JP4542384B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and in particular, in a gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when identification information is a predetermined combination, a game in which the probability of shifting to a specific gaming state is improved. Related to the machine.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine such as a slot game machine or a pachinko machine, when predetermined variable conditions are satisfied, control is performed to display the identification information in a variable manner on the display area of the variable display device, and the variable display is performed. Variable display control means for performing control for deriving and displaying the identification information is provided, and when the identification information derived and displayed has a predetermined combination (specific display mode), a “specific game state” (so-called “so-called gaming state”) that is advantageous to the player "Big jackpot") is being provided.

Most of these types of ball game machines are designed to shift to a "probability improved state" (so-called "high probability gaming state", "probability changed state") in which the probability of shifting to a specific gaming state is improved, In general, the display is shifted to the probability improvement state after completion of the specific gaming state on the condition that the display state is a special display mode included in the specific display mode (see Patent Document 1).
JP 2003-1111917 A

  However, if the game time shifts to the probability improvement state when sufficient game time cannot be secured, it is likely that the game will shift to the specific game state if the game is continued. In some cases, the game had to be terminated. In such a case, when another person takes over the right in the probability improvement state and then shifts to the specific game state, there is a possibility that the profit that the player originally enjoys may be taken away by the other person. Therefore, when the game is ended after the transition to the probability improvement state, the player suffers a damage that the player cannot enjoy the profit when the transition to the probability improvement state.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems. The purpose is to provide a gaming machine that can acquire a profit to be enjoyed by the player himself / herself without giving a profit to another person at the time of shifting to the probability improvement state.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.

(1) A launching device that launches a game ball, a game area in which the game ball launched from the launching device can move, and variable display of predetermined identification information that the game ball passes through a specific area in the game area As a start condition, each time the variable display start condition is satisfied, variable display means for variable display of identification information, variable display determination means for determining the result of variable display of identification information, and the variable display determination means Variable display control means for controlling the variable display means based on the result of variable display of the identification information, and variable display of the identification information up to a predetermined upper limit when the variable information start condition of the identification information is satisfied a plurality of times. Variable display holding means for holding execution, and a specific game state for shifting to a specific game state on condition that the result of variable display of identification information by the variable display means is in a specific display mode The variable display result of the identification information by the variable display means is specified on the condition that the result of variable display of the identification information by the control means and the variable display means is a special display mode among the specific display modes. The normal display state having the normal display mode is shifted from the normal game state to the normal state with a high probability that the variable display means displays the variable information of the identification information as the specific display mode compared to the normal game state. Probability improving state control means, normal gaming state control means for shifting from the probability improving state to the normal gaming state when a predetermined time has passed since the transition to the probability improving state, and a plurality of the predetermined times A determination operation means for determining a time desired by the player from the plurality of types of time by an operation of the player, wherein the determination operation means comprises: After the specific gaming state is completed, it is validated for a predetermined time, and the probability improving state control means is operated by the player during the specified time to determine the predetermined time. On the condition that the probability improvement state is started, the determined duration of the probability improvement state is set, and when the determination operation means is not operated by the player during the specified time, a predetermined time is set. A gaming machine characterized by setting a duration of the probability improvement state .

According to the invention of (1), when a predetermined time elapses after shifting to the probability improving state, the state is shifted from the probability increasing state to the normal gaming state. Therefore, even if you want to stop the game after a certain amount of time has passed since the transition to the probability improvement state, the probability improvement state always ends after the predetermined time has elapsed since the transition to the probability improvement state. Profits that should be enjoyed only by the player can be obtained without being deprived of the profits resulting from the transition to.
In addition, the player himself / herself can determine a predetermined time from the transition to the probability improvement state to the end of the probability improvement state by shifting to the normal gaming state. For this reason, by setting the predetermined time from the transition to the probability improvement state to the end of the probability improvement state as the time from the transition to the probability improvement state until the player finishes the game, Since the probability improvement state can always be ended by the scheduled time to end the game, the profits that have been enjoyed only by the player can be obtained without being deprived of the profits by shifting to the probability improvement state it can. Therefore, the player can play without hesitation within the determined time, and can enjoy the game as much as possible.

( 2 ) In the gaming machine according to ( 1) , a variable display result of identification information by the variable display means in a plurality of types of the probability improvement states corresponding to a plurality of types of the predetermined time is set as the specific display mode. The probability is higher in the probability improvement state in which the predetermined time is shorter, and the probability improvement state in which the variable display result of the identification information by the variable display means is the specific display mode is higher and the predetermined time is shorter. A gaming machine characterized in that the variable display time of the identification information by the variable display means is short.

  According to the present invention, when a predetermined time elapses after shifting to the probability improving state, the normal gaming state shifts to the probability improving state. Therefore, even if you want to stop the game after a certain amount of time has passed since the transition to the probability improvement state, the probability improvement state always ends after the predetermined time has elapsed since the transition to the probability improvement state. Profits that should be enjoyed only by the player can be obtained without being deprived of the profits resulting from the transition to.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment suitable for the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Composition of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an overview of the gaming machine in the present embodiment. In the embodiment described below, the present invention is applied to a digital pachinko gaming machine (also referred to as a so-called digipachi or first type pachinko gaming machine) as a preferred embodiment for a gaming machine according to the present invention. Indicates.

  The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12, a game board 14 incorporated in the main body frame 12, decorative lamps 16 a and 16 b provided on both sides of the game board 14, and a top provided on the front surface of the main body frame 12. A dish 20 and a lower dish 22 and a firing handle 26 provided on the right side of the lower dish 22 are arranged. A plurality of obstacle nails (not shown) are driven in the front surface of the game board 14.

  Further, the firing handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12. A firing solenoid (not shown) is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26.

  Furthermore, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the periphery of the firing handle 26. By touching the touch sensor, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. Fired sequentially on the board 14.

  The launched game ball is guided to a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14 and moves to the upper part of the game board 14. After that, the game ball is changed in its traveling direction by collision with the above-described obstacle nails. It falls toward the bottom of the board 14. Thus, an area surrounded by the guide rail 30 and into which a game ball can be thrown is referred to as a game area.

  A liquid crystal display device 32 as a variable display means is provided in the approximate center of the front surface of the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a. Identification information is variably displayed in a plurality of symbol rows (three rows in the present embodiment) in the display region 32a. Further, such identification information is configured as special symbols 92a, 92b, and 92c in the special symbol game. Details of the special symbol game will be described later. This identification information is a pattern made up of numbers, symbols, and the like. In this embodiment, numbers from “0” to “9” are used. In the present embodiment, the identification information is composed of a plurality of symbol strings. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the identification information may be composed of one symbol string.

  “Variable display” means display that can be varied, and includes “variable display” that is actually varied and displayed, “stop display” that is actually halted, and the like. The display of the identification information as a result of the special symbol game is referred to as “derived display”. It should be noted that a variable display is performed from the start of the variable display to the derivation display.

  In addition, on the liquid crystal display device 32, the derivation display of the identification information is performed in the plurality of symbol strings, and the combination of the plurality of identification information derived and displayed is a specific display mode (for example, “ Based on a state in which all of 0 ”to“ 9 ”are derived and displayed in a state in which all of them are aligned, a so-called“ hit display mode ”), the game state is determined to be a specific game state (so-called“ hit ”) that is advantageous to the player. ).

  The combination of the plurality of identification information derived and displayed is a special display mode (for example, “1”, “3”, “5”, “7” for each of the plurality of symbol columns). , Based on the fact that all of “9” are derived and displayed in a state in which all of them are aligned, so-called “specific jackpot display mode”), the gaming state is determined to be a specific gaming state (so-called jackpot) that is advantageous to the player. ), And when the specific gaming state is completed, the high probability gaming state is entered.

  In addition to the identification information, the liquid crystal display device 32 displays a background image, an effect image for effect, a normal symbol image, and the like. The normal symbols 94a and 94b are information including numbers and symbols, for example, symbols such as “◯” and “x”.

  On the left side of the liquid crystal display device 32, a ball passage detector 54 is provided. The ball passage detector 54 detects the passage of the game ball. As will be described later, when the ball passage detector 54 detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbols 94a and 94b start to display fluctuation, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbols stop and display. A normal symbol holding lamp 50 is provided on the upper right side of the liquid crystal display device 32. The normal symbol hold lamp 50 indicates the number of holds in a normal symbol game which will be described later.

  On the other hand, rolling guide members 59a and 59b for guiding the path of the game ball in a predetermined direction are provided on the side upper part of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Further, four special symbol holding lamps 34 a to 34 d are provided above the liquid crystal display device 32. The special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d indicate the number of holds in a special symbol game which will be described later. Further, below the game board 14, game ball general winning ports 56a to 56d and board surface effect lamps 36a and 36b are provided.

  A start opening 44 having a start winning ball sensor 116 (see FIG. 2) is provided below the liquid crystal display device 32. When a game ball wins at the starting port 44, a special symbol game, which will be described later, is started, and the state shifts to a variable display state in which a plurality of columns of identification information are displayed in a variable manner. Further, when a game ball wins the start opening 44, the board effect lamps 36a and 36b are turned on.

  In the present embodiment, when the game ball wins the start opening 44, a special symbol game is started, and a condition for variably displaying identification information in a plurality of columns (hereinafter, “variable display of predetermined identification information”). It is called “Starting condition”. In addition, another variable display start condition for the predetermined identification information is that the identification information is derived and displayed.

  Further, in the embodiment, the fact that the game ball is won at the start opening 44 is set as the variable display start condition of the predetermined identification information. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another mode may be used.

  Further, when a game ball is won at the start opening 44 during the variation display of the identification information in the special symbol game, the game ball is won at the start opening 44 until the identification information during the variation display is derived and displayed. Execution (start) of variable display of the identification information based is suspended. If the identification information is derived and displayed in a state where execution of variable display of the identification information is suspended, execution of variable display of the identification information held is started.

  Note that the variable display of the identification information, which is executed when the identification information is derived and displayed, is performed once. For example, when the identification information is derived and displayed in a state where execution of variable display of the identification information is held three times, one of the variable display of the held identification information is executed, and the remaining 2 The batch is held.

  An upper limit is set for the number of executions of the variable display of the identification information to be held. For example, the variable display of the identification information is held up to 4 times.

  The number of executions of variable display of the identification information being held (so-called “hold number”, “hold number related to special symbols”) is displayed by turning on or off the special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d. For example, when the variable display of the identification information is held once, the special symbol hold lamp 34a is turned on, and the special symbol hold lamps 34b to 34d are turned off. When execution of variable display of the identification information is held twice, the special symbol holding lamps 34a and 34b are turned on, and the special symbol holding lamps 34c and 34d are turned off. When execution of variable display of the identification information is held three times, the special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34c are turned on and the special symbol holding lamp 34d is turned off. When the variable display of the identification information is held four times, the special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d are turned on.

  Similarly, in the normal symbol game, when a game ball passes the ball passage detector 54 while the normal symbol is being displayed in a variation, the passage of the ball is continued until the normal symbol in the variation display is derived and displayed. The execution (start) of variable symbol variable display based on the passing of the game ball to the detector 54 is suspended. If the normal symbol is derived and displayed in the state where the execution of variable display of the normal symbol is suspended, the variable symbol of the held regular symbol is started after a predetermined time has elapsed. Further, the execution of variable display of the normal symbol executed when the normal symbol is derived and displayed is one time. The number of executions of the variable display of the held normal symbol (so-called “the number of holdings related to the normal symbol”, “the number of holdings in the normal symbol game”) is expressed by turning on or off the normal symbol holding lamp 50. In addition, an upper limit is also set for the number of times that execution of variable symbol display is suspended, for example, variable symbol variable display is suspended up to four times.

  A large winning opening 39 is provided below the general winning openings 56a to 56d. The special winning opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be freely opened and closed. The combination of the identification information derived and displayed in the shutter 40 is in a specific display mode, and when the game state is shifted to the specific game state, the shutter 40 is in an open state (first state) in which a game ball can be easily received.

  Also, in the special winning opening 39 (inside the shutter 40), a specific area (not shown) having a V / count sensor 102 (see FIG. 2) and a general area (see FIG. 2) having a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 2). Not shown). When a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls pass through these areas, or when a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses, the shutter 40 changes from the open state to the closed state (second state).

  Then, the shutter 40 in the closed state is driven to the open state again on condition that the game ball received in the big prize opening 39 in the open state has passed through the V · count sensor 102.

  Thus, the specific gaming state is a gaming state in which the shutter 40 is repeatedly opened and closed, and there is a high possibility that a lot of game balls will be paid out, which is a relatively advantageous gaming state for the player. .

  Further, below the upper plate 20 provided on the front surface of the pachinko gaming machine 10, a control panel 80 is provided as operating (decision) operating means that can be operated by the player. The control panel 80 includes a direction key 81, an enter button 82, and a cancel button 83. As will be described in detail later, various settings can be made according to the operation of the control panel 80. For example, a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as “end time of high probability gaming state”) for ending the high probability gaming state after the transition to the high probability gaming state is determined by the operation of the player's control panel 80. .

  In addition, when a game ball wins the above-described start opening 44, or when a game ball passes through a specific area and a general area in the big winning opening 39, the number set in advance according to the type of each winning opening Game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22 as prize balls.

  On the other hand, as will be described later, when game balls win the general winning ports 56a to 56d, the number of game balls corresponding to the game state is paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22 as the winning balls. In particular, in the high probability game state, the number of game balls to be paid out differs depending on the end time of the high probability game state determined by the player's operation of the control panel 80.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment is shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the main control circuit 60 as the game control means includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70 as control means. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

  The main CPU 66 is connected to a main ROM 68, a main RAM 70, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes according to a program stored in the main ROM 68. As described above, the main CPU 66 functions as various means described later.

  A program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored in the main ROM 68. In addition, a jackpot determination table and an effect to be referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery are selected. Various tables such as an effect condition selection table to be referred to are stored. Specific programs and tables will be described later.

  The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. Specific examples of data stored in the main RAM 70 include the following.

  The main RAM 70 includes a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a high probability flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a missed symbol determination random number counter, an effect condition selection random number counter, and a number of winning prize opening times. Counter, grand prize winning prize counter, general winning prize winning counter, waiting time timer, special winning prize opening time timer, high probability gaming state end time timer, normal symbol control state flag, normal symbol per-determination random number counter, hit flag, A variable related to an output including an ordinary electric character winning prize counter, a time-short / medium flag, a mode flag, a time-shortage determination flag, a variation counter, data indicating the number of holdings in a special symbol game, data indicating the number of holdings in a normal symbol game, etc. Data, variables, etc. for supplying commands to the sub-control circuit 200 are It is attached location.

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game. The specific area passing flag is for determining whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area. The high probability flag indicates whether or not to relatively increase the probability of shifting to the big hit gaming state that is the specific gaming state.

  The jackpot determination random number counter is for determining the jackpot of the special symbol game. The jackpot symbol determining random number counter is for determining identification information derived and displayed when the jackpot of the special symbol game is determined. The off-set symbol determination random number counter is used to determine identification information to be derived and displayed when it is not a big hit. The effect condition selection random number counter is for determining a variation display pattern of the identification information. These counters are stored and updated so that the main CPU 66 sequentially increases “1”. Then, by extracting a random number value from each counter at a predetermined timing, various functions of the main CPU 66 are executed.

  In the present embodiment, such a random number counter is provided, and the main CPU 66 stores and updates the random number counter so as to increase “1” according to a program. You may comprise so that an apparatus like a generator may be provided. Further, although it is out of place, a reach determination random number counter for determining whether or not to reach may be provided.

  The normal symbol control state flag indicates the control state of the normal symbol game. The normal symbol per-determination random number counter is for determining a hit in a normal symbol game. The winning flag is for determining whether or not the result of the normal symbol game is a winning. The ordinary electric winning prize counter is for counting the number of game balls won in the start opening 44 while the blade member 48 is in the open state.

  The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The big prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the big prize opening. The high probability gaming state end time timer is for measuring the end time of the high probability gaming state. Note that the timer in the present embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. .

  The big prize opening number-of-times counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened in a specific gaming state (so-called round number). The grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that have won the grand prize winning opening during a predetermined period and have passed the V / count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104. The general winning opening prize counter indicates a game ball that has passed through the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved items is retained when the game ball wins the start opening 44, but the variation display of the identification information cannot be executed. Is shown.

  The short / short flag is for determining whether or not the normal game state during the short / short game (hereinafter referred to as “short / short game state”) is set. The short time gaming state will be described later. The mode flag indicates the mode setting selected by operating the control panel 80. The time reduction determination flag is for storing the gaming state before the transition to the specific gaming state, and when the specific gaming state ends, the gaming state before the transition to the specific gaming state is a high probability gaming state. It will be determined whether or not there has been. The variation counter is used to count the number of variations, and is used to count the number of times that the time-saving gaming state continues after the time-shortage flag is turned on.

  The main control circuit 60 also has a command for a reset clock pulse generating circuit 62 that generates a clock pulse of a predetermined frequency, an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on, and a sub-control circuit 200 described later. IC for serial communication 72 is provided. These reset clock pulse generation circuit 62, initial reset circuit 64, and serial communication IC 72 are connected to the main CPU 66.

  The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) in order to execute a system timer interrupt process to be described later. The serial communication IC 72 corresponds to a transmission unit that transmits various commands to the sub-control circuit 200 (various units included in the sub-control circuit 200).

  Various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the passage A ball sensor 114, a start winning ball sensor 116, a normal electric accessory solenoid 118, a big prize opening solenoid 120, a seesaw solenoid 122, and a backup clear switch 124 are connected.

  The V / count sensor 102 is provided in a specific area in the special winning opening. The V / count sensor 102 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning opening.

  The count sensor 104 is provided in a general area different from the specific area in the special winning opening. The count sensor 104 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the general area at the special winning opening.

  The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 are provided in the general winning ports 56a to 56d. The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the general winning ports 56 a to 56 d.

  The passing ball sensor 114 is provided in the ball passing detector 54. The passing ball sensor 114 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through the ball passing detector 54.

  The start winning ball sensor 116 is provided at the start port 44. The start winning ball sensor 116 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball wins the start opening 44.

  The normal electric accessory solenoid 118 is connected to the blade member 48 via a link member (not shown), and makes the blade member 48 open or closed according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. .

  The special prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 shown in FIG. 1, and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to make the special prize opening open or closed.

  The seesaw solenoid 122 is connected to a seesaw provided in the shutter 40 in the shape of a plate, and displaces the seesaw according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to change the inclination of the seesaw. As a result of tilting the seesaw, the seesaw is switched so as to easily pass through the specific region or to pass through the general region.

  The backup clear switch 124 is built in the pachinko gaming machine 10 and has a function of clearing backup data in the event of a power failure or the like in accordance with the operation of the game hall manager.

  The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / firing control circuit 126. The payout / launch control circuit 126 is connected to a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, and a card unit 150.

  The payout / launch control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. Then, the payout device 128 pays out the game ball. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a control of launching a game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130. The payout device 128 is employed as an example of a payout means for paying out game media when the launched (injected) game media passes through a predetermined area.

  In addition, as described above, the launching device 130 includes a device for launching a game ball such as a launching solenoid or a touch sensor.

  A control panel 80 is connected to the main control circuit 60. The control panel 80 includes a direction key 81, an enter button 82, and a cancel button 83. The direction key 81, the enter button 82, and the cancel button 83 constituting the control panel 80 supply an operation signal to the main control circuit 60 according to the operation.

  Further, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub control circuit 200 as the effect control means is generated from the sub CPU 206 as the variable display control means, the program ROM 208 as the storage means, the work RAM 210, the display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, and the speaker 46. And a lamp control circuit 240 for controlling the decorative lamps 16a and 16b, the special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d, the board surface effect lamps 36a and 36b, the normal symbol holding lamp 50, and the like. Yes.

  The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60. That is, the sub control circuit 200 controls the display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, the control related to the sound generated from the speaker 46, the decoration lamps 16a and 16b, the special symbol hold lamp according to various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. 34a to 34d, the board surface effect lamps 36a and 36b, and the normal symbol holding lamp 50 are controlled.

  A program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, and the like are connected to the sub CPU 206. The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes according to the program stored in the program ROM 208. In particular, the sub CPU 206 controls the sub control circuit 200 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. The sub CPU 206 functions as various means described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effect of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect. A specific program will be described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display. The effect display is executed according to the variable display of the identification information.

  The work RAM 210 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. For example, various variables such as an effect display selection random number counter for selecting an effect pattern are positioned.

  The display control circuit 250 includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212 as variable display control means, an image data ROM 216 that stores various image data, a D / A converter 218 that converts image data as an image signal, It comprises an initial reset circuit 220 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on.

  The VDP 212 described above is connected to the sub CPU 206, the image data ROM 216 storing the image data, the D / A converter 218 that converts the image data into an image signal, and the initial reset circuit 220.

  The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232, an audio data ROM 234 for storing various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying the audio signal.

  The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the initial reset circuit 220, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speaker 46.

  The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 for supplying a lamp control signal and a decoration data ROM 244 in which a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns are stored.

[Description of gaming state setting table]
In addition, the gaming state setting table stored in the main ROM 68 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Even if the game state setting table described below is not stored in the main ROM 68, data and programs having such functions may be stored in the main ROM 68.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the game state setting table records three types of game states: a normal game state, a high probability game state, and a short-time game state (a normal game state during a short-time game). Further, in the high probability gaming state, the end time of the high probability gaming state is determined by the player's operation of the control panel 80, so that the mode “1” setting, the mode “2” setting, and the mode “3” setting are performed. Any one mode setting is selected. The mode “2” setting is selected when the end time of the high probability gaming state is determined to be 40 minutes, and the mode “3” setting is selected when the end time of the high probability gaming state is determined to be 20 minutes. The mode “1” setting is selected when the end time of the high probability gaming state is not determined.

  Next, three types of game states, a normal game state, a high probability game state, and a short-time game state will be described.

  The normal gaming state is a normal gaming state, and shifts to the specific gaming state on condition that the result of variable display of the identification information is in a specific display mode.

  As described above, the high probability gaming state is a gaming state that shifts to the specific gaming state with a higher probability than the normal gaming state. That is, the high-probability gaming state is a gaming state in which the probability that the variable display result of the identification information on the liquid crystal display device 32 is a specific display mode is improved.

  The short-time gaming state (short-time state) is a gaming state in which the variation time of the identification information in the special symbol game is shorter than the normal gaming state, and the variation time of the identification symbol in the normal symbol game is shorter than the normal gaming state. is there. Also, the short-time gaming state is a gaming state in which the manner of opening and closing the blade member 48 according to the result of the normal symbol game is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. By controlling in this way, it becomes easy for the game ball to win the start opening 44. That is, the short-time gaming state is a gaming state in which the number of times that the variable information start condition for identifying information per predetermined time is satisfied in a special symbol game is improved.

  In the present embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is a so-called full time-saving machine, but in the present invention, it is not limited to this, and may be a so-called half-time machine, or a pachinko that does not have a time-saving function. It may be a gaming machine.

  Next, “occurrence condition” (game state transition condition), “end condition”, “special symbol game normal variation time”, “specific game state transition probability”, “normal symbol game variation time”, “ The “normal electric accessory driving mode” and the “general winning opening prize ball number” will be described. The various game states include “occurrence condition”, “end condition”, “special symbol game normal variation time”, “specific game state transition probability”, “ordinary symbol game variation time”, “ordinary electric actor driving mode” And “general winning mouth prize ball number” are associated with each other and stored in the gaming state setting table.

  Here, the “occurrence condition” indicates a condition for shifting to the gaming state. “End condition” indicates a condition for ending the gaming state. The “special symbol game normal variation time” indicates the execution time of a variation pattern that is normally selected according to each gaming state, such as a variation pattern in which a reach or the like does not occur in a special symbol game. The “specific game state transition probability” indicates the probability of transition to the specific game state. The “ordinary symbol game variation time” indicates the time from when the identification information variation display is started until the identification information is derived and displayed in the ordinary symbol game. The “ordinary electric accessory driving mode” indicates an opening and closing mode of the blade member 48 driven by the normal electric accessory solenoid 118. “Number of general winning mouth winning balls” indicates the number of game balls to be paid out as winning balls when game balls win the general winning openings 56a to 56d.

  First, the normal game state will be described. The “occurrence condition” is that the short-time game state is ended, and the “end condition” of the normal game state is that the game is shifted to a specific game state. The “variation time” is 15 seconds, the “specific game state transition probability” in the normal gaming state is “1/350”, the “normal symbol game variation time” in the normal gaming state is 30 seconds, and the normal gaming state In the “ordinary electric accessory driving mode”, 0.2 seconds is one time, and the “large winning mouth prize ball number” is 10 per winning prize.

  Next, the high probability gaming state will be described. One of the “occurrence condition” and the two “end conditions” of the high probability gaming state is the same regardless of the mode “1” setting, the mode “2” setting, and the mode “3” setting. "Exit conditions", "Special symbol game normal variation time", "Specific game state transition probability", "Normal symbol game variation time", "Normal electric accessory driving mode" and "General winning award winning ball number" It differs depending on the mode “1” setting, the mode “2” setting, and the mode “3” setting.

  That is, regardless of the mode “1” setting, the mode “2” setting, and the mode “3” setting, the “occurrence condition” of the high probability gaming state is obtained by displaying the identification information that is a special display mode and displaying the specific game. The transition to the state is to end the specific gaming state, and one “end condition” of the two is to shift to the specific gaming state.

  On the other hand, the mode “1” setting will be described. Another “end condition” of the two is that 60 minutes have passed since the transition to the high probability gaming state, and “special symbol game normal variation time” Is 10 seconds, the “specific game state transition probability” is “1/70”, the “ordinary symbol game fluctuation time” is 10 seconds, and the “normal electric accessory driving mode” is 2 times 3 times. Yes, the number of “general winning mouth prize balls” is 10 per winning prize.

  Further, the mode “2” setting will be explained. Another “end condition” of the two is that 40 minutes have passed since the transition to the high probability gaming state, and “special symbol game normal variation time” Is 7 seconds, the “specific gaming state transition probability” is “1/50”, the “ordinary symbol game fluctuation time” is 7 seconds, and the “normal electric accessory driving mode” is 2 times 4 times. Yes, the number of “general winning mouth prize balls” is 15 per winning prize.

  Further, the mode “3” setting will be explained. Another “end condition” of the two is that 20 minutes have passed since the transition to the high probability gaming state, and “special symbol game normal variation time” Is 4 seconds, the “specific gaming state transition probability” is “1/35”, the “normal symbol game fluctuation time” is 4 seconds, and the “normal electric game driving mode” is 5 times in 2 seconds. Yes, the number of “general winning mouth prize balls” is 20 per winning.

  As described above, when the predetermined time elapses after the transition to the high probability improvement state, the high probability improvement state ends. Therefore, even if you want to stop the game after a lapse of a predetermined time after shifting to the high probability improvement state, the high probability improvement state always ends after the lapse of the predetermined time after shifting to the high probability improvement state, Profits that should be enjoyed only by the player can be obtained without taking away the profits resulting from the transition to the probability improvement state.

  Further, the player himself can determine the end time of the high probability gaming state. Therefore, by setting the end time of the high-probability gaming state as the time from the transition to the high-probability improvement state until the player finishes the game, the high probability improvement by the scheduled time when the player ends the game Since the state can be surely ended, the profit that should be enjoyed only by the player can be obtained without taking the profit due to the transition to the high probability improvement state to others. Therefore, the player can play without hesitation within the determined time, and can enjoy the game as much as possible.

  Further, in the high probability game state, in the mode “2” setting and the mode “3” setting that are selected when the end time of the high probability game state is determined by the player, the end time of the high probability game state by the player "Special symbol game normal variation time", "specific game state transition probability", "ordinary symbol game variation time", "ordinary electric accessory driving mode" rather than the mode "1" setting selected when the game is not determined And, it is in an advantageous state with respect to “the number of winning prize winning balls”.

  For example, the “special symbol game normal variation time” is more advantageous for a shorter time, the “specific game state transition probability” is more advantageous for a higher probability, and the “ordinary symbol game variation time” is more advantageous for a shorter time. The “normal electric accessory driving mode” is advantageous as the opening time is long and the number of times of opening is large, and the “large winning prize award ball number” is advantageous as the number of award balls is large, but the mode “2” setting and the mode “ All 3 ”settings are more advantageous than mode“ 1 ”settings.

  In this way, if the player decides the end time of the high probability gaming state, the player can enjoy other benefits instead of the benefits that the player should normally enjoy, so maintain the interest of the game Can do.

  Next, the short-time gaming state will be described. The “occurrence condition” of the short-time gaming state is that the identification information of a specific display mode that is not a special display mode is derived and displayed, and the transition to the specific gaming state is completed, that is, the specific gaming state ends. The latter is not a high-probability gaming state, and one of the two “finishing conditions” is to shift to a specific gaming state, and the other “ending condition” is to transition to a short-time gaming state. The special symbol game ends 100 times, the “special symbol game normal variation time” is 10 seconds, the “specific game state transition probability” is “1/350”, and the “normal symbol game variation time” is 10 seconds, the “ordinary electric accessory driving mode” is 2 times 3 times, and the “general winning mouth prize ball number” is 10 per winning.

  Further, the transition of the gaming state of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the transition of the gaming state in the present embodiment.

  Referring to FIG. 4, when the gaming state is one of a normal gaming state, a high-probability gaming state, or a short-time gaming state (a normal gaming state during a short-time game), the result of the variable display of the identification information is specified. A transition to the specific gaming state is made on condition that the display mode is set (see arrows A, B, and C).

  When the gaming state is the short-time gaming state, the normal-time gaming state is entered when the short-time state termination condition is satisfied (see arrow D).

  Further, when the gaming state is the specific gaming state, when the specific gaming state is ended on the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information when shifting to the specific gaming state is a special display mode, Transition to the high probability gaming state (see arrow E).

  Furthermore, when the gaming state is the specific gaming state, the result of the variable display of the identification information when shifting to the specific gaming state becomes a specific display mode that is not a special display mode. When the specific gaming state ends, the time-saving gaming state is entered (see arrow F).

[Description of display screen]
Next, a special symbol game and a normal symbol game executed with the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIG. 5, and a screen for selecting a game time from the high probability gaming state will be described with reference to FIG.

[Description of special symbol game]
On the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, as shown in FIG. 5A, a plurality of columns of identification information (for example, special symbols 92a, 92b, and 92c in a special symbol game) are stopped and displayed. As shown in FIG. 5B, when the variable display start condition for the identification information is satisfied, the variable display of the identification information is started and the special symbol game is started. When time elapses, as shown in FIG. 5C, a plurality of columns of identification information are derived and displayed in a predetermined order. Then, as shown in FIG. 5D, the identification information that has been changed to the end is derived and displayed, whereby one special symbol game is completed.

  As described above, the identification information of the plurality of columns derived and displayed is in a specific display mode (for example, a mode in which three special symbols 92a, 92b, and 92c are arranged to be the same symbol). In addition, the gaming state shifts from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state (see FIG. 5D). In addition, the plurality of columns of identification information derived and displayed is a special display mode (for example, a mode in which three special symbols 92a, 92b, and 92c are combined into an odd symbol). As a result, the gaming state shifts from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state, and shifts to the high probability gaming state after the end of the specific gaming state (see FIG. 5D).

[Description of normal symbol game]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 5A, normal symbols 94 a and 94 b are displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. As described above, when the game ball passes through the ball passage detector 54, the normal symbol game is started. The normal symbol game is performed by displaying the normal symbols 94a and 94b alternately. When a predetermined time elapses, one of the normal symbols 94a and 94b is stopped and displayed, and one normal symbol game ends. Note that the time required for one time of this normal symbol game is shorter in the short-time gaming state and the high-probability gaming state than in the normal gaming state.

  As a result of the normal symbol being stopped, for example, when “O” of the normal symbol 94a is stopped and displayed, the blade members 48 provided on the left and right sides of the start port 44 are changed from the closed state to the open state, and the game ball Becomes easier to enter the start port 44 (see FIG. 1). Further, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 48 is in the open state, the blade member 48 is in a closed state, and the game ball is less likely to enter the start port 44.

[Explanation of game time selection screen]
Further, when the gaming state shifts from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state and shifts to the high-probability gaming state after the end of the specific gaming state, as shown in FIG. A screen for selecting a game time from the high probability gaming state (hereinafter referred to as “game time selection screen”) is displayed.

  In this game time selection screen, the mode setting is selected by determining the end time of the high probability gaming state by the operation of the player's control panel 80. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 (a), "Mode 1: I'm still going to hit!", "Mode 2: 40 minutes or so. (Probability will end after 40 minutes.)" And "Mode 3: There is only 20 minutes left! (The probability change will end in 20 minutes.) "Is displayed, and the player operates the control panel 80 to end the high probability gaming state end time. To decide. As a result, the mode setting of mode “1”, mode “2”, or mode “3” is selected.

  Here, “Mode 1: I will hit yet!” Is a mode setting in the case where the player does not determine the time for the high probability gaming state to end after the transition to the high probability gaming state. “Mode 2: 40 minutes or so. (Probability ends after 40 minutes.)” Is a mode setting when the high probability gaming state ends after 40 minutes after transitioning to the high probability gaming state. . In addition, “Mode 3: There are only 20 minutes left !! (Probability will end after 20 minutes.)” Is a mode in which the high probability gaming state ends after 20 minutes after the transition to the high probability gaming state. It is a setting. In FIG. 6 (a), “Mode 1: I will strike more!” Has been selected.

  Then, in response to the player's operation on the control panel 80, as shown in FIG. 6B, “Mode 1: I'm still going to hit!”, “Mode 2: 40 minutes or so. Either “Exit”) or “Mode 3: There are only 20 minutes left !! (Probability ends after 20 minutes.)” Is selected. In FIG. 6 (a), “Mode 1: I'm still going to hit!” Has been selected, but in FIG. 6 (b), “Mode 2: 40 minutes or so, depending on the operation of the control panel 80. (The probability change ends after 40 minutes.) "Is selected.

  Here, an example of an operation method of the control panel 80 will be described. When the game time selection screen shown in FIG. 6A is displayed after the end of the specific gaming state before the transition to the high probability gaming state, “mode 1: in accordance with the operation of the direction key 81 (see FIG. 1). "I'm still going to hit!", "Mode 2: 40 minutes or so. (The probability change will end in 40 minutes.)" And "Mode 3: Only 20 minutes left !! (The probability change will end in 20 minutes!) .) ”Is displayed. Then, according to the operation of the determination button 82, the selected mode setting is determined and displayed as shown in FIG. On the other hand, the selected operation is canceled according to the operation of the cancel button 83.

  In the present embodiment, the gaming time selection screen shown in FIG. 6A is displayed after the end of the specific gaming state before the transition to the high probability gaming state, and then the gaming state transitions to the next high probability gaming state. Although it is made not to display until it does, you may make it display before that.

[Game machine operation]
In the following, processing executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7, 8, and 10 to 20. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process (FIG. 9) performed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 7, initial setting processing such as RAM access permission, backup restoration processing, and work area initialization is executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 9, a special symbol control process relating to the progress of the special symbol game and the identification information displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is executed (step S12). Then, as will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. 16, the normal symbol control process relating to the progress of the normal symbol game and the normal symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is executed (step S13). Thus, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the processes in step S12 and step S13 are repeatedly executed.

[System timer interrupt processing]
Further, the main CPU 66 may interrupt the main process and execute the system timer interrupt process even when the main process is being executed. This process is executed in accordance with clock pulses generated from the reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). This system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 8, the main CPU 66 executes a random number update process so that the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, etc. are incremented by “1” (step S41). Then, an input detection process for detecting the winning or passing of game balls such as the start port 44, the ball passing detector 54, and the general winning ports 56a to 56d and the passing of the gaming balls paid out as winning balls is executed (step S42). A waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, a big prize opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening that is opened when a big hit occurs, and the like. The timer update process is executed (step S43). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for driving control based on various variables to the solenoid or the like (step S44). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S45.

  In step S45, command output processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 supplies various commands to the sub control circuit 200. Specifically, these various commands include a demo display command, a derived symbol designation command indicating the type of identification information derived and displayed in the left column, middle column, and right column, and a variation indicating a variation display pattern of the identification information. Includes pattern specification commands. That is, as will be described later, the variable display command information of the identification information and the information indicating the specific gaming state are transmitted to the sub-control circuit 200 (various means included in the sub-control circuit 200). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S46.

  In step S46, a payout process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 sets data for causing the payout device 128 to perform winning balls in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. Then, through the process of step S45 in FIG. 8, data for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball is transmitted to the payout / launch control circuit 126, and the payout device 128 performs a prize ball. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is restored to the address before the interruption, and the main process is executed.

  In the high-probability gaming state, when a game ball wins in the general winning ports 56a to 56d, the number of game balls to be paid out as a winning ball differs depending on the mode setting selected by the player operating the control panel 80. . In other words, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the general winning mouth prize ball counter is “1” or more, and when it is determined that it is “1” or more, reads the high probability flag and the mode flag, Based on these flags, data for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball is set in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  For example, when the high probability flag is not “77”, or when the high probability flag is “77” but the mode flag is “1”, the payout device 128 performs 10 prize balls. Data is set in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. When the mode flag is “2”, data for causing the payout device 128 to perform 15 prize balls is set in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. Further, when the mode flag is “3”, data for causing the payout device 128 to perform 20 prize balls is set in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S12 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 9, the numerical values drawn from step S71 to step S80 indicate the control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 8, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S72.

  In steps S72 to S80, as will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag. This control state flag indicates the state of the game of the special symbol game, and is a flag that enables execution of any of the processes from step S72 to step S80. Further, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined according to a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S72, a special symbol memory check process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S73.

  In step S73, a special symbol variation time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management to the control state flag when the control state flag is the value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management. Set the waiting time after confirmation (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the processing of step S74 is executed after the waiting time after determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S74.

  In step S74, a special symbol display time management process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S75.

  In step S75, a big hit start interval management process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 has a value (03) indicating that the control state flag indicates the big hit start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the big hit start interval has elapsed, Based on the data read from the ROM 68, the variables positioned in the main RAM 70 are updated. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is being opened to the control state flag, and sets an open upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) to the special winning opening open timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S77. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S76.

  In step S76, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the special prize opening number counter to “0” when the control state flag is a value (06) indicating the big prize opening reopening waiting time management and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. Update the memory so that it increases by 1 ″. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S77. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S77.

  In step S77, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control status flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big prize opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining ball in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets the winning ball remaining ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S78 is executed after the winning ball residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. Note that the main CPU 66 does not execute the above-described processing when none of the conditions is satisfied. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S78.

  In step S78, a special winning opening residual ball monitoring process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 indicates that the control state flag is a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining in the winning mouth and when the gaming ball passes through a specific area in the winning winning mouth when the remaining time in the winning winning mouth monitoring time has elapsed. It is determined whether or not any of the condition of not passing or the condition of the special winning opening opening number counter being “15” or more (the final round) is satisfied. When any of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit end interval has elapsed, the setting of step S79 is executed. On the other hand, when neither of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating the special winning opening reopening waiting time management to the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the setting of step S76 is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S79.

  In step S79, a big hit end interval process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S80.

  In step S80, a special symbol game end process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, “ By setting “08 ″ in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S80 shown in FIG. 9 is executed at a predetermined timing.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the specific gaming state, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 9 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the specific gaming state is executed.

  Further, when the control to the specific gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S77 shown in FIG. The process of step S78 and step S76 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the specific game is executed. When a specific game is being executed and the end condition (specific game end condition) for the specific game state is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, and “08” are set in this order. Thus, the processing from step S77 to step S80 shown in FIG. 9 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the specific gaming state is ended. Note that there is no passing of a game ball to a specific area by a predetermined time (so-called “punk”), or the maximum number of consecutive big hit rounds (15 rounds in this embodiment) has ended. In addition, the specific gaming state ends.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11, it is determined whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S101), and the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step S102. If it is not determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, this subroutine is terminated. In step S102, it is determined whether or not the data indicating the number of holds in the special symbol game is “0”, and it is determined that the data indicating the number of hold in the special symbol game is “0”. Moves the process to step S103, and moves the process to step S104 if it is not determined that the data indicating the number of holds in the special symbol game is "0".

  In step S103, a demonstration display process is executed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S104, a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S105.

  In step S105, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads out the mode flag, and selects one jackpot determination table from a plurality of jackpot determination tables having different numbers of jackpot determination values (big hit determination values) based on the read mode flag.

  For example, in the jackpot determination table in the mode flag “0”, that is, in the normal gaming state and the short-time gaming state, two jackpot determination values are set, but the mode flag is “1”, that is, a high probability In the jackpot determination table when the game mode “1” is set, ten jackpot determination values are set. In the jackpot determination table when the mode flag is “2”, that is, the mode “2” is set in the high probability gaming state, 14 jackpot determination values are set. In the jackpot determination table when the mode flag is “3”, that is, when the mode “3” in the high probability gaming state is set, 20 jackpot determination values are set. Thus, in the high probability gaming state, the probability of shifting to the specific gaming state is different by selecting the jackpot determination table based on the mode flag. That is, when the mode flag is a predetermined value (for example, “1” to “3”), in other words, when the gaming state is a high-probability gaming state, the probability of shifting to a specific gaming state (variation of identification information) The probability that the display result is a specific display mode) is improved as compared with the normal game state and the short-time game state.

  Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the jackpot determination random number extracted at the time of starting winning, and the selected jackpot determination table. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S106.

  In step S106, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit based on the result of the reference in step S105. If the main CPU 66 determines that it is a big hit, it moves the process to step S107, and if it does not determine that it is a big hit, moves the process to step S108.

  In step S107, a jackpot symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts the jackpot symbol random value extracted at the time of starting winning, determines the identification information corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column based on the jackpot symbol random value, Data indicating the identification information is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In step S108, a missing symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a random symbol value for determining a symbol out of the random symbol counter for determining a symbol out of symbol, and determines identification information corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column based on the random symbol value for symbol determination. Then, data indicating the identification information is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In the process of step S108 in the high-probability gaming state, it is determined that the out-of-line symbol becomes reach (hereinafter referred to as “out-going reach”) according to the mode setting selected by the player operating the control panel 80. Even in such a case, there is a case where correction is performed so that a loss reach does not appear. For example, when the mode flag is read and the mode flag is “1”, if it is determined to be out of reach, the out of reach will appear without correction, but the mode flag is “2” or In the case of “3”, the main CPU 66 corrects the identification information of the left column or the right column by a predetermined number of frames (for example, 3 frames) so that the left column and the right column do not become the same identification information. , And the appearance rate of outlier reach is reduced.

  As described above, in the high probability game state, the mode “2” setting and the mode “3” setting that are selected when the end time of the high probability game state is determined by the player, the player is in the high probability game state. Since the appearance rate of reach is less than the mode “1” setting selected when the end time is not determined, efficient gaming is possible, and the reliability of the reach itself is increased.

  In this way, if the player decides the end time of the high probability gaming state, the player can enjoy other benefits instead of the benefits that the player should normally enjoy, so maintain the interest of the game Can do.

  Note that the data indicating the identification information corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column stored by the processing of step S107 and step S108 is sub-controlled by the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 by the processing of step S45 of FIG. This is supplied as a derived symbol designation command to the sub CPU 206 of the circuit 200.

  In step S109, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a variation pattern distribution table for determining a variation pattern based on the identification information of the left column, the middle column, and the right column determined in steps S107 and S108. Then, the main CPU 66 determines a variation pattern based on the rendering condition selection random number extracted from the rendering condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores the variation pattern in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the variation pattern stored in this way is supplied as a variation pattern designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S45 of FIG. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command. In addition, in the variation pattern designation command, in addition to variable display command information as a command for executing variable display of identification information, information for determining whether to win or lose by the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 ( Information indicating that the game state is a specific game state) is also included. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110.

  In step S109, the main CPU 66 reads out the time-shortage flag and the mode flag, and determines that the time-shortage flag is “33” or the mode flag is “1” to “3”. Select the fluctuation pattern corresponding to the time reduction (for example, when the mode “2” is set, the fluctuation pattern is derived and displayed in 7 seconds), the time reduction flag is not “33”, and the mode flag is “0”. If it is determined that there is, a variation pattern corresponding to the normal time (for example, a standard variation pattern derived and displayed in 15 seconds) is selected.

  In step S110, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern in the waiting time timer is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 calculates the fluctuation effect time based on the fluctuation pattern determined by the process of step S109 and the fluctuation effect time table indicating the fluctuation effect time of the fluctuation pattern, and the fluctuation effect time. Is stored in the waiting time timer. Then, a process of clearing the storage area used for the current variation display is executed (step S111). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Special symbol display time management process]
The subroutine executed in step S74 in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 12, it is determined whether or not the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management (step S131), and whether or not the waiting time timer is “0”. A determination is made (step S132). In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that the control state flag is a value indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 shifts the process to step S133. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the control state flag is a value indicating the special symbol display time management, or if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 Exit the subroutine.

  In step S133, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it has been determined that the game is a big hit by the process of step S106 of FIG. If the main CPU 66 determines that it is a big hit, it moves the process to step S134, and if it does not make a big hit, it moves the process to step S136.

  In step S136, a process of setting a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game as the control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating the end of the special symbol game in the control state flag. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  On the other hand, in step S134, a process of setting a value (03) indicating jackpot start interval management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag. And the process which sets the time corresponding to a big hit start interval to a waiting time timer is performed (step S135). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S137.

  In step S137, it is determined whether or not the high probability flag is “77”. In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that the high probability flag is “77”, it moves the process to step S138. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 does not determine that the high probability flag is “77”, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S139.

  In step S138, processing for updating various flags is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 stores “00” in the high probability flag, stores “1” in the time reduction determination flag, stores “00” in the time reduction intermediate flag, and stores “0” in the mode flag. . Thus, by storing “1” in the time reduction determination flag, it is stored that the gaming state before the big hit is the high probability gaming state. In addition, initialization of the high probability flag, the hour / medium flag, and the mode flag is executed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S139, processing for updating various flags is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores “00” in the high probability flag, stores “0” in the time reduction determination flag, stores “00” in the time reduction intermediate flag, and stores “0” in the mode flag. . Thus, by storing “0” in the time reduction determination flag, it is stored that the gaming state before the big hit was not the high probability gaming state. In addition, initialization of the high probability flag, the hour / medium flag, and the mode flag is executed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Big hit end interval processing]
The subroutine executed in step S79 in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not the control state flag is a value (07) indicating a big hit end interval (step S151), and whether or not the waiting time timer is “0”. This is performed (step S152). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the control state flag is a value indicating the jackpot end interval, and determines that the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 shifts the process to step S152. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the control state flag is a value indicating the jackpot end interval, or if it does not determine that the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 ends this subroutine. To do.

  In step S153, a process of setting a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game as the control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating the end of the special symbol game in the control state flag positioned in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S154.

  In step S154, it is determined whether or not the jackpot symbol is a specific symbol. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the jackpot symbol determined by the process of step S107 in FIG. 11 is a specific symbol. If the main CPU 66 determines that the jackpot symbol is a specific symbol, that is, if it is determined to shift to a high-probability gaming state after the end of the specific gaming state, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S155 and determines that the jackpot symbol is a specific symbol. If it is not determined, that is, if it is not determined to shift to the high-probability gaming state after the end of the specific gaming state, the process proceeds to step S157.

  In step S155, processing for setting a high probability flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets “77” in the high probability flag. Thus, the main CPU 66 sets the high probability flag when the jackpot symbol is the specific symbol, that is, the result of variable display of the identification information is a special display mode, and enters the high probability gaming state after the specific gaming state ends. Will be controlled. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S156.

  In step S156, a mode setting process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  On the other hand, in step S157, it is determined whether or not the time reduction determination flag is “1”. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the time reduction determination flag, and if it is determined that the time reduction determination flag is “1”, the process proceeds to step S158. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the time reduction determination flag is “1”, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S158, the main CPU 66 stores “33” in the hour / short flag and “101” in the variation counter. Thus, by setting “101” in the variation counter, the time-saving gaming state is executed over the variable display of the identification information 100 times (time-saving number). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Mode setting processing]
The subroutine executed in step S156 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 14, a selected image display process is executed (step S171). In this process, the main CPU 66 uses the data read from the main ROM 68 to supply the sub-control circuit 200 with a selection screen display command for displaying the game time selection screen as shown in FIG. Based on this, the variables positioned in the main RAM 70 are updated. The variables stored in this way are supplied as a game time selection screen display command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S45 of FIG. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 displays a game time selection screen. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S172.

  In step S172, an operation validation process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets a valid flag to an operation reception flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 in order to receive a predetermined operation on the control panel 80. As a result, the main CPU 66 validates the detection of the operation of the control panel 80 by the player when a predetermined selection condition is satisfied. Then, the main CPU 66 sets a predetermined value (for example, 1 minute) in the operation effective time counter positioned in the main RAM 70, and starts counting. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S173.

  In step S173, it is determined whether or not time is up. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether the time is up by determining whether the above-described operation valid time counter is “0” (whether a predetermined time has passed). When determining that the time is up, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S176. On the other hand, when determining that the time is not up, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S174.

  In step S174, it is determined whether an operation has been performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not there is an operation depending on whether or not an operation signal is supplied from the control panel 80 (see FIG. 2). The operation here means that any one of the mode “1”, the mode “2”, and the mode “3” is selected by operating the determination button 82 of the control panel 80. When the main CPU 66 determines that an operation has been performed, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S175. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that no operation has been performed, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S173. That is, the main CPU 66 detects that a predetermined operation by the control panel 80 has been performed. The main CPU 66 that executes Step S174 in the present embodiment corresponds to an example of an operation detection unit. In the present embodiment, the operation result is determined depending on whether a predetermined time has elapsed or a predetermined operation has been performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, regardless of whether the predetermined time has elapsed. Depending on whether a predetermined operation is performed, the operation result may be determined.

  In step S175, it is determined whether or not mode “1” has been selected. In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that “mode“ 1 ”setting” has been selected in accordance with the operation of the control panel 80, it moves the process to step S 176. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the “mode“ 1 ”setting” has been selected, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S178.

  In step S176, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting “1” in the mode flag (step S176). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S177.

  In step S177, processing for setting a mode “1” setting command is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 uses the data read from the main ROM 68 to supply the sub-control circuit 200 with a mode “1” setting command indicating that “mode“ 1 ”setting” has been selected. The variables located in the main RAM 70 are updated. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S183.

  In step S178, it is determined whether or not the mode “2” setting has been selected. In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that “mode“ 2 ”setting” has been selected in accordance with the operation of the control panel 80, the process proceeds to step S 179. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that “mode“ 2 ”setting” has been selected, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S181.

  In step S179, the main CPU 66 executes processing for setting “2” in the mode flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S180.

  In step S180, processing for setting a mode “2” setting command is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 uses the main RAM 70 based on the data read from the main ROM 68 to supply the sub-control circuit 200 with a mode 2 setting command indicating that “mode“ 2 ”setting” has been selected. Update the variable located at. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S183.

  In step S181, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting “3” in the mode flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S182.

  In step S182, processing for setting the mode “3” setting command is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 uses the main RAM 70 based on the data read from the main ROM 68 to supply the sub-control circuit 200 with a mode 3 setting command indicating that “mode“ 3 ”setting” has been selected. Update the variable located at. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S183.

  Note that the variables stored in the main RAM 70 by the processing of step S177, step S180, and step S182 are set in the mode from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the processing of step S45 in FIG. Supplied as a command. As a result, the sub control circuit 200 executes various processes such as effects corresponding to each mode setting in accordance with the mode setting command.

  In step S183, a high probability gaming state end time timer is set. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating the time for ending the high-probability gaming state in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 in correspondence with the mode flag stored by the processes in steps S176, S179, and S181. Set to high probability gaming state end time timer.

  Specifically, when “1” is set in the mode flag, the main CPU 66 sets 60 minutes in the high probability gaming state waiting time timer. When “2” is set in the mode flag, the main CPU 66 sets 40 minutes in the high probability gaming state waiting time timer. Further, when “3” is set in the mode flag, the main CPU 66 sets 20 minutes in the high probability gaming state waiting time timer.

  In step S184, an operation invalidation process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 does not accept a predetermined operation on the control panel 80, and therefore sets an invalid flag to an operation acceptance flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. As a result, the main CPU 66 performs control to invalidate the detection of the operation of the control panel 80 by the player. Even if the predetermined operation is performed at an incorrect timing, the main CPU 66 performs the predetermined operation. Can be invalidated. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Special symbol game end processing]
The subroutine executed in step S80 in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 15, it is determined whether or not the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game (step S191), and the control state flag is a value indicating the end of the special symbol game. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step S192. If it is not determined that the control state flag is a value indicating the end of the special symbol game, this subroutine is ended.

  In step S192, the main CPU 66 executes a process of subtracting “1” from the data indicating the number of holds in the special symbol game (step S192). Then, the main CPU 66 executes a process of shifting (storing) the data of the special symbol storage area (1) to the special symbol storage area (4) from the special symbol storage area (0) to the special symbol storage area (3). (Step S193), a process of setting clear data in the special symbol storage area (4) is executed (Step S194). As a result, the data in the special symbol storage area is updated, that is, the number of reserved items is updated. Subsequently, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check as a control state flag (step S195). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S196.

  In step S196, it is determined whether or not the high probability gaming state end time timer is “0”. In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that the normal symbol waiting time timer is “0”, it moves the process to step S197. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the high-probability gaming state end time timer is “0”, the process proceeds to step S199.

  In step S197, processing for updating the high probability flag and the mode flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores “00” in the high probability flag and “0” in the mode flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S198.

  In step S198, it is determined whether or not the hour / middle flag is “33”. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the time / short flag, and if it is determined that the time / short flag is “33”, executes a process of subtracting “1” from the variation counter (step S199), and step S200. Move processing to. That is, if the game is in the short-time gaming state, the number of times of the short-time gaming state is counted. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the hour / middle flag is “33”, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S200, it is determined whether or not the variation counter is “0”. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the fluctuation number counter, and if it is determined that the fluctuation number counter is “0”, the main CPU 66 executes a process of storing “00” in the time reduction flag (step S201). Exit the subroutine. In other words, when the counted number of short-time gaming states is a predetermined number, the gaming state is shifted from the short-time gaming state to the normal gaming state. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 does not determine that the variation counter is “0”, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

[Normal symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S13 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 18, the numerical values drawn from step S212 to step S216 indicate normal symbol control state flags corresponding to those steps. Then, according to the value of the normal symbol control state flag, one step corresponding to the value is executed, and the normal symbol game proceeds.

  First, as shown in FIG. 16, processing for loading the normal symbol control state flag is executed (step S211). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the normal symbol control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S212.

  As will be described later, in steps S212 to S216, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the normal symbol control state flag. The normal symbol control state flag indicates the game state of the normal symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S212 to step S216 to be executed. Further, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined according to a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S212, a normal symbol storage check process is executed. Details will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S213.

  In step S213, normal symbol variation time monitoring processing is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 sets the normal symbol control state flag to the value (01) indicating the normal symbol variation time management, and when the variation time has elapsed, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the normal symbol display time management to the normal symbol. The control state flag is set, and the post-confirmation waiting time (for example, 0.5 seconds) is set in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the waiting time after determination has elapsed, the setting of step S214 is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S214.

  In step S214, normal symbol display time monitoring processing is executed. Details will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S215.

  In step S215, an ordinary electric accessory release process is executed. In this process, when the normal symbol control state flag is a value (03) indicating that the normal electric combination is released, the main CPU 66 has a predetermined number of start winnings (for example, 4 or more) during the release of the normal electric combination. It is determined whether or not the condition that the normal electric utility opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to bring the blade member 48 that is a normal electric accessory into a closed state when any one of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game to the normal symbol control state flag. That is, it sets so that the process of step S216 may be performed. Further, a process for closing the ordinary electric accessory is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S216.

  In step S216, a normal symbol game end process is executed. In this process, when the normal symbol control state flag is a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game, the main CPU 66 stores and updates the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol so as to decrease by “1”. The main CPU 66 updates the normal symbol storage area in order to perform the next normal symbol variation display. The main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a normal symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S211. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S212 in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, as shown in FIG. 17, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol control state flag is a value (00) indicating a normal symbol storage check (step S221), and the normal symbol control state flag is a normal symbol storage check. If it is determined that the normal symbol control state flag is not a value indicating a normal symbol storage check, the present subroutine is terminated. In step S222, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the reserved number related to the normal symbol is “0”, and if it is determined that the reserved number related to the normal symbol is “0”, the normal symbol is determined. Demo display processing is executed (step S223). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the number of reserved symbols for the normal symbol is “0”, the main CPU 66 moves the process to step S224.

  Note that the reserved number related to the normal symbol is increased by “1” up to a predetermined number (for example, “4”) when it is detected that the game ball has passed the ball passage detector 54. When the variable display of symbols is finished, “1” is subtracted.

  In step S224, a normal symbol hit determination process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 refers to the normal symbol per-determining random number extracted when the game ball passes the ball passage detector 54 and the normal symbol per-determining value stored in the main ROM 68. Then, as a result of the reference, when the random value for determination per normal symbol matches the determination value per normal symbol as a result of the reference, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a hit symbol (for example, “◯” symbol) and sets the hit flag. Store “77”. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a lost symbol (for example, “x” symbol) and sets the hit flag in the case where the random number value for normal symbol determination does not match the determination value per normal symbol as a result of the reference. “00” is stored. The winning symbol and the lost symbol stored in this way are supplied from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 as a derived normal symbol designation command by the process of step S45 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S225.

  In step S225, it is determined whether or not the high probability flag is “77” or the short-time / medium flag is “33”, that is, whether the high-probability gaming state or the short-time gaming state. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the high probability flag and the short / medium time flag, and if it is determined that the high probability flag is “77” or the short / medium time flag is “33”, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S226. Move. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the high probability flag is not “77”, and the hour / middle flag is not “33”, the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S226, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a fluctuation pattern for 30 seconds in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and sets the normal symbol waiting time timer to 30 seconds. As a result, in the normal game state, the variation time of the normal symbol is 30 seconds. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S232.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in the process of step S225, when it is determined that the high probability flag is “77” or the hour / middle flag is “33”, the mode flag is “2” or It is determined whether it is “3”, that is, whether the mode “2” setting or the mode “3” setting is selected by the operation of the player's control panel 80 (step S227). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the mode flag, and if it is determined that the mode flag is not “2” or “3”, the process proceeds to S228. On the other hand, when determining that the mode flag is “2” or “3”, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S229.

  In step S228, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a 10-second variation pattern in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and sets the normal symbol waiting time timer to 10 seconds. With this process, when the mode “1” is set for the short-time gaming state or the high-probability gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is 10 seconds. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S232 shown in FIG.

  In step S229, it is determined whether or not the mode flag is “2”, that is, whether or not the mode “2” setting has been selected by the player operating the control panel 80. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the mode flag, and if it is determined that the mode flag is “2”, the process proceeds to S230. On the other hand, when determining that the mode flag is not “2”, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S231.

  In step S230, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a fluctuation pattern of 7 seconds in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and sets 7 seconds in the normal symbol waiting time timer. With this processing, when the mode “2” is set in the high probability gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is 7 seconds. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S232 shown in FIG.

  In step S231, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a fluctuation pattern of 4 seconds in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and sets 4 seconds in the normal symbol waiting time timer. With this processing, when the mode “3” of the high probability gaming state is set, the variation time of the normal symbol is 4 seconds. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S232 shown in FIG.

  Note that the data indicating the variation pattern recorded in steps S226, S228, S230, and S231 is the normal symbol variation from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S45 of FIG. Supplied as a pattern specification command. As will be described later, the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display related to the normal symbol in response to the received normal symbol variation pattern designation command.

  In step S232 shown in FIG. 17, a process of setting a value (01) indicating normal symbol variation time management as the normal symbol control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating normal symbol variation time management in the normal symbol control state flag. And the process which clears the storage area used for the fluctuation | variation display of the normal symbol this time is performed (step S233). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal symbol display time monitoring process]
The subroutine executed in step S214 in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, as shown in FIG. 19, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol control state flag is a value (02) indicating normal symbol display time management (step S241), and the normal symbol waiting time timer is “0”. Is determined (step S242). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the normal symbol control state flag is a value indicating the normal symbol display time management and the normal symbol waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 performs the process in step S243. Transfer. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 does not determine that the normal symbol control state flag is a value indicating normal symbol display time management, or does not determine that the normal symbol wait time timer is “0”. This subroutine is finished.

  In step S243, it is determined whether or not the hit flag is “77”. In this process, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the winning flag is “77”, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S244, and if it determines that the winning flag is “77”, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S245. Move processing to.

  In step S244, a process of setting a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game as the normal symbol control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating the end of the normal symbol game in the normal symbol control state flag. Thereby, the blade member 48 is maintained in a closed state. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  On the other hand, in step S245, it is determined whether or not the high probability flag is “77” or the short / medium time flag is “33”, that is, whether or not the high probability gaming state or the short time gaming state. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the high probability flag and the hour / short flag, and if it is determined that the high probability flag is not “77” and the hour / short flag is not “33”, the process proceeds to step S246. . On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the high probability flag is “77” or the hour / middle flag is “33”, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step 248.

  In step 246, a normal opening setting process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs opening setting for driving the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118. The opening setting set here is the opening setting of the ordinary electric accessory in normal time (normal gaming state, specific gaming state). Specifically, the main CPU 66 updates the variables positioned in the main RAM 70 based on the data read from the main ROM 68 in order to drive the blade member 48 in the open state for 0.2 seconds. Then, the main CPU 66 executes a process for setting a value indicating normal normal power release (for example, 0.2 seconds) to the normal power release timer (step S247). Thus, by controlling the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118, the blade member 48 can be driven in a normal time (in a normal gaming state or a specific gaming state). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S256.

  As shown in FIG. 20, when it is determined that the high-probability flag is “77” or the hour / middle flag is “33” by the process of step S245, the mode flag is “2” or “3”. It is determined whether or not (step S248). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the mode flag, and if it is determined that the mode flag is not “2” or “3”, the process proceeds to step S249, and the mode flag is “2” or “3”. If so, the process moves to step S251.

  In step S249, an ordinary power combination opening setting process is executed when the mode “1” is set and when the mode is short. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs opening setting for driving the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118. The opening setting set here is the opening setting for the ordinary electric accessory in the mode “1” setting in the high probability gaming state or in the short-time gaming state. Specifically, the main CPU 66 operates the main ROM 68 in order to drive the blade member 48 to a 2 second open state, a 1 second closed state, a 2 second open state, a 1 second closed state, and a 2 second open state. The variables positioned in the main RAM 70 are updated based on the data read from. Then, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (for example, 8 seconds) indicating the normal power release at the time of mode “1” setting to the normal power release timer (step S250). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S256.

  In step S251, it is determined whether or not the mode flag is “2”. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the mode flag, and if it is determined that the mode flag is “2”, the process proceeds to step S252, and if it is determined that the mode flag is not “2”, the process proceeds to step S254. Move processing.

  In step S252, an opening setting process when mode “2” is set is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs opening setting for driving the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118. The opening setting set here is the opening setting for the ordinary electric accessory when the mode “2” is set in the high probability gaming state. Specifically, the main CPU 66 opens the blade member 48 in a 2-second open state, a 1-second closed state, a 2-second open state, a 1-second closed state, a 2-second open state, a 2-second open state, 1 In order to drive the second closed state, the variables located in the main RAM 70 are updated based on the data read from the main ROM 68. Then, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (for example, 11 seconds) indicating the normal power release when the mode “2” is set in the normal power release timer (step S253). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S256.

  In step S254, the opening setting process when mode “3” is set is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs opening setting for driving the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118. The opening setting set here is the opening setting of the ordinary electric accessory when the mode “3” of the high probability gaming state is set. Specifically, the main CPU 66 opens the blade member 48 in a 2-second open state, a 1-second closed state, a 2-second open state, a 1-second closed state, a 2-second open state, a 2-second open state, 1 Based on the data read from the main ROM 68, the variables located in the main RAM 70 are updated to drive the second closed state, the second open state, and the one second closed state. Then, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (for example, 14 seconds) indicating the normal power release when the mode “3” is set in the normal power release timer (step S255). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S256.

  It should be noted that the variables recorded by the processing of step S246, step S249, step S252 and step S254 are driven by the processing of step S44 of FIG. It will be in a state.

  Further, the blade member 48 in the high-probability gaming state and the short-time gaming state can be driven by controlling the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 by the processing of step S247, step S250, step S253, and step S255. It becomes easy for a game ball to enter the start port 44.

  Thus, in the high-probability gaming state and in the short-time gaming state, the blade member 48 is opened longer than usual (in the normal gaming state and the specific gaming state), so that the game ball is placed in the start opening 44. And the number of times the variable information start condition for identifying information per predetermined time is satisfied is improved.

  In step S256, a process of setting an initial value (0) to the ordinary electronic winning prize counter is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets an initial value “0” in the ordinary electric winning prize counter when the blade member 48 is in an open state. Accordingly, when the blade member 48 is in the open state, the blade member 48 is changed from the open state to the closed state on condition that the number of game balls won in the start port 44 becomes a predetermined number (for example, 4 or more). To control. Then, a value (03) indicating that the normal power combination is released is set in the normal symbol control state flag (step S257). In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating that the normal electric utility is released in the normal symbol control state flag. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Operation of sub-control circuit]
On the other hand, the sub control circuit 200 receives various commands transmitted from the main control circuit 60 and executes the following effects.

  For example, when the sub CPU 206 receives a variation pattern designation command, the sub CPU 206 selects an effect pattern corresponding to the variation pattern designation command based on the variation pattern designation command, and selects the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. Set to. For example, in the case of the short-time gaming state and the high-probability gaming state, the sub CPU 206 selects an effect pattern corresponding to the gaming state, and sets the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210.

  Further, when receiving the derived symbol designation command, the sub CPU 206 determines a stop symbol based on the derived symbol designation command and sets it in the work RAM 210.

  Furthermore, when receiving the derived normal symbol designation command, the sub CPU 206 sets data indicating the symbol to be derived and displayed in the work RAM 210 based on the derived normal symbol designation command. Furthermore, when receiving the normal symbol variation pattern designation command, the sub CPU 206 sets data indicating the variation pattern of the normal symbol to be variably displayed in the work RAM 210 based on the normal symbol variation pattern designation command.

  Furthermore, when receiving the mode setting command, the sub CPU 206 sets data indicating that “mode setting” is selected in the work RAM 210 based on the mode setting command. Thereby, the sub control circuit 200 can recognize the mode setting in the main control circuit 60. As a result, various processes such as displaying an image indicating the type of the set mode setting on the liquid crystal display device 32 are possible. Also, when other received commands such as a demo display command and a normal symbol demo display command are received, control based on the received command is executed.

  Then, based on the derived symbol designation command, the variation pattern designation command, etc., the sub CPU 206 identifies identification information images corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 (in the special symbol game). Data for deriving and displaying the identification information image to be used and data for displaying the production pattern are supplied to the VDP 212. Further, data for deriving and displaying a normal symbol image in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 and data for displaying an effect pattern in the normal symbol based on a derived normal symbol designation command, a normal symbol variation pattern designation command, etc. Is supplied to the VDP 212. Further, the sub CPU 206 supplies data for displaying the selection screen and the gaming time selection screen display command to the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 based on the gaming time selection screen display command and the like to the VDP 212.

  As described above, the sub CPU 206 supplies various data to the VDP 212 to cause variable display of the identification information in the special symbol game, and the effect pattern selected along with the variable display of the identification information. The effect display corresponding to is executed.

[Display control processing]
Based on the data from the sub CPU 206, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as special symbol image data indicating identification information, background image data, effect image data, normal symbol image data from the image data ROM 216 and superimposes them. Then, display is performed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, the VDP 212 reads out the image data constituting the selection screen and the specification setting prohibition screen from the image data ROM 216 based on the data from the sub CPU 206 and superimposes them on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Display the specification setting prohibition screen. That is, display control for the liquid crystal display device 32 is performed based on the result of variable display of the identification information determined by the main control circuit 60 and transmitted as a command.

  Note that the main CPU 66 and the like that execute the processing of step S105, step S107, and step S108 (see FIG. 11) in the present embodiment correspond to an example of variable display determination means of the present invention, and from step S75 to step S79 (FIG. 8). The main CPU 66 and the like that execute the processing (see FIG. 11) correspond to an example of the specific gaming state control means of the present invention. In the processing of step S105 (see FIG. 11), The main CPU 66 or the like that selects a big hit determination table and executes a process for making a big hit determination based on the big hit determination table corresponds to an example of the probability improvement state control means of the present invention. In the process of step S197 (see FIG. 15), the main CPU 66 and the like that execute the process of updating the high probability flag and the mode flag correspond to an example of the normal gaming state control means of the present invention. The main CPU 66 that executes the processing of step S46 (see FIG. 8), step S105, step S109 (see FIG. 11 above), step S249, step S250, step S252, step S253, step S254 and step S250 (see FIG. 20 above). Etc. correspond to an example of the advantageous state control means of the present invention.

[Modification]
The first embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but only a specific example is illustrated and the present invention is not particularly limited.

  In the present embodiment, the end time of the high-probability gaming state is determined by allowing the player to select one of the three mode settings. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The end time of the high-probability gaming state may be determined by selecting one or any one of four or more mode settings. Further, a determination operation means capable of inputting a numerical value may be provided, and the end time of the high probability gaming state may be determined so that the player's input means can directly input the end time of the high probability gaming state of the player.

  In the present embodiment, the predetermined time after shifting to the high probability gaming state is determined by the player's operation of the control panel 80. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Well, for example, after the transition to the high probability gaming state by operating the control panel 80 that is built in the pachinko gaming machine 10 or that is not operable by the player on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine, etc. The predetermined time may be determined. In this case, a desired predetermined time can be set by a game hall manager or the like. Further, (decision) operation means such as a touch panel may be provided.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when a game ball wins in the general winning ports 56a to 56d, the game ball to be paid out is determined according to the end time of the high probability gaming state determined by the operation of the control panel 80 of the player. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the end time of the high-probability gaming state determined by the operation of the player's control panel 80 even when a game ball is won at the start port 44. The number of prize balls to be paid out may be different depending on the game.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 composed of a liquid crystal display panel is used as a portion for displaying an image. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) is used. It may be composed of a cathode ray tube, a dot LED, a segment LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 is shown in the case where it is provided in the approximate center of the front surface of the game board 14 in the pachinko gaming machine 10 that is a gaming machine. For example, the liquid crystal display device 32 may be provided at any position.

  In the present embodiment, the identification information and the normal symbol are variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a variable symbol display device for the normal symbol is provided separately from the liquid crystal display device 32. May be.

  Further, the liquid crystal display device 32 is adopted as the variable display means. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be adopted. For example, a drum, a belt, a leaf, or the like may be adopted as the variable display means. Good.

  In the present embodiment, the main ROM 68 and the program ROM 208 are used as storage means for storing programs, tables, and the like. For example, it may be recorded in a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge.

  Further, the programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the main RAM 70 or the like. Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

  In this embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as the temporary storage area of the main CPU 66 and the work RAM 210 is used as the temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used. .

  In this embodiment, the main CPU 66, the main ROM 68, and the main RAM 70 are provided separately. However, a one-chip microcomputer in which these are integrated may be used.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of control circuits including a main control circuit 60 as a game control means and a sub control circuit 200 as an effect control means are provided. As shown, the sub-control circuit 200 and the main control circuit 60 may be configured on one board. That is, the game control means and the effect control means may be configured integrally. In this case, the program stored in the program ROM 208 described above may be stored in the main ROM 68 and executed by the main CPU 66. Of course, it may be configured only by the sub control circuit 200 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208. In this case, the program stored in the main ROM 68 is stored in the program ROM 208 and executed by the sub CPU 206. You may comprise.

  In this embodiment, the control panel 80 is connected to the main control circuit 60. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the control panel 80 is connected to the sub control circuit 200 as shown in FIG. It may be configured.

  In the present embodiment, a command is supplied from the main control circuit 60 to the sub control circuit 200, and a signal cannot be transmitted from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60. The present invention is not limited to this, and there is no problem even if it is configured such that a signal can be transmitted from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60.

  Furthermore, the effects described in the present specification are merely a list of the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the present specification.

It is a front view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the game state setting table memorize | stored in the pachinko gaming machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the transition of the game state in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition of the control process performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machine 26 Launch handle 32 Liquid crystal display device 40 Shutter 44 Start port 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
80 Control panel 92a, 92b, 92c Special symbol 94a, 94b Normal symbol 116 Starting winning ball sensor 120 Large winning opening solenoid 200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
212 Image data processor 216 Image data ROM
250 Display control circuit

Claims (2)

A launching means for launching a game ball;
A game area in which a game ball launched from the launching means is movable;
Variable display means for performing variable display of identification information each time the variable display start condition is satisfied, and that a game ball passes through a specific area in the game area as a variable display start condition of the predetermined identification information;
Variable display determining means for determining the result of variable display of identification information;
Variable display control means for controlling the variable display means based on the result of variable display of the identification information determined by the variable display determination means;
Variable display holding means for holding execution of variable display of identification information up to a predetermined upper limit when the variable display start condition of the identification information is satisfied a plurality of times;
Specific game state control means for shifting to a specific game state on condition that the result of variable display of identification information by the variable display means is in a specific display mode;
On the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information by the variable display means has become a special display form among the specific display forms, the variable display result of the identification information by the variable display means is the specific display form. Probability-enhanced state control that shifts the variable display result of the identification information by the variable display means to the probability-enhanced state having a high probability of setting the specific display mode as compared with the normal gaming state from the normal gaming state where the probability of performing is normal Means,
Normal gaming state control means for shifting from the probability improving state to the normal gaming state when a predetermined time has elapsed since the transition to the probability improving state;
A plurality of types of time as the predetermined time, and a determination operation means for determining a time desired by the player from the plurality of types of time by an operation of the player,
The determination operation means is activated for a predetermined time after the end of the specific gaming state,
The probability improvement state control means starts the probability improvement state on the condition that the determination operation means is operated by a player during the specified time and the predetermined time is determined, and the determined probability Set the duration of the improvement state ,
Gaming machine, wherein the set to Rukoto the duration of the probability increased a predetermined state when said determination operation means during the predetermined time is not operated to the player. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 ,
The probability that the specific display mode is the variable display result of the identification information by the variable display means in the plurality of types of the probability improvement states corresponding to the plurality of types of the predetermined time is the probability improvement state in which the predetermined time is short The probability that the variable display result of the identification information by the variable display means is the specific display mode is high, and the variable display time of the identification information by the variable display means is higher in the probability improvement state where the predetermined time is short. A gaming machine that is short.

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