JP4808789B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention comprises variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information, and after the predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, the variable information display is started based on the satisfaction of the variable display start condition. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player on the condition that the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display unit capable of changing the display state is provided, and is configured to give a predetermined game value to the player when the display result of the variable display unit becomes a predetermined specific display mode There is.

  The game value means that the state of the variable winning ball device provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine is advantageous to a player who is easy to win and a right to become advantageous to the player. Or a condition that the conditions for paying out premium game media are easily established. Further, when a predetermined amount of game balls or coins are awarded or a score is added in accordance with the establishment of a predetermined condition such as winning, these are referred to as value or valuable value.

  In a pachinko gaming machine, the fact that the display result of the variable display unit that displays the special symbol (identification information) is a combination of specific display modes that are set in advance is generally referred to as “big hit”. When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is ended.

  In addition, in the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) are stopped, swung, and enlarged / reduced in a state in which the symbols continuously match the specific display mode for a predetermined time. Or, the possibility of big hits continues before the final result is displayed due to the deformed state, multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol changing. An effect that is performed in a state where these are in progress (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. In the reach state, the interest of the game is enhanced by making the variation pattern different from the variation pattern in the normal state. Then, when the display result of the symbols variably displayed on the variable display device does not satisfy the condition for reaching the reach state, the state is “missed” and the variable display state is terminated. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  The game progress in the gaming machine is controlled by game control means such as a microcomputer. Since there are a wide variety of variable display modes of identification information displayed on the variable display device, the capacity of the program related to variable display control is large. Therefore, it is difficult to control the identification information and the like displayed on the variable display device by the microcomputer of the game control means with limited program capacity, and the display control microcomputer is different from the microcomputer of the game control means. It is advisable to use (display control means).

  When a display control microcomputer is provided, the game control means appropriately sends a control signal to the display control microcomputer according to the progress of the game in order to synchronize the game control state and the variable display control state. There is a need. In that case, a control signal for designating identification information displayed on the variable display section, particularly stop identification information at the end of variable display, is sent to the display control microcomputer.

  In order to enrich the display effects without increasing the processing load of the game control means, the display control means including the display control microcomputer is used as a control signal for specifying the display effect contents from the game control means. Accordingly, it is conceivable that the control content related to the notice display is determined and executed.

  However, a large amount of processing for determining the variable display contents of the identification information in the variable display device, such as determining whether or not to win, and determining the variable display pattern (variation pattern) of the special symbol displayed on the variable display device. Since the game control means performs the part, the control burden of the game control means is still large.

  It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of reducing the control burden of game control means related to processing for determining variable display contents of identification information in a variable display device.

The gaming machine according to the present invention includes variable display means (for example, the variable display device 9 and the variable display device 9a shown in FIG. 46) capable of variably displaying the identification information, and a hit ball launched into the game area is provided in the game area. The variable display of the identification information is started on the condition that the variable information display can be started after entering the start area, and the display result of the variable display of the identification information is a specific display result (for example, A gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit state) that is advantageous to the player when the right symbol becomes the same symbol), and a game control means (for example, CPU 56) that controls the progress of the game. 46, a game control means 561) and an effect means capable of executing an effect related to variable display of identification information based on commands from the game control means (for example, variable display device 9, light emitter) Game control is provided with presentation control means (for example, display control CPU 101, lamp control CPU 351, sound control CPU 701, presentation control means 801 shown in FIG. 46) for controlling the speaker 27 and the presentation means 802 shown in FIG. The means is a pre-determining means (for example, the CPU 56, shown in FIG. 46) that determines the contents of the variable display of the identification information (for example, the contents of the variable display during variable display) and the display result when the variable information is displayed. Predetermining means 562) and a plurality of hold information used by the predetermining means for determining the contents of variable display of identification information and display results when a hit ball enters the starting area, up to a predetermined upper limit number. With respect to variable storage of identification information whose display result is determined using the hold information and the hold information, the hold information stored before the hold information is stored. Variable display control means for starting variable display of the identification information after the display result of the variable display for which the display result has been determined is derived and displayed, and performing variable display control for deriving and displaying the display result, and the identification information Variable display command transmitting means for transmitting a variable display command capable of specifying the determination result of the predetermining means to the effect control means, and a hit ball enters the start area and enters the holding storage means When storing the hold information , the hold storage time determination means for performing a predetermined determination as to whether or not the specific game state is set for the variable display of the identification information determined using the hold information, and the hold information in the hold storage means The determination result of transmitting a determination result command (for example, a determination result command at the time of winning) to the effect control means that can specify the determination result of the hold storage determination means when storing Command display means (for example, CPU 56, determination result command transmission means 563 shown in FIG. 46), and the effect control means performs variable display for executing effects related to variable display of identification information based on the received variable display command. and demonstration execution unit, based on the determination result command received, with different probabilities depending on the variable number of impressions of the identification information that is initiated before the variable display of the identification information is determined to be a specific game state is initiated By deciding whether or not to execute the predetermined notice effect, it is suggested at which timing the variable display of the identification information determined to be in the specific gaming state is started after the predetermined notice effect is executed. a prediction effect determining means for determining the so that, depending on the determination result of the announcement effect determination unit, display result is determined by using the determination has been reserved information Characterized in that it comprises a prediction effect execution means for executing a prediction effect before the variable display of different information is started.

In the first aspect of the invention, the game control means determines the contents of the variable display of the identification information and the display result when starting the variable display of the identification information, and when the hit ball enters the starting area. The hold determination means for storing a plurality of hold information used for determining the contents of variable display of the identification information and the display result by the predetermining means up to a predetermined upper limit, and the display result is determined using the hold information. For the variable display of identification information, after the display result of the variable display for which the display result is determined using the hold information stored before the hold information is derived and displayed, the variable information is started to be displayed and the display result is displayed. Variable display control means for performing variable display control for derivation display, and a variable display command capable of specifying the determination result of the predetermination means when starting variable display of identification information A variable display command transmitting means for transmitting the performance control unit, when the ball is hit to store pending information on hold storage means enters the start region, the variable display of the identification information determined by using the suspension information A determination unit for determining whether or not to enter a specific gaming state, and a determination result command for specifying a determination result of the determination unit for holding and storing when the holding information is stored in the holding and storing unit. A determination result command transmitting means for transmitting to the effect control means, wherein the effect control means executes a variable display effect executing means for executing an effect related to the variable display of the identification information based on the received variable display command; based on the determination result command, depending on the variable number of impressions of the identification information that is initiated before the variable display of the identification information is determined to be a specific game state is initiated By determining whether or not to execute a predetermined announcement attraction in becomes probability, or the variable display of the identification information is determined to be a specific game state at any timing after executing a predetermined announcement attraction is started a prediction effect determination unit but be determined as suggested, in accordance with the determination result of the announcement attraction determination means, before the variable display of the identification information display result by using the determination has been reserved information is determined is started Includes a notice effect executing means for executing the notice effect, so that the notice effect can be executed without increasing the control burden of the game control means.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a front view which shows the front surface of the game board in the state which removed the glass door frame. It is the rear view which looked at the gaming machine from the back. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a symbol control board. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure in a lamp control board. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure in an audio | voice control board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between a backup flag and whether to perform a game state restoration process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a left-right middle symbol. It is a flowchart which shows special symbol process processing It is a flowchart which shows a prize confirmation process. It is a flowchart which shows a stop symbol setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a jackpot determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the signal line of a display control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows one structural examples, such as a command transmission table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the command form of a control command. It is a timing diagram showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of a display control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of a lamp control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of a voice control command. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of a command set process. It is a flowchart which shows a command transmission process routine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the character displayed on a variable display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the character displayed on a variable display apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU for display control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a command reception interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the random number for a display. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the table for notification effect determination. It is a flowchart which shows a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the display control command reception waiting process of a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the reach notice of a display control process process, and a jackpot notice setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the notification effect determination table change process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a reach notice determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a big hit notice determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the state by which the fluctuation pattern command etc. were set to the command transmission table. It is a flowchart which shows all the design variation start processes of a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the process during symbol change of a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows all the symbol stop waiting processes of a display control process. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot display process of a display control process process. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a gaming machine.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a first type pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing the front of the game board.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding game boards described later). Is a structure including

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  Near the center of the game area 7, a variable display device (special variable display section) 9 including a plurality of variable display sections each variably displaying a symbol as identification information is provided. The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. Below the variable display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 is provided as a start winning port 14. The winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 14a. A variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes is provided below the start winning opening 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16.

  An open / close plate 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The opening / closing plate 20 is a means for opening and closing the special winning opening. Of the winning balls guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6, the winning ball entering one (V winning area) is detected by the V winning switch 22, and the winning ball from the opening / closing plate 20 is detected by the count switch 23. Is done. On the back of the game board 6, a solenoid 21A for switching the route in the special winning opening is also provided. Also, at the bottom of the variable display device 9, a special symbol start memory display (hereinafter referred to as a start memory display) 18 using four LEDs for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the start memory number. Is provided. Every time there is a valid start prize, the start memory display 18 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display of the variable display device 9 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, a predetermined random number value is extracted if the normal symbol start memory has not reached the upper limit. And if it is a state which can start the variable display in which a display state changes in the normal symbol display 10, the variable display of the display of the normal symbol display 10 will be started. If the normal symbol display 10 is not ready to start variable display whose display state changes, the value of the normal symbol start memory is incremented by one. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of normal symbol start memories is provided. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. The special symbol and the normal symbol can be variably displayed on one variable display device. In that case, the special variable display unit and the normal variable display unit are realized by one variable display device.

  In this embodiment, the left and right lamps (designs can be visually recognized when lit) are alternately lit to perform variable display, and the variable display continues for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds). If the left lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a win. Whether or not to win is determined by whether or not the value of the random number extracted when the game ball wins the gate 32 matches a predetermined hit determination value. When the display result of the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is a win, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time so that the game ball is likely to win. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 changes from a disadvantageous state to a player's advantageous state when the normal symbol is a winning symbol.

  Further, in the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. It becomes even more advantageous. Further, in a predetermined state such as a probability change state, the variable display period (fluctuation time) in the normal symbol display 10 may be shortened, which may be more advantageous for the player.

  The gaming board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39, and winning of the game balls to the winning holes 29, 30, 33 is detected by winning hole switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, respectively. The Decorative lamps 25 blinking during the game are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7, and an outlet 26 for absorbing a hit ball that has not won a prize is provided below. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided on the outer periphery of the game area 7. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  In this example, a prize ball lamp 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball that is turned on in the vicinity of the top frame lamp 28a when the supply ball is cut. A cut lamp 52 is provided. Further, FIG. 1 also shows a card unit 50 that is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 and enables lending of a ball by inserting a prepaid card.

  The card unit 50 has a usable indicator lamp 151 indicating whether or not it is in a usable state, and when the remaining amount information recorded in the card has a fraction (a number less than 100 yen), the fraction is indicated as a hitting tray. 3, a fraction display switch 152 for displaying on a frequency display LED provided in the vicinity of 3, a connecting table direction indicator 153 indicating which side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 corresponds to the card unit 50, in the card unit 50 Check the card insertion indicator lamp 154 indicating that a card is inserted, the card insertion slot 155 into which a card as a recording medium is inserted, and the mechanism of the card reader / writer provided on the back of the card insertion slot 155. In some cases, a card unit lock 156 is provided for releasing the card unit 50.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. When the hit ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch 14a, the variable display device 9 starts variable display (variation) if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If the variable display of the symbol cannot be started, the start memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of the special symbols at the time of the stop is a jackpot symbol (specific display mode), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of hit balls wins. When the hit ball enters the V winning area while the opening / closing plate 20 is opened and is detected by the V winning switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  When the combination of special symbols in the variable display device 9 at the time of stopping is a combination of jackpot symbols (probability variation symbols) with probability fluctuations, the probability of the next jackpot increases. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in the probability variation state.

  Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the gaming machine as seen from the back side.

  As shown in FIG. 3, on the back side of the gaming machine, a game control board (main board) 31 on which a variable display control unit 49 including a symbol control board 80 for controlling the variable display device 9, a game control microcomputer, and the like are mounted. Is installed. In addition, a payout control board 37 on which a payout control microcomputer for performing ball payout control is mounted is installed. Further, various decoration LEDs provided on the game board 6, start memory display 18 and normal symbol start memory display 41, decoration lamp 25, top frame lamp 28a provided on the frame side, left frame lamp 28b, right A lamp control board 35 on which lamp control means for controlling lighting of the frame lamp 28c, the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball break lamp 52 is mounted, and a sound control board 70 on which sound control means for controlling sound generation from the speaker 27 are also mounted. Is provided. In addition, a power supply board 910 and a launch control board 91 on which a power supply circuit for generating DC30V, DC21V, DC12V and DC5V is mounted are provided.

  On the back side of the gaming machine, a terminal board 160 provided with terminals for outputting various information to the outside of the gaming machine is installed above. The terminal board 160 has at least a ball break terminal for introducing and outputting an output of the ball break detection switch, an award ball terminal for outputting the award ball number signal to the outside, and a ball lending number signal externally output. A ball lending terminal is provided. In addition, an information terminal board 34 having terminals for outputting various information from the main board 31 to the outside of the gaming machine is installed near the center.

  Further, backup data stored in storage content holding means (for example, variable data storage means that can hold the contents even when power supply is stopped, that is, a backup RAM) included in each board (main board 31 and payout control board 37). There is provided a switch board 190 on which a clear switch 921 is mounted as an operation means for clearing. The switch board 190 is provided with a clear switch 921 and a connector 922 connected to another board such as the main board 31.

  The game balls stored in the storage tank 38 pass through the guide rail and reach the ball payout device covered with the prize ball case 40A. A ball break switch 187 as a game medium break detection means is provided on the upper part of the ball payout device. When the ball break switch 187 detects a ball break, the dispensing operation of the ball dispensing device stops. The ball break switch 187 is a switch for detecting the presence or absence of a game ball in the game ball passage, but the ball break detection switch 167 for detecting the shortage of supply balls in the storage tank 38 is also an upstream portion of the guide rail (in the storage tank 38). (Proximate part). When the ball break detection switch 167 detects the shortage of game balls, the game machine is replenished to the game machine from the supply mechanism provided on the gaming machine installation island.

  A large number of game balls as prizes based on winning prizes and game balls based on ball lending requests are paid out to fill the hitting ball supply tray 3, and when the game balls are further paid out, the game balls are guided to the surplus ball receiving tray 4. When the game ball is further paid out, a full switch 48 (not shown in FIG. 3) is turned on. In this state, the rotation of the payout motor in the ball payout device stops, the operation of the ball payout device stops, and the drive of the launching device also stops.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration in the main board 31. 4 also shows a payout control board 37, a lamp control board 35, a sound control board 70, a launch control board 91, and a symbol control board 80. The main board 31 includes a basic circuit 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 32a, a start port switch 14a, a V winning switch 22, a count switch 23, winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, A switch circuit 58 for supplying signals from the tongue switch 48, the ball break switch 187, the prize ball count switch 301A and the clear switch 921 to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, and a solenoid for opening and closing the opening and closing plate 20. 21 and a solenoid circuit 59 for driving a solenoid 21A for switching a route in the special winning opening in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53 is mounted.

  Although not shown in FIG. 4, the count switch short circuit signal is also transmitted to the basic circuit 53 via the switch circuit 58. Further, the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the V winning switch 22, the count switch 23, the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, the full switch 48, the ball running switch 187, the winning ball count switch 301A, etc. Also, what is called a sensor may be used. That is, the name of the game medium detection means is not limited as long as it is a game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball. What is called a switch may be what is called a sensor, that is, that the switch is an example of a game medium detecting unit, as in other embodiments.

  Further, according to the data given from the basic circuit 53, the jackpot information indicating the occurrence of the jackpot, the effective starting information indicating the number of starting winning balls used for starting the variable display of the symbols in the variable display device 9, the probability variation has occurred. An information output circuit 64 for outputting an information output signal such as probability variation information indicating the above to an external device such as a hall computer is mounted.

  The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means (means for storing variation data) used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations according to the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and RAM 55 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached or built-in.

  Further, a part or all of the RAM (may be a CPU built-in RAM) 55 is a backup RAM that is backed up by a backup power source created in the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is saved for a predetermined period.

  A ball hitting device for hitting and launching a game ball is driven by a drive motor 94 controlled by a circuit on the launch control board 91. Then, the driving force of the drive motor 94 is adjusted according to the operation amount of the operation knob 5. That is, the circuit on the firing control board 91 is controlled so that the hit ball is fired at a speed corresponding to the operation amount of the operation knob 5.

  In this embodiment, the lamp control means mounted on the lamp control board 35 performs display control of the start memory display 18, the normal symbol start memory display 41 and the decoration lamp 25 provided on the game board. The display control of the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52 provided on the frame side is performed. Each lamp may be an LED or other types of light emitters, and the LEDs used in this embodiment and other embodiments may be other types of light emitters. That is, a lamp or LED is an example of a light emitter. In addition, display control of the variable display device 9 for variably displaying the special symbol and the normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying the normal symbol is performed by display control means mounted on the symbol control board 80.

  FIG. 5 shows the circuit configuration in the symbol control board 80, LCD (liquid crystal display device) 82, which is one example of realization of the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, and the output ports (ports 0 and 2) of the main board 31. It is a block diagram shown with 570,572 and output buffer circuit 620,62A. The output port (output port 2) 572 outputs 8-bit data, and the output port 570 outputs a 1-bit strobe signal (INT signal).

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

  Then, the display control CPU 101 performs display control of the screen displayed on the LCD 82 in accordance with the received display control command. Specifically, a command according to the display control command is given to a VDP (video display processor) 103. The VDP 103 reads out necessary data from the character ROM 86. The VDP 103 generates image data to be displayed on the LCD 82 according to the input data, and outputs R, G, B signals and a synchronization signal to the LCD 82.

  5 also shows a reset circuit 83 for resetting the VDP 103, an oscillation circuit 85 for supplying an operation clock to the VDP 103, and a character ROM 86 for storing frequently used image data. The frequently used image data stored in the character ROM 86 is, for example, a person, animal, or an image made up of characters, figures, symbols, or the like displayed on the LCD 82.

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

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

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing signal transmission / reception portions in the main board 31 and the lamp control board 35. In this embodiment, the dot frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c provided on the outside of the game area 7 and the decoration lamp 25 provided on the game board are turned on / off, and a prize ball lamp. 51 and a lamp control command indicating turning on / off of the ball-out lamp 52 are output from the main board 31 to the lamp control board 35. A lamp control command indicating the number of lighting of the start memory display 18 and the normal symbol start memory display 41 is also output from the main board 31 to the lamp control board 35.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the lamp control command related to the lamp control is output from the output ports (output ports 0 and 3) 570 and 573 of the I / O port unit 57 in the basic circuit 53. The output port (output port 3) 573 outputs 8-bit data, and the output port 570 outputs a 1-bit INT signal. In the lamp control board 35, a control command from the main board 31 is input to the lamp control CPU 351 via the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B. When the lamp control CPU 351 does not include an I / O port, an I / O port is provided between the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B and the lamp control CPU 351.

  In the lamp control board 35, the lamp control CPU 351 performs the ceiling frame lamp according to the lighting / extinguishing pattern of the ceiling frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration lamp 25 defined according to each control command. 28a, left frame lamp 28b, right frame lamp 28c, and decorative lamp 25 are turned on / off. The on / off signal is output to the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration lamp 25. The on / off pattern is stored in the built-in ROM or external ROM of the lamp control CPU 351.

  In the main board 31, the CPU 56 outputs a control command for instructing the lighting of the prize ball lamp 51 when there is an unpaid prize ball remaining in the stored contents of the RAM 55, and is installed upstream of the payout ball passage on the back of the game board. When the off-ball switch 187 (see FIG. 3) is no longer detecting a game ball, a control command for instructing lighting of the off-ball lamp 52 is output. In the lamp control board 35, each control command is input to the lamp control CPU 351 via the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B. The lamp control CPU 351 turns on / off the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52 in accordance with these control commands. The on / off pattern is stored in the built-in ROM or external ROM of the lamp control CPU 351.

  Further, the lamp control CPU 351 outputs a turn-on / off signal to the start memory display 18 and the normal symbol start memory display 41 in accordance with the control command.

  As the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B, for example, 74HC540 and 74HC14 which are general-purpose CMOS-ICs are used. The input buffer circuits 355A and 355B can pass signals only in the direction from the main board 31 toward the lamp control board 35. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the lamp control board 35 side to the main board 31 side. Even if unauthorized modification is added to the circuit in the lamp control board 35, the signal output by the unauthorized modification is not transmitted to the main board 31 side. Note that a noise filter may be provided on the input side of the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B.

  In the main board 31, buffer circuits 620 and 63A are provided outside the output ports 570 and 573. As the buffer circuits 620 and 63A, for example, general-purpose CMOS-ICs 74HC250 and 74HC14 are used. According to such a configuration, since a signal input from the outside to the inside of the main board 31 is blocked, it is possible to more reliably eliminate a signal line from which a signal may be given from the lamp control board 35 to the main board 31. be able to. A noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 63A.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the voice control command signal transmission part of the main board 31 and the voice control board 70. In this embodiment, a voice control command for instructing voice output from the speaker 27 provided outside the gaming area 7 is output from the main board 31 to the voice control board 70 as the game progresses.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the voice control command is output from the output ports (output ports 0 and 4) 570 and 574 of the I / O port unit 57 in the basic circuit 53. The output port (output port 4) 574 outputs 8-bit data, and the output port 570 outputs a 1-bit INT signal. In the audio control board 70, each signal from the main board 31 is input to the audio control CPU 701 via the input buffer circuits 705A and 705B. When the audio control CPU 701 does not have an I / O port, an I / O port is provided between the input buffer circuits 705A and 705B and the audio control CPU 701.

  Then, for example, a voice synthesis circuit 702 using a digital signal processor generates voice and sound effects according to instructions from the voice control CPU 701 and outputs them to the volume switching circuit 703. The volume switching circuit 703 sets the output level of the audio control CPU 701 to a level corresponding to the set volume and outputs the level to the volume amplification circuit 704. The volume amplifier circuit 704 outputs the amplified audio signal to the speaker 27.

  As the input buffer circuits 705A and 705B, for example, 74HC540 and 74HC14, which are general-purpose CMOS-ICs, are used. The input buffer circuits 705A and 705B can pass signals only in the direction from the main board 31 toward the audio control board 70. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the voice control board 70 side to the main board 31 side. Therefore, even if unauthorized modification is added to the circuit in the voice control board 70, a signal output by the unauthorized modification is not transmitted to the main board 31 side. A noise filter may be provided on the input side of the input buffer circuits 705A and 705B.

  In the main board 31, buffer circuits 620 and 67A are provided outside the output ports 570 and 574. As the buffer circuits 620 and 67A, for example, general-purpose CMOS-ICs 74HC250 and 74HC14 are used. According to such a configuration, since a signal input from the outside to the inside of the main board 31 is blocked, it is possible to further reliably eliminate a signal line from which a signal may be given from the voice control board 70 to the main board 31. be able to. A noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 67A.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by game control means (CPU 56 and peripheral circuits such as ROM and RAM) in the main board 31. When power is turned on to the gaming machine and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high level, the CPU 56 starts main processing after step S1. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, the built-in device register is initialized (step S4). Further, after initialization (step S5) of CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits), the RAM is set in an accessible state (step S6).

  The CPU 56 used in this embodiment also incorporates an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC). The CTC also includes two external clock / timer trigger inputs CLK / TRG2, 3 and two timer outputs ZC / TO0,1.

  The CPU 56 used in this embodiment is provided with the following three modes as maskable interrupt modes. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  Interrupt mode 0: The built-in device that has issued the interrupt request sends an RST instruction (1 byte) or a CALL instruction (3 bytes) onto the internal data bus of the CPU. Therefore, the CPU 56 executes the instruction at the address corresponding to the RST instruction or the address specified by the CALL instruction. At reset, the CPU 56 automatically enters interrupt mode 0. Therefore, when setting to interrupt mode 1 or interrupt mode 2, it is necessary to perform a process for setting to interrupt mode 1 or interrupt mode 2 in the initial setting process.

  Interrupt mode 1: In this mode, when an interrupt is accepted, the mode always jumps to address 0038 (h).

  Interrupt mode 2: A mode in which the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output by the built-in device indicates the interrupt address It is. That is, the interrupt address is an address indicated by 2 bytes in which the upper address is the value of the specific register and the lower address is the interrupt vector. Therefore, an interrupt process can be set at an arbitrary address (although it is skipped). Each built-in device has a function of sending an interrupt vector when making an interrupt request.

  Therefore, when the interrupt mode 2 is set, it is possible to easily process an interrupt request from each built-in device, and it is possible to install an interrupt process at an arbitrary position in the program. . Furthermore, unlike interrupt mode 1, it is also easy to prepare each interrupt process for each interrupt generation factor. As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 is set to the interrupt mode 2 in step S2 of the initial setting process.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch 921 input via the input port only once (step S7). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S11 to S15). When the clear switch 921 is on (when pressed), a low-level clear switch signal is output. For example, the game store clerk can easily execute the initialization process by starting the power supply to the gaming machine while the clear switch 921 is turned on. That is, RAM clear or the like can be performed.

  If the clear switch 921 is not in the on state, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, a process for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. When such protection processing is performed, it is assumed that there is a backup. When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing.

  In this embodiment, whether or not there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. In this example, as shown in FIG. 9, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, there is no backup (OFF). State).

  After confirming that there is a backup, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example) (step S9). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer. Also, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1. The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count reaches 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area and uses the inverted data as the checksum.

  In the power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the display control means to the state when the power supply is stopped (step S10). ). Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) stored in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the address is restored.

  In this way, it is possible to accurately return the gaming state to the state when the power supply is stopped by checking whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using the backup flag and check data such as a checksum. it can. That is, the certainty of the state restoration process based on the data in the backup RAM area is improved. In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is stored by using both the backup flag and the check data, but only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the state recovery process.

  In addition, when “backup exists” is not confirmed according to the status of the backup flag, the initialization process described later is performed without performing the gaming state recovery process described later, so the backup data does not exist. Nevertheless, it is possible to prevent the gaming state restoration process from being executed, and it is possible to return the control state to the initial state by the initialization process.

  Furthermore, when the check result using the check data is not normal, the initialization process described later is performed without performing the gaming state recovery process described later, so that the contents differ from those at the time of stopping the power supply. It is possible to prevent the gaming state restoration process from being executed based on the backup data that has been made, and the control state can be returned to the initial state by the initialization process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S11). In addition, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left middle right symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball out flag, a payout A work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag such as a stop flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state is performed (step S12). Further, a process of transmitting to the payout control board 37 a payout permission state designation command (hereinafter referred to as a payout enable state designation command) instructing that payout from the ball payout device 97 is possible (step S13). . Further, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing other sub boards (lamp control board 35, sound control board 70, symbol control board 80) to each sub board is executed (step S14). As an initialization command, a command indicating the initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 9 (for the symbol control board 80) and a command for instructing the extinction of the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52 (to the lamp control board 35) Etc).

  Then, a CTC register set in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 ms (step S15). That is, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S11 to S15) is completed, the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) are repeatedly executed in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. (Step S19). The display random number is a random number for determining a symbol displayed on the variable display device 9, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. . The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). In a game control process described later, when the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

  Note that when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt is prohibited. The display random number update process is also executed in the timer interrupt process described later, and thus conflicts with the process in the timer interrupt process. This is to avoid that. That is, if the timer interrupt is generated during the process of step S17 and the counter value for generating the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt process, the continuity of the count value is impaired. There is a case. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the process of step S17.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 performs the register saving process (step S20), and then executes the game control processes of steps S21 to S32 shown in FIG. In the game control process, the CPU 56 first inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switch 24a through the switch circuit 58, and determines their state. (Switch process: Step S21).

  Next, various abnormality diagnosis processes are performed by the self-diagnosis function provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and an alarm is issued if necessary according to the result (error process: step S22).

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number and the initial value random number (steps S24 and S25).

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit determination = special symbol determination)
(2) Random 2-1-2-3: For left / right centered symbol determination (3) Random 3: Determines the symbol combination at the time of jackpot (for jackpot symbol determination = for special symbol determination)
(4) Random 4: Decide whether or not to reach in case of loss (for reach determination)
(5) Random 5: Determine the fluctuation pattern at the time of reach (for fluctuation pattern determination)

In order to enhance the gaming effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (5) (for example, initial value determining random numbers) are also used. In addition, for example, by periodically setting an initial value (for example, an initial value determined for each random number) to each random number, the random numbers (1) to (5) are configured not to be synchronized with each other. It is desirable that
In step S23, the CPU 56 counts up (adds 1) the counter for generating the jackpot determination random number (1), the jackpot symbol determination random number (3), and the reach determination random number (4). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process control, corresponding processing is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting a display control command related to the special symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and sending the display control command (special symbol command control process: step S28). In addition, a display control command related to the normal symbol is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and a process of sending the display control command is performed (normal symbol command control process: step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S30).

  Further, the CPU 56 issues a drive command to the solenoid circuit 59 when a predetermined condition is satisfied (step S31). The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16, 21, and 21A in response to a drive command in order to open or close the variable winning ball device 15 or the opening / closing plate 20, or to switch the game ball passage in the special winning opening. To do.

  Then, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals from the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a (step S32). Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to detection of winning based on any one of the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. The payout control CPU 371 mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls. Next, the CPU 56 confirms the start winning memory number, and turns on / off the corresponding hold lamp of the start memory display 18 when the current starting winning memory number has changed compared to the previous confirmation. A storage process for setting a lamp control command for designating the command in the command transmission table is executed (step S33). In addition, when designating lighting / extinguishing of the holding lamp of the normal symbol start memory display 41, the same module as that used when designating lighting / extinguishing of the holding lamp of the starting memory display 18 is used. The Thereafter, the contents of the register are restored (step S34), and the interrupt permission state is set (step S35).

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a left / right middle symbol used in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, the symbols displayed as the left and right middle symbols are the same 10 symbols in the left and right. When the symbol number 0 is displayed, next, the symbol number 9 is displayed. Then, when the left and right middle symbols are all stopped at “1”, “3”, “5”, “7” or “9”, for example, a high probability state is set. That is, they become probabilistic symbols.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process processing program executed by the CPU 56. The special symbol process shown in FIG. 13 is a specific process of step S26 in the flowchart of FIG. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs the fluctuation shortening timer subtraction process (step S310) and the winning confirmation process (step S311), and then performs one of steps S301 to S307 according to the internal state. Process. The variation shortening timer is a timer for setting the variation time when the variation time of the special symbol is shortened.

  Winning confirmation processing (step S311): A ball is won at the start winning opening 14, and the process waits for the start opening switch 14a to be turned on. When the start opening switch 14a is turned on, if the starting winning memory number is not full, the starting winning memory number is incremented by 1 and each random number such as a big hit determining random number is extracted to determine whether or not to win or not. Decide whether or not.

  Stop symbol setting process (step S301): Wait until a special symbol variable display can be started. When the special symbol variable display can be started, the start winning memory number is confirmed. If the start winning memorization number is not 0, the stop symbol of the left and right middle symbols and the variation pattern of the symbols are determined. The determined stop symbol is a symbol corresponding to the determination result in the special symbol variation waiting process (step S311) such as big hit, miss, reach and the like. When the process is finished, the internal state (process flag) is updated to shift to step S302.

  All symbol variation start processing (step S302): Control is performed so that variation of all symbols is started in the variable display device 9. At this time, the left / right middle final stop symbol and information for instructing the variation mode are transmitted to the symbol control board 80. When the process is finished, the internal state (process flag) is updated to shift to step S303.

  All symbol stop waiting process (step S303): When a predetermined time (the time indicated by the fluctuation shortening timer in step S310) elapses, all symbols displayed on the variable display device 9 are stopped. If the stop symbol is a combination of jackpot symbol, the internal state (process flag) is updated to shift to step S304. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S301.

  Grand prize opening opening process (step S304): Control for opening the big prize opening is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening. In addition, the execution time of the big winning opening opening process is set by the process timer, and the big hit flag (flag indicating that the big hit is in progress) is set. When the process is finished, the internal state (process flag) is updated to shift to step S305.

  Processing during opening of a special winning opening (step S305): Control for sending display control command data for displaying a large winning opening round to the symbol control board 80, processing for confirming establishment of closing conditions for the special winning opening, and the like are performed. When the final closing condition of the big prize opening is satisfied, the internal state is updated to shift to step S306.

  Specific area valid time processing (step S306): The presence / absence of passing of the V winning switch 22 is monitored, and processing for confirming that the big hit gaming state continuation condition is satisfied is performed. If the condition for continuation of the big hit gaming state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state is updated to shift to step S304. In addition, when the big hit gaming state continuation condition is not satisfied within a predetermined effective time, or when all rounds are finished, the internal state is updated to shift to step S307.

  Big hit end process (step S307): A display for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is performed. When the display is completed, the internal state is updated to shift to step S301.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the winning confirmation process (step S311). When the hit ball wins the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6, the start opening switch 14a is turned on. In the winning confirmation process, as shown in FIG. 14, when the CPU 56 determines that the starting port switch 14a is turned on via the switch circuit 58 (step S41), the number of starting winning memories reaches 4 which is the maximum value. It is confirmed whether it is present (step S42). If the starting winning memory number has not reached 4, the starting winning memory number is increased by 1 (step S43), and the value of each random number such as a jackpot determining random number is extracted (step S44). Next, the CPU 56 makes a jackpot / loss determination based on the extracted jackpot determination random number (step S45). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S45 that there is a divergence, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to reach based on the extracted reach determination random number (step S46).

  When the big hit and reach are determined, the CPU 56 stores data indicating the determination result (winning determination result information) in the winning determination result information storage area (step S47). In this example, there are a plurality of winning determination result information storage areas corresponding to the number of starting winning memories in the backup area of the RAM 55, for example, four in this example, the same number as the maximum number of starting winning memories. ) Is provided. In step S47, data indicating the determination result is stored in the winning determination result information storage area provided corresponding to the current start winning memorized number (the number after addition in step S43). In addition, in the data indicating the determination result, for example, a flag for specifying whether or not to make a big hit (big hit determination result flag), and a flag for specifying whether or not to make a reach (reach determination result flag) Is included.

  Generally, in order to improve randomness, various random numbers such as a big hit determination random number are extracted at the time of winning a prize (if extracted when starting variable display, variable display will be performed in a certain period, so it will be synchronized In this example, whether or not to use the data or reach for specifying whether or not the jackpot is determined without storing the extracted jackpot determination random number value or the reach determination random number value. Since the data for specifying is stored, the storage capacity of the winning determination result information storage area can be small. When storing the value of a random number for jackpot determination or the value of a reach determination random number, it is necessary to use a storage area that can store a range of values that the random number can take. In this example, the jackpot determination random number and the reach determination random number are both in the range of 0 to 299 (see FIG. 11). Therefore, in order to save the extracted jackpot determination random number value or reach determination random number value, a storage area for storing and holding the jackpot determination random number value and a storage area for storing and holding the reach determination random number value Each requires a storage capacity of 2 bytes. In this example, the data indicating the determination result is stored, and the flag is used for the data indicating the determination result. Therefore, data for determining whether or not to make a big hit (big hit determination result flag) is stored. As a storage area and a storage area for storing data (reach determination result flag) for specifying whether or not to reach, a storage area having a storage capacity of 1 byte can be used. Therefore, the capacity of the winning determination result information storage area can be reduced. It should be noted that the greater the maximum value of the number of starting winning prizes is, the more the above effect is exhibited.

  In the above example, an area for storing data for specifying whether or not to make a big hit in each winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memorized numbers, and to specify whether or not to reach However, the storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memories may be configured in units of bits. For example, in the 1-byte storage area, the number of starting winning prizes stored = N (for example, N = 1 to 4) and the bit (N−1) are associated with each other, and data indicating the reach determination result flag is stored in each bit. What should I do? If comprised as mentioned above, the capacity | capacitance of the winning determination result information storage area | region can be made still smaller. In the case where the storage area corresponding to the number of starting winning prizes is configured in bit units, the data of each bit may be shifted each time variable display is executed (see step S54). In addition, the larger the maximum value of the number of start winning memories, the greater the above effect.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets a command transmission table related to a winning determination result command (step S48), and calls a command setting process (step S49). In step S48, the head address of the command transmission table (ROM) storing the winning determination result command is set as the address of the command transmission table. In the command transmission table related to the winning determination result command, INT data, command first byte data, and command second byte data, which will be described later, are set. The winning determination result command is a command for designating a result of determination (determination in steps S45 and S46) performed based on the hitting of the hit ball in the start winning opening 14. In this example, the winning determination result command includes data indicating the current start winning memory number. The command set process will be described in detail later.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the stop symbol setting process (step S301). In the stop symbol setting process, the CPU 56 starts if it is in a state in which the variation of the special symbol can be started (specifically, when the value of the process flag is a value indicating step S301) (step S51). The value of the winning memory number is confirmed (step S52). If the starting winning memory number is not 0, the winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 is read (step S53), and the value of the starting winning memory number is also read. Is decreased by 1 and the value of each winning determination result information storage area is shifted (step S54). That is, each winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) corresponds to the starting winning memory number = n−1. Is stored in the winning determination result information storage area.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines the left middle right special symbol and symbol variation pattern based on the winning determination result information read out in step S53, that is, the state of the extracted jackpot determination result flag and reach determination result flag. . That is, when it is confirmed that the big hit is determined based on the state of the big hit determination result flag (Y in step S55), the big hit symbol determining random number (random 3) is extracted and the big hit symbol is determined according to the value ( Step S56). In this embodiment, each symbol of the symbol number set in the jackpot symbol table corresponding to the extracted random 3 value is determined as a jackpot symbol. In the jackpot symbol table, left and right symbol numbers corresponding to combinations of a plurality of types of jackpot symbols are set. Further, the random number for determining the variation pattern (random 5) is extracted, and the variation pattern of the symbol is determined according to the value (step S57).

  If it is confirmed that the big hit determination result flag is determined to be out of place, it is checked whether the reach determination result flag is determined to be reach (step S58). If it is confirmed that the reach has been determined, the CPU 56 determines a stop symbol when not reaching a big hit but reaching a reach. In this embodiment, a random number 2-1 is extracted and the left symbol is determined according to the value (step S59). Further, a random number 2-2 is extracted and a medium symbol is determined according to the value (step S60). Then, random numbers 2-3 are extracted and the right symbol is determined according to the extracted value (step S61). Here, the stop symbols are determined so that the left and right symbols coincide with each other, and reach is achieved. Further, when the determined middle symbol matches the left and right symbols, the symbol corresponding to the value obtained by adding 1 to the random number value corresponding to the middle symbol is set as the stop symbol of the middle symbol so as not to match the jackpot symbol. . Further, the CPU 56 extracts a variation pattern determining random number (random 5), and determines a symbol variation pattern based on the value (step S62).

  When it is confirmed in step S58 that the reach has not been determined, the CPU 56 determines a stop symbol when it is determined that the reach is not reached (step S63). In this embodiment, a random 2-1 random number is extracted and a left symbol is determined according to the value, a random 2-2 random number is extracted, a middle symbol is determined according to the value, and a random 2-3 random number is determined. The right symbol is determined according to the extracted value (step S63). Here, the stop symbols are determined so that the left and right symbols do not coincide with each other so that they do not become reach.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets a command transmission table related to the variation start time determination result command (step S64), and calls a command setting process (step S65). In step S64, the head address of the command transmission table (ROM) storing the variation start time determination result command is set as the command transmission table address. In the command transmission table related to the change start determination result command, INT data, data of the first byte of the command, and data of the second byte of the command are set. The change start time determination result command is a determination made based on the fact that the change start of the special symbol is possible (determination in step S56, step S57, step S59 to step S62, and step S63). This command specifies the result of. In other words, the variation start time determination result command is a command that indicates data (variation start time determination result information) indicating the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined when the special symbol variation start is possible. In this example, a variation pattern command and a symbol designation command are used as the variation start time determination result command. The command set process will be described in detail later. Here, a series of processes have been described together, but strictly speaking, the processes in steps S51 to S63 described above are stop symbol setting processes, and the processes in steps S64 and S65 are all symbol variation start processes ( This is the process executed in step S302).

  In the case of a high probability state, a variation pattern with a shortened variation time may be used as a variation pattern at the time of disconnection. In this way, it is possible to increase the number of fluctuations per hour, and to provide a player with many opportunities for big hits.

  As described above, it is determined whether the display mode of the symbol variation is a big hit, reach mode, or disengagement when there is a start winning prize, and each variation can be started when the symbol variation can be started. A combination of stop symbols is determined.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the big hit determination process in step S45. In step S45, the CPU 56 first makes a determination of big hit / loss based on the determination condition at the low probability (step S45a). In this example, the jackpot determination random number takes a value in the range of 0-299. As shown in FIG. 16, at the time of low probability, for example, when the value is “3”, it is determined as “big hit”, and when it is any other value, it is determined as “out of” (step S45a). Next, the CPU 56 determines the big hit / loss based on the determination condition at the time of high probability (step S45b). In this example, at the time of high probability, for example, when the value is any of “3”, “7”, “79”, “103”, “107”, it is determined as “big hit”, and other values are set. In this case, it is determined as “displacement” (step S45b).

  As described above, in this example, regardless of whether or not the state is a probability variation state, the determination of big hit / loss based on the determination condition at low probability and the determination of big hit / loss based on the determination condition at high probability are performed. . In step S47 described above, the big hit determination result flag is set in a state in which the big hit / loss determination result based on the determination condition at the low probability and the big hit / loss determination result based on the determination condition at the high probability are recognizable. It is stored in the corresponding winning determination result information storage area. Therefore, the big hit determination result flag is composed of, for example, 2 bits. If it is “00”, it is “disconnected” at both low and high probabilities, and “01” is “big hit” at both low and high probabilities. “10” may indicate “out of” at low probability and “big hit” at high probability. Further, in step S55 described above, whether or not it has been determined to be a big hit in the winning confirmation process depends on whether the control state at the time of performing the process (that is, at the start of variable display) is the probability change state or the normal state. What is necessary is just to confirm whether it was determined. Further, in the winning determination result command transmitted in the processing of step S48 and step S49 described above, in this example, data indicating a result determined by the determination condition at the low probability (in this example, “00” at the time of losing). , “01”) is included at the time of big hit, and data indicating the result of determination under the determination condition at the time of high probability is not included.

  Next, transmission of a display control command from the main board 31 to the symbol control board 80 will be described. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines for display control commands transmitted from the main board 31 to the symbol control board 80. As shown in FIG. 17, in this embodiment, the display control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the symbol control board 80 through eight signal lines of display control signals D0 to D7. A signal line for a display control INT signal for transmitting a strobe signal is also provided between the main board 31 and the symbol control board 80.

  When a control command is to be output from the game control means to another electrical component control board (sub board), the head address of the command transmission table is set. FIG. 18A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the command transmission table. One command transmission table is composed of 3 bytes, and INT data is set in the first byte. In the command data 1 of the second byte, MODE data of the first byte of the control command is set. Then, in the command data 2 of the third byte, the EXT data of the second byte of the control command is set.

  Although the EXT data itself may be set in the area of the command data 2, the command data 2 may be set with data for designating the address of the table storing the EXT data. . For example, if bit 7 (work area reference bit) of command data 2 is 0, it indicates that EXT data itself is set in command data 2. Such EXT data is data in which bit 7 is 0. In this embodiment, if the work area reference bit is 1, it indicates that the contents of the transmission buffer are used as EXT data. If the work area reference bit is 1, the other 7 bits may be configured to indicate an offset for designating an address of a table storing EXT data.

  FIG. 18B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of INT data. Bit 0 in the INT data indicates whether or not a payout control command should be sent to the payout control board 37. If bit 0 is “1”, it indicates that a payout control command should be sent. Accordingly, the CPU 56 sets “01 (H)” in the INT data, for example, in a prize ball process (step S32 of the timer interrupt process). Bit 1 in the INT data indicates whether or not a display control command should be sent to the display output control board 80. If bit 1 is “1”, it indicates that a display control command should be sent. Accordingly, the CPU 56 sets “02 (H)” in the INT data, for example, in the special symbol command control process (timer interrupt process step S28).

  Bits 2 and 3 of the INT data are bits indicating whether or not a lamp control command and a sound control command should be sent, respectively, and the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing when it is time to send those commands. Etc., INT data, command data 1 and command data 2 are set in the command transmission table pointed to by the pointer. When these commands are transmitted, the corresponding bit of the INT data is set to “1”, and MODE data and EXT data are set to the command data 1 and the command data 2.

  In this embodiment, for the payout control command, a ring buffer and a transmission buffer are prepared as shown in FIG. In the prize ball processing, when the prize ball payout condition is established, the number of prize balls according to the established condition is sequentially set in the ring buffer. Further, when a payout control command relating to the number of prize balls is sent, one piece of data is transferred from the ring buffer to the transmission buffer. In the example shown in FIG. 18C, the ring buffer can store data corresponding to 12 payout control commands. That is, there are 12 buffers. Note that the number of buffers in the ring buffer may be a number corresponding to the number of winning openings for generating a prize ball. This is because even when simultaneous winnings occur, it is possible to store payout control command data based on each winning.

  FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a command form of a control command sent from the main board 31 to another electrical component control board. In this embodiment, the control command has a 2-byte configuration, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always “0”. As described above, the control command serving as a command to the electrical component control board is composed of a plurality of data and can be distinguished from each other by the first bit. Note that the command form shown in FIG. 19 is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  FIG. 20 is a timing chart showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal (strobe signal) that constitute a control command for the symbol control board 80. As shown in FIG. 20, when a predetermined period elapses after MODE or EXT data is output to the output port, the CPU 56 turns on the INT signal, which is a signal indicating data output. Further, when a predetermined period has elapsed from that point, the INT signal is turned off.

  Although the display control command has been described here, the control commands sent to other sub-boards are also the same as the forms shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the display control command sent to the symbol control board 80. In the example shown in FIG. 21, commands 8000 (H) to 80XX (H) (X = any value of 4 bits) are display controls for designating a special symbol variation pattern in the variable display device 9 that variably displays a special symbol. It is a command. Note that the command for specifying the variation pattern also serves as a variation start instruction.

  Commands 8F00 (H) and 8F01 (H) are a special symbol power-on designation command and a normal symbol power-on designation command sent when the power is turned on. The normal symbol power-on designation command is used when the display control means performs normal symbol fluctuation control. When the normal symbol display 10 is controlled by the lamp control means, it is sent to the symbol control board 80. Not. When receiving the special symbol power-on designation command, the display control means starts control for initial display.

  Commands 91XX (H), 92XX (H), and 93XX (H) are display control commands for designating a left middle right stop symbol of a special symbol. The command 95XX (H) is a command indicating the content of the determination result at the time of winning and the current start winning memory number. For example, the value of the first digit of the EXT data in the command 95XX (H) indicates whether it is a big hit, a reach that does not become a big hit, or a loss that does not become a reach, and two digits of the EXT data. The eye value may indicate the start winning memory number. Command A000 (H) is a display control command (confirmation command) for instructing stop of variable symbol special display.

  The command BXXX (H) is a display control command that is sent from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game. The command B300 (H) is a command that is sent a predetermined number of times at a predetermined timing (for example, the number of rounds minus 1 at a timing at which a big hit symbol is displayed between rounds) during a big hit game. This is a display control command (hit symbol display command) for designating symbol display. The command CXXX (H) is a display control command related to the display state of the variable display device 9 which is not related to the special symbol variation and the big hit game. The commands D000 (H) to D400 (H) are display control commands relating to a normal symbol variation pattern.

  When the display control means of the symbol control board 80 receives the display control command described above from the game control means of the main board 31, the display state of the variable display device 9 and the normal symbol display 10 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. change.

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a lamp control command sent from the main board 31 that controls the game to the lamp control board 35. The lamp control command also has a 2-byte configuration of MODE and EXT. In the example shown in FIG. 22, the command 80XX (H) (X = any value of 4 bits) is a lamp / LED corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol in the variable display device 9 (each light emission provided in the gaming machine). Body) is a lamp control command for designating a control pattern. Although not shown, the command A0XX (H) is a lamp control command for instructing a lamp / LED display control pattern when the variable symbol display is stopped. The command BXXX (H) is a big hit from the start of the big hit game. This is a lamp control command for instructing a lamp / LED display control pattern until the end of the game. The command C000 (H) is a lamp control command for instructing a lamp / LED display control pattern during a customer waiting demonstration.

  Note that the commands 8XXX (H), 9XXX (H), AXXX (H), BXXX (H), and CXXX (H) are ramp control commands sent from the game control means in accordance with the game progress status. When the lamp control unit receives the above-described lamp control command from the game control unit of the main board 31, the lamp control unit changes the display state of the lamp / LED according to the contents shown in FIG. Note that the commands 8XXX (H), 9XXX (H), AXXX (H), BXXX (H), and CXXX (H) are used in common, for example, in a common control state with display control commands and voice control commands.

  The command E1XX (H) is a lamp control command indicating the number of lighting of the start memory display 18. For example, the lamp control means turns on the number of indicators designated by “XX (H)” in the start memory indicator 18. The command E0XX (H) is a lamp control command indicating the number of lighting of the normal symbol start memory display 41. For example, the lamp control means turns on the number of indicators designated by “XX (H)” in the normal symbol start memory indicator 41. That is, these commands are commands for instructing the control of the light emitters provided for informing the information of the reserved number. In addition, the command regarding the number of lighting of the start memory | storage display 18 and the normal symbol start memory | storage display 41 may be comprised so that increase / decrease in the number of lighting may be shown.

  Commands E200 (H) and E201 (H) are lamp control commands related to the display state of the prize ball lamp 51, and commands E300 (H) and E301 (H) are lamp control commands related to the display state of the ball-out lamp 52. is there. When the lamp control means receives the lamp control command of “E201 (H)” from the game control means of the main board 31, the display state of the prize ball lamp 51 is changed to a display state determined in advance as a case where there is a prize ball remaining. When the lamp control command of “E200 (H)” is received, the display state of the prize ball lamp 51 is set to a display state that is determined in advance as a case where no prize ball remains. When the lamp control command “E300 (H)” is received from the game control means of the main board 31, the display state of the ball break lamp 52 is changed to the display state with a ball, and the lamp control command “E301 (H)” is When received, the display state of the ball-out lamp 52 is changed to the display state during the ball-out. That is, commands E200 and E201 (H) are commands indicating control of a light emitter provided for notifying a player or the like that there is an unsuccessful game ball, and command E300 (H) E301 (H) is a command indicating that the light emitter provided to notify the player or game store clerk that the supply ball has run out is controlled.

  FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a voice control command sent to the voice control board 70 from the main board 31 that controls the game. The voice control command also has a 2-byte configuration of MODE and EXT. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the command 80XX (H) (X = an arbitrary value of 4 bits) is a voice control command for designating a sound generation pattern in a special symbol variation period. The command BXXX (H) is a voice control command that designates a sound generation pattern from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game. Other commands are voice control commands that are not related to special symbol changes and jackpot games. For example, the command C000 (H) is a voice control command for designating a sound generation pattern during a customer waiting demonstration. When the voice control means of the voice control board 70 receives the above-described voice control command from the game control means of the main board 31, it changes the voice output state according to the contents shown in FIG.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a processing example of command set processing. The command set process is a process including a command output process and an INT signal output process. In the command set process, the CPU 56 first saves the address of the command transmission table in a stack or the like (step S331). Then, the INT data of the command transmission table pointed to by the pointer is loaded into the argument 1 (step S332). The argument 1 is input information for a command transmission process to be described later. Also, the address indicating the command transmission table is incremented by 1 (step S333). Therefore, the address indicating the command transmission table matches the address of the command data 1.

  Therefore, the CPU 56 reads the command data 1 and sets it as the argument 2 (step S334). The argument 2 is also input information for a command transmission process to be described later. Then, the command transmission processing routine is called (step S335).

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a command transmission processing routine. In the command transmission processing routine, the CPU 56 first sets the data set as the argument 1, that is, the INT data, in the work area determined as the comparison value (step S351). Next, the number of transmissions = 4 is set in the work area determined as the number of processes (step S352). Then, the port 1 address for outputting the payout control signal is set to the IO address (step S353). In this embodiment, the port 1 address is the output port address for outputting the payout control signal. The addresses of ports 2 to 4 are the addresses of output ports for outputting display control signals, lamp control signals, and audio control signals.

  Next, the CPU 56 shifts the comparison value to the right by 1 bit (step S354). As a result of the shift processing, it is confirmed whether or not the carry bit has become 1 (step S355). When the carry bit becomes 1, it means that the rightmost bit in the INT data is “1”. In this embodiment, four shift processes are performed. For example, when it is specified that a payout control command should be sent, the carry bit is set to 1 in the first shift process.

  When the carry bit becomes 1, the data set in the argument 2, in this case, the command data 1 (that is, MODE data) is output to the address set as the IO address (step S 356). Since the address of port 1 is set as the IO address when the first shift processing is performed, MODE data of the payout control command is output to port 1 at that time.

  Next, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the IO address (step S357) and subtracts 1 from the number of processes (step S358). If port 1 is indicated before addition, the address of port 2 is set as the IO address by the addition processing for the IO address. Port 2 is a port for outputting a display control command. Then, the CPU 56 checks the value of the number of processes (step S359), and if the value is not 0, returns to step S354. In step S354, the shift process is performed again.

  In the second shift process, the value of bit 1 in the INT data is pushed out, and the carry flag is set to “1” or “0” depending on the value of bit 1. Therefore, it is checked whether or not it is specified that the display control command should be sent. Similarly, it is checked whether or not the lamp control command and the sound control command are to be sent by the third and fourth shift processes. As described above, when each shift process is performed, an IO address corresponding to a control command (payout control command, display control command, lamp control command, sound control command) checked by the shift process is included in the IO address. Is set.

  Therefore, when the carry flag becomes “1”, a control command is sent to the corresponding output port (port 1 to port 4). That is, a single common module can perform control command transmission processing for each electric component control means.

  In addition, since it is determined to which electrical component control means the control command should be output only by the shift processing, the process for determining to which electrical component control means the control command should be output is simplified. It has become.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the content of the argument 1 in which the INT data before the start of the shift process is stored (step S360), and outputs the read data to the port 0 (step S361). In this embodiment, the address of port 0 is a port for outputting an INT signal for each control signal, and bits 0 to 4 of port 0 are a payout control INT signal, a display control INT signal, and a ramp, respectively. This is a port for outputting a control INT signal and a sound control INT signal. In the INT data, the bit corresponding to the output bit of the INT signal corresponding to the control command (payout control command, display control command, lamp control command, sound control command) output in the processing of steps S351 to S359 is “1”. It has become. Therefore, the INT signal corresponding to the control command (payout control command, display control command, lamp control command, sound control command) output to any of the ports 1 to 4 becomes high level.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined value in the wait counter (step S362), and subtracts one by one until the value becomes 0 (steps S363 and S364). This process is a process for setting the ON period of the INT signal (control signal INT) shown in the timing chart of FIG. When the value of the wait counter becomes 0, clear data (00) is set (step S365), and the data is output to port 0 (step S366). Therefore, the INT signal becomes low level. Then, a predetermined value is set in the wait counter (step S362), and 1 is subtracted one by one until the value becomes 0 (steps S368 and S369). This process is a process for setting a period from the fall of the first INT signal shown in the timing chart of FIG. 20 to the start of EXT data output. However, the actual period set here is the control time required for the subsequent processing time (when MODE data is output at this time, the EXT data is output) in the time created in steps S367 to S369. The time taken to add). In this way, by setting the period from the fall of the INT signal to the start of EXT data output, even if commands are sent continuously, after the output of one command is completed, There will be a predetermined period of time before the transmission is started, and it is possible to easily identify the delimiter between successive commands on the side of the electrical component control means that receives the command, and each command is received reliably. .

  Therefore, the value set in the wait counter in step S367 is the period from the falling edge of the first INT signal until the start of EXT data output. The value is such that a sufficient period of time is obtained for surely receiving the command. Further, the value set in the wait counter is a value such that the period becomes longer than the time required for the processing of steps S351 to S359.

  As described above, the MODE data of the first byte of the control command is transmitted. Therefore, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value indicating the command transmission table in step S336 shown in FIG. Therefore, the command data 2 area of the third byte is designated. The CPU 56 loads the contents of the indicated command data 2 into the argument 2 (step S337). Further, it is confirmed whether or not the value of bit 7 (work area reference bit) of the command data 2 is “0” (step S339). If not 0, the contents of the transmission buffer are loaded into the argument 2 (step S341). When the extension data is used when the value of the work area reference bit is “1”, the head address of the command extension data address table is set in the pointer, and the command data is set in the pointer. The address is calculated by adding 2 bits 6 to 0. Then, the data of the area pointed to by the address is loaded into the argument 2.

  Since data capable of specifying the number of winning balls is set in the transmission buffer, the data is set in the argument 2. If the extension data is used when the value of the work area reference bit is “1”, the command extension data address table contains EXT data that can be sent to the electrical component control means. Set sequentially. Therefore, if the value of the work area reference bit is “1”, the EXT data in the command extension data address table corresponding to the contents of the command data 2 is loaded into the argument 2.

  Next, the CPU 56 calls a command transmission processing routine (step S342). Therefore, the EXT data is transmitted at the same timing as the transmission of MODE data.

  As described above, the control command (payout control command, display control command, lamp control command, sound control command) having a 2-byte configuration is transmitted to the corresponding electrical component control means. The electrical component control means starts the capture process of the control command when the rising edge of the INT signal is detected. For any electrical component control means, a new signal from the game control means is signaled before the capture process is completed. There is no output on the line. That is, reliable command reception processing is performed in each electric component control means. In addition, each electric component control means may start taking in the control command at the falling edge of the INT signal. Further, the polarity of the INT signal may be reversed from that shown in FIG.

  In this embodiment, in the prize ball processing, when the prize ball payout condition is satisfied, data capable of specifying the number of prize balls is stored in a ring buffer capable of storing a plurality of data at the same time, and the number of prize balls is designated. When the payout control command is sent, the data in the ring buffer area pointed to by the read pointer is transferred to the transmission buffer. Therefore, even if a plurality of winning ball payout conditions are satisfied at the same time, data capable of specifying the number of winning balls based on the satisfaction of these conditions is stored in the ring buffer, so there is no problem in command output processing based on the satisfaction of each condition. Executed.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, both a payout stop state designation command or a payout enable state designation command and a command indicating the number of prize balls can be sent out within one prize ball process. That is, a plurality of commands can be sent within one control period activated every 2 ms. In this embodiment, a plurality of ring buffers are prepared for each control command (display control command, lamp control command, sound control command, payout control command) to each control means. When data that can specify a control command is set in the ring buffer of the control command, lamp control command, and sound control command, a plurality of display control commands, lamp control commands, and sound control commands are performed in one command control process. It is also possible to configure so that That is, a plurality of control commands can be sent simultaneously (meaning in the start cycle of the game control process, that is, the 2 ms timer interrupt process). Since the sending timing of these control commands is generated at the same time in the progress of the game effect, it is convenient to have such a configuration. However, since the payout control command is generated regardless of the progress of the game effect, it is generally not sent simultaneously with the display control command, the lamp control command, and the sound control command.

Next, an example of the display mode of the reach notice display or the jackpot notice display displayed on the variable display device 9 at the time of the reach notice or the jackpot notice will be described.
FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of characters used for performing various kinds of effect display on the variable display device 9 in this embodiment. In this example, (A) character A and (B) character B are used. In this example, characters A and B are used as jackpot warning characters. The character A is also used as a reach notice character.

  In this embodiment, there are a plurality of reach notice modes. For example, when the character A is displayed so that its eyes shine (reach notice 1) or when the character A gives a notice in a balloon (reach notice 2), a reach notice is given. Has been done. The character A is also used as a character for achieving reach, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied, display is performed such that the foot of the character A is displayed so as to kick the right symbol and the left and right symbols stop at the same symbol. . In this embodiment, there is a reach notice mode (reach notices 3 and 4) for notifying that a reach may appear in the variable display after the next time, depending on the content of the balloon at the time of reach notice.

  Further, in this example, the characters A and B are displayed so as to make a big hit announcement by a balloon during the reach operation. In this embodiment, there are a plurality of jackpot notice modes (jacket notice 1 and 2). The mode of jackpot notice 1 is used alone, but the mode of jackpot notice 2 is a predetermined time after the jackpot notice 1 is displayed. Displayed when elapses. In this embodiment, there is a jackpot notice mode that can be displayed regardless of whether or not the reach operation is in progress (jacket notices 3 and 4). The jackpot notices 3 and 4 are jackpot notices for notifying that there is a possibility that the display results of the variable display after the next time will be a big hit.

  In this embodiment, four modes are used for each of the reach notice and the jackpot notice, but more types may be used. In this embodiment, a notice is given by a character balloon, but any kind of notice may be used as long as it is possible to recognize that the player has been noticed. For example, it is possible to use a character movement that is different from the normal character or a pattern variation that is different from the normal character. Furthermore, the notice used when the probability of a big hit in the probability variation symbol is high may be used as the probability variation big hit notice. Further, a notice with a high probability of occurrence of a big hit and a notice with a low probability of occurrence of a big hit may be divided, and a notice with a lower probability may be defined as a reach notice. An effect corresponding to the notice effect by the characters A and B as described above is also performed in synchronization with the sound and the light emitter.

  When the display control CPU 101 on the symbol control board 80 receives the display control command from the main board 31, the display control CPU 101 performs control to display a predetermined background or character in each variation pattern on the screen. Note that the character movement display is performed in a predetermined manner, and the background and the character are switched at a predetermined timing. The display control CPU 101 also controls them independently.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating main processing executed by the display control CPU 101. In the main process, an initialization process is first performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a 2 ms timer for determining the display control activation interval (step S701). Thereafter, in this embodiment, the display control CPU 101 shifts to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). Then, as shown in FIG. 29, when a timer interrupt occurs, the display control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag (step S711). If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the display control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following variable display control process.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that the timer interrupt takes every 2 ms. That is, the variable display control process is started every 2 ms. In this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific variable display control process is executed in the main process. However, the variable display control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process. .

  In the variable display control process, the display control CPU 101 first analyzes the received display control command (command analysis execution process: step S704). Next, the display control CPU 101 performs display control process processing (step S705). In the display control process process, a process corresponding to the current control state is selected and executed from among the processes corresponding to the control state. And the process which updates the random number for a display is performed (step S706). In this embodiment, various random numbers including a reach notice determination random number and a jackpot notice determination random number are used as display random numbers. Thereafter, the process returns to the process of checking the timer interrupt flag in step S702.

  Next, display control command reception processing from the main board 31 will be described. FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing a display control command received from the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer format capable of storing six display control commands having a 2-byte configuration is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. It is not always necessary to use the ring buffer format. For example, three symbol designating command storage areas (2 × 3 = 6 byte command receiving buffer) and other command storing areas for designating other fluctuation patterns ( (2 × 1 = 2-byte command reception buffer). Similarly, the sound control means and the lamp control means may have a buffer format other than the ring buffer format. In this case, the display control means, the sound control means, and the lamp control means are controlled based on the latest command stored in the storage area such as the variation pattern. Thereby, it is possible to quickly respond to an instruction from the main board 31.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing display control command reception processing by interrupt processing. An INT signal for display control from the main board 31 is input to an interrupt terminal of the CPU 101 for display control. For example, when the INT signal from the main board 31 is turned on, the display control CPU 101 is interrupted. Then, the reception process of the display control command shown in FIG. 31 is started.

  In the display control command reception process, the display control CPU 101 first saves each register to the stack (step S670). When an interrupt occurs, the display control CPU 101 automatically sets the interrupt prohibited state. However, if a CPU that does not automatically enter the interrupt prohibited state is used, before executing the process of step S670. It is preferable to issue an interrupt prohibition instruction (DI instruction). Next, data is read from an input port assigned to input of display control command data (step S671). And it is confirmed whether it is the 1st byte of the display control command of 2 bytes composition (Step S672).

  Whether or not it is the first byte is confirmed by whether or not the first bit of the received command is “1”. The first bit is “1”, which should be MODE data (first byte) in the display control command having a 2-byte configuration (see FIG. 19). Therefore, if the first bit is “1”, the display control CPU 101 stores the received command in the reception command buffer indicated by the command reception number counter in the reception buffer area, assuming that the first valid byte has been received (step S1). S673).

  If it is not the first byte of the display control command, it is confirmed whether or not the first byte has already been received (step S674). Whether or not it has already been received is confirmed by whether or not valid data is set in the reception buffer (reception command buffer).

  If the first byte has already been received, it is confirmed whether or not the first bit of the received 1 byte is “0”. If the first bit is “0”, it is determined that a valid second byte has been received, and the received command is stored in the reception command buffer indicated by the command reception number counter + 1 in the reception buffer area (step S675). The first bit of “0” is supposed to be EXT data (second byte) in the display control command having a 2-byte configuration (see FIG. 19). If the confirmation result in step S674 indicates that the first byte has already been received, the process ends unless the first bit of the data received as the second byte is “0”.

  In step S675, when the command data of the second byte is stored, 2 is added to the command reception number counter (step S676). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the command reception counter is 12 or more (step S677), and if it is 12 or more, the command reception number counter is cleared (step S678). Thereafter, the saved register is restored (step S679), and interrupt permission is set (step S680).

  The display control command has a two-byte configuration, and the first byte (MODE) and the second byte (EXT) are configured to be immediately distinguishable on the receiving side. In other words, the reception side can immediately detect whether the data as MODE or the data as EXT has been received by the first bit. Therefore, as described above, it can be easily determined whether or not appropriate data has been received. This also applies to the payout control command, the lamp control command, and the sound control command.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of command analysis processing (step S704). The display control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer. In the command analysis process, the contents of the command stored in the reception command buffer are confirmed.

  In the command analysis process, the display control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S681). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the display control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S682). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by one.

  If the received received command is a left symbol designating command (step S683), the EXT data of the command is stored in the left stop symbol storing area (step S684), and the corresponding valid flag is set (step S685). Whether or not it is a left symbol designation command can be immediately recognized by the first byte (MODE data) of the 2-byte display control command.

  If the read received command is a middle symbol designation command (step S686), the display control CPU 101 stores the EXT data of the command in the middle stop symbol storage area (step S687), and sets the corresponding valid flag (step S687). Step S688). If the received received command is a right symbol designation command (step S689), the EXT data of the command is stored in the right stop symbol storage area (step S690), and the corresponding valid flag is set (step S691). The left middle right stop symbol storage area is provided in, for example, a RAM provided in the symbol control board 80.

  If the received received command is a variation pattern command (a pattern command output to the symbol control board 80) (step S692), the display control CPU 101 stores the EXT data of the command in the variation pattern storage area (step S693). ), The fluctuation pattern reception flag is set (step S694). The variation pattern storage area is provided in, for example, a RAM provided in the symbol control board 80.

  If the read received command is a winning determination result command (step S695), the display control CPU 101 saves the start winning memory number indicated by the EXT data of the received command (step S696) and the saved start winning memory. The winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the number is stored (step S697). The start winning memory number is stored in a predetermined area of, for example, a RAM provided in the symbol control board 80. In addition, there are a plurality of winning determination result information storage areas in the RAM provided in the symbol control board 80, for example, corresponding to the number of starting winning memories (that is, the same number as the maximum number of starting winning memories in this example 4). Pieces). In step S697, the determination result information indicated by the winning determination result command is stored in the winning determination result information storage area provided corresponding to the number of start winning memories indicated by the received winning determination result command. That is, information including information indicating whether or not to win and information indicating whether or not to reach is stored in the winning determination result information storage area. If the received command read in step S682 is another display control command, a flag corresponding to the received command is set (step S698).

  In this example, each winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number is configured to have a storage capacity of 2 bytes. In each winning determination result information storage area, the reach determination result flag included in the determination result information indicated by the winning determination result command is stored in the 1-byte area, and the big hit determination result flag is stored in the other 1-byte area. Is done.

  In the above example, the area for storing data for determining whether or not to make a big hit in each winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memories (hit determination flag) and whether to reach The area for storing the data (reach determination result flag) for specifying this is configured with 1 byte each, but the storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memories may be configured in units of bits. Good. For example, in the 1-byte storage area, the number of starting winning prizes stored = N (for example, N = 1 to 4) and the bit (N−1) are associated with each other, and data indicating the reach determination result flag is stored in each bit. What should I do? If comprised as mentioned above, the capacity | capacitance of the winning determination result information storage area can be made small. In the case where the storage area corresponding to the number of starting winning prizes is configured in bit units, the data of each bit may be shifted each time variable display is executed (see step S823). In addition, the larger the maximum value of the number of start winning memories, the greater the above effect.

  FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing display random numbers handled by the display control CPU 101. As shown in FIG. 33, in this embodiment, there are a reach notice random number and a jackpot notice random number as display random numbers. These display random numbers are updated by the above-described display random number update process (step S706). The reach notice random number is for determining whether or not to make a reach notice, and the jackpot notice random number is for determining whether or not to make a jackpot notice. In this example, each of the reach notice random number and the jackpot notice random number has a 1-byte structure and takes a value of 0 to 255 in the same range. The reach notice random number and the big hit notice random number may be configured to take values in different ranges. Further, in this embodiment, the light emitter random number handled by the lamp control CPU 351 and the sound random number handled by the sound control CPU 701 are each in the same range as the display random number shown in FIG. Yes. Therefore, in this embodiment, similarly to the display random number, the light emitting random number includes the reach notice random number and the jackpot notice random number, and the sound random number includes the reach notice random number and the jackpot notice random number.

  FIG. 34 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the notice effect determination table. A plurality (four in this case) of tables for determining the notice effect are provided. In addition, each of the advance notice determination tables is extracted with the reach advance notice determination table ((A) of each advance notice determination table) in which the extracted reach notice random number and the reach notice are associated with each other. A jackpot notice effect determining table ((B) of each notice effect determining table) in which the jackpot notice random number and the jackpot notice are related to each other is included. In this embodiment, whether or not to reach or whether to win or not is determined based on winning determination result information. In this embodiment, when a display control command indicating winning determination result information is sent to the symbol control board 80, control indicating the winning determination result information is also applied to the lamp control board 35 and the sound control board 70. A command is sent from the main board 31. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not each board 35 and 70 other than the symbol control board 80 is a big hit. Note that the determination may be made based on a display control command indicating a stop symbol of the middle left and right symbols.

  The notice effect determination table W is a table that is set when reach or jackpot is reached in the current variable display effect, or when reach and jackpot are determined in variable display effects to be executed in the future. is there. The notice effect determining table X is a table that is set when the reach or jackpot is not reached in the current variable display effect and the reach or jackpot is determined in the next variable display effect. . The notice effect determination table Y is a table that is set when the reach or jackpot is not reached in the current variable display effect and the reach or jackpot is determined in the second variable display effect. It is. The notice effect determination table Z is a table that is set when reach or jackpot is not reached in the current variable display effect and is determined to be reach or jackpot in the variable display effect three times later. It is. In this example, a plurality of notice effect determining tables shown in FIG. 34 are provided on each of the boards 80, 35, and 70. The notice effect determining tables to be used are changed in synchronization, and each of the boards 80, 35, and 70 is changed. It is set as the structure which uses the table for notification effect determination corresponding to. Note that the configuration of the notice effect determination table is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. The change of the notice effect determination table to be used will be described in detail later.

  When explaining the reach notice, the display control CPU 101 reads (extracts) the reach notice random number when executing the variable display effect, and uses the notice effect determination table set in accordance with the value. No reach notice, reach notice 1 to reach notice 4 Specifically, it is determined to be an effect to which a comparison value equal to the value of the extracted reach notice random number is assigned in the set notice effect determination table.

  For example, when the reach is performed in the current variable display effect, the notice effect determination table W should be set in this example, so it is determined that the reach notification is not performed with a probability of 128/256. For each performance, it is decided that a reach notice will be made in the form of reach notice 1 with a probability of / 256, and a reach notice will be made in the form of reach notice 2 with a probability of 56/256. A number of comparison values corresponding to each ratio is assigned. For example, when the comparison value is 0 to 255, 16 of 0 to 31 are assigned without reach notice, 9 are assigned to reach notice 1, and 7 are assigned to reach notice 2, and subsequently 32 sequentially. A comparison value may be assigned to each effect according to the ratio.

  In this example, if it is determined that the variable display effect will not be reached, in this example, whether or not the variable display effect to be executed in the future has been determined to be reach and jackpot, and reach and jackpot Depending on how many times the variable display effect is determined, any one of the notice effect determining table W to the notice effect determining table Z is set. For example, when the notice effect determination table W is set, it is determined that the reach notice is not performed with the probability of 240/256, and the reach notice is performed with the probability of the reach notice 1 with the probability of 16/256. The number of comparison values corresponding to each ratio is assigned to each effect. For example, when the comparison value is 0 to 255, 15 of 0 to 15 are assigned to the reach notice 1 without the reach notice, and then 16 pieces are sequentially assigned according to the ratio. A comparison value may be assigned to.

  When the jackpot notice is explained, the display control CPU 101 reads (extracts) the jackpot notice random number when executing the variable display effect, and uses the notice effect determination table set according to the value, There is no jackpot notice, one of the jackpot notice 1 to the jackpot notice 4 is decided. Specifically, in the set notification effect determination table, the effect is determined to which the comparison value equal to the extracted value of the random number for jackpot notification is assigned.

  For example, in the case of a big hit in the present variable display effect, since the notice effect determination table W should be set in this example, it is determined that the reach notice is not performed with a probability of 80/256. For each performance, it is decided to make a jackpot notice in the mode of jackpot notice 1 with a probability of / 256, and to make a jackpot notice in the form of jackpot notice 2 with a probability of 80/256. A number of comparison values corresponding to each ratio is assigned. For example, when the comparison value is 0 to 255, 5 of 0 to 15 are assigned without jackpot notice, 6 are assigned to jackpot notice 1 and 5 are assigned to jackpot notice 2 and subsequently 16 are sequentially assigned. A comparison value may be assigned to each effect according to the ratio.

  In addition, in the case where the variable display effect of this time is not a big hit, in this example, whether or not the variable display effect to be executed in the future is determined to be a reach and a big hit, and a reach and a big hit are determined. Depending on how many times the variable display effect is determined, any one of the notice effect determining table W to the notice effect determining table Z is set. For example, when the notice effect determination table W is set, it is determined that the jackpot notice is not performed with a probability of 244/256, and the jackpot notice is performed with the probability of the jackpot notice 1 with a probability of 12/256. The number of comparison values corresponding to each ratio is assigned to each effect. For example, when the comparison value is 0 to 255, 61 of 0 to 63 are assigned to the jackpot notice 1 without notice of the jackpot notice, and three are assigned to the jackpot notice 1 and then each of the effects according to the ratio is sequentially set to 64 pieces. A comparison value may be assigned to.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the display control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the display control process process, any one of steps S800 to S805 is performed according to the value of the display control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Display control command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a display control command (variation pattern command) capable of specifying the variation time has been received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag indicating that the variation pattern command has been received is set. Such a flag is set when the received command stored in the received command buffer is a variation pattern command.

  Reach notice and jackpot notice determination process (step S801): It is decided whether or not to make a reach notice and a jackpot notice.

  All symbol variation start processing (step S802): Control is performed so that variation of the left and right middle symbols is started.

  Symbol variation processing (step S803): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed, background, character) constituting the variation pattern, and monitors the end of the variation time. In addition, stop control of the left and right symbols is performed.

  All symbol stop waiting setting process (step S804): If a display control command (deterministic command) for instructing all symbol stops is received at the end of the variation time, the symbol variation is stopped and the stop symbol (determined symbol) is displayed. Control the display.

  Big hit display process (step S805): After the end of the fluctuation time, the control of the probability variable big hit display or the normal big hit display is performed.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the display control command reception waiting process (step S800). In the display control command reception waiting process, the display control CPU 101 first checks whether or not the command non-reception timer has timed out (step S811). The command non-reception timer is timed out when a display control command indicating a change in symbol is not received from the main board 31 for a predetermined period or longer. When the time-out occurs, the display control CPU 101 performs control to display a demonstration screen on the variable display device 9 (step S812).

  If the command non-reception timer has not timed out, the display control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a display control command capable of specifying the fluctuation time has been received (step S813). In this embodiment, the display control command that can specify the variation time is one of the variation pattern designation commands (variation pattern designation # 1 to variation pattern designation XX-1) shown in FIG. When a display control command capable of specifying the variation time is received, the value of the display control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the reach notice / hit notice determination process (step S801) (step S814).

  When the special symbol is changed, the display control command first transmitted from the main board 31 to the symbol control board 80 is a command for indicating the change time and a command for designating the left and right middle symbols. They are stored in a definite command buffer.

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the reach notice and jackpot notice determination process (step S801). In the reach notice and jackpot notice determination processing, the display control CPU 101 first determines the notice effect based on the winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = 1. Table setting processing is performed (step S821), the value of the stored number of stored start winning prizes is reduced by 1 (step S822), and the value of each winning determination result information storage area is shifted (step S823). That is, each winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) corresponds to the starting winning memory number = n−1. To be stored in the winning determination result information storage area.

  Next, the display control CPU 101 determines whether or not to make a reach notice (step S824). Next, based on the winning time determination result information used in step S821, it is determined whether or not it will not reach (step S825). The determination may be made based on the content of the display control command that can specify the variation time.

  If it is not possible to reach, it is confirmed whether or not the left and right stop symbols are different (step S826). If they match, the right stop symbol is shifted by one symbol (step S827). Then, the left and right stop symbols are stored in a predetermined storage area (step S828). In this example, 7.9 seconds is set as the monitoring timer (step S829). 7.9 seconds is, for example, a value with a margin for the fluctuation time (for example, 7.8 seconds) at the time of failure that cannot be reached, and a command for designating all symbols to stop before the monitoring timer times out. When reception is not possible, predetermined processing is performed.

  If it is determined in step S825 that the reach cannot be reached, it is confirmed whether the left and right stop symbols are the same (step S830). If they are different, the right stop symbol is made the same as the left stop symbol (step S831). Then, the left and right stop symbols are stored in a predetermined storage area (step S832). Further, the display control CPU 101 sets a value obtained by adding a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 second) to the variation time according to the display control command in the monitoring timer (step S833). Then, it is determined whether or not to make a jackpot notice (step S834).

  As described above, in this embodiment, the display control CPU 101 displays a stop symbol when the variation pattern sent from the main board 31 and the received right / left middle stop symbol are contradictory when variable display is started. to correct. Therefore, even if an error occurs in the left / right / middle stop symbol for some reason, the error is corrected. An error is, for example, a case where a bit error occurs in a command due to noise on the cable from the main board 31 to the symbol control board 80. As a result, it is possible to prevent the display of a definite symbol that contradicts the loss / reach determined by the game control means.

  Further, when the variation time is different between the case with and without re-variation, and the variation pattern in which re-variation is performed is determined to be confirmed with the probability variation pattern, the command received from the main board 31 is re-variable. If the stop symbol received from the main board 31 is not a probability variation symbol, the display control CPU 101 may correct the probability variation symbol to a probability variation symbol. For example, when a command indicating “7”, “6”, “7” as a stop symbol is received from the main board 31, it is corrected to “7”, “7”, “7”.

  Then, the display control CPU 101 determines to use a process table corresponding to the selected variation pattern (step S835). In each process table, each fluctuation state (fluctuation speed, fluctuation period at that speed, etc.) in the fluctuation pattern is set. Each process table is set in the ROM. Then, the display control CPU 101 changes the value of the display control process flag to a value corresponding to the all symbol variation start process (step S802) (step S836).

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the notice effect determination table setting process in step S821 described above. In the notice effect determination table setting process, the display control CPU 101 performs the present variable display effect based on the winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = 1. In step S821a, it is confirmed whether or not to make a big hit or reach. If the current variable display effect does not result in a big hit or reach, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not the next variable display effect is determined to be a big hit or reach (step S821b). This confirmation is performed based on valid winning determination result information stored in each winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memories = 2 to 4. Effective winning determination result information means winning determination result information regarding a variable display effect that is executed before and after the next time. Specifically, in this example, it means winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to a number equal to or smaller than the current start winning memorized number except for 1. For example, when the current start winning memory number is 3, each winning determination result information stored in each winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 2, 3 is valid. It is determined that the winning determination result information.

  If it is confirmed in step S821a that the current variable display effect is a big hit or reach, or it is confirmed in step S821b that the next variable display effect is not determined to be a big hit or reach. If it is, the display control CPU 101 sets it as a table using the notice effect determination table W (step S821c). When it is determined in step S821b that a big win or reach is determined in the next and subsequent variable display effects, the display control CPU 101 is determined to be a big hit or reach in the next variable display effects (starting). When the winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the number of winning memories = 2 includes information indicating a big hit or reach) Table X is set as a table to be used (step S821d, step S821e).

  In addition, when it is determined to be a big hit or reach in the variable display effect after 2 times (the winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memories = 3) In the case where information indicating a big hit or reach is included), the notice effect determining table Y is set as a table (step S821f, step S821g). Furthermore, when it is determined to be a big hit or reach in the variable display effect after 3 times (in the winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = 4) In the case where information indicating a big hit or reach is included), the notice effect determination table Z is set as a table to be used (steps S821h and S821i).

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the reach notice determination process in step S824. In the reach notice determining process, the display control CPU 101 first extracts a reach notice determining random number (step S824a). In addition, based on the winning determination result information stored in the winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = 1, it is confirmed whether the current variable display effect is to be reached or not ( Step S824b).

  In the case of detachment, the display control CPU 101 uses the detachment time table in the set leaching notice effect determination table (the table indicated as “at the time of detachment” in FIG. 34) to reach the reach notice. Whether or not to perform the notification is determined, and in the case of performing the notification, the mode of the notification is determined (step S824c). In the case of reach, the display control CPU 101 uses the reach time table in the reach notice effect determination table W (the table shown as “reach time” in FIG. 34) in this example. Then, it is determined whether or not a reach notice is to be made, and if a notice is to be given, a notice mode is decided (step S824d). In this example, when reaching in the current variable display effect, the reach time table of the reach notice effect determining table W is always used. However, when reaching, a plurality of reach time tables are used. One reach time table may be selected and used.

  If it is decided to make a reach notice (step S824e), a reach notice start time determination timer is started (step S824f). Note that the reach notice start time determination timer is a timer for determining the time from the start of symbol change until the reach notice occurrence.

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the jackpot notice determination process in step S834. In the jackpot notice determination process, the display control CPU 101 first extracts a jackpot notice determination random number (step S834a). Also, based on the winning time determination result information stored in the winning time determination result information storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = 1, it is confirmed whether the current variable display effect is a big hit or not ( Step S834b).

  In the case of a loss, the display control CPU 101 uses the lost time table (the table indicated as “when lost” in FIG. 34) in the set jackpot notification effect determination table to notify the big hit notification. Whether or not to perform the notification is determined, and in the case of performing the notification, the mode of the notification is determined (step S834c). In the case of a big hit, the display control CPU 101 uses a big hit time table (a table shown as “big hit time” in FIG. 34) in the big hit notice effect determination table W in this example. Then, it is determined whether or not to make a jackpot notice, and in the case of making a notice, a notice mode is decided (step S834d). In this example, the big hit table of the jackpot notice effect determination table W is always used in the case of a big hit in the present variable display effect. One big hit time table may be selected and used.

  If it is decided to make a big hit notice (step S834e), a big hit notice start time determination timer is started (step S834f). The jackpot notice start time determination timer is a timer that determines the time from the start of symbol variation until the jackpot notice occurs.

  Here, a description will be given of a transmission pattern of a change pattern command indicating a change time and a command for designating a stop symbol of right and left middle symbols. The variation pattern command indicating the variation time and the command designating the left / right middle symbol stop symbol are transmitted in the display control command control process described above. When these commands are sent, for example, as shown in FIG. 41, the CPU 56 sets INT data, command data 1 and command data 2 in the command transmission table pointed to by the command transmission number counter. First, the first command data (command data for designating the variation pattern set in the command transmission table +0) composed of the above three data is transmitted. Next, in the display control command control process executed for the next 2 ms (in this embodiment, the repetition cycle in which the built-in CTC of the CPU 56 repeatedly generates a timer interrupt is set to 2 ms), the next command Data (command data for designating a special symbol left stop symbol set in the command transmission table +1) is transmitted. When such a process is repeated and the special symbol command transmission pointer indicates the end code, the command data is not transmitted until the command transmission table is effectively designated by the special symbol command transmission pointer. The command data transmitted in this manner is received by the command reception process described above and stored in the reception command buffer. Each value indicating the command shown in FIG. 41 is an example, and 81 (H), 82 (H), and 83 (H) indicating the special symbol left middle right symbols are, for example, “1” and “2”, respectively. , “3” is a command for displaying on the variable display device 9.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing all symbol variation start processing (step S802) in the display control process. In the all symbol variation start process, the display control CPU 101 first starts a variation time timer (step S840). Next, the special symbol variation is started (step S841), and the value of the display control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the symbol variation processing (step S842).

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing the process during symbol variation (step S803). In the symbol variation processing, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not the reach notice start time determination timer has timed out (step S851). If the timeout has occurred, the VDP 103 is controlled so that the display according to the already determined reach notice mode is performed (step S852). Further, it is confirmed whether or not the jackpot notice start time determination timer has timed out (step S853). If time-out has occurred, the VDP 103 is controlled so that the display according to the determined jackpot notice (one jackpot notice 1, 3, or 4) is performed (step S854).

  Then, when it is determined that the notice by the big hit notice 2 is performed (step S855), the big hit notice 2 start time determination timer is started (step S856). In this embodiment, the jackpot notice 2 is an extension of the jackpot notice 1. Therefore, the notice by the jackpot notice 2 is a predetermined time after the notice by the jackpot notice 1 (the timer for determining the start time of the jackpot notice 2). Until timeout).

  Further, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot notice 2 start time determination timer has timed out (step S857). If time-out has occurred, the VDP 103 is controlled so that the display according to the mode of jackpot notice 2 is performed (step S858).

  Next, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S859). When the variable time timer times out, the value of the display control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the all symbol stop waiting process (step S804) (step S860).

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the all symbol stop waiting process (step S804). In the all symbol stop waiting process, the display control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a display control command instructing all symbol stops has been received (step S871). If a display control command for instructing stop of all symbols has been received, control is performed to stop the symbols with the stored stop symbol (step S872). Then, in order to monitor the time until reception of the next display control command, a command non-reception timer is started (step S873).

  If the display control command for designating all symbols to be stopped has not been received, it is confirmed whether or not the monitoring timer has timed out (step S875). If the timeout has occurred, it is determined that some abnormality has occurred, and control is performed to display an error screen on the variable display device 9 (step S876).

  When the processing of step S873 is performed, if the big hit symbol is displayed in step S872, the display control CPU 101 sets the value of the display control process flag to a value corresponding to the big hit display processing (step S805) (step S805). S874). Note that if the jackpot symbol is not displayed in step S872 (when the missing symbol is displayed), the display control CPU 101 sets the value of the display control process flag to the value corresponding to the display control command reception waiting process (step S800). Set to.

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the big hit display process (step S805). In the big hit display process, the display control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is a probable big hit (step S881). For example, the display control CPU 101 can determine whether or not it is a probable big hit based on a confirmed symbol. If it is a probable big hit, the display control CPU 101 performs display control for displaying “probable big hit” on the variable display device 9 (step S882). Specifically, the display instruction of “probability big hit” is notified to the VDP 103. Then, the VDP 103 creates image data for the instructed display. Also, the image data is synthesized with the background image. If it is not a probable big hit, the display control CPU 101 performs display control for displaying “big hit” on the variable display device 9, for example (step S883).

  Thereafter, in the jackpot display process, display control of the variable display device 9 is performed based on the display control command in the jackpot gaming state transmitted from the main board 31. For example, the number of rounds is displayed. When a display control command indicating the end of the big hit game is received from the main board 31 (step S884), the value of the display control process flag is set to a value corresponding to display control command reception waiting (step S800) (step S885). .

  FIG. 46 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a characteristic portion in the gaming machine of the present example described above. As shown in FIG. 46, the gaming machine of this example includes variable display means 9a capable of variably displaying identification information, and after a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, a variable display start condition is satisfied. Based on the above, it is possible to start the variable display of the identification information, and it is possible to control to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player on the condition that the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result. A game control means 561 for controlling the progress of the game, an effect control means 801 for controlling the effect means 802 capable of executing an effect related to the variable display of the identification information based on a command from the game control means 561, and a game The control unit 561 includes a predetermining unit 562 that predetermines the contents and display results of the variable display of the identification information. The predetermining unit 562 It includes an execution condition satisfaction determination means 562a that performs at least part of the determination related to the contents of the variable display of the identification information and the display result when standing, and the game control means 561 displays the determination result by the execution condition satisfaction determination means 562a. A determination result command transmission unit 563 that transmits an identifiable determination result command to the effect control unit 801, and the effect control unit 801 identifies the established execution condition based on the received determination result command. Before the condition for starting the variable display of information is established, it is possible to execute an effect for performing predetermined notification by the effect means.

  As described above, the game control means (CPU 56) determines a part of the determination related to the determination of the display mode of the identification information in the variable display device 9 based on the winning of the game ball in the start winning opening (whether it is a big hit? No., whether to reach or not), and a winning determination result command indicating the determination result is transmitted to the symbol control board 80, and the symbol control board 80 receives the winning determination result received Since the content of the notice effect is determined based on the determination result indicated by the command, it is possible to reduce the control burden of the game control means when executing the effect based on the determination result performed at the time of winning.

  In addition, as described above, when variable display of identification information is started, a part of the determination related to determination of the display mode of identification information (determination of stop symbol, determination of variation pattern) is performed. The control burden on the game control means can be distributed over time.

  In addition, as described above, since the winning determination result information includes information indicating whether or not to win, the symbol control board 80 can be notified in advance that a big hit will occur in the future. It becomes possible. Therefore, the symbol control board 80 can perform a notice effect taking into account that a big hit will occur in the future.

  Further, as described above, since the winning determination result information includes information indicating whether or not to reach, it is possible to notify the symbol control board 80 in advance that a reach will occur in the future. It becomes possible. Therefore, the symbol control board 80 can perform a notice effect in consideration of future reach.

  In addition, as described above, when the game control means makes a jackpot determination based on the fact that the game ball has won the start winning opening, if it is determined that a jackpot will be made in the future, Regardless of whether or not there is a determination condition for both the determination condition in the low probability state and the determination condition in the high probability state, the determination is made at the start of variable display (step S55). It is possible to obtain a determination result that matches the control state, and to prevent excessive occurrence of big hits. That is, when the big hit determination is made at the start of variable display (step S55), it is assumed that the probability variation state / normal state has changed due to the big hit that occurred before that, so that it is inherently a low probability state. It is possible to prevent the determination from being made in a high probability state. In addition, since the data transmitted by the determination result command at the time of winning is data indicating the result of determination under the determination condition in the low probability state, an excessive notice effect may be performed on the symbol control board 80 due to incorrect information. It can be prevented from being determined.

  Further, as described above, since the data indicating the winning determination result command includes the information indicating the starting winning memory number, it is not necessary to separately send and receive the command indicating the starting winning memory number. And the number of commands can be reduced. In the embodiment described above, the start memory display 18 is controlled by the lamp control board 35. However, the start control display 18 may be controlled by the display control board 80. With such a configuration, the number of commands can be reduced. Can be reduced. When the winning determination result command is transmitted to the lamp control board 35, the number of commands can be reduced even when the lamp control board 35 controls the start memory display 18. The effect that can be obtained.

  Further, as described above, the control executed by the game control means completes all the winning confirmation processing based on winning at the start winning opening 14 in the periodic processing (for example, winning confirmation processing) based on one timer interruption. Therefore, it is possible to prevent malfunctions such as malfunctions caused by consecutive winnings, and to improve the reliability of the winning confirmation process.

  Further, as described above, the display control means, based on the winning determination result information indicated by the received winning determination result command, the content of the notice effect that is the original effect (whether or not to execute the notice effect and whether or not to execute it) Therefore, it is possible to determine the original effect in consideration of the information related to the variable display executed in the future that has not yet started.

  Further, as described above, the display control means stores the winning determination result information indicated by the received winning determination result command in the winning determination result information storage area and is stored in the winning determination result information storage area. Since the content of the notice effect is determined based on the information, the control for determining the notice effect can be performed with a simple structure.

  Further, as described above, the display control means sequentially stores the information indicated by the received winning determination result command in a plurality of winning determination result information storage areas provided according to the number of start winning memories. Therefore, the winning determination result information can be stored separately for each variable display to be executed in the future.

  Further, as described above, the display control means shifts the stored contents of the plurality of winning determination result information storage areas provided according to the number of start winning memories when executing variable display of identification information. Therefore, it is only necessary to provide a storage area for the maximum value that can be stored in the start winning prize, and it is possible to reduce the capacity of the storage area for storing the determination result information at the time of winning.

  In addition, as described above, a plurality of types of notification effect determination tables having different determination probabilities are provided, and the content of the notification effect is determined using a predetermined notification effect determination table corresponding to the determination result indicated by the winning determination result command. Since the configuration is adopted, the determination probabilities can be varied only by changing the notice effect determination table, and the control burden on the display control means is reduced.

  In the above-described embodiment, the display control means (display control CPU 101) is mainly described as the effect control means. However, for example, the lamp control means (lamp control CPU 351) and the sound control means (sound control CPU 701). Also, the same processing as that of the display control means described above can be executed. In this case, since each effect control means can set the notice effect determination table in synchronization, the light emitter effect by the lamp control means and the sound output effect by the sound control means are synchronized with the variable display effect by the display control means. Can be done.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the effect control means for controlling the start memory display 18 such as the display control means changes the display mode of the start memory display 18 based on the determination result indicated by the winning determination result command. It may be changed. For example, the lighting color may be changed, or the way (order) of increasing lighting may be changed. If comprised in this way, the content of the original effect by an effect control means can be diversified. The start winning memory number is displayed in a part of the display area of the variable display device 9, and the display mode of the display portion of the starting winning memory number in the variable display device 9 is based on the determination result indicated by the winning determination result command. May be changed. For example, the start winning memory number is notified by the number of eggs displayed in a part of the display area of the variable display device 9, and if the egg is cracked, it means reach notice regarding the variable display at that time However, if the egg is cracked and a chick is born, this may mean a jackpot notice regarding the variable display at that time.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the symbol control board 80 uniquely determines whether or not to give a notice effect. However, the main board 31 determines and a command indicating the determination result is a symbol control board 80. May be configured to transmit toward the.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when there is no big hit or reach in the current variable display effect, and when the next variable display effect is a big hit or reach, the notice effect determination table X to the notice effect Although any one of the determination tables Z is always set, the notification effect determination table W may be set with a predetermined probability even in such a case. In this way, according to the determination result indicated by the determination result command at the time of winning, if a predetermined notice effect determination table (notice effect determination table X to notice effect determination table Z) is used with a predetermined probability, an advance notice is provided. Since the probability that the effect is executed can be reduced, it is possible to prevent the player's attention from decreasing when the notice effect is not performed. Further, in the case of the configuration as described above, when a predetermined notice effect determination table (notice effect determination table X to notice effect determination table Z) is set, some kind of notice effect is always made. However, since the notice effect is not always executed, it is possible to prevent the player's attention from being reduced when the notice effect is not performed.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, there is a case in which neither the big hit nor the reach in the current variable display effect is made, and the notice effect is not made even if the next variable display effect is a big win or reach. Although it was set as a certain structure, in such a case, you may be comprised so that some notice effect may be always performed. Even if the current variable display effect does not result in a big hit or reach, if it is determined that the next variable display effect will be a big hit or reach, the next variable display will be a big win. Or you may make it perform the effect which notifies that it may become reach.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the winning determination result information includes information indicating whether or not to reach, but when reaching, the winning determination result information further includes a reach mode (for example, special It is good also as a structure which includes the information which shows the aspect of the normal reach in which an effect is not made, and the aspect of the reach in which a flashy reach effect is generally called a super reach). In this case, the game control means determines whether or not the display mode of the identification information is set to a predetermined specific reach mode (super reach) in the winning confirmation process (see FIG. 14), and then outputs it. Data indicating the determination result as to whether or not to adopt the specific reach mode may be included in the winning determination result command. With this configuration, it is possible to notify the symbol control board 80 in advance that a super reach will occur in the future. Therefore, the symbol control board 80 can perform a notice effect taking into consideration that it will become a super reach in the future.

  In the above-described embodiment, the data indicating the winning determination memory number is included in the data indicated by the winning determination result command. However, the command indicating the starting winning memory number (for example, the starting winning memory number designation command) ) May be provided separately from the winning determination result command and sent and received separately. With such a configuration, the division of roles is made clear by separate commands, so that the certainty of control based on the commands can be improved.

  In the above-described embodiment, the winning confirmation process (see FIG. 14) is configured to determine whether or not to win and whether or not to reach, but only one of the determinations is made. It is good also as a structure to perform. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which also performs other determination processes, such as determination of a stop symbol and determination of a fluctuation pattern, in a winning confirmation process.

  In the above-described embodiment, the winning determination result command and the variation pattern command are provided separately. However, as a variation pattern including data on whether or not to win or not, a winning pattern is obtained. The information indicated by the time determination result command may include a variation pattern. In this case, it is determined that the variation pattern is also determined in the winning confirmation process, and a command for designating the variation start of the identification information is separately provided, so that the game control means transmits a command for designating the variation start at the start of variable display do it.

  In the above-described embodiment, the determination process based on the start prize is always transmitted after the determination process based on the start prize (steps S44 to S46) is executed. However, the determination result based on the start prize is predetermined. The winning determination result command may be transmitted only when the result is the result of the above. In this case, for example, the winning determination result command may be transmitted only when the determination is made as a big hit or the reach is determined. If comprised in this way, the control burden of the game control means regarding transmission of a command will be eased. In addition, the burden of display control means related to command reception (for example, processing for storing winning determination result information in the winning determination result information storage area) is reduced.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the production control boards 80, 35, and 70 execute the reach notice effect and the big hit notice effect based on the winning determination result command. However, the present invention is not limited to the notice effect. You may make it perform the production of. For example, the entire display from the start of the variable display until the display result is displayed on the variable display device 9 (for example, either the effect pattern A or the effect pattern B by performing lottery on each effect control board 80, 35, 70) Lottery is determined), a big hit effect (for example, the big hit effect is a story development, lottery is performed on each of the effect control boards 80, 35, 70, and the content of the story is divided into multiple A lottery is selected from the story), an effect to select a certain change or a short time (a lottery is performed on each of the production control boards 80, 35, and 70, and the content of the effect game for notifying whether there is a certain change or the number of short times) For example, a game that informs whether or not the result is an Amidakuji effect and a result of a dharma drop effect. It provides games and advance to notify whether variable or not, may be in or determined by lottery perform one of the effect) in synchronization with the various effects of such execution.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the notification effect of the reach notification or the jackpot notification is performed by the character (see FIGS. 26 and 27). However, the notification effect may take any form, for example, By changing the change mode of special symbols such as slip effects (effects that change at a high speed for several symbols in a low-speed fluctuation state) and return effects (effects that change in the opposite direction after passing the stop position of the symbols) A notice effect may be performed. Moreover, you may make it perform a notice effect by changing a background.

  In the above-described embodiment, the maximum number of start winning memories is four, but other numbers may be used. For example, when the number exceeds four, the state of the start winning memory may be displayed on a part of the variable display device 9 for the part exceeding four.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the display control means includes a winning determination result information storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memories, but the display control means has at least whether there is a big hit or reach during the hold. For example, a flag indicating whether or not there is a big hit or reach and a counter indicating whether or not it is a big hit or reach. (For example, a counter that is set according to the number of stored start winnings included in the winning determination result command and is subtracted every time variable display is started). In addition, it may be configured to perform an original effect based on whether there is a big hit or reach in the hold, and in this case, the display control means only includes a flag indicating whether there is a big hit or reach. Is enough.

  In the above-described embodiment, the content of the notice effect is determined for each variable display. However, for example, when a big hit is made after three times, the same notice effect is executed four times continuously including this time. You may do it. In this case, a specific character may be displayed continuously or a background of a specific color may appear.

  In the above-described embodiment, the notification effect determining table is provided for each reserved number, but a common notice effect determining table may be used for a plurality of reserved numbers. In this case, for example, a notice effect determination table that is set when the number of holds is two or three may be used.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the type of production determined (for example, the type of advance notice such as reach notice, jackpot notice, probability change notice, etc., type of reach notice such as reach notice 1 or reach notice 2, etc., jackpot notice 1 Depending on the type of jackpot notice such as jackpot notice 2), the electrical components used to perform the presentation may be different. For example, when an effect is given by the reach notice 1, the variable display device 9 and the speaker 27 are used to produce an effect, and when an effect is given by the reach notice 2, the effect is given by the variable display device 9 and the light emitter. . In addition, for example, when the presentation by the reach notice 1 is performed, the variable display device 9 and the frame lamps 28 a to 28 c are produced. When the presentation by the reach notice 2 is performed, the presentation is performed by the variable display apparatus 9 and the decoration lamp 25. Should be done. If constituted in this way, it becomes possible to diversify the production.

  In the above-described embodiment, the determination process (steps S44 to S47) in the winning confirmation process (see FIG. 14) is started when there is a winning at the start winning opening. In the case where the variable display is not started unless there is a plurality of winnings, the determination process may be started on the condition that there are a plurality of winnings. Also, in the case where the winning is allowed only during the execution of the big hit game, the determination process may be started on the condition that the game ball has won during the big hit.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the notice effect is executed in consideration of the contents of the variable display after the next time when the special symbol is variably displayed has been described as an example. In addition, the notice effect may be executed in consideration of the contents of the variable display after the next time. In this case, for example, when a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, a determination process of hit / miss is performed and a command indicating the determination result is transmitted.

  In the embodiment described above, the “specific game state” means a state that is advantageous for a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the “specific game state” is, for example, a right for a variable winning ball apparatus to be in a state advantageous to a player who easily hits a ball (a big hit gaming state) or a state advantageous to a player. Is a state in which a predetermined game value is given, such as a state in which a game has occurred, or a condition in which a premium game medium payout condition is easily established.

  In the above-described embodiment, the “special game state” means a state advantageous to a player who is likely to make a big hit. Specifically, the “special game state” includes, for example, a probability variation state in which the probability that a special symbol is a big hit symbol is a high probability state, a short time state in which the number of fluctuations of a normal symbol per unit time is increased, a variable winning ball This is a high probability state in which the probability of a big hit such as an open extended state in which the opening period and the number of opening times of the device 15 are increased is increased. In the short-time state, since the number of opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is increased, the number of winnings per unit time is increased, and the variable display number of special symbols per unit time is increased. It can be said that has been raised. Similarly, in the open extended state, since the opening period and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are increased, the number of winnings per unit time is increased, and the number of special symbols variable display times per unit time is increased. Therefore, it can be said that the probability of being a big hit is increased.

  Furthermore, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of each of the above embodiments has a predetermined game value given to the player when the special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display device 9 based on the start winning combination is a combination of the predetermined symbols. The first type pachinko gaming machine that can be granted, the second type pachinko that can be given a predetermined game value to the player if there is a winning in a predetermined area of the electric game that is released based on the start winning A third-class pachinko machine where a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize for a predetermined electric combination that is released when a stop symbol of a symbol that is variably displayed based on a starting prize is a combination of a predetermined pattern The present invention can be applied even to a gaming machine.

1 Pachinko machine 9 Variable display device 31 Main board 35 Lamp control board 56 CPU
70 Sound control board 80 Design control board 101 Display control CPU

Claims (1)

Provided with variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information, on condition that variable display of the identification information can be started after the hit ball launched into the game area enters the start area provided in the game area A gaming machine that starts variable display of identification information and can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
An effect control means for controlling an effect means capable of executing an effect related to variable display of identification information based on a command from the game control means,
The game control means includes
Pre-determining means for determining the contents of the variable display of the identification information and the display result when starting the variable display of the identification information;
A holding storage means for storing a plurality of holding information used for determining the contents and display results of variable display of identification information when a hit ball enters the starting area, up to a predetermined upper limit number ; ,
For the variable display of identification information whose display result is determined using the hold information, after the display result of the variable display whose display result is determined using the hold information stored before the hold information is derived and displayed Variable display control means for starting variable display of the identification information and executing variable display control for deriving and displaying a display result;
Variable display command transmission means for transmitting a variable display command capable of specifying the determination result of the prior determination means to the effect control means when starting variable display of identification information;
When a hit ball enters the starting area and the hold information is stored in the hold storage means, a predetermined display as to whether or not the specific gaming state is set for variable display of identification information determined using the hold information A holding storage time determination means for performing the determination;
A determination result command transmission means for transmitting a determination result command capable of specifying the determination result of the hold storage time determination means to the effect control means when the hold information is stored in the hold storage means;
The production control means includes
Based on the received variable display command, variable display effect execution means for executing effects related to variable display of identification information;
Based on the received determination result command, the specific game state as a determination has been given notice at different probabilities depending on the variable number of impressions of the identification information that is initiated before the variable display of the identification information is started By determining whether or not to execute the effect, it is suggested at which timing after the execution of the predetermined notice effect, the variable display of the identification information determined to enter the specific gaming state is started. A notice effect determining means for determining
A notice effect execution means for executing the notice effect before the variable display of the identification information whose display result is determined using the determined hold information is started according to the determination result of the notice effect determination means. A gaming machine characterized by including.

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