

  The power-on process S100 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. This power-on process is performed when power is turned on and when power is restored after a power failure occurs. First, various settings required when the power is turned on are performed (S101). Specifically, the stack pointer is set to a predetermined address in the RAM, the interrupt mode is set, and access to the RAM is permitted.

  Next, when the RAM clear switch is pressed or when the backup flag (power failure occurrence information) is not set in the RAM, it is determined that the power is turned on and the RAM initialization process is performed. Return (S102, S103, S104). As the RAM initialization processing, initial setting of built-in devices around the CPU is performed, all areas of the RAM are cleared to 0, initial values during normal game are set, and interrupts are permitted. Also, a game start flag is set.

  On the other hand, if the backup flag is set in the RAM, it is determined that the power is restored when the power is turned off, and a checksum is calculated from the contents of the RAM protected when the power is turned off (S105). (S106). If these checksums do not match, it is determined that the contents of the RAM are broken, and the RAM initialization process of S104 is performed. When the contents of the RAM are backed up normally, the following power recovery process is performed.

  First, the stack pointer immediately before power-off is restored and the backup flag is cleared. Next, a return setting is made to return to the gaming state when the power is turned off, the CPU peripheral device is initialized, and the register is returned to the state immediately before the power is turned off. Thereafter, the program is resumed by returning to the program execution position immediately before the power is turned off.

  Next, the game start process S200 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, all the switches other than the RAM clear switch connected to the main control unit 200 are read (S201), the respective switch states are determined, and the detection information is stored (S202).

  Next, various random numbers such as a random number for determination of success / failure and a random number for symbol display are updated (S203). Specifically, the value of the random number counter set in the above-described RAM is incremented by 1 between an initial value (for example, 0) and a predetermined value (for example, 255). When the value of the random number counter exceeds a predetermined value, the initial value is restored.

  Next, prize ball control in S204 to S207 is performed. First, each winning mouth is checked by a winning mouth switch, and when a game ball wins a winning mouth, winning detection information is stored in the RAM (S204, S205). Next, when there is saved prize ball detection information, a prize ball number designation command corresponding to the acquired game ball is transmitted to the payout control unit 230 (S206, S207).

  Next, the normal symbol game process S300 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined by the normal symbol operation gate detection switch 26s whether or not the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 26 (S301). As a result, when it is determined that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 26 (S301: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of pending operation of the normal symbol display device 27 is less than 4 (S302). If the number of normal symbols held is less than 4 (S302: YES), a random number for determining whether or not normal symbols are stored is stored (S303).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is in operation (S304). If it is determined that the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is in operation (S304: YES) ), The process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is not operating (S304: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is changing (S305). As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol is not changing (S305: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is in the stop display time (S306), and it is determined that the normal symbol is in the normal symbol display time. If this is the case (S306: NO), the process proceeds to S314, which will be described later. If it is determined that the normal symbol display time is not being reached (S306: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol hold count is zero (S306: NO). S307).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of normal symbol hold is zero (S307: YES), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the number of normal symbol hold is not zero (S307: NO), whether or not the normal symbol is determined (S308) and the normal symbol variation time is set (S309). When the symbol variation time reduction function is active, set the normal symbol variation time when the symbol variation time reduction function is activated. When the symbol variation time reduction function is not active, the normal when the symbol variation time reduction function is not activated Set symbol variation time. Then, the variation of the normal symbol is started (S310).

  When it is determined in S305 that the normal symbol is changing (S305: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol change time has passed (S311), and the normal symbol change time has passed. If it is determined that there is not (S311: NO), the process directly returns. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol change time has elapsed (S311: YES), the normal symbol change is stopped (S312), and the normal symbol stop display interval is set (S313).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the interval between the normal symbols has been stopped (S314). If it is determined that the interval between the normal symbols has not been stopped (S314: NO), the process returns as it is. If it is determined that the normal symbol stop display has elapsed (S314: YES), is the normal symbol stop symbol a combination of winning symbols that will actuate the start port (normal electric accessory) 28? It is determined whether or not (S315). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is not a winning symbol combination (S315: NO), the process returns as it is.

  When it is determined that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a combination of the winning symbols (S315: YES), the operating time of the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is set (S316). When the normal electric accessory release extension function is activated, set the normal electric accessory activation time when the normal electric accessory release extension function is activated, and the normal electric accessory release extension function is not activated. Sets the operation time of the ordinary electric accessory when the normal electric accessory release extension function is not activated. Then, the operation of the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is started (S317).

  Next, the ordinary electric accessory game process S400 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is in operation (S401). If it is determined that the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is not in operation (S401: NO) ), Return as it is. On the other hand, when it is determined that the starting port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is in operation (S401: YES), it is determined whether or not the operating time of the starting port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 has elapsed. (S402), when it is determined that the operating time of the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 has not elapsed (S402: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal electric accessory has won a predetermined number of winnings. (S403).

  As a result, when it is determined that there is no regular prize winning for the ordinary electric accessory (S403: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the regular electric bonus has been awarded for the prescribed prize ( If it is determined that the operation time of the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 has elapsed (S402: YES), the operation of the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 28 is stopped (S403: YES). S404).

  Next, the special symbol game process S500 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the start opening 28 has been won (S501), and if it is determined that the start opening 28 has been won (S501: YES), the number of pending operation of the special symbol display device 29 is less than 4. It is determined whether or not there is (S502). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is less than 4 (S502: YES), a random number for determining whether or not special symbol is determined is stored (S503).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the condition device is in operation (S504). If it is determined that the condition device is in operation (S504: YES), the process returns as it is and the condition device is not in operation. (S504: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S505). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), the process proceeds to S513 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S505: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506). If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506: YES), the process proceeds to S516 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S506: NO). ), It is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507: YES), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is not zero (S507: NO), the probability variation It is determined whether or not the function is operating (S508). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation function is in operation (S508: YES), whether or not the probability variation function is correct is determined (S509), and when it is determined that the probability variation function is not in operation. (S508: NO), it is determined whether or not there is a non-probability change (S510).

  Next, a special symbol variation pattern determination process is performed (S511). Here, the special symbol variation pattern determination process S510 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the symbol variation time shortening function is in operation (S511A). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol variation time shortening function is in operation (S511A: YES), the normal symbol fluctuates at the end of the accessory continuous operation device, and the normal symbol continues to fluctuate. It is determined whether or not (S511B). As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol is continuing to change (S511B: YES), the normal symbol remaining fluctuation time until the normal symbol that is currently changing stops changing is calculated (S511C). Then, a variation time extension process is performed in which the variation time of the special symbol is set longer than the normal symbol remaining variation time, and a variation pattern having a variation time longer than the normal symbol remaining variation time is selected from the time reduction pattern table (S511D).

  If it is determined in S511A that the symbol variation time shortening function is not operating (S511A: NO), a special symbol variation time is set when the symbol variation time shortening function is not activated, and the variation pattern is selected from the normal pattern table. (S511E).

  If it is determined in S511B that the normal symbol is not continuing to be varied (S511B: NO), a special symbol variation time when the symbol variation time shortening function is activated is set, and a variation pattern is selected from the pattern table for time reduction (S511F). ). Then, returning to FIG. 18A, the variation of the special symbol is started (S512).

  If it is determined in S505 that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), it is determined whether or not the special symbol change time has elapsed (S513). As a result, when it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has not elapsed (S513: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed (S513: YES), the special symbol fluctuation is stopped (S514), and the special symbol stop symbol display time is set (S515).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S516). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S516: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. (S516: YES), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol is a combination of hit symbols that will activate the condition device (S517).

  As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a winning symbol combination (S517: YES), the operation of the condition device is started (S518), and the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is started (S518). S519).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation function is in operation (S520). If it is determined that the probability variation function is in operation (S520: YES), the probability variation function is deactivated (S521). ), The symbol variation time shortening function is deactivated (S522), and the ordinary electric accessory opening extension function is deactivated (S523).

  If it is determined in S517 that the special symbol stop symbol is not a winning symbol combination (S517: NO), it is determined whether or not the symbol variation time reduction function is in operation (S524). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol variation time shortening function is not operating (S524: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the symbol variation time shortening function is operating (S524: YES), the special symbol. The number of fluctuations is counted (S525), and it is determined whether or not the number of fluctuations has reached a preset number of fluctuations (100 in this example) (S526). As a result, when it is determined that the number of fluctuations has not reached the preset number of fluctuations (S526: NO), the process returns as it is and it is determined that the number of fluctuations has reached the preset number of fluctuations. In the case (S526: YES), the symbol variation time shortening function is deactivated (S522), and the ordinary electric accessory opening extension function is deactivated (S523).

  If it is determined in S520 that the probability variation function is not in operation (S520: NO), it is determined whether or not the symbol variation time reduction function is in operation (S527). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol variation time shortening function is not operating (S527: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the symbol variation time shortening function is operating (S527: YES), the symbol variation is performed. The time reduction function is deactivated (S522), and the ordinary electric accessory opening extension function is deactivated (S523).

  Next, the special symbol electric game game process S600 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the accessory continuous operation device is in operation (S601). If it is determined that the accessory continuous operation device is not in operation (S601: NO), the process returns as it is. If it is determined that the continuous operating device is operating (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 33a is open (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. If it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the maximum number of winnings has been won in the special winning opening 33a (S604).

  As a result, when it is determined that the maximum number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the process returns as it is and it is determined that the maximum winning number has been won in the large winning opening 33a. In some cases (S604: YES), if it is determined that the opening time of the big prize opening 33a has passed (S603: YES), the big prize opening 33a is closed (S605).

  When it is determined in S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not being opened (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not the number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory is less than a predetermined number of times set in advance ( S606). As a result, when it is determined that the number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory is less than the predetermined number (S606: YES), it is determined whether or not the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S607). When it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed ( (S607: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S608).

  If it is determined in S606 that the number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory has reached the predetermined number (S606: NO), the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is stopped (S609), and the condition device is activated. Is stopped (S610). Then, it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol that triggered the condition device operation is a combination of probability variation symbols that activates the probability variation function (S611), and it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is not a specific symbol (S611: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a specific symbol (S611: YES), the probability variation function is started (S612), and the symbol variation time The shortening function is activated (S613), and the normal electric accessory opening extension function is activated (S614).

  Next, the power interruption generation processing S700 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. This power cut-off generation process is performed when a non-maskable interrupt occurs due to a power cut due to a power failure or the like.

  First, the used register is saved in the RAM, and the value of the stack pointer is saved (S701, S702). Next, the payout motor is stopped (S703), a checksum is calculated and stored (S704), and a backup flag is set (S705). Next, access to the RAM is prohibited (S706), an infinite loop process is performed until a system reset occurs, and the watchdog reset is repeated (S707). The RAM data is compensated by a backup power supply unit (not shown). If a system reset occurs, the process proceeds to the power-on process S100.

  As described above, when the symbol variation time reduction function starts at the end of the special gaming state, the normal symbol changes, and when the special symbol starts changing during the normal symbol change, the special symbol change time Is performed longer than the remaining fluctuation time of the normal symbol, the special symbol does not stop fluctuating until the normal symbol fluctuates. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the special symbol from fluctuating and stopping many times during the variation of the normal symbol, and the player can fully enjoy the benefit of shortening the symbol variation time.

  Also, when the symbol variation time shortening function starts, the special symbol variation time is extended only when the normal symbol is fluctuating, preventing the special symbol variation time from being extended when unnecessary. it can.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  In the first embodiment, when the normal symbol fluctuates when the symbol variation time shortening function is started, the variation time of the special symbol is made longer than the remaining variation time of the normal symbol. However, despite the fact that the reach display is not performed from when the special symbol starts to fluctuate until it stops fluctuating, there may be a stop effect of a symbol that makes the player feel uncomfortable if the variation time is long. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the reach effect is selected when the variation time of the special symbol is long, and even if the variation time is long, the player has no sense of incongruity and the expectation for the big hit is increased and the effect is not bored. .

  In this embodiment, the time-saving pattern table used during the operation of the symbol variation time shortening function is composed of a first time-saving pattern table and a second time-saving pattern table. The variation mode included in the second time pattern table has a longer variation time than the variation mode included in the first time pattern table. When the variation mode included in the second time reduction pattern table is selected, the symbol control unit 280 selects the reach display mode of the pseudo special symbol, and the effect symbol display device 24 performs the reach display.

  Next, the special symbol variation pattern determination process in the present embodiment will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. Since S511A to S511C, S511E, and S511F are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

  After calculating the normal symbol remaining fluctuation time, the normal symbol remaining fluctuation time is compared with a predetermined time (S511G). Here, the “predetermined time” is used to determine whether or not to perform reach display with a special symbol, and is a value that can be arbitrarily set.

  When the predetermined time is set to a short time, the reach effect is always selected when the special symbol changes. If the change in the special symbol after the big hit is a reach effect each time, the expectation for the player is not increased, but the control method may be overlooked. Conversely, when the predetermined value is set to a long time, the reach effect is not selected when the special symbol fluctuates.

  The predetermined time is set from the above viewpoint, and the predetermined time is set to 15 seconds in this embodiment in view of the fact that the fluctuation time of the normal symbol when the fluctuation time is not shortened is about 29 seconds. .

  If the normal symbol remaining variation time is shorter than the predetermined time as a result of the determination in S511G (S511G: NO), a variation pattern having a variation time longer than the normal symbol remaining variation time is selected from the first time reduction pattern table (S511H). ). On the other hand, if the normal symbol remaining variation time is longer than the predetermined time (S511G: YES), a variation pattern having a variation time longer than the normal symbol remaining variation time is selected from the second time reduction pattern table (S511I).

  As a result, when the special symbol time extension process is performed, the variation pattern of the special symbol can be diversified, such as the reach display by the special symbol on the effect symbol display device 24 according to the remaining variation time of the normal symbol. Therefore, gameability can be improved.

It is a front view which shows the game machine of each Example. It is a front view which shows schematic structure of the game board of each Example. It is a front view of the normal symbol display apparatus and special symbol display apparatus of each Example. It is a front view of the back mechanism board of the gaming machine of each embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the electronic control apparatus of each Example. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of CPU of the main control part of each Example. It is a block diagram which shows the various game devices connected to the board surface relay board | substrate of each Example. It is a block diagram which shows the various game devices connected to the game frame relay board | substrate of each Example. It is a block diagram which shows the various game devices connected to the payout control board of each Example. It is a block diagram which shows the various game devices connected to the launch control board of each Example. It is a block diagram which shows the various game devices connected to the sound lamp control board of each Example. It is a block diagram which shows the various game devices connected to the symbol control board of each Example. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the main job of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the power-on process of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the game start process of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the normal symbol game process of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the normal electric accessory game process of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol game process of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol game process of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol fluctuation pattern determination process of 1st Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special electric accessory game process of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the power failure generation | occurrence | production process of each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol fluctuation pattern determination process of 2nd Example.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 20 ... Game board, 21 ... Game area | region, 24 ... Production symbol display device (variable display means), 25 ... Symbol display part, 27 ... Normal symbol display device, 28 ... Special symbol display device, 31 ... Start-up Mouth (ordinary electric accessory), 33 ... Grand prize winning device, 33a ... Grand prize winning mouth, 34, 35, 36, 37 ... Prize winning mouth, 200 ... Main control section (win / fail judgment means, special game state generating means), 230 ... Dispensing control unit, 250... Launch control unit, 260... Sound lamp control unit, 280.

Claims (2)

A first variable display device in which the first identification symbol is variably displayed when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
A starting opening that changes the game ball into a state where it is easy to enter when the first identification symbol that is stopped and displayed is the first specific symbol;
A second variable display device in which a second identification symbol is variably displayed by entering a game ball into the start opening;
A special game state generating device that operates when the second identification symbol that is stopped and displayed is a second specific symbol, and generates a special game state that is relatively advantageous to the player;
When the second identification symbol is a predetermined one of the second specific symbols, a predetermined end including the second identification symbol fluctuating a predetermined number of times after the operation of the special gaming state generating device is completed. A symbol variation time shortening means for shortening the variation time of the first identification symbol and the second identification symbol that started to vary after the operation of the special gaming state generating device is completed until a condition is satisfied;
The symbol variation time shortening means changes the first identification symbol when the special gaming state generating device ends its operation, and when the second identification symbol starts to vary. A gaming machine characterized in that, when the fluctuation continues, the fluctuation time of the second identification symbol is made longer than the remaining fluctuation time of the first identification symbol. The symbol variation time shortening means changes the first identification symbol when the special gaming state generating device ends its operation, and when the second identification symbol starts to vary. When the variation continues, the remaining variation time of the first identification symbol is compared with a predetermined time. If the remaining variation time of the first identification symbol is longer than the predetermined time, the second variable display 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a reach display using the second identification symbol is performed in the apparatus.

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