JP4526554B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a pachinko gaming machine, a coin gaming machine, a slot machine, or the like. Specifically, it is provided with a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other, and is advantageous for the player when the display result of the variable display device is a combination of predetermined specific identification information The present invention relates to a gaming machine that controls to a specific gaming state.

  What is conventionally known as this type of gaming machine is equipped with a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can each be identified, such as a pachinko gaming machine. After the device starts variably, the display result is derived and displayed, and when the display result is a combination of specific identification information determined in advance, it is controlled to a specific gaming state such as a big hit, and before the display result is derived and displayed There is a gaming machine for notifying that the display result is a combination of specific identification information.

In a conventional game machine, in a variable display device capable of displaying a character image, an effect character is displayed on each variable display portion of the variable display device in accordance with the timing at which the symbol stops, and a plurality of displayed characters Have succeeded in merging and displaying a merging character, the player will be notified of a promising big hit (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2000-271290 A

  As described above, there is a conventional gaming machine that displays an effect character and notifies that a display result is a combination of specific identification information. However, in such a conventional gaming machine, only one timing for displaying the effect character is determined, and if the effect character is not displayed at the determined timing, the player has a specific identification. I lost my expectation for the combination of information.

  The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the interest of the game by performing effective notice in the variable display device.

Specific examples of means for solving the problems and their effects

(1) A variable display device (variable display device 8) that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (special symbols) that can identify each of them is provided, and the display result of the variable display device is a predetermined identification information. A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) that controls to a specific gaming state (big hit state) that is advantageous to the player when a combination (for example, a doublet such as “777”) is obtained,
First numerical information extraction means for extracting numerical information for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display device is a combination of the specific identification information;
Second numerical information extraction means for extracting numerical information for determining variable display time from when the plurality of types of identification information are variably started until a display result is derived and displayed;
Display result determining means (game control microcomputer 53) for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display device is to be a combination of the specific identification information using the numerical information extracted by the first numerical information extracting means. , S55 in FIG.
Variable display time determining means for determining the variable display time using the numerical information extracted by the second numerical information extracting means;
When the display result determining means determines that the display result of the variable display device is a combination of the specific identification information, the determination is made in a variable display game for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device. Notice determining means (display control microcomputer 81, Sub56, Sub57 in FIG. 29) for determining whether or not to execute the notice of the event,
The display result determination means (game control microcomputer 53, S55 in FIG. 15) combines the display result of the variable display device (variable display device 8) with the specific identification information (for example, a doublet such as “777”). When it is decided not to do so, false notice determination means (display control microcomputer 81, Sub54, Sub56, Sub57 in FIG. 29, FIG. 10 (C) off-line notice determination table),
As a notice display mode for executing the notice using a predetermined image different from the identification information,
Predetermined first display patterns ((A-2) to (A-4) in FIG. 4, (B-2) to (B-4) in FIG. 5, and (C-2) and (C-3 in FIG. 6). ), A second display pattern different from the first display pattern after (D-2) and (D-3) in FIG. 7 ((C-4) in FIG. 6, (D-4) in FIG. 7). The advanced notice display mode (see FIG. 6 and FIG. 7)
A non-developed notice display mode (see FIGS. 4 and 5) that does not shift to the second display pattern after the first display pattern;
A notice display form storage means (character ROM 86, control data ROM 102) for storing data defining at least two kinds of notice display forms;
When it is decided by the notice determining means to execute the notice, the notice display mode used for the notice is selected from the notice display forms defined by the data stored in the notice display form storing means. Notice display mode selection means (display control microcomputer 81, Sub58, Sub59 in FIG. 29);
Timing data defining at least two types of timings (see FIG. 8), which are predetermined first timings and second timings later than the first timings, are stored as timings for executing the advance notice in the variable display game. Timing data storage means (control data ROM 102);
When the advance notice is determined by the advance notice determining means or the false notice determining means, the timing for executing the advance notice is selected from the timings defined by the data stored in the timing data storage means. Timing selection means (display control microcomputer 81, Sub60 and Sub61 in FIG. 29),
Character storage means for storing data of a plurality of types of characters to be displayed as the predetermined image;
Character selection means for selecting a character to be displayed as the predetermined image from data stored in the character storage means;
In the variable display game, the plurality of types of identification information are variably started, the notification is executed according to the selection of the notification display mode selection means and the timing selection means, and then variable based on the determination of the variable display time determination means Variable display control means (display control microcomputer 81, FIG. 30, FIG. 31, FIG. 32) for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device according to the determination of the display result determination means after the display time has elapsed,
The execution pattern of the advance notice by the variable display control means includes two patterns: a notice at the first timing, no notice at the second timing, no notice at the first timing, and notice at the second timing. Contains at least
The timing selection means is more likely to perform the notice at the second timing than the first timing when the notice determination means decides to execute the notice, and the false notice determination means executes the notice. Then, when it is determined, the timing for executing the advance notice is selected so that the proportion of the advance notice performed at the first timing is higher than the second timing,
The character selecting means can select a character dedicated to the first timing when the first timing is selected as the timing for executing the notice by the timing selecting means, while the second timing is selected. You can select a character dedicated to the second timing,
A game control board including the display result determining means and the variable display time determining means;
A display control board including the timing selection unit and the variable display control unit,
The display control board is:
Timing numerical information extraction means (display control microcomputer 81, Sub60 in FIG. 29) for extracting timing numerical information (timing determination random value) for selecting the type of timing for executing the advance notice;
FIG. 10 is a timing table ((E) timing determination table in FIG. 10) defining a correspondence relationship between the timing numerical information and each of a plurality of types of timings including the first and second timings; A timing table in which the number of timing numerical information allocated to the number of times and the number of timing numerical information allocated to the second timing are different ((E) jackpot timing determination table in FIG. 10, loss timing determination table And a timing table storage means (control data ROM 102) for storing a plurality of
The game control board transmits a variable display time command capable of specifying a determination result of the variable display time determining means to the display control board,
The timing selection means (display control microcomputer 81, Sub60, Sub61 in FIG. 29) selects one of the timing tables from the timing table storage means based on the variable display time command, and the timing. The timing numeric information extracted by the timing numeric information extraction means is compared with the timing numeric information defined in the timing table, and the timing for executing the advance notice is selected (Sub 61 in FIG. 29).

According to such a configuration, since the advance notice is executed at different timings, even if the advance notice is not executed at the first timing, the player's expectation that the advance notice will be started at the second timing. Can last.
In addition, since the display result determination means notifies that the display result of the variable display device is not to be a combination of specific identification information, the frequency of the notification is increased and the player's expectation is improved. Can be made. In addition, since the reliability that the display result of the variable display device becomes a combination of specific identification information varies depending on the timing of the advance notice, the player's expectation for the specific combination of identification information depends on the start timing of the advance notice. A feeling can be improved.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, a pachinko gaming machine is shown as an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a coin gaming machine, a slot machine, or the like. A gaming machine that includes a variable display device that variably displays identification information of a type, and that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when a display result of the variable display device is a combination of predetermined specific identification information If so, it can be applied to all.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 as an example of a gaming machine according to the present invention and a card unit 50 installed correspondingly.

  When the player inserts a prepaid card in which the card balance is recorded into the card insertion slot 155, the card balance recorded in the prepaid card is read. Next, when the player performs a predetermined ball lending operation, the balance for the lending unit amount which is set in advance is reduced, and the ball for the lending unit amount is the ball hit by the pachinko gaming machine 1. Lending to the supply tray 3.

  The card unit 50 is provided with a card availability display lamp 151, and the player is notified by the lighting or blinking of the card availability display lamp 151 that the card unit 50 is in a usable state. This card unit 50 is installed in a state where it is inserted between a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 1 installed on the gaming machine installation island, and it indicates which of the left and right gaming machines is connected to the connected table. Displayed by the instrument 153.

  The card unit 50 is provided with a fraction display switch 152. By pressing the fraction display switch 152, for example, information such as a card balance and an error code when an error occurs is displayed on an information display (not shown) provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the figure, reference numeral 156 denotes a card unit lock, which is configured to open the front side of the card unit 50 by inserting a predetermined key into the card unit lock 156 and performing an unlocking operation.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the rear of the glass door frame 2. Further, a ball supply tray 3 is provided on the lower surface of the glass door frame 2. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an excess ball receiving tray 4 for storing hitting balls overflowing from the hitting ball supply tray 3 and an operation knob 5 for a player to operate hitting balls are provided.

  By operating the operation knob 5 by the player, the hit balls stored in the hit ball supply tray 3 can be shot one by one. The fired hit ball is guided into the game area 7 by the guide rail 29. A valve-like backflow prevention member 30 is provided at the exit portion from the guide rail 29 to the game area 7. The backflow preventing member 30 prevents the hit ball once driven into the game area 7 from returning to the guide rail 29.

  In the center of the game area 7, a variable display device 8 is provided for variably displaying special symbols (hereinafter also referred to as “update display” or “variable display”) as an example of a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified. It has been. The variable display device 8 is provided with a special symbol display unit (hereinafter also referred to as “LCD”) 9, a normal symbol display 10, a start-up storage display 18, and a passing storage display 13 made of a liquid crystal display. Yes. Further, below the variable display device 8, the starting electric accessory 15 having a starting opening (hereinafter also referred to as “starting winning opening”) 14 and the opening / closing plate 20 can be tilted to make a winning hit. A variable winning ball apparatus 19 that is in an open state is provided. The starter electric accessory 15 is provided with movable pieces on the left and right. In addition, as general winning awards, winning openings 24 are respectively provided on the lower left and right of the variable display device 8 and on the lower left and right of the game area 7. Further, the passage openings 11 through which the hit ball can enter are provided on the lower left and right sides of the variable display device 8. Reference numeral 26 denotes an out mouth that is collected as an out ball when the hit ball that has been struck does not win any of the winning opening 24 or the variable winning ball apparatus 19, and 25 is a decorative lamp.

  On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame lamp (game effect LED) 28a, a prize ball lamp 51 that is lit when the prize ball is paid out, and a ball lamp 52 that is lit when the ball is out of play are provided. Are provided with game effect lamps 28b and 28c. Speakers 27 and 27 for generating sound effects such as stereo sound are provided on the left and right above the game area 7, respectively.

  The special symbol display unit 9 is not limited to a liquid crystal display, but is composed of other image display type display devices such as CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), FED (Field Emission Display), PDP (Plasma Display Panel), dot matrix, and the like. May be.

  The hit ball that has entered the passage 11 is detected by the gate switch 12. When a hit ball is detected by the gate switch 12, a predetermined random number value is extracted and stored if the stored number displayed on the passing memory display 13 has not reached the upper limit. And if it is a state which can start the variable display of the normal symbol display 10, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 will be started. In addition, when the normal symbol display 10 is variably displayed, when the hit ball further enters the passage port 11 and is detected by the gate switch 12, the variable symbol display of the normal symbol display 10 cannot be started. Since it is in the state, “4” is stored as the upper limit of the stored number, and the passing ball (random number or the like) is stored, and the stored number is displayed on the passing memory display 13 by the number of lit LEDs. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs that are lit is reduced by one.

  The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information such as numbers (hereinafter also referred to as “normal identification information”) as normal symbols. When the display result of the variable display becomes a predetermined display mode (for example, “7”) determined in advance, it becomes “hit”, and the start constituting the start port 14 by the solenoid 16 being excited. A pair of left and right movable pieces provided in the electric accessory 15 is opened once. As a result, the starter electric accessory 15 is in an open state, and the hitting ball becomes easier to win. If one starting ball wins when the starting electric accessory 15 is in the open state, the movable piece closes to the original position, and the hitting ball returns to a state where it is difficult to win. Further, if a predetermined opening period elapses after the starter electric accessory 15 is in the open state, the movable piece is closed to the original position and the open state is ended even if no start winning is generated.

  The hitting ball that has won the starting opening 14 (hereinafter also referred to as “starting winning ball”) is detected by a starting opening switch 17 (see FIG. 2) provided on the game board 6. When the start winning ball is detected by the start switch 17, five prize balls are paid out, and a predetermined random number value is extracted if the stored number displayed on the start memory display has not reached the upper limit. Memorized.

  If variable display of the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 can be started, variable display is started. In addition, when the special symbol display unit 9 is variably displayed, when a hitting ball is further won at the start port 14 and detected by the start port switch 17, variable display on the special symbol display unit 9 is started. Since this is not possible, the start winning ball (random number or the like) is stored with “4” as the upper limit of the stored number, and the stored number is displayed on the start storage display 18 by the number of lit LEDs. In the special symbol display unit 9, the number of lit LEDs is reduced by one each time the special symbol is variably started.

  The special symbol display unit 9 is provided with three variable display units, a left variable display unit, a middle variable display unit, and a right variable display unit. On the condition that the hit ball has won the start opening 14, variable display is started simultaneously on the three variable display portions. The variable display is performed by scrolling a special symbol from top to bottom in each variable display section. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the special symbol on the left variable display portion is first stopped and displayed. When a predetermined time further elapses, the special symbol on the right variable display unit is then stopped and displayed. Further, when a predetermined time elapses, the special symbol of the middle variable display portion is finally stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the special symbols displayed on each variable display unit are 10 types of numbers from 0 to 9.

  The identification information variably displayed by the special symbol display unit 9 and the normal symbol display 10 may be any identification information as long as the identification information is a number, a character, a figure, a pattern, a character, etc. Only numbers, letters only, figures only, patterns only, characters only, or a combination of these may be used.

  When the display results of the three variable display sections are a combination of specific identification information determined in advance (for example, “77”, etc., hereinafter, also referred to as “hit symbol”), it becomes “hit” and the gaming state Shifts to a specific gaming state (hereinafter also referred to as a “hit state”). In the specific game state, the opening / closing plate 20 of the variable winning ball apparatus 19 is opened and the large winning opening is opened. Thereby, it is controlled to the 1st state advantageous for the player who can make a hit ball win a big winning opening. The opening / closing plate 20 is driven by a solenoid 21.

  A count switch 23 that detects a hit ball that has won a prize in the variable winning ball apparatus 19 is provided inside the large winning opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 19. The special winning opening is divided into a specific winning area and a normal winning area. In the specific winning area, a V that detects a hit in the specific winning area (hereinafter also referred to as “V winning”) is detected. A count switch 22 is provided. The winning ball that has won the specific winning area is detected by the V count switch 22 and then detected by the count switch 23. On the other hand, a normal winning ball won in the normal winning area is detected only by the count switch 23 in the large winning opening. Each time a winning ball won in the variable winning ball device 19 is detected by the count switch 23, 15 prize balls are paid out.

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there is provided a winning ball collective cover (not shown) for guiding the winning balls that have won the winning holes and the variable winning ball device 19 along a predetermined winning path. The winning ball guided by the collective cover is supplied to a winning ball processing device (not shown) that processes one winning ball. The winning ball processing device is provided with a winning ball detection switch (not shown), and thereby, the winning ball to be paid out by the winning ball processing device is detected.

  The first state of the variable winning ball apparatus 19 is either when the number of hit balls that have entered the special winning opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10) or when a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed. When the earlier condition is established, the process is temporarily terminated and the opening / closing plate 20 is closed. Thereby, the variable winning ball apparatus 19 is controlled to a 2nd state unfavorable for the player who cannot win a hit ball. Then, on the condition that the hit ball that entered during the period in which the variable winning ball device 19 is in the first state has specifically won the specific winning area and has been detected by the V count switch 22, the variable winning at that time After the first state of the ball device 19 is finished and becomes the second state, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again, and repeated continuation control is performed to place the variable winning ball device 19 in the first state. The upper limit number of executions of this repeated continuation control is predetermined, for example, 16 times.

  When the display result of the three variable display sections is a combination of special identification information (for example, an odd number such as “777”, hereinafter also referred to as “probable big hit symbol”), it becomes “probable big hit”, and then the big hit Will be higher than the normal gaming state. That is, a special gaming state (hereinafter, also referred to as “probability variation state”) that is more advantageous for the player. The normal gaming state refers to a gaming state other than the specific gaming state and the special gaming state.

  When the display results of the three variable display portions are neither big hit symbol nor probable big hit symbol, the game state is “disconnected” and the gaming state remains unchanged and remains in the normal gaming state.

  In addition, reach (also referred to as “reach state”, “reach mode”, or “reach display mode”) is established from when variable display of each special display is started until the display result is derived and displayed. There is a case.

  Here, the reach has a variable display device including a variable display unit that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can each be identified, and the variable display unit variably starts the plurality of types of identification information. Later, a plurality of display results are derived and displayed at different times, and in a gaming machine in which the gaming state becomes a specific gaming state advantageous for the player when a combination of predetermined specific identification information is obtained, This means a display state where a display result already derived and displayed satisfies a condition for a combination of specific identification information at a stage where a part of the display result is not yet derived and displayed.

  In other words, reach is when the display result of identification information in a variable display device having a plurality of variable display units whose display states can be changed is a combination of predetermined specific identification information. A variable display mode in which a combination of the specific identification information is easily displayed at a stage where the display result of the variable display device is not yet derived and displayed in a gaming machine in which the gaming state is in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player A display state that makes the player think that it has become. For example, the reach includes a state in which variable display by the plurality of variable display units is performed while maintaining a state in which the specific identification information is combined. In addition, some reach is likely to generate a big hit when it appears compared to a normal reach. Such a specific reach is called super reach.

  Reach means that even when the display control progresses after the variable display device is variably started and the display result is reached before the display result is derived and displayed, the reach does not satisfy the display condition that is a combination of the specific identification information. It also refers to a display mode that is not.

  The reach is a display state at the time when the display control of the variable display device has progressed to reach a stage before the display result is derived and displayed, and is determined before the display result is derived and displayed. It also means a display state in a case where at least a part of the display results of the plurality of variable display areas satisfy the condition for the combination of the specific identification information.

  Reach is a condition in which the display result of the display area already derived and displayed is a combination of specific identification information when the display result is not yet derived and displayed in some display areas of the plurality of display areas. The display state that satisfies

  Further, the full rotation reach means a display state in which variable display is performed in a state where a combination of specific identification information is held in all of the plurality of display areas.

  In this embodiment, when variable display is being performed on the three variable display units, a notice that the display result of the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 will be a big hit is executed. This notice will be described in detail later.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration in the game control board 31. FIG. 2 shows a game control board (also referred to as a main board) 31, a prize ball board 37, a sound control board 70, a lamp control board 35, a launch control board 91, and a display control board 80 as control boards.

  The prize ball board 37, the sound control board 70, the lamp control board 35, and the launch control board 91 are equipped with a microcomputer and the display control board 80 is equipped with a display control microcomputer 81 and the like. Each board is provided with, for example, a CPU and an I / O port.

  A ball payout device 97 and a card unit 50 are connected to the prize ball substrate 37. A speaker 27 is connected to the sound control board 70. Connected to the lamp control board 35 are a game effect LED 28a, a prize ball lamp 51, a ball break lamp 52, game effect lamps 28b and 28c, and a passing memory display 13. An operation knob (hit ball operation handle) 5 and a drive motor 94 for driving a ball hitting hammer (not shown) are connected to the firing control board 91. The driving force of the drive motor 94 is adjusted according to the operation amount of the operation knob 5. A normal symbol display 10 and a special symbol display unit 9 are connected to the display control board 80.

  The game control board 31 includes a game control microcomputer 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a game control program, a switch circuit 58, a solenoid circuit 59, a lamp LED circuit 60, an information output circuit 64, An initial reset circuit 65 and an address decoding circuit 67 are provided.

  The game control microcomputer 53 includes a ROM 54 that stores a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 that is used as a work memory, a CPU 56 that performs control operations according to the game control program, and an I / O port 57. The game control microcomputer 53 repeatedly executes the game control program stored in the ROM 54 periodically (for example, every 2 msec) from the top in accordance with the timer interrupt.

  The switch circuit 58 is a circuit that supplies signals from various switches to the game control microcomputer 53. The switch circuit 58 is connected to the gate switch 12, the start port switch 17, the V count switch 22, the count switch 23, the winning ball detection switch 99, and the like.

  The solenoid circuit 59 operates the solenoid 16 for operating the movable piece provided on the left and right sides of the starting electric accessory 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the opening / closing plate 20 of the variable winning ball apparatus 19 in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 53. It is a circuit to drive.

  The lamp LED circuit 60 is a circuit that controls the lighting and extinction of the start winning memory display 18 and the decoration lamp 25.

  The information output circuit 64 indicates probability variation information indicating that a probability variation jackpot has occurred and is in a probability variation state according to data provided from the game control microcomputer 53, and indicates that a jackpot has occurred and a specific gaming state has been reached. This is a circuit for outputting to the host computer such as the hall management computer, etc., the jackpot information and start winning information indicating the occurrence of the start winning that is effectively used for variable display of the special symbol display section 9 among the starting winnings.

  The initial reset circuit 65 is a circuit that resets the game control microcomputer 53 when the power is turned on. The game control microcomputer 53 initializes the pachinko gaming machine 1 in response to the initial reset pulse sent from the initial reset circuit 65.

  The address decode circuit 67 is a circuit that decodes an address signal supplied from the game control microcomputer 53 and outputs a signal for selecting any one of the I / O ports 57.

  The microcomputer mounted on the prize ball board 37 from the game control microcomputer 53, the microcomputer mounted on the sound control board 70, the microcomputer mounted on the lamp control board 35, and the display control mounted on the display control board 80. A command that is an example of command information is transmitted to the microcomputer 81.

  Commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 53 to the microcomputer mounted on the prize ball substrate 37 include commands as command information relating to prize ball payout control and commands (command information relating to ball payout control). For example, a ball lending prohibition command, a ball lending prohibition release command, etc.) are included.

  The game control microcomputer 53 outputs a predetermined voice control command to the microcomputer mounted on the voice control board 70 based on the occurrence of a big hit or winning. In the microcomputer mounted on the sound control board 70, control for outputting a predetermined sound effect from the speaker 27 based on the sound control command is performed.

  The game control microcomputer 53 outputs a predetermined lamp control command to the microcomputer mounted on the lamp control board 35 based on the occurrence of a big hit or winning. In the microcomputer mounted on the lamp control board 35, the lighting control of the electric decorative part based on the lamp control command is performed.

  The game control microcomputer 53 pays out a predetermined number of prize balls based on the detection signal of the winning ball detection switch 99, the detection signal of the start port switch 17, the detection signal of the V count switch 22, and the detection signal of the count switch 23. The prize ball signal is output to the microcomputer mounted on the prize ball board 37. The microcomputer mounted on the prize ball substrate 37 controls the ball dispensing device based on the outputted prize ball signal to perform control for dispensing a predetermined number of prize balls. Specifically, with respect to a winning ball that has won a prize in the special variable winning ball apparatus 19, for example, 15 prize balls are paid out for each winning ball, and 1 for a winning ball that has won a winning winning opening 14. For example, 5 prize balls are paid out for each prize ball, and the prize balls that are won in the other prize opening 24 are controlled so that, for example, 10 prize balls are paid out for each prize ball.

  The game control microcomputer 53 performs the following control operation in order to control the payout of such three types of prize balls. When a detection signal from the start port switch 17, the V count switch 22 or the count switch 23 is input, the detection signal is used as a payout number determination data used when determining the payout number of the award balls. The number of payouts is temporarily stored internally. Thereafter, if a detection signal from the winning ball detection switch 99 is input, it is determined by referring to the payout number determination data whether or not there has been a detection signal from the start port switch 17 before the input. When there is a detection signal from the game control board 31, the game control microcomputer 53 receives a prize ball command to issue a payout number of “5” to the microcomputer mounted on the prize ball board 37. Output a signal.

  On the other hand, when there is a detection signal from the winning ball detection switch 99 and there is a detection signal from the V count switch 22 or the count switch 23 before that, a game control microcomputer mounted on the game control board 31. 53 outputs a prize ball command signal of the number of prize balls of “15” to the microcomputer mounted on the prize ball substrate 37. Further, when there is a detection signal from the winning ball detection switch 99, if no detection signal has been input from any of the start port switch 17, V count switch 22, and count switch 23 before that, The microcomputer 53 outputs a prize ball command signal for giving a prize payout number of “10” to the microcomputer mounted on the prize ball substrate 37.

  The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 based on the award ball number signal sent from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 31 to the payout control microcomputer mounted on the prize ball board 37. Then, a control for paying out the number of prize balls specified by the prize ball number signal is performed.

  FIG. 3 shows the circuit configuration in the display control board 80, which includes the LCD (special symbol display unit) 9, the normal symbol display 10, the output ports (ports 0 and 2) 570 and 572 of the game control board 31, and the output buffer circuit 620. , 62A. The output port (output port 2) 572 outputs 8-bit data, and the output port 570 outputs a 1-bit strobe signal (INT signal). In this embodiment, command data is transmitted by parallel communication (8-bit parallel in this example), but may be exchanged by serial communication.

  The display control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in the control data ROM 102. When an INT signal is input from the game control board 31 through the noise filter 107 and the input buffer circuit 105B, the display control CPU 101 displays through the input buffer circuit 105A. Receive control commands. As the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B, for example, 74HC540 and 74HC14 which are general-purpose ICs can be used. When the display control CPU 101 does not have an I / O port, an I / O port is provided between the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B and the display control CPU 101.

  Then, the display control CPU 101 performs display control of the screen displayed on the LCD 9 according to the received display control command. Specifically, a command according to the display control command is given to a VDP (video display processor) 103. The VDP 103 reads necessary data from the character ROM 86. The VDP 103 generates image data to be displayed on the LCD 9 according to the input data, and outputs R, G, B signals and a synchronization signal to the LCD 9.

  FIG. 3 also shows a reset circuit 83 for resetting the VDP 103, an oscillation circuit 85 for supplying an operating clock to the VDP 103, and a character ROM 86 for storing frequently used image data. The frequently used image data stored in the character ROM 86 is, for example, a person, an animal, or an image made up of characters, figures, symbols, or the like displayed on the LCD 9.

  The display control CPU 101 is connected to a RAM 101a for storing display control command data. When a display control command is received from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 31, the display control CPU 101 Control to move and display a predetermined background and character on the screen is performed. Note that the background and the character are switched at a predetermined timing, but the display control CPU 101 also controls them independently.

  The input buffer circuits 105 </ b> A and 105 </ b> B can pass signals only in the direction from the game control board 31 to the display control board 80. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the display control board 80 side to the game control board 31 side. That is, the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B constitute irreversible information input means together with the input ports. Even if the tampering is added to the circuit in the display control board 80, the signal output by the tampering is not transmitted to the game control board 31 side.

  For example, a three-terminal capacitor or a ferrite bead is used as the noise filter 107 that cuts off the high-frequency signal. However, even if noise occurs between the substrates due to the presence of the noise filter 107, the influence is eliminated. The Also, a noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 62A of the game control board 31.

  4 to 7 are screen views showing the aforementioned notice method. The advance notice is executed by using a predetermined image different from the identification information for the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8. There are two types of predetermined images, one displaying a “boy” character and another displaying an “uncle” character. The notice display mode includes a second display pattern in which a boy on the ship launches fireworks from a launch tube attached to the ship after the first display pattern that the boy on the ship appears on the special symbol display unit 9. After the transition to, after the first display pattern that the boy on board the ship disappears from the special symbol display unit 9 and the first display pattern that the boy on the boat appears on the special symbol display unit 9, the second There are two types of non-developed notice display modes in which a boy on a ship disappears from the special symbol display unit 9 without shifting to the display pattern.

  In the non-development type notice display mode when the character is "Osan", after the first display pattern that "Osan" with a fireworks fire tube in hand appears in the special symbol display section 9, it moves to the second display pattern Instead, “Osan” disappears from the special symbol display section 9. In the advanced notice display mode when the character is “Osan”, the “Osan” is held in the hand after the first display pattern that “Osan” with a fireworks fire tube in his hand appears in the special symbol display section 9. After the transition to the second display pattern of launching fireworks from the launch tube, “Osan” disappears from the special symbol display unit 9. In this embodiment, two types of advance notice display modes and undeveloped type notice display modes are shown as the notice display modes, but the present invention is not limited to this, and there are three or more types of notice display modes. There may be.

  FIG. 4 is a screen diagram showing a non-developed notice display mode in which the character “boy” is displayed. The downward arrow shown in the figure means that the special symbol of each variable display section is variably displayed. Initially, special symbols are stopped and displayed on the three variable display sections (A-1). When the variable display of the three variable display units can be started, the special symbols of the three variable display units start variable display all at once. Then, the boy appears on the ship from the right end of the special symbol display unit 9 (A-2) and moves to the left side of the special symbol display unit 9 (A-3). Then, the ship on which the “boy” got on without doing anything disappears from the left end of the special symbol display section 9 (A-4).

  After that, the special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion (A-5), then the special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the right variable display portion (A-6), and finally the middle variable. The special symbol “6” is stopped and displayed on the display (A-7).

  FIG. 5 is a screen diagram showing a non-developed notice display mode in which the character of “Osan” is displayed. Initially, special symbols are stopped and displayed on the three variable display sections (B-1). When the variable display of the three variable display units can be started, the special symbols of the three variable display units start variable display all at once. Then, the uncle appears from the right end of the special symbol display unit 9 (B-2), and comes out to the vicinity of the center of the special symbol display unit with a firework firing tube in his hand (B-3). Then, without doing anything, “Osan” disappears from the right end of the special symbol display section 9 (B-4).

  Thereafter, the special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion (B-5), then the special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the right variable display portion (B-6), and finally the middle variable. The special symbol “6” is stopped and displayed on the display unit (B-7).

  FIG. 6 is a screen diagram illustrating an advanced notice display mode in which the character “boy” is displayed. First, special symbols are stopped and displayed on the three variable display sections (C-1). When the variable display of the three variable display units can be started, the special symbols of the three variable display units start variable display all at once. Then, the “boy” appears on the ship from the right end of the special symbol display unit 9 (C-2) and moves to the left side of the special symbol display unit 9 (C-3). When the ship comes near the center of the special symbol display unit 9, after launching fireworks from the launch tube attached to the ship, the boat on which the "boy" got on disappears from the special symbol display unit 9 (C-4 ).

  Thereafter, the special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion (C-5), then the special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the right variable display portion (C-6), and finally the middle variable. The special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the display unit (C-7).

  FIG. 7 is a screen diagram showing an advanced notice display mode in which the character of “Osan” is displayed. Initially, special symbols are stopped and displayed on the three variable display sections (D-1). When the variable display of the three variable display units can be started, the special symbols of the three variable display units start variable display all at once. Then, “Osan” appears from the right end of the special symbol display unit 9 (D-2), and it comes out to the vicinity of the center of the special symbol display unit with a fireworks launch tube in hand (D-3). Then, after launching the fireworks, “Osan” disappears from the special symbol display section 9 (D-4).

  Thereafter, the special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion (D-5), then the special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the right variable display portion (D-6), and finally the middle variable. The special symbol “7” is stopped and displayed on the display unit (D-7).

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the timing for executing the advance notice. As the timing for executing the advance notice, the first timing for executing the advance notice at the timing at which the special symbols of the three variable display sections start the variable display at the same time, and the second timing for executing the advance notice later than the first timing. There are two types. The horizontal axis in FIG. 8 indicates time.

  The advance notice is performed between the time when the special symbols of the three variable display portions start variable display all at once and until the first special symbol (left variable display portion) is stopped and displayed. t1 indicates the time when the special symbols of the three variable display units start variable display all at once. The special symbol variably displayed on the left variable display portion is stopped and displayed at t7.

  The advance notice executed at the first timing is executed at the timing at which the special symbol of the variable display unit starts the variable display. Therefore, the advance notice as shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 is executed at t1. . In the non-developed notice display mode at the first timing, only the first display pattern is executed as described above, so the notice ends when t2. In the advanced notice display mode according to the first timing, as described above, since the transition to the second display pattern different from the first pattern is performed after the first display pattern, t3 is later than the non-developed notice display form according to the first timing. The notice will end when it becomes.

  Since the notice executed at the second timing is executed later than the first timing, the notice as shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 is executed at t4. In the non-developed notice display mode at the second timing, only the first display pattern is executed as described above, so the notice ends at t5. In the advanced notice display mode according to the second timing, as described above, since the transition to the second display pattern different from the first display pattern is performed after the first display pattern, it is slower than the non-developed notice display mode according to the second timing. The notice ends when t6 is reached.

  In this way, unlike the first timing, the second timing is notified after a predetermined time has elapsed since the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 starts variable display of the special symbol of the variable display unit. Therefore, even if the notice is not executed at the first timing, the notice may be executed at the second timing, and the player's expectation for the big hit can be maintained.

  In this embodiment, a notice display form called a continuous notice display form is defined. The continuous notice display form is a notice display form in which a notice of an undeveloped notice display form at a first timing is executed and then a notice of an evolved notice display form at a second timing is executed. That is, a notice in the non-developed notice display mode is executed when t1 is reached, a notice in the non-developed notice display form is finished when time t2 is reached, and a notice in the evolved notice display form is reached when t4 is reached. The advance notice is executed, and when the time reaches t5, the advance notice in the advanced notice display mode ends. This continuous notice display mode is executed when a big hit is determined in advance as will be described later.

  In this way, the advance notice is performed by the advance notice display form different from the non-developed advance notice display form and the advanced advance notice display form, so the advance notice of the player can be improved since the advance notice is novel. Further, when the display result of the variable display device 8 is determined to be a big hit, the advance notice is notified by the continuous notice display mode. Therefore, when the continuous notice display mode is displayed, the player's expectation for the big hit is improved. Can be made.

  In this embodiment, two types of timings of the first timing and the second timing are shown as the timing for executing the advance notice, but the present invention is not limited to this, and there may be three or more types.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of each random number. In this embodiment, a plurality of types of random counters are used to generate a plurality of types of random numbers. This random counter is used every time the game control program is executed periodically (specifically, every 2 msec), every time the game control program is executed periodically, and the interrupt processing remaining time, or the display control program is Each time it is periodically executed (specifically, every 33 msec), the value is added and updated by “1”.

  R1 randomly determines whether or not the display result is a big hit, and is added and updated by “1” every 2 msec within a range of “0” to “199”. When reaching the upper limit of “199”, the addition is again updated from “0”.

  R2-1, R2-2, and R2-3 predetermine outliers as the display results of the variable display unit that is performing variable display when the outage is predetermined by R1 (for jackpot determination) It is a random counter used to R2-1 (for losing symbol determination) is added and updated every 2 msec and every 1 interruption processing time within the range of “0” to “9”, and added up to “9” which is the upper limit. Thereafter, the addition is again updated from “0”.

  R2-2 is incremented and updated by "1" for each carry of R2-1 (for determining a missing symbol), and is incremented and updated again from "0" when the upper limit of "9" is reached.

  In R2-3, "1" is added and updated every carry of R2-2 (for determining a missing symbol), and when the upper limit "9" is reached, the addition is updated again from "0".

  When the determined missing symbol is accidentally broken, “1” is added to the extracted value of R2-2 (for determining a missing symbol), and the symbol is forcibly set as a missing symbol.

  R3 is a random counter used for determining a jackpot symbol as a display result of the variable display unit that performs variable display when the jackpot is determined in advance by R1 (for jackpot determination). Within the range of “0” to “9”, “1” is added and updated every 2 msec, and the upper limit “9” is added and updated, and then “0” is added and updated again. When the count value extracted from R3 (hereinafter also referred to as “random number value”) is an even number, it becomes a jackpot symbol that generates a specific gaming state, and when it is an odd number, it is a probability variation jackpot symbol that generates a special gaming state. Become.

  R4 is a random counter for determining the variation type (variation pattern) at the time of variable display, and is updated by incrementing by “1” every 2 msec and interrupt processing surplus time within the range of “0” to “149”. Then, after the addition is updated up to the upper limit “149”, the addition is updated again from “0”. As for the variation pattern, the type of table to be used is determined by the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot symbol determination), R2 (for losing symbol determination) and R3 (for jackpot symbol determination), and R4 (for variation pattern determination). The corresponding variation pattern is determined based on the value extracted from (1).

  R5 is a random counter for deciding whether or not to generate a reach state when the loss is pre-determined by R1 (for determining the big hit), and is 2 msec within the range of “0” to “13”. "1" is added and updated every time and every extra interrupt processing time is added and updated up to "13" which is the upper limit, and then added and updated again from "0".

  R6 is a random counter for determining a normal symbol hit, and is added and updated by “3” every 2 msec within the range of “3” to “13”, and after being added and updated to the upper limit “13”. The addition is again updated from “0”.

  R7 is a random counter that determines an initial value of R1 (for determining the big hit), and is updated by adding “1” every 2 msec and interrupt processing surplus time within the range of “0” to “199”. After the addition and update to a certain “199”, the addition is updated again from “0”.

  R8 is a random counter for determining an initial value of R6 (for determination per ordinary symbol), and is updated by adding “1” every 2 msec and interrupt processing surplus time within the range of “3” to “13”, and its upper limit. After being updated up to “13”, the addition is updated again from “0”.

  R9 is a random counter for determining the advance notice, and is incremented and incremented by “1” every 33 msec within the range of “0” to “99”. Is added and updated.

  R10 is a random counter for determining the notice display mode, and is updated by incrementing by “1” every 33 msec within the range of “0” to “99”, and after being incremented and updated to the upper limit “99” again. The addition is updated from “0”.

  R11 is a random counter for timing determination, and is incremented and updated by “1” every 33 msec within the range of “0” to “99”, and after being incremented and updated to its upper limit “99”, “0” again. Is added and updated.

  In the random counter shown above, data is extracted at random timing (for example, when a start prize is generated) in accordance with the establishment of the extraction condition defined for each random counter. Thereby, the data extracted from each random counter becomes a random value (random value).

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of each table. FIG. 10A is a jackpot determination table. The count value of R1 (for jackpot determination) extracted at the timing of starting winning etc. is compared with the jackpot determination value, and when they match, the display result of the special symbol display unit 9 is controlled to be a jackpot. In this embodiment, the jackpot decision value is “3” at a low probability (non-probability variation), and the jackpot decision value is “3”, “7”, “79”, “ 103 "and" 107 ".

  FIG. 10B is a reach determination table. The count value of R5 (for reach determination) extracted at the timing such as the start winning prize is compared with the reach determination value, and control is performed so that the reach is established when they match. In this embodiment, reach determination values are “0”, “1”, and “11” at low probability (non-probability change), and reach determination values are “0”, “1”, “11” at high probability. 7 ”,“ 9 ”,“ 11 ”, and“ 12 ”. Therefore, big hits and reach are more likely to occur at high probability than at low probability.

  (C) of FIG. 10 is a notice determination table. The notice determination table is used when determining whether or not to notify that the display result of the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 is a big hit. The notice determination table includes “for big hit” and “for miss”. When the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination) predetermines the jackpot, the notice determination table of “for jackpot” is used. In the “big hit” advance notice determination table, 95 out of 100 decision values are determined as advance notice values, and the advance notice is easily performed.

  On the other hand, when the count value extracted from R1 (for determining the big hit) predetermines the loss, the “deletion” notice determination table is used. In the “deletion” notice determination table, a determination value is set such that five out of 100 determination values are notified, and a notice of gas is performed.

  According to this, since the advance notice is executed even when it is determined in advance that the display result of the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 is to be removed, the occurrence frequency of the advance notice increases, and the player Can improve expectations.

  (D) of FIG. 10 is a notice display mode determination table. The notice display mode determination table is used to determine the notice display mode when it is determined to execute the notice. The notice display mode determination table includes “for big hit” and “for miss”. When the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination) predetermines the jackpot, the notice display mode determination table of “for jackpot” is used. In the “big hit” notice display mode determination table, 80 out of 100 judgment values are set as judgment values for selecting the advanced notice display form, and the advance notice based on the advanced notice display form is easily executed. ing.

  On the other hand, when the count value extracted from R1 (for determining the big hit) predetermines the loss, the notice display mode determination table of “for loss” is used. In the notice display mode determination table for “out of use”, 20 out of 100 judgment values are set as judgment values for selecting the advanced notice display form, and it is difficult for the advance notice display form to be executed. ing.

  As described above, when it is determined in advance that the count value extracted from R1 (for determining the big hit) will be the big hit the display result of the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8, it is determined to be off. Since the advanced notice display mode is selected with a higher selection rate than when the advance is determined in advance, when the advance notice display mode is selected, the player's sense of expectation for a specific combination of identification information Can be improved.

  (E) of FIG. 10 is a timing determination table. The timing determination table is used to determine at which timing of the first timing or the second timing to execute the notification when it is determined to execute the notification. The timing determination table includes “for big hit” and “for miss”. When the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination) predetermines the jackpot, the timing determination table for “for jackpot” is used. In the “big hit” timing determination table, 70 of the 100 determination values are determined as determination values for selecting the second timing, and the advance notice is easily executed at the second timing.

  On the other hand, when the count value extracted from R1 (for big hit determination) predetermines outliers, a timing determination table for “outgoing” is used. In the “deleting” timing determination table, 30 out of 100 determination values are determined as determination values for selecting the second timing, and it is difficult for the advance notice to be executed by the second timing.

  According to this, since it is possible to predict that the display result of the variable display device will be a big hit at the timing when the notice is started, it is possible to improve the player's expectation for the big hit at the time when the notice is started.

  10C, the notice display mode decision table in FIG. 10D, and the timing decision table in FIG. 10E are stored in the control data ROM 102 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a game control main process executed by the game control microcomputer 53.

  First, in steps S (hereinafter simply referred to as “S”) 1 to S14, processing for initial setting for executing control processing is performed. In S1, interrupts are prohibited. Next, in S2, an interrupt mode 2 indicating an interrupt processing mode is set. In S3, the stack pointer is set. In S4, the built-in device register is set. In S5, CTC and PIO are set. In S6, settings are made to make the RAM accessible.

  Next, in S7, the CPU 56 confirms the state of the output signal of the clear switch input via the input port only once. If ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing in S11 to S14.

  If the clear switch is not in the on state, in S8, when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, a data protection process for the backup RAM area (for example, a process for stopping power supply such as addition of parity data) is performed. Check if it was done. 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 embodiment, 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). .

  If it is confirmed that there is a backup, in S9, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example). In 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, the initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, in S10, the CPU 56 restores the game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control board 31 and the control state of the electric component control board such as the display control board 80 to the state when the power supply is stopped. To do. 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. 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.

  In the initialization process, first, in S11, the CPU 56 performs a RAM clear process. In S12, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left middle right special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball A work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag for selectively performing processing according to a control state such as a cut flag or a payout stop flag is performed. Further, in S13, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the sub-board (in this embodiment, the payout control board 35 and each effect control board) to the microcomputer mounted on each sub-board is executed. . The initialization command includes a command indicating the initial symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 9 (for the display control board 80), a command for instructing the extinction of the winning ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52, and the like.

  In S14, a CTC register provided in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 msec. That is, an initial value corresponding to 2 msec is set in a predetermined register (time constant register).

  When the execution of the initialization process of S11 to S14 is completed, the display random number update process is repeatedly executed in S16 and the initial value random number update process in S17. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt is prohibited in S15. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the split value is updated in S18. It is made into a permission state. The display random number is a random number for determining the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 9, and the display random number update process updates the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. It is processing. The initial value random number update process is a process for 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 to be 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.

  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, when the timer interrupt is generated during the process of S16 and the count value of the counter for generating the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt process, the continuity of the count value is impaired. There is. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the processing of S16.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a 2 msec timer interrupt process executed by the game control microcomputer 53.

  When a timer interrupt occurs, in S21, the CPU 56 performs a register saving process, and then executes a game control process in S22 to S34. First, in S22, the CPU 56 inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 12, the start port switch 17, the count switch 23, the V count switch 22 and the winning ball detection switch 99 via the switch circuit 58, State determination is performed.

  Next, in S23, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a jackpot determination random number used for game control is performed. In S24, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number, and in S25, performs a process of updating the counter value of the counter for generating the display random number.

  In S26, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process. In the special symbol process, the corresponding process 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. In S27, normal symbol process processing is performed. 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.

  In S28, the CPU 56 performs a process (special symbol command control process) of setting a display control command related to the special symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and transmitting the display control command. In S29, a display control command related to normal symbols is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and a display control command is transmitted (normal symbol command control processing).

  In S30, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, starting information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example.

  In S31, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signal of the winning ball detection switch 99. Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 37 mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on the winning ball detection switch 99 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.

  In S <b> 32, the CPU 56 executes a storage process for checking an increase / decrease in the start winning storage number. In S33, 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. Further, in S34, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a drive command is issued to the solenoid circuit 59. The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16 and 21 in accordance with a drive command in order to open or close the starting electric accessory 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 in S35, and the interrupt permission state is set in S36.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 msec. 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. It may be executed in the main process.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process in the 2 msec timer interrupt process shown in FIG.

  First, in S310, the CPU 56 performs a variation shortening timer subtraction process when performing the special symbol process. In S311, it is determined whether or not the start port switch 17 for detecting that a hit ball has won the start port 14 provided in the game board 6 is turned on. If the start opening switch 17 is turned on, that is, if a start winning that causes the hitting ball to enter the start opening 14 has occurred, after performing the start opening switch passing process in S312, S300 to S308 are performed according to the internal state. One of the processes is performed. The variation shortening timer is a timer for setting the variation time when the variation time of the special symbol is shortened.

  In S300, special symbol normal processing is performed. In the special symbol normal process, the process 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 starting winning memory number is not 0, it is determined whether or not the result of variable display is a big hit. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S301 (special symbol stop symbol setting process).

  In S301, a special symbol stop symbol setting process is performed. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, the stop symbol after the variable display of the special symbol is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S302 (variation pattern setting process).

  In S302, a variation pattern setting process is performed. In the variation pattern setting process, the variation pattern (variable display mode) of variable display of the special symbol in the variable display unit is determined according to the value of R4 (for variation pattern determination). A final stop symbol and information for instructing a variation mode (variation pattern) are transmitted to the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S303 (special symbol variation processing).

  In S303, special symbol variation processing is performed. In the special symbol variation process, when a predetermined time elapses, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S304 (special symbol stop process).

  In S304, special symbol stop processing is performed. In the special symbol stop process, control is performed so that all symbols displayed in the special symbol display unit 9 are stopped and displayed. Specifically, it is set to a state in which a display control command indicating special symbol stop is transmitted. Then, if the stop symbol is a combination of the big hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to S305 (pre-winner pre-opening process). Otherwise, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S300.

  In S305, pre-opening processing for a special winning opening is performed. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize 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 S306 (processing for opening a special prize opening).

  In S306, a special winning opening opening process is performed. In the special prize opening opening process, control for transmitting a display control command for the special prize round display to the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80 and a process for confirming that the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied. Etc. If the closing condition for the last big prize opening is satisfied, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S307 (specific area valid time process).

  In S307, specific winning area valid time processing is performed. In the specific winning area valid time process, the presence / absence of passing through the V count 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 continuation of the big hit gaming state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to S305 (pre-opening process for big winning opening). 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 (special symbol process flag) is shifted to S308 (big hit end processing). Update as follows.

  In S308, jackpot end processing is performed. In the big hit end process, control is performed to cause the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80 to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. The internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S300 (special symbol normal processing).

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a start port switch passing process in the special symbol process shown in FIG.

  In the start port switch passing process, first, in S41, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the start winning memorized number has reached the maximum value “4”. If the starting winning memory number has not reached “4”, the starting winning memory number is incremented by “1” in S42, and each random number value such as R1 (for determining the big hit) is extracted in S43, and they are started. Stored in a storage area (special symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of winning prizes stored. Note that the extraction of random numbers means that a count value is read from a random counter for generating a random number, and the read count value is used as a random value. In S44, a timer for determining whether or not to shorten the variation time is set.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process in the special symbol process shown in FIG. In the special symbol normal process, first, in S51, the CPU 56 can start the variable symbol variable display on the variable display unit (for example, when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating S300). If it is determined, in S52, the value of the number of starting winning prizes is confirmed. Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter that counts the number of start winning memories is confirmed. The value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 when the special symbol is not variably displayed on the special symbol display unit 9 and is not in the big hit game.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0, in S53, 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, and in S54, the starting winning prize is stored. “1” is subtracted from the value of the stored number, and the contents of each storage area are shifted. 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.

  Next, in S55, a big hit determination process is executed. When it is determined in S56 that the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 is a big hit, in S57, the CPU 56 turns on the big hit flag. In S58, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a big hit determination process in the special symbol normal process shown in FIG. In the big hit determination process, in S61, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the probability change flag is ON. When the probability change flag is ON, in S62, in the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. Decide to use a table with a high probability of. If the probability variation flag is not ON, it is determined in S63 that the table at the low probability in the jackpot determination table shown in FIG.

  In S64, a process of comparing the R1 count value extracted in S43 and read in S53 with the jackpot determination value in the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 10A is performed. When it is determined in S65 that the count value of R1 (for jackpot determination) and the jackpot determination value coincide with each other, it is determined in S66 that the jackpot is determined, and the count value of R1 (for jackpot determination) and the jackpot determination value are determined. Is determined not to match, in S67, it is determined not to be a big hit.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop symbol setting process in the special symbol process shown in FIG. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, first, in S71, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the big hit flag is ON. When it is determined that the big hit flag is ON, in S72, the big hit symbol is determined according to the count value of R3 (for big hit symbol determination) extracted in S43. In this embodiment, each symbol of the symbol number set in the jackpot symbol table corresponding to the count value of R3 (for jackpot symbol determination) is determined as a jackpot symbol. In the jackpot symbol table, a special symbol of the left variable display unit, a special symbol of the middle variable display unit, and a symbol number of the special symbol of the right variable display unit corresponding to each of a plurality of types of jackpot symbol combinations are set. In S73, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the big hit flag is not ON, the count value of R5 (for reach determination) is read in S74, and in S75, the CPU 56 executes reach determination processing. In S76, when it is determined to reach, in S77, a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion is determined according to the count value of R2-1, and the middle variable display is determined according to the value of R2-2. The special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the part is determined. Here, when the determined special symbol of the middle variable display portion matches the special symbol of the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion, the random number value corresponding to the special symbol of the middle variable display portion is “1”. As a special symbol for stopping and displaying the corresponding special symbol on the middle variable display unit, it is made not to match the jackpot symbol. Then, the process proceeds to S73.

  If it is determined in S76 that the reach is not to be achieved, the off symbol is determined in S78. Specifically, a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the left variable display unit is determined according to the value read in S74, that is, the extracted count value of R2-1, and the middle variable display unit is determined according to the count value of R2-2. The special symbol to be stopped and displayed is determined, and the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the right variable display unit is determined according to the count value of R2-3. Here, when the special symbols to be stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion are matched, the special symbols to be stopped and displayed on the right variable display portion are shifted by one symbol so that they cannot be reached. To do. Then, the process proceeds to S73. In S72, when the probability variation big hit symbol is determined, a probability variation flag indicating that the game goes to the probability variation state after the big hit game is ended is set.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing reach determination processing in the special symbol stop symbol setting processing shown in FIG. In the reach determination process, in S81, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the probability variation flag is ON. If the probability variation flag is ON, in S82, the high in the reach determination table shown in FIG. Decide to use the probability table. If the probability change is not in progress, it is determined in S83 that the low probability table in the reach determination table shown in FIG. 10B is used.

  In S84, a process of comparing the count value of R5 (for reach determination) extracted in S43 and read in S74 with the reach determination value of the reach determination table shown in FIG. 10B is performed. . If it is determined in S85 that the count value of R5 (for reach determination) matches the reach determination value, it is determined in S86 that the reach is determined, and the count value of R5 (for reach determination) and the reach determination value are determined. Is determined not to match, in S87 it is determined not to reach.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern setting process in the special symbol process shown in FIG. First, in S91, it is determined whether or not the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination) is a count value that is a jackpot. When it is determined that the extracted count value is a big hit count value, in S92, a big hit variation pattern table is selected, the selected variation pattern table is looked up, and R4 (for variation pattern determination) is selected. The variation pattern of the value extracted by is set.

  When it is determined that the count value extracted from R1 (for big hit determination) is a count value that is out of sync, the count value extracted from R5 (for reach determination) is the count value that reaches in S93. A determination is made whether or not. When it is determined that the count value extracted from R5 (for reach determination) is a count value that reaches reach, in S94, the reach deviation variation pattern table is looked up, and from R4 (for variation pattern determination). A variation pattern of the extracted count value is set.

  In S93, when it is determined that the count value extracted from R5 (for reach determination) is a count value that does not reach reach, in S95, the fluctuation pattern table for deviation is looked up, and the fluctuation pattern of the normal fluctuation is determined. Is set. In S96, the variation pattern selected in S92, S94, and S95 is set in the variation pattern command. In S97, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation processing.

  FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a variation pattern. “EXT” indicates EXT data of the second byte in the display control command having a two-byte configuration. That is, each variation pattern of the special symbol and the display control command are associated with each other on a one-to-one basis. “Time” indicates the variation time of the special symbol.

  The “normal fluctuation” is a fluctuation pattern that does not involve reach. “Normal reach” is a fluctuation pattern that involves reach but the fluctuation result (stop symbol) does not cause a big hit. “Reach A” is a variation pattern having a reach different from “Normal reach”. Further, “reach is different” means that a variation mode (speed, rotation direction, etc.), a character, or the like of a different mode appears in the reach variation time. For example, in “normal”, reach is realized by only one type of fluctuation mode, whereas in “reach A”, reach including a plurality of fluctuation modes having different fluctuation speeds and fluctuation directions is realized.

  Further, “reach B” is a variation pattern having a reach different from “normal reach” and “reach A”. “Reach C” is a fluctuation pattern having a reach 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.

  In this embodiment, the fluctuation patterns 1 to 14 are used regardless of whether the probability is high (during probability change) or low probability (due to non-probability change). You may make it shorten time. Further, the variation pattern group used at the high probability and the variation pattern group used at the low probability may be separated.

  FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of display control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 31 to the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80.

  As shown in FIG. 21, in this embodiment, the display control command is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 31 through the eight signal lines of the display control signals CD0 to CD7. Is sent to the display control microcomputer 81. Further, a strobe signal (display control INT signal) is transmitted between the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 31 and the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80. A signal line for the display control INT signal is also wired. FIG. 21 shows an example of the display control command. However, control commands to other electrical component control boards are also transmitted through eight signal lines and one INT signal signal line.

  In this embodiment, the display 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.

  FIG. 22 is a timing chart showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal that constitute a control command.

  As shown in FIG. 22, 8-bit display control command data of the display control command is output in synchronization with the display control INT signal. The display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80 detects that the display control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Accordingly, when viewed from the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80, the display control INT signal corresponds to a capture signal that triggers capture of display control command data.

  The display control command is transmitted only once so that the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80 can recognize the display control command. In this embodiment, “recognizable” means that the level of the display control INT signal changes, and that it is transmitted only once so as to be recognizable means that, for example, the first and second bytes of the display control command data The display control INT signal is output in a pulse shape (rectangular wave shape) only once according to each. Note that the display control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a display control main process executed by the display control CPU 101. In the display control main process, first, in Sub1, an initialization process is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, initializing a 33 msec timer for determining the display control activation interval, and the like. Thereafter, in Sub2, the display control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for confirming monitoring of the timer interrupt flag. As shown in FIG. 24, when a timer interrupt occurs, the display control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in Sub11. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the display control main process, in Sub3, the display control CPU 101 clears the flag and executes the following display control process.

  In this embodiment, the timer interrupt takes every 33 msec. That is, the display control process is started every 33 msec. In this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific display control process is executed in the display control main process. However, the display control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process. .

  In the display control process, in Sub4, the display control CPU 101 analyzes the received display control command (command analysis process). Next, in Sub5, the display control CPU 101 performs display control process processing. In the display control process process, a process corresponding to the current control state is selected and executed from among the processes corresponding to the control state. And in Sub6, the process which updates a notice random number counter is performed. Thereafter, the process returns to the process of checking the Sub2 timer interrupt flag.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing command analysis processing in the display control main processing shown in FIG. The display control command received from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer. In the command analysis process, the display control CPU 101 confirms the contents of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, first, in Sub21, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer. Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The time when both match is when the received command is not stored. In Sub22, when the received command is stored in the command reception buffer, the display control CPU 101 reads the received command from the command reception buffer. When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by “1”.

  In Sub23, when it is determined that the received display control command is a special symbol designation display control command to be stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion, in Sub24, the display control CPU 101 causes the left variable display portion to stop display. Data indicating the special symbol is stored in the left special symbol storage area in the RAM 101A.

  When it is determined in Sub25 that the received display control command is a special symbol designation display control command to be stopped and displayed on the middle variable display portion, in Sub26, the display control CPU 101 causes the middle variable display portion to stop display. Data indicating the special symbol is stored in the medium special symbol storage area in the RAM 101A.

  When it is determined in Sub27 that the received display control command is a special symbol designation display control command to be stopped and displayed on the right variable display section, in Sub28, the display control CPU 101 displays a stop display on the right variable display section. Data indicating the special symbol to be stored is stored in the right special symbol storage area in the RAM 101A.

  When it is determined in Sub29 that the received display control command is a display control command for designating a variation pattern, in Sub30, the display control CPU 101 stores the EXT data of the command in the variation pattern data storage area. In Sub31, the fluctuation pattern reception flag is set. And it returns to Sub21.

  If it is determined in Sub29 that the received display control command is not a display control command for specifying a variation pattern, it is determined in Sub32 what command the received command is, a corresponding flag is set, and the process returns to Sub21. .

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the display control process in the display control main process shown in FIG. In the display control process process, any one of Sub 600 to Sub 606 is performed according to the value of the display control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  In Sub600, a variation pattern command reception waiting process is performed. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, it is confirmed whether or not a display control command (variation pattern command) capable of specifying the variation time has been 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 display control command has been received.

  In Sub601, a notice selection process is performed. In the notice selection process, whether or not to execute the notice, the notice display mode when the notice is executed, and the timing to execute the notice are determined.

  In Sub 602, symbol variation start processing is performed. In the symbol variation start process, control is performed so that the variation of the special symbol is started.

  In Sub 603, a process during symbol variation is performed. In the process during symbol variation, the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern is controlled, and the end of the variation time is monitored. Further, stop control of special symbols on the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion is performed.

  In Sub 603, a process during symbol variation is performed. In the process during symbol variation, the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern is controlled, and the end of the variation time is monitored. Further, stop control of special symbols on the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion is performed.

  In Sub605, a big hit display process is performed. In the big hit display processing, after the variation time is finished, the probability change big hit display or the big hit display is controlled.

  In Sub606, the big hit game processing is performed. In the big hit game processing, control during the big hit game is performed. For example, when a display 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.

  FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of process data set for each variation pattern table. The process data includes data obtained by collecting a plurality of process timer set values, display control execution data, and lamp control execution data. Each display control execution data includes special symbol control execution data in which each variation mode constituting the variation pattern of the special symbol is described. Each lamp control execution data includes lamp control execution data. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the change mode. The display control CPU 101 refers to the process data, and performs control to variably display the special symbol in the variation mode set in the display control execution table for the time set in the process timer set value.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process in the display control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, in Sub41, the display control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern reception flag is set. If it is set, the flag is reset in Sub42. In Sub43, the value of the display control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the symbol variation start process.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a notice selection process in the display control process shown in FIG. First, in Sub51, it is determined whether or not the received variation pattern command is a command indicating a big hit. When it is determined that the received variation pattern command is a command indicating a big hit, processing for setting a big hit notice determining table, a big hit notice display mode determining table, and a big hit timing determining table is performed in Sub52. Then, in Sub53, after processing for turning on the big hit flag is performed, the process proceeds to Sub56.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in Sub51 that the received fluctuation pattern command is not a command indicating a big hit, processing for setting the detachment notice determination table, the detachment notice display mode determination table, and the detachment timing determination table is performed in Sub54. Done. Then, in Sub55, after processing for turning off the big hit flag is performed, the process proceeds to Sub56.

  In Sub56, a process of extracting a random value (count value) from R9 (for notice determination) is performed. In Sub57, the count value extracted in Sub56 is compared with the judgment value in the notice determination table set in Sub52 or Sub54 to determine whether or not to give a notice. If it is determined that a notice is to be given, the notice flag is set to ON in Sub 57a, and the process proceeds to Sub 58. When it is determined that no notice is given, the notice flag is set to OFF in Sub 57b, the process proceeds to Sub 70, and after changing the value of the display control process flag to a value corresponding to the symbol variation start process, this subroutine program ends. .

  On the other hand, when it is determined that a notice is to be given, processing for extracting a random value (count value) from R10 (for notice display mode determination) is performed in Sub58. In Sub59, the count value extracted in Sub58 is compared with the determination value in the notice display mode determination table set in Sub52 or Sub54, and the notice display form is changed to the advanced notice display form or the non-developed notice display form. Processing to determine is performed.

  In Sub60, a process of extracting a random value (count value) from R11 (for timing determination) is performed. In Sub61, the count value extracted in Sub60 is compared with the timing determination table set in Sub52 or Sub54 to determine whether the timing for executing the notice is the first timing or the second timing. Is done.

  In Sub62, it is determined whether the timing determined in Sub61 is the first timing or the second timing. When it is determined that the determined timing is the first timing, it is determined in Sub 63 that the character of the predetermined image used for the advance notice is to be a “boy” character, and then in Sub 70 the display control process flag is set. The value is set to a value corresponding to the symbol variation start process.

  When it is determined in Sub62 that the determined timing is not the first timing, it is determined in Sub64 that the character of the predetermined image used for the advance notice is the character of “Osan”. In Sub65, it is determined whether or not the big hit flag is ON. When the jackpot flag is ON, the jackpot is determined in advance by the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination). When the display result of the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 is a big hit, the process proceeds to Sub 66 in order to decide whether or not to execute the continuous notice display form as the notice display form. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not ON, the process proceeds to Sub70.

  In Sub66, it is determined whether or not the notice display mode determined in Sub59 is the advanced notice display form. When it is determined in Sub59 that the advanced notice display mode has been determined, the notice form determined at the current stage is the advanced notice display mode at the second timing. In Sub67, random numbers for continuous notice determination are extracted. In Sub 68, it is determined whether or not the random number value extracted in Sub 67 is a random value for the continuous notice display mode. When it is determined that the random number value extracted in Sub 67 is a random value for the continuous notice display mode, it is determined in Sub 69 that the notice display mode is set to the continuous notice display mode, and the process proceeds to Sub 70.

  As a result, since the advance notice is executed at different timings, it is possible to maintain the player's expectation that the advance notice will be executed at the second timing even when the advance notice is not executed at the first timing. . In addition, there are options for the type of the predetermined image, which can improve the interest of the game.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a symbol variation start process in the display control process shown in FIG. In the symbol variation start process, first, in Sub 71, process data corresponding to the variation pattern to be used is selected. In Sub72, the process timer set at the beginning of the selected process data is started. In Sub72a, it is determined whether the notice flag is ON. When it is determined that the notice flag is ON, in Sub72b, a notice start time determination timer for starting the notice is started at the timing determined in Sub61 and Sub69 in FIG. In Sub73, the special symbol is changed in accordance with the contents of the display control execution data 1. In Sub74, a variable time timer for measuring the variable display time of the special symbol display unit (LCD) 9 is started. In Sub75, the display is performed. The value of the control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the process during symbol variation.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a process during symbol variation in the display control process shown in FIG. In the symbol changing process, first, in Sub 81, the display control CPU 101 determines whether or not the notice start time determination timer has timed out. If it is determined that time-out has occurred, processing for selecting process data corresponding to timing data 1 or timing data 2 is performed in Sub 82. On the other hand, when it is determined in Sub81 that the notice start time determination timer has not timed out, the process of subtracting the notice start time determination timer is continued, and the process proceeds to Sub83.

  In Sub 83, when it is determined that the process timer has timed out, the display control CPU 101 switches the process data in Sub 84. In Sub85, the process timer set next is started, and in Sub86, the special symbol display unit (LCD) 9 is controlled in accordance with the contents of the display control execution data set next. On the other hand, when it is determined in Sub 83 that the process timer has not timed out, the process of subtracting the process timer is continued, and the process proceeds to Sub 87.

  When it is determined in Sub87 that the variable time timer has timed out, a monitoring timer for monitoring reception of a special symbol stop display control command is started in Sub88, and the value of the display control process flag is set in Sub89. To a value corresponding to the symbol stop waiting process. On the other hand, when it is determined in Sub 87 that the variable time timer has not timed out, the process of subtracting the variable time timer is continued, and this subroutine program ends.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a symbol stop waiting process in the display control process shown in FIG. In the symbol stop waiting process, in Sub91, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not a display control command (special symbol stop display control command) for instructing symbol stop has been received. If a display control command for instructing symbol stop has been received, in Sub92, control is performed to stop the symbol with the stored determined symbol.

  In Sub93, when it is determined that the display result of the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 is a big hit, in Sub94, the display control CPU 101 corresponds the value of the display control process flag to the big hit display process. Set the value to In Sub93, when it is determined that the display result of the special symbol display unit 9 provided in the variable display device 8 is not big hit, in Sub95, the display control CPU 101 sets the value of the display control process flag to the variation pattern command reception waiting process. Set to a value corresponding to.

  When a display control command for designating symbol stop has not been received, it is determined in Sub 96 whether or not the monitoring timer has timed out. When it is determined that a time-out has occurred, it is determined that some abnormality has occurred, and in Sub 97, control is performed to display an error screen on the special symbol display unit 9. And it transfers to Sub93.

Next, modifications and feature points of the present embodiment described above are listed below.
(1) In the above-described embodiment, the notification is executed before the first special symbol stops after the special symbol of the variable display unit starts the variable display. I can't. For example, a notice may be executed when reach is established.

  (2) In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the audio control board 70, the lamp control board 35, and the display control board 80 are not integrated and a control microcomputer is mounted on each control board is shown. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the voice control board 70 and the lamp control board 35 are integrated into one control microcomputer, or the display control board 80, the voice control board 70, and the voice / lamp control board in which the lamp control board is integrated are connected. You may do it. According to such a configuration, for example, a command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 53 is received and processed by one microcomputer, so that a sound effect or a blinking lamp according to the notice display mode to be executed is performed. Can be determined, and inconveniences such as generation of erroneous sound effects and blinking of lamps can be solved.

  (3) The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as an example of the gaming machine according to the present invention and a card unit installed corresponding to this. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the circuit structure in a game control board. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure in a display control board with a special symbol display part, a normal symbol display, the output port of a game control board, and an output buffer circuit. It is a screen figure which shows the non-developed notice display aspect in which the character of "boy" is displayed. It is a screen figure which shows the non-development type notice display mode in which the character of "Osan" is displayed. It is a screen figure which shows the development type | formula advance notice display mode in which the character of "boy" is displayed. It is a screen figure which shows the development type | formula advance notice display mode on which the character of "Ossan" is displayed. It is a figure showing the timing which performs a notice. It is explanatory drawing of each random number. It is explanatory drawing of each table. It is a flowchart which shows the game control main process performed with the microcomputer for game control. It is a flowchart which shows the 2 msec timer interruption process performed with the microcomputer for game control. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol process process in a 2 msec timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the starting port switch passage process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the big hit determination process in a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop symbol setting process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the reach determination process in a special symbol stop symbol setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern setting process in a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the signal line of the display control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer mounted in the game control board to the display control microcomputer mounted in the display control board. It is a timing diagram showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is a flowchart which shows the display control main process which CPU for display control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the command analysis process in a display control main process. It is a flowchart which shows the display control process process in a display control main process. It is explanatory drawing which shows one structural example of the process data set for every fluctuation | variation pattern table. It is a flowchart which shows the variation pattern command reception waiting process in a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the notice selection process in a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the symbol variation start process in a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the process during symbol change in a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the symbol stop waiting process in a display control process process.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine, 8 Variable display device, 9 Special symbol display part, 10 Normal symbol display, 11 Passage port, 12 Gate switch, 13 Passing memory indicator, 14 Start port, 17 Start port switch, 18 Start memory indicator , 19 Variable winning ball apparatus, 53 game control microcomputer, 81 display control microcomputer, 86 character ROM, 102 control data ROM.

Claims (1)

A specific game that includes a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them, and that is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display device is a combination of predetermined specific identification information A gaming machine to control the state,
First numerical information extraction means for extracting numerical information for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display device is a combination of the specific identification information;
Second numerical information extraction means for extracting numerical information for determining variable display time from when the plurality of types of identification information are variably started until a display result is derived and displayed;
Display result determining means for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display device is to be a combination of the specific identification information using the numerical information extracted by the first numerical information extracting means;
Variable display time determining means for determining the variable display time using the numerical information extracted by the second numerical information extracting means;
When the display result determining means determines that the display result of the variable display device is a combination of the specific identification information, the determination is made in a variable display game for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device. Notice deciding means for deciding whether or not to execute the notice of
When the display result determining means determines that the display result of the variable display device is not to be a combination of the specific identification information, it is determined to execute the advance notice in the variable display game at a predetermined rate. Notice determination means,
As a notice display mode for executing the notice using a predetermined image different from the identification information,
An advanced notice display mode for transitioning to a second display pattern different from the first display pattern after a predetermined first display pattern;
An undeveloped notice display mode that does not shift to the second display pattern after the first display pattern;
A notice display mode storage means for storing data defining at least two types of notice display forms;
When it is decided by the notice determining means to execute the notice, the notice display mode used for the notice is selected from the notice display forms defined by the data stored in the notice display form storing means. A notice display mode selection means;
Timing data storage means for storing timing data that defines at least two types of timings, a predetermined first timing and a second timing later than the first timing, as the timing for executing the advance notice in the variable display game ,
When the advance notice is determined by the advance notice determining means or the false notice determining means, the timing for executing the advance notice is selected from the timings defined by the data stored in the timing data storage means. Timing selection means to select;
Character storage means storing data of a plurality of types of characters to be displayed as the predetermined image;
Character selection means for selecting a character to be displayed as the predetermined image from the data stored in the character storage means;
In the variable display game, the plurality of types of identification information are variably started, the notification is executed according to the selection of the notification display mode selection means and the timing selection means, and then variable based on the determination of the variable display time determination means Variable display control means for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device according to the determination of the display result determination means after the display time has elapsed,
The execution pattern of the advance notice by the variable display control means includes two patterns: a notice at the first timing, no notice at the second timing, no notice at the first timing, and notice at the second timing. Contains at least
The timing selection means is more likely to perform the notice at the second timing than the first timing when the notice determination means decides to execute the notice, and the false notice determination means executes the notice. Then, when it is determined, the timing for executing the advance notice is selected so that the proportion of the advance notice performed at the first timing is higher than the second timing,
The character selecting means can select a character dedicated to the first timing when the first timing is selected as the timing for executing the notice by the timing selecting means, while the second timing is selected. You can select a character dedicated to the second timing,
A game control board including the display result determining means and the variable display time determining means;
A display control board including the timing selection means and the variable display control means,
The display control board is:
Numerical value extraction means for timing for extracting numerical information for timing for selecting the type of timing for executing the advance notice;
A timing table defining a correspondence relationship between the timing numerical information and each of a plurality of types of timings including the first and second timings, the number of timing numerical information allocated to the first timing; Timing table storage means for storing a plurality of timing tables having different numbers of timing numerical information assigned to the second timing;
The game control board transmits a variable display time command capable of specifying a determination result of the variable display time determining means to the display control board,
The timing selection means selects one of the timing tables from the timing table storage means based on the variable display time command, the timing numerical information extracted by the timing numerical information extraction means, A gaming machine, wherein the timing for executing the advance notice is selected by comparing with timing numerical information defined in a timing table.

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