JP4829751B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine including a variable display device that displays a symbol variation by varying a gaming symbol such as a pachinko machine.

  In a ball-type game machine such as a pachinko machine, when a game ball wins in a start winning area provided in the game area, a variable symbol display is performed on a variable display device, and a big win lottery is performed. Since the player knows the big hit or loss of the game through the symbol variation display, it can be said that the player's interest is most aroused during the display. Therefore, in addition to the production on the screen by a display device such as a liquid crystal, it is usual that a magnificent production is also made using a speaker and electrical decoration. On the other hand, when the player finishes the game, the variable display device displays a demonstration for waiting for the customer (also referred to as a title demonstration production, hereinafter referred to as a “demonstration production”). It is performed relatively gently without inconvenience. In addition, during the period from the end of the symbol variation display to the transition to the demonstration effect, the variable display device normally executes an operating effect based on the end state of the symbol variation display.

  In a conventional gaming machine, if the state where the variable display is not performed on the variable display device continues for a predetermined period of time, a demonstration effect is provided through an operating effect regardless of whether or not the player is playing a game. It was common to start. For this reason, if the demonstration production is started because the game ball does not win for a long time even though it is actually being played, the player feels alienated and feels bad. It may be possible to lose your willingness to play.

On the other hand, in the gaming machine described in the following Patent Document 1, (a) a time when a game ball does not win in the start winning area has passed for a predetermined time, and (b) a sensor provided on the ball apparatus or game board surface is provided. It is controlled to shift to the demonstration effect for the first time when both conditions of not detecting the game ball for a predetermined time are satisfied.
Also in the ball game machine described in Patent Document 2 below, (a) the symbol variation display is not performed for a predetermined time, that is, the game ball does not win the start winning area for a predetermined time, and (b) It is controlled to shift to the demonstration effect for the first time when both the conditions that the launch of the game ball is not detected for a predetermined time by the provided launch detection switch are satisfied.

JP 2004-049385 A JP 2004-358064 A

According to each of the above inventions, even if the game ball does not win in the start winning area for a long time, as long as the game ball is confirmed to be fired or rolled by other detection switches provided in the game machine, The execution of the medium production only continues and does not shift to the demonstration production.
However, the gaming machine according to these inventions also causes the following problems. In other words, the player usually starts the game in the state where the demonstration effect is executed, but the demonstration effect continues until at least one game ball wins the start winning area. The in-operation effect will not be executed until is completed. Therefore, if the game ball does not readily enter the start winning area immediately after the game starts, the player will continue to see the demonstration effect that should be displayed when the gaming machine is not operating, even though the player is playing As a result, there is a risk that the player's willingness to participate in the game will be lost and the willingness to play will be lost as soon as the game starts.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, and even when a game ball does not win in the start winning area for a long time, the demonstration effect is not executed during the game, and further, the game is executed during the demonstration effect execution. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that, when started, can quickly stop a demonstration effect regardless of whether or not a game ball is won in a start winning area, and can arouse the player's willingness to play. Other objects of the present invention will be apparent from the following description.

  The present invention provides an operation detection area on the path that the game ball reaches with a higher probability than the start winning area, and restricts the transition to the demonstration effect when the game ball passes through this area, while the demonstration effect is being executed. When the game ball passes through the operation detection area, the demonstration effect is stopped.

That is, the present invention
(1) A bullet ball device that launches a game ball toward the game area, a variable display device that displays a game symbol by changing the game symbol, and the game ball that is provided in the game area can be won with a predetermined probability. And a winning detection means for detecting a winning of a game ball in the starting winning area and outputting a winning signal for causing the variable display device to execute the symbol variation display over a predetermined time. In a gaming machine in which a gaming state advantageous to the player is formed according to the game symbol pattern that is variably displayed,
An operation detection area provided on a path within the game area, where the launched game ball reaches with a higher probability than the start winning area;
When it is detected that a game ball has passed through the operation detection area, operation confirmation means for outputting an operation detection signal for executing an operation effect in the variable display device;
Demo for causing the variable display device to execute a demonstration effect when a predetermined time has not passed and the operation detection signal has not been output for a predetermined time. Demo signal output means for outputting a signal;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:
(2) In the above (1), when the operation detection signal is output from the operation confirmation means during the execution of the demonstration effect, the operation effect is executed by the variable display device. Game machines;
(3) When the operation detection signal is output from the operation confirmation unit, the operating effect is not executed at least while the symbol variation display is executed on the variable display device. A gaming machine according to 2);
(4) When the winning signal is input from the winning detection means, a main control board provided with a main CPU for determining a display symbol to be displayed in a variable display on the variable display device, and the operation detection signal from the operation checking means. A gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3), further comprising: a sub-control board provided with a sub-CPU that determines whether or not to execute an operating effect on the variable display device when input. ;
(5) The game area is provided with a preliminary prize detection area through which a game ball passes with a predetermined probability, and it is detected that the game ball has passed through the preliminary prize detection area during execution of the demonstration effect or the active effect. In this case, the gaming machine according to (4), further comprising preliminary winning confirmation means for outputting a preliminary winning signal for executing a preliminary presentation on the variable display device toward the main control board;
(6) In the preliminary winning detection area, the probability that the launched game ball reaches the start winning area via the preliminary winning detection area is higher than the probability that the launched game ball reaches the starting winning area via the operation detection area. The gaming machine according to (5) provided on the route;
Is the gist.

According to the gaming machine according to the present invention, the start condition of the demonstration effect is determined based on the operation detection area where the game ball reaches with a higher probability than the start winning area. Even if there is no winning, the start of the demonstration production is restricted, and the player who is playing the game will not be able to show the demonstration production. In addition, when a game is started on a gaming machine that is in the demonstration production, the demonstration production is quickly stopped and, for example, an in-operation production in a form that is more interesting than the demonstration production is provided to the player immediately after the game starts. Can do.
Due to both of the above effects, the player will not be able to show the demonstration during the game from the start of the game until the end of the game until the predetermined time has elapsed, and will continue to maintain interest in the game through other effects. can do.

  Hereinafter, taking a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as a pachinko machine) as an example of the gaming machine according to the present invention, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. The gaming machine may be an arrange ball machine or the like. Further, in this embodiment, front / rear and left / right are designated in a state where the game board 13 is viewed from the front side as shown in FIG.

<Basic configuration of pachinko machine>
FIG. 1 is a schematic view on the machine surface side of the pachinko machine 10. On the front side of the opening of the outer frame 11 that forms the outer shape of the vertically long rectangular body, an inner frame 12 on which various components are mounted is assembled so as to be freely opened and closed. On the front side of the middle frame 12, a front frame 14 equipped with a protective glass or the like that protects the inside of the machine so that it can be seen through, and an upper ball tray 15 are assembled so as to be openable and closable. The outer frame 11, the middle frame 12, and the game board 13 are closed with each other by the locking device 42.

  A game board 13 on which a path for rolling while changing the flow of the game ball by a number of nails 25 is formed on the middle frame 12 is mounted. On the front side of the front frame 14 and the game area 13 a of the game board 13, a decoration lamp 16 such as an LED that lights up or flashes to produce a light emission effect is provided. A speaker 17 that outputs various sounds and produces sound effects is housed in the lower part of the outer frame 11. A lower ball tray 18 that is a receiving tray for game balls overflowing from the upper ball tray 15 and a ball ball device 19 that launches game balls to the game area 13a are attached to the lower portion of the middle frame 12.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the game board 13 provided in the pachinko machine 10 is provided with a rail 41 formed in a substantially circular shape on the board surface, and a game area 13a is provided inside the rail 41. Is defined. Then, by operating the bullet ball device 19, the game balls stored in the upper ball tray 15 are launched into the game area 13a along the rail 41, and flow down the game area 13a.

  Near the center of the game area 13a of the game board 13, there is provided a center accessory 20 as a decorative member provided with a variable display device 40 as a liquid crystal display type game display means. In addition to decoration, various display effects based on a varying image or image display, in particular, a symbol combination game display (symbol variation display) and a light emission effect in which a plurality of types of symbols are varied and displayed. The variable display device 40 is usually provided so as to face the rear from an opening (not shown) opened in the frame-shaped main body 201 (see FIG. 13) for attaching the center accessory 20 to the game board 13. It is.

  An enlarged view of the center accessory 20 is shown in FIG. In FIG. 13, a start winning opening 22 and an opening / closing blade 21 described later are shown together.

  As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 13, a ball flow passage that allows circulation of game balls flowing down the game area 13 a is provided on the inner left side (inner peripheral left edge) of the frame-shaped main body 201 of the center accessory 20. A warp route 47 is provided. In addition, a game ball that has passed through the warp route 47 and a game ball that has been launched into the game area 13a and turned by the nail 25 directly circulates on the inner lower portion (inner peripheral lower edge) of the frame-shaped main body 201. A stage 48 is formed as a ball guide path to be obtained.

  For this reason, the game ball moving on the stage 48 reciprocates left and right along this, and when the momentum is attenuated by the ball discharge unit 49, the game ball falls from the ball discharge unit 49 to the front side of the game board 13, It flows down toward the start winning port 22 or the discharge port 44 while changing the flow direction in contact with the nail 25 placed thereon.

  On the other hand, the stage 48 is formed with a guide path that is inclined downward at a constant angle at a substantially central position in the left-right direction of the frame-shaped main body 201 (above the start winning opening 22). The game ball is guided toward the start winning opening 22 by flowing into the guide path.

When an effect accompanied by a symbol variation display by the variable display device 40 (hereinafter referred to as a “symbol variation display effect”) is performed, a comprehensive effect including a light emission effect by the decoration lamp 16 and an audio effect by the speaker 17 is performed. Is normal.
In this embodiment, a combination of three columns of symbols is derived by symbol variation display, and the types of symbols of each column forming the combination are symbols imitating 10 types of numbers from 0 to 9.

  The player can recognize a big hit or a loss from the symbol combination (display result) finally displayed (determination stop display) in the symbol combination game. When the symbols of all the columns that are confirmed and stopped displayed on the variable display device 40 are of the same type, the big hit can be recognized from the symbol combination ([222], [777], etc.). The symbol combination that can recognize the jackpot is a jackpot symbol combination (a jackpot display result). When the big hit symbol combination is confirmed and stopped, the player is given a big hit game after the symbol combination game is over. On the other hand, when the symbols of all columns displayed on the variable display device 40 are stopped and displayed, or when the symbols of one column are different from the symbols forming the reach, the symbol combination ([123] or [122], [767], etc.) can be recognized. A symbol combination that can recognize this deviation is a symbol combination that is out of sync. In the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment, when the symbols in each column start to change and the symbol combination game starts, the left column (left symbol) → the right column (right symbol) → the middle column as seen from the player side. The symbols are stopped and displayed in the order of (medium symbol). If the left symbol and the right symbol that are stopped and displayed are of the same type, the reach can be recognized from the symbol combination ([↓] indicates that the symbol is changing, such as [1 ↓ 1]).

An opening / closing blade 21 that opens and closes by the operation of an actuator (not shown) composed of a solenoid and a motor is provided below the center accessory 20, and a winning detection of a game ball is detected immediately below the opening / closing blade 21. A start winning opening 22 is provided as a start winning area for giving a start condition for the symbol variation display effect as an opportunity. In the start winning opening 22, the winning probability of the game ball is controlled by the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing blade 21.
A winning detection switch 22a (shown in FIG. 2) for detecting a winning game ball is provided behind the start winning opening 22. Also, below the start winning opening 22 is provided a large winning opening 24 having a large winning opening door 23 that opens and closes by the operation of an actuator (not shown). When the big hit game is awarded, the big winning opening 24 is opened by the opening operation of the big winning opening door 23 and the game ball can be won, so that the player has a chance to acquire a large number of prize balls. be able to.

  The big winning opening 24 is a large winning device in which an opening operation condition is given to the “big hit” established in the symbol combination game, and the door-like big winning opening door 23 is related to the electromagnetic solenoid on the rear side. Based on the set drive conditions, the normal closed state changes to the open state, and a large number of prize balls are paid out in accordance with the winning of the pachinko ball. In addition, a count switch for a safe ball and a special switch for continuing the opening operation are incorporated in the rear side of the special winning opening 24 (both not shown).

<Basic control method of pachinko machine>
Next, the control configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described based on the block diagram of FIG.
A main control board 26 is mounted on the back side of the pachinko machine 10 as a main control board for controlling the entire gaming machine. The main control board 26 executes various processes for controlling the entire gaming machine, calculates various control signals (control commands) according to the processing results, and outputs the control signals. Also, on the rear side of the machine, as a peripheral board 29 (sub control board) that performs control based on an instruction from the main control board, an overall control board 27, and an effect control board such as a display control board, a lamp control board, and an audio control board 28 is attached.

The overall control board 27 comprehensively controls the effect control board 28 based on the control signal output from the main control board 26.
Among the effect control boards 28, the display control board displays the display contents (display images of symbols, backgrounds, characters, characters, etc.) of the variable display device 40 based on the control signals output from the main control board 26 and the overall control board 27. Control. The lamp control board controls the light emission mode (lighting (flashing) / lighting off timing, etc.) of the decorative lamp 16 based on the control signals output from the main control board 26 and the overall control board 27. The sound control board controls the sound output mode (sound output timing, etc.) of the speaker 17 based on the control signals output from the main control board 26 and the overall control board 27. The effect control board 28 such as a display control board, a lamp control board, and an audio control board specially controls various effect devices 60 (variable display device 40, decorative lamp 16, speaker 17).

Hereinafter, specific configurations of the main control board 26, the overall control board 27, and the effect control board 28 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 2, the main control board 26 is provided with a main CPU 26a, a main ROM 26b, a main RAM 26c, and a main control circuit 26d for connecting them. The main CPU 26a updates the values of various random numbers such as a jackpot determination random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach determination random number, and a variation pattern distribution random number at predetermined intervals. The main ROM 26b stores a main control program for controlling the pachinko machine 10, a plurality of types of variation patterns (effect patterns), a jackpot determination value, and a reach determination value. The main RAM 26c stores (sets) various pieces of information (such as random number values) that can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10.

  The variation pattern is a pattern that is the base of the game effect from when the symbol starts to change (the symbol variation display effect starts) to when all the symbols in the row are confirmed and stopped (the symbol variation display effect ends). It is shown. In the variation pattern, a variation time (effect time) from the start to the end of the symbol variation display effect is determined for each variation pattern. In addition, the effect of the symbol variation display effect is associated with the variation pattern. For this reason, the effect content of the symbol variation display effect is specified by the variation pattern.

  When the main CPU 26a wins a game ball in the start winning opening 22 and inputs a detection signal from the winning detection switch 22a, the main CPU 26a stores the number of start reserved balls stored (set) in the main RAM 26c (hereinafter referred to as “hold stored number”). It is determined whether it is less than a predetermined upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If this determination result is affirmative (less than the upper limit number), the main CPU 26a adds 1 (+1) to the reserved storage number and rewrites it. Further, the main CPU 26a reads the value of the big hit determination random number and the value of the big hit symbol random number from the main RAM 26c, and sequentially stores (stores) them in a predetermined storage area of the main RAM 26c. The number of reserved memories indicates the number of executions of the on-hold symbol variation display effect. The main CPU 26a subtracts 1 (-1) from the stored memory number and rewrites it at the start of the symbol variation display effect.

  Also, the main CPU 26a compares the jackpot determination random number stored in the main RAM 26c with the jackpot determination value stored in the main ROM 26b immediately before the start of the symbol variation display effect to determine whether or not it is a big hit. Judgment (big hit judgment). When the determination result of the big hit determination is affirmative (the value of the random number for big hit determination and the big hit determination value match), the main CPU 26a determines the big hit. The main CPU 26a having determined the big hit reads the value of the big hit symbol random number stored in the main RAM 26c together with the value of the random number for determining the big hit, and determines the symbol previously associated with the value as the big hit symbol. The jackpot symbol is a symbol that forms a jackpot symbol combination (final jackpot display result) that is finally displayed in a fixed stop state. Further, the main CPU 26a reads the value of the variation pattern distribution random number, and determines one variation pattern from the variation patterns for the big hit effect based on the value. In the present embodiment, the main control board 26 functions as effect pattern determining means.

  The jackpot effect is an effect that the symbol variation display is developed so that the symbol combination of the jackpot is finally confirmed and stopped. The jackpot production is performed with a reach production. The reach effect is an effect that is performed after the reach is formed (after reach display) and before the jackpot symbol combination or the off symbol combination is derived.

In the present invention, unless otherwise specified, the symbol combination display is determined and stopped after the symbol variation display is started, and in the case of a big hit, the symbol variation display effect is performed until the subsequent big hit game is completed.

  On the other hand, when the determination result of the big hit determination is negative (the value of the big hit determination random number does not match the big hit determination value), the main CPU 26a reads the value of the reach determination random number from the main RAM 26c and stores this value in the main ROM 26b. It is determined (reach determination) whether or not it is a reach (whether or not a reach effect is performed) by comparing with the reach determination value. The main CPU 26a determines reach when the reach determination result is affirmative (the reach determination random number value matches the reach determination value). After determining the reach, the main CPU 26a determines the reach symbol. The reach symbol is a symbol that forms a reach and forms a combination of symbols that are finally stopped. For example, when the reach is formed by using the left and right symbols as the same type of symbols, the combinations of symbols that are formed with the reach symbols are [121] and [535]. Further, the main CPU 26a reads the value of the variation pattern distribution random number, and determines one variation pattern from the variation patterns for the reach reach production based on the value. The outlier reach effect is an effect that the symbol variation display is developed so as to finally stop display of the symbol combinations that are out of reach through the reach effect.

  Further, when the determination result of the reach determination is negative (the reach determination random number value and the reach determination value do not match), the main CPU 26a determines the deviation. The main CPU 26a that has determined the detachment determines the detachment symbol. The missing symbol is a symbol that forms a combination of symbols that are finally stopped and displayed without forming a reach. For example, when the reach is not formed by using the left and right symbols as non-identical symbols, the combinations of the symbols that are formed as the missing symbols are [467] and [225]. Further, the main CPU 26a reads the value of the variation pattern distribution random number, and determines one variation pattern from the variation patterns for the off-state effect based on the value. The outlier effect is an effect that the symbol variation display is developed so that the final symbol combination is finally stopped and displayed without going through the reach effect.

  The main CPU 26a that has determined the symbol and the variation pattern outputs a predetermined control command to the overall control board 27 (overall CPU 27a) at a predetermined timing. Specifically, the main CPU 26a first instructs a variation pattern and outputs a variation pattern designation command that instructs the start of a symbol variation display effect. Next, the main CPU 26a outputs a symbol designation command for designating symbols in each column. After that, the main CPU 26a outputs an all symbol stop command instructing stop of symbols in each column (definite stop display) when the variation time set in the instructed variation pattern has elapsed.

Next, the overall control board 27 will be described.
The overall control board 27 is provided with an overall CPU 27a, an overall ROM 27b, an overall RAM 27c, and an overall control circuit 27d for connecting them. The overall ROM 27b stores an overall control program for overall control of the effect control board 28. The general RAM 27c stores (sets) various types of information (such as random number values) that are appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10.

Next, the effect control board 28 will be described.
The effect control board 28 is provided with an effect control CPU 28a, an effect control ROM 28b, an effect control RAM 28c, an effect data ROM 28e, an effect data RAM 28f, and an effect control circuit 28d for connecting them. In the effect control ROM 28b, a display control program for controlling the display contents of the variable display device 40, a light emission control program for controlling the light emission mode of the decorative lamp 16, and a sound for controlling the output sound of the speaker 17 Control programs and the like are stored. The effect data ROM 28e stores image data and sound data as effect data. The image data includes moving image data for displaying the effect of the symbol variation display on the variable display device 40. The effect data RAM 28f stores (sets) various information that can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10.

<About demonstration production>
In the conventional pachinko machine 10, after the power is turned on, until the symbol variation display effect is started, and when the variation stop state of the symbol variation display continues for a predetermined time, the effect device such as the variable display device 40 performs the demonstration effect. (Title demonstration production) is usually performed. Demonstration production is performed for the purpose of attracting the player's interest to the pachinko machine and arousing game motivation, displaying the title and manufacturer name of the pachinko machine, and promoting it. Usually, it is performed by a still image or a moving image display by the device 40.
However, it is well known for players that such demonstration performances are performed when the gaming machine is not in operation, and after starting the game, not only during the game but also immediately after the game starts. As described above, it is preferable not to execute this.

  On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 10 according to the present invention, even if the game ball is not won for a long time at the start winning opening 22, the demonstration effect is executed while the game ball is fired and the game continues. If the game is started during the regulation and the demonstration production is executed, the demonstration production is quickly stopped regardless of whether or not the game ball is won at the start winning opening 22 and the player's willingness to play is aroused. It can be done. A specific configuration and control method for realizing the function of the present invention will be described below.

<Characteristic configuration of the present invention>
The pachinko machine 10 according to the present invention is provided with a game state confirmation switch 50 and a passage detection switch 51 on the game area 13a in addition to the start winning opening 22.

<Operation confirmation means>
The game state confirmation switch 50 is a chucker through which a game ball can pass, and is a specific example of an operation confirmation unit that outputs an operation detection signal to the sub CPU when the passage of the game ball is detected. The specific operation principle of the game state confirmation switch 50 is not particularly limited, and a known electromagnetic, mechanical, or optical game ball detection switch may be used.
The game state confirmation switch 50 is provided in an operation detection area where the game ball reaches with a higher probability than the start winning opening 22 in the rolling path of the game ball. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the operation detection area is set at a lower left position of the start winning port 22 and on a route to the discharge port 44 through which game balls are discharged. This is because the inner rail 45 and the outer rail 46 for introducing the game ball launched from the bullet ball device 19 into the game area 13a and the opening 43 which is the opening end thereof are generally the most in the game area 13a. It is provided on the left side, and the main rolling path of the game ball is also formed on the left side of the game area 13a. Then, by setting an operation detection area outside the rolling path of the game ball reaching the start winning opening 22, a winning rate adjustment for the starting winning opening 22 (for example, a plurality of rolling paths that reach the starting winning opening 22 is configured). It is preferable that the gaming state check switch 50 can always stably detect the gaming ball launched in the gaming area 13a without being affected by the adjustment of the standing angle of the obstacle nail.

Here, when a place other than the game area 13a is selected as the installation position of the game state confirmation switch 50 for the pachinko machine 10, various inconveniences may occur. For example, since the path from the bullet ball device 19 to the insertion slot 43 is the path to the start winning opening 22, the game balls that are fired and the gaming state confirmation switch 50 interfere with each other so that the game balls roll. May be hindered, and the winning probability at the start winning opening 22 may become unstable. Further, in the pachinko machine 10 in which the width dimension of the outer frame 11 is defined, providing the game state confirmation switch 50 outside the outer rail 46 damages the width dimension of the game area 13a. When the game state confirmation switch 50 is provided in the discharge port 44 or in the out tank that counts while temporarily holding the game balls discharged from the discharge port 44, the game state confirmation switch 50 controls the overall control board 27. There is a possibility that the wiring extending to the side is accessed from the back side of the pachinko machine 10 and is subject to a so-called goto action in which erroneous signal detection is intentionally generated.
In summary, in the present invention, the gaming state confirmation switch 50 is on the rolling path on which the game ball reaches the gaming area 13a with a higher probability than winning the starting winning opening 22. It can be said that it is preferable to be provided in a region outside the rolling path leading to the winning opening 22.

When the game ball passes through the game state confirmation switch 50 and an operation detection signal is sent to the overall CPU 27a of the overall control board 27,
(I) If the demonstration production is in progress, stop it immediately and start the production production, which will be described later.
(Ii) Continue this while the production is already running,
(Iii) During the execution of an effect that is expected to win a big hit, such as a symbol variation display effect or a preliminary effect to be described later, the in-operation effect is controlled after the end of the effect.

  In other words, in the pachinko machine 10 according to the present invention, (a) a time during which the symbol variation display is not performed on the variable display device 40 has elapsed for a predetermined time (for example, 50 seconds), and (b) from the gaming state confirmation switch 50 When the operation detection signal is not output for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds), it is determined that the game by the player has ended, and the demonstration display is started on the variable display device 40.

  In the present invention, both the elapsed time after the symbol variation display is stopped and the arrival of the operation detection signal output from the gaming state confirmation switch 50 are confirmed on the overall control board 27. When both the conditions (a) and (b) are satisfied, a demonstration effect start signal is output from the overall control board 27 to the effect control board 28. Accordingly, the demonstration effect start condition is determined by the sub CPU, so that the processing load on the main CPU 26a is not increased. Similarly, when a game is started during the demonstration production and the game ball passes the gaming state confirmation switch 50, the operation detection signal output from the gaming state confirmation switch 50 to stop the demonstration production is controlled by the overall control board 27. Since it is transmitted to the CPU 27a and the overall control board 27 outputs a stop signal for the demonstration effect to the effect control board 28, there is also an advantage that no processing load is applied to the main CPU 26a. is there.

<Direction during operation>
When the game is started while the demonstration effect is being executed and the game ball first passes the game state confirmation switch 50 (before passing through the start winning opening 22 or a passage detection switch 51 described later), the variable display device 40 performs the demonstration effect. It is stopped and the production during operation is executed instead. In addition, the operating effect is performed during the period from the end of the symbol variation display effect and the preliminary effect described later to the start of the demonstration effect. These operating effects may be the same or different from each other. In addition, the same aspect here means that the contents match each other when there is one production pattern, and when the production pattern is selected from a plurality of production patterns, the same content production has the same probability. It means to be selected.
For example, as a running effect that is performed when the demonstration ball is stopped by the game ball passing the gaming state confirmation switch 50 immediately after the game starts, a display effect that inspires a sense of excitement to start the game now On the other hand, as a running effect that is performed when the symbol variation display effect and the preliminary effect are completed, a display effect that gently enlivens the normal game until a new jackpot is won Or a slow-tempo audio production.
In the present invention, for the sake of simplicity, both are not particularly distinguished and are referred to as an operating effect.

  In the present embodiment, the in-operation effect and the demonstration effect differ in the effect contents. Specifically, the operating effect is, for example, a display effect that causes an effect image element (such as a symbol or a background image) that is confirmed and stopped to be displayed on the variable display device 40 at the end of the symbol variation display to operate in a predetermined operation pattern. Moreover, the light emission effect by the decoration lamp 16 corresponding to the display effect and the sound effect by the speaker 17 may be executed.

  These demonstration productions and production performances are performed for the purpose of attracting the player's interest or advertising the pachinko machine 10, but the former is all insofar as the pachinko machine 10 is not in operation. Since it is performed endlessly on the table, it is best to perform it most gently, for example, with only a display effect or a slight light emission effect. On the other hand, the latter is performed only in the pachinko machine 10 in the game, and limitedly between or before and after the symbol variation display, and the interest of the specific player who is playing in the pachinko machine 10 is enhanced. Since the purpose is to evoke, it is better to perform it more brilliantly than the demonstration production or with the audio production. However, in order not to impair the degree of expectation and uplifting feeling for the symbol variation production and the preliminary production that are expected to win a big hit, it is better to have a mode that is gentler than these productions.

<About preliminary production>
In the present invention, a preliminary effect may be executed in addition to the symbol variation display effect, the demo effect, and the operating effect. In the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment, when the game ball passes through the preliminary winning detection area provided on the game area 13a, the preliminary effect is executed except during the execution of the symbol variation display effect. That is, the preliminary effect is executed in response to the game ball passing through the preliminary winning detection area while the demonstration effect or the operating effect is being performed on the variable display device 40 of the pachinko machine 10 or the like.

  There are various specific purposes and aspects of the preliminary production. For example, in the case of the pachinko machine 10 having a high jackpot winning probability perceived through the symbol variation display effect when the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening 22 is won instead of being low, the player rarely starts the winning prize. Although it is possible to have a high expectation for the symbol variation display effect that is performed only when a game ball is won in the mouth 22, the game performance is compelled to be repeated during operation other than normal games. There is a risk of being monotonous. On the other hand, by providing the passage detection switch 51 on the rolling path of the game ball that is expected to win the start winning opening 22, the start of the preliminary effect is the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 22, Eventually, the player will have a big win.

  Therefore, the preliminary production executed for such a purpose may be a comprehensive production mode using gorgeous display, light emission, and voice after the symbol variation display production in order to match the player's expectation level for the big win. Moreover, you may provide the continuity on a story in the aspect of a preliminary | presentative effect, and the aspect of the symbol fluctuation display effect triggered by the winning to the start winning opening 22. While increasing the winning expectation to the start winning opening 22 by the preliminary effect, if the effect is completely different after the winning, the user will feel uncomfortable. Therefore, by providing continuity on the story, it is possible to improve the game entertainment without feeling uncomfortable.

  Further, in this case, the game ball that has passed through the game state confirmation switch 50 for generating the in-operation effect reaches the start winning opening 22 so that the execution of the preliminary effect further arouses the expectation of winning at the start winning opening 22. Rather than providing a preliminary winning detection area on a rolling path that has a higher probability that a game ball will reach the start winning opening 22 from the preliminary winning detection area. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, a passage detection switch 51 may be provided at the entrance of the warp route of the center accessory. Similarly, in order to increase the degree of expectation for the preliminary performance, the game state confirmation switch 50 may be disposed in an area where the game ball passing through the switch does not win the start winning opening 22.

  In this way, the passing detection switch 51 as the preliminary winning detection area is arranged on the game ball rolling path such as a warp route having a relatively high winning probability with respect to the start winning opening 22, and the switch detects the game ball. By executing the preliminary presentation based on the above, it is possible to improve the interest in the operation of the game ball that rolls down toward the start winning opening 22.

  For the passage detection switch 51 that is preferably provided on a rolling path that has a positive correlation with the winning probability to the start winning opening 22, the ratio of game balls to reach this is limited. It is good also as a structure by which a predetermined prize ball is paid out. On the other hand, with respect to the gaming state confirmation switch 50, it is preferable that the payout of prize balls is zero. This is because there is a possibility that the arrival probability of the game ball is variously suppressed for each pachinko machine 10 by adjusting the nail or the like for the small accessory accompanied with the payout of the prize ball. This is because it is preferable to arrange on a rolling path that reaches with probability and stability.

  Although not described in detail in the present embodiment, a flow path with a low winning probability to the starting winning port 22 or a winning is possible on the game ball rolling path between the preliminary winning detection area and the starting winning port 22. You may comprise the drop-off part which guides a game ball to the incompatible flow path. By configuring the drop-off portion, it is possible to give excitement as to whether or not the game ball wins the start winning opening 22. Therefore, the preliminary production further excites the excitement. Further, when the preliminary winning detection area is provided in the warp route of the center role, a drop-off portion is formed on the game ball guiding portion (so-called stage) that communicates with the warp route and is located immediately above the start winning opening 22. May be. The game ball guiding section preferably includes both a dropout section and a guide path to the start winning opening 22.

  As another example of the preliminary performance, the opening / closing blade 21 (see FIG. 1) is opened so that the winning probability to the start winning port 22 is increased for a certain time when the game ball passes through the preliminary winning detection area. It is good.

  In the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, the execution priority of the preliminary effects is positioned next to the symbol variation display effects, and the demonstration effects and the operating effects are not executed during the execution. In other words, when the preliminary effect is executed, even if the game ball passes through the operation detection area, the active effect is not executed, so that the expectation for the preliminary effect is not lost. In addition, since the preliminary production is not executed again during the preliminary production, the center of expectation can be prevented.

In this way, by providing the preliminary winning detection area on the gaming area 13a in addition to the operation detecting area such as the gaming state confirmation switch 50, various effects can be displayed and games even when the winning probability at the starting winning opening 22 is low. It is possible to arouse the interest of the elderly. Further, when a game is started during the execution of the demonstration effect, if the game ball passes through the preliminary winning detection area before the operation detection area, the demonstration effect can be stopped more quickly.
In particular, by providing a preliminary winning detection area on a rolling path on which a game ball reaches with a higher probability and positive correlation than the winning probability at the start winning opening 22, an operation detection for stopping the demonstration effect by executing the preliminary effect. It is possible to match the function of the area with the preliminary winning detection area, and to make the player foresee a winning at the start winning opening 22 by starting the preliminary presentation.

<Preliminary winning confirmation method>
The preliminary winning confirmation means detects that the game ball has passed through the preliminary winning detection area, and when such a passage is detected, the preliminary winning for causing the variable display device 40 to execute the preliminary presentation is performed. Output a signal.
In the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, the preliminary winning confirmation means is realized by arranging the passage detection switch 51 on the game area 13a. As the specific passage detection switch 51, a known game ball detection switch may be used similarly to the game state confirmation switch 50.

  The preliminary winning signal output from the passage detection switch 51 is transmitted to the main CPU 26a of the main control board 26 or the general CPU 27a (sub CPU) of the general control board 27 which is a sub control board. In the present invention, the execution of the preliminary effect may be controlled by either the main CPU 26a or the overall CPU 27a. In the case of the pachinko machine 10 in which both the preliminary winning signal to the passage detection switch 51 and the winning signal to the start winning port 22 are used for controlling the big win winning probability, the preliminary winning signal is mainly used together with the winning signal of the starting winning port 22. It is good to take in to the control board 26 and to control execution of the symbol variation display effect and the preliminary effect by the main CPU 26a. Further, when the preliminary winning signal to the passage detection switch 51 and the winning signal to the start winning port 22 are handled independently without regard to the big win lottery, the preliminary winning signal is taken into the overall control board 27 and the sub CPU. By controlling the execution of the preliminary effect, the load on the main CPU 26a can be reduced.

<About control flow>
In the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the demonstration effect is quickly stopped immediately after the start of the game by executing the operating effect and the preliminary effect, and to the start winning opening 22 during the game. Regardless of whether or not there is a prize, it is possible to regulate the transition to demonstration production. Hereinafter, specific control processing operations in the main control board 26, the overall control board 27, and the effect control board 28 of the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

<Processing on the main control board>
3 to 6 are flowcharts of processing (timer interrupt processing) performed by the main CPU 26a of the main control board 26. A program for performing this processing is stored in the main ROM 26b, and is executed every predetermined interrupt period (for example, 2 ms) in the main CPU 26a.

  In FIG. 3, the main CPU 26a first transmits a command stored in the transmission buffer of the main control board 26 (S101), and then proceeds to step S101 (input processing) to execute the subroutine shown in FIG. .

  The subroutine of FIG. 4 includes the processes of steps S200 to S209. In step S200, the main CPU 26a determines whether or not a game ball has won the start winning opening 22. When the game ball wins (step S200: Y), the main CPU 26a proceeds to the process of step S201. On the other hand, when the game ball has not won (step S200: N), the main CPU 26a does not perform the processes of steps S201 to S206, and next determines whether or not the game ball has won the pass detection switch 51 ( Step S207).

  In step S201, the main CPU 26a determines whether or not the number of game balls that are added in step S202 described later and subtracted in step S301 described later is less than “4” at the present time. When the number of reserved balls is less than 4 (step S201: Y), the main CPU 26a proceeds to the process of step S202. On the other hand, when the number of reserved balls is 4 or more (step S201: N), the main CPU 26a ends this subroutine without adding the number of reserved balls any more and without performing the processing of steps S202 to S206. That is, in the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, the upper limit of the number of reserved balls is set to four.

  In step S202, the winning of the game ball is determined in step S200, and since it is determined in step S201 that the number of held balls is less than 4, the main CPU 26a adds 1 to the number of held balls, The process proceeds to step S203. In step S203, the main CPU 26a acquires a hit determination random number that is updated as needed in a random number update process S102 described later, and proceeds to the process of step S204. Note that the random number for hit determination acquired here is used when performing the hit / no-go determination process in step S302 described later. In step S204, the main CPU 26a stores the hit determination random number acquired in step S203 in the random number storage area of the main RAM 26c. Next, in step S205, the main CPU 26a obtains a symbol for determining symbols and stores it in another random number storage area of the main RAM 26c (step S206). This symbol determination random number is a random number used in symbol determination (step S307), which will be described later. If the hit determination random number acquired in step S203 is a big hit win, the symbol to be stopped and displayed on the variable display device 40. It is for determining. Then, the main CPU 26a ends this subroutine.

  In step S207, if there is no game ball winning in the start winning opening 22 during the immediately preceding interruption cycle (for example, 2 ms) (step S200: N), it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed through the passage detection switch 51. When this is denied (step S207: N), the preliminary effect designation command is not generated, and this subroutine is terminated.

  If it is determined in step S207 that the passage detection switch 51 has been passed (step S207: Y), the main CPU 26a proceeds to the process of step S208. In step S208, a preliminary production designation command for starting execution of the preliminary production at a predetermined timing is generated and stored in the transmission buffer of the main control board 26 (step S209). The preliminary effect designation command is used in command input processing (step S1002) in the overall control board 27 described later.

  When the subroutine shown in FIG. 4 ends, the main CPU 26a proceeds to the process of step S102 (random number update process) shown in FIG. Although the specific processing flow of the random number update process is omitted, the main CPU 26a adds a random number for reach determination and a random number for variation pattern allocation one by one in addition to the random number for hit determination and the random number for symbol determination, and is set respectively. When the upper limit is reached, it is cleared to zero.

  When the random number update process ends, the main CPU 26a proceeds to the process of step S103 shown in FIG. In step S103, the main CPU 26a determines whether or not a symbol combination game (symbol variation display) is being performed on the variable display device 40. When the symbol combination game is being performed (step S103: Y), the main CPU 26a shifts to the variable game end process of step S105 without performing the variable game start process of step S104. On the other hand, when the symbol combination game is not performed (step S103: N), the main CPU 26a proceeds to the variable game start process of step S104 and executes the subroutine shown in FIG.

  The subroutine of FIG. 5 includes the processes of steps S300 to S309. In step S300, the main CPU 26a determines whether or not the number of reserved balls is currently “0”. When the number of reserved balls is other than 0 (1 to 4) (step S300: N), the main CPU 26a proceeds to the process of step S301 in order to start a variable game (symbol combination game). On the other hand, when the number of reserved balls is 0 (step S300: Y), the main CPU 26a ends this subroutine without performing the processing of steps S301 to S309 without further subtracting the number of held balls.

  In step S301, the main CPU 26a decrements the number of reserved balls by 1, and proceeds to the process of step S302. In step S302, the main CPU 26a performs a hit determination in which the hit determination random number stored in the random number storage area of the main RAM 26c in step S204 is compared with the big hit determination value. Regardless of whether the comparison result is coincidence or non-coincidence, the main CPU 26a proceeds to the fluctuation pattern distribution random number acquisition process of step S303.

  The main CPU 26a acquires the random number in the fluctuation pattern distribution random number acquisition process (step S303), and then proceeds to the fluctuation pattern designation command generation process in step S304. In step S304, (a) if the comparison result with the jackpot determination value is coincident, the big hit hour variation pattern distribution table is compared with the random number, and (b) the comparison result with the jackpot determination value is inconsistent. In this case, the variation pattern distribution table at the time of the loss is compared with the random number, and the variation pattern of the symbol variation game to be executed is determined.

  Next, the main CPU 26a stores a variation pattern designation command for designating the determined variation pattern in the transmission buffer of the main control board 26 (step S305), and at the next command transmission (step S100), the general control board 27 Send this to. Further, the main CPU 26a sets the processing time (number of interruptions) X of the determined variation pattern in the timer N of the main RAM 26c. Such processing time X is preset for each variation pattern.

  Next, the main CPU 26a determines, based on the symbol random number for symbol determination acquired in step S205, the symbol to be displayed on the variable display device 40 when the big hit is won (step S307), and designates the determined symbol. A command is generated (step S308), and the symbol designation command is stored in the transmission buffer of the main control board 26 (step S309) to be transmitted to the overall control board 27 and the effect control board 28 in the next step (step S309). Exit the subroutine.

  FIG. 6 shows a subroutine of the variable game end process S105 that is shifted to when the symbol combination game is being executed in step S103 of FIG. 3 (step S103: Y). This process includes the processes of S401 to S404.

When the processing time (number of processing steps) set in the timer N in step S306 is gradually subtracted and N = 0 (zero), the symbol variation display is stopped. First, in step S401, it is determined whether the timer N is zero. When this is denied (step S401: N), the value of the timer N is decremented by 1 (step S402), and this subroutine is terminated.
On the other hand, when the timer N becomes zero (step S401: Y), the main CPU 26a generates an all symbol stop command for stopping the symbol in the variable display device 40 (step S403), and transmits the command to the main control board 26. Store in the buffer and end this subroutine. The all symbols stop command is used in effect management processing S1004 in the overall control board 27 described later.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 26a performs the same process as the determination of whether or not the random number for hit determination in step S302 is correct (step S106). If the determination result of the determination is not a big hit, the main CPU 26a proceeds to the process of step S107. On the other hand, when the determination result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, although the detailed description is omitted, the main CPU 26a opens based on the jackpot setting table stored in the main RAM 26c to instruct the start of the opening period of the jackpot game Controls a specified command, a round specified command for instructing the start of a round period that starts in synchronism with the timing of opening the big winning opening in the jackpot game, and ends in synchronization with the closing timing, and an ending specification command for instructing the end of the jackpot game After outputting the command to the overall CPU 27a, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, the main CPU 26a stands by until a predetermined time (for example, 2 ms) elapses after the process of step S100 is started. After 2 ms elapses, the main CPU 26a proceeds to the process of step S100 again.

<About processing on the general control board>
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing performed by the overall CPU 27a of the overall control board 27. A program for performing this processing is stored in the general ROM 27b, and is executed by the general CPU 27a every predetermined interrupt cycle. The interrupt cycle of the central CPU 27a may be set equal to, for example, 2 ms or different from the interrupt cycle of the main CPU 26a. 8 to 12 are flowcharts of subroutines used for the timer interrupt process.

[Timer interrupt processing: Fig. 7]
The general CPU 27a first transmits a command stored in the transmission buffer of the general control board 27 to the effect control board 28 (S1001), and then an effect instructed to be executed according to various commands transmitted from the main CPU 26a. When a command input process (S1002) for managing the game is performed, and subsequently an effect (symbol variation display effect or preliminary effect) according to various commands transmitted from the main CPU 26a is not executed, the player continues the game. In the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment, a game state notification effect for changing the display background of the variable display device 40 and a predetermined moving image display or stationary A game state confirmation process for setting an operation effect for executing image display is performed (S1003). In Moto was subjected to effect management process for performing the execution management Luo various effects (S1004), to wait for interrupt (S1005). In this embodiment, the interrupt cycle is 2 ms. Time management performed by various timers described later is managed by the number of interrupts.

[Command Input Processing (S1002): FIG. 8]
The overall CPU 27a determines whether or not an opening designation command for jackpot processing has been input from the main CPU 26a based on step S106 (S1101). If the command is input, the overall CPU 27a sends the input opening designation command to the overall control board 27. Are stored in the transmission buffer (S1102), and a winning effect flag is set (S1103). The win effect flag is a flag for identifying that a big hit game is currently being played, and is used in an effect management process S1004 described later.

  If the determination in S1101 is negative, it is determined whether or not the variation pattern designation command output based on step S304 of the main CPU 26a has been input (S1104), and the command to the input buffer of the overall control board 27 is determined. If there is an input, after the input variation pattern designation command is stored in the transmission buffer of the overall control board 27 (S1105), a plurality of types of effect patterns associated in advance with the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command A specific effect pattern is determined based on random number lottery (S1106), and an effect pattern designation command for instructing execution of the effect based on the determined effect pattern is generated and stored in the transmission buffer of the overall control board 27. Store (S1107). Then, a variation effect flag for identifying that the symbol variation display effect related to the symbol variation game is currently being set is set (S1108). The variation effect flag is used in effect management processing S1004 described later.

  On the other hand, if the determination in S1104 is negative, a preliminary output that is output from the main CPU 26a based on step S209 based on the detection of the game ball by the passage detection switch 51 provided at the warp route entrance of the center accessory. It is determined whether an effect designation command has been input to the input buffer of the overall control board 27 (S1109). If there is no command input, it is assumed that there is no command input from the main CPU 26a, and this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the input of the command is made to the input buffer of the overall control board 27, in order to confirm that it is not during the big hit game, during the symbol variation game, or during the preliminary production described later, The presence / absence of an effect flag, a variable effect flag, and a preliminary effect flag is determined (S1110), and if all of these determinations are negative, a preliminary effect specification for instructing the effect control circuit 28d to execute the preliminary effect is designated. The command is stored in the transmission buffer of the overall control board 27 (S1111). Then, a preliminary production flag for identifying that the preliminary production is currently being executed is set (S1112), and the production time α (20 seconds in this embodiment, ie, in this embodiment) is set in the timer A for managing the execution time of the preliminary production. Set the interrupt count value to 10000). If the determination in S1110 is affirmed, the process ends with the intention of not executing a new preliminary effect during the execution of the various effects targeted for the determination.

[Game State Confirmation Process (S1003): FIG. 9]
First, it is determined whether or not the player is playing a game based on whether or not a detection signal is detected from the gaming state confirmation switch 50 (S1202). If the determination is affirmative, the presence or absence of an operation effect start flag is continued. Determination is made (S1203). The operation effect start flag is a condition for determining and executing a game state notification effect and an operation effect, which will be described later, and is for restricting execution of the demonstration effect (title demo effect).

  If the determination in S1203 is negative, the state where the game is not being performed, that is, the state where the demonstration effect is executed is shifted to the state where the game is being performed. An effect start flag is set (S1204). Then, the production time β1 (for example, 50 seconds in this embodiment: the number of interruptions 25000) is set in the timer B1 (S1205). The effect time of the operation effect described later is 20 seconds, and a difference of 30 seconds occurs. However, in the effect management process S1004 described later, the effect time β1 set in the timer B1 has elapsed. Execution of the demonstration effect is restricted until the operation effect start flag is cleared.

  Next, a random number for determining the gaming state notification effect is acquired (S1206), and the gaming state notification effect corresponding to the random number value is determined after reading the acquired random number for determining the gaming state notification effect. This gaming state notification effect is to change the background image of the variable display device 40 to A or B in order to notify the player that the game is in progress, and which background is set by the random number lottery Is configured to be determined. Then, a game state notification effect designation command corresponding to the determined game state notification effect is stored in the transmission buffer of the overall control board 27 (S1208), and a confirmation for counting the number of times the game state confirmation switch 50 is turned on in S1202 The count counter value is incremented by 1 (S1209). Also, a background flag for identifying whether the background is A or B is set (S1210).

As described above, in the present invention, when a game ball is first passed through the operation detection area after the game is started with the pachinko machine 10 that is executing the demonstration effect, the background image to be displayed on the variable display device 40 as the game state notification effect is displayed. Since it is configured so that it can be changed, it is possible to always provide a fresh performance to a player who has gaming experience, and to prevent boredom.
The background image as the gaming state notification effect may be reflected in the background image at the demonstration effect. It is possible to give a sense of expectation to a player who wants to play a game after confirming the demonstration effect, such as “may hit” when the background image is changed at the start of the game.

  On the other hand, if the determination in S1203 is affirmative, it identifies that the game has already been played, and the effect time β1 is set again in the timer B1 (S1211). As a result, as the gaming state confirmation switch is turned on, the production time β1 continues to be reset in the timer B1, and accordingly, the standby production restriction period is extended accordingly. Then, the process proceeds to an operation effect determination process (S1213). If it is not determined in S1202 that the gaming state confirmation switch 50 has detected a gaming ball, the winning effect flag, the changing effect flag, and the preliminary effect flag are confirmed, and whether or not an effect execution instruction is issued from the main CPU 26a. Is determined (S1214). Here, if the determination is negative, it is considered that there is no effect execution instruction from the main CPU 26a, and it is determined whether or not the operating effect is to be executed based on the presence or absence of the operating effect start flag (S1215). If the determination in S1215 is negative, the main CPU 26a does not instruct the execution of the effect, and the gaming state confirmation switch 50 has not detected the game ball for a predetermined time. Shift to steps (S1216 to S1218). Note that S1217 and S1218 also have a function that the demonstration effect loops every time S216 is affirmed. On the other hand, if the determination in S1215 is affirmative, it is considered that the player is playing a game, and the process proceeds to the operation effect determination process (S1213).

  If the determination in S1214 is affirmative, this process ends. If there is an effect execution instruction from the main CPU 26a and the game state confirmation switch 50 has not detected a game ball, there is a possibility that the player stops hitting the game ball and is paying attention to the symbol variation game or the like. Therefore, (a) a determination system (S1215 to S1218) for determining whether or not to give an instruction to execute a demonstration effect, and (b) a demonstration effect is executed even though the player is playing a ball. It is necessary to go through an operation effect determination process (S1212) for determining an in-operation effect that improves the game entertainment until the passage detection switch 51 or the winning detection switch 22a detects a game ball. Absent.

[Operation effect determination processing (S1213): FIG. 10]
First, it is determined based on the presence or absence of various flags whether or not an effect execution instruction is issued from the main CPU 26a to the input buffer of the overall control board 27 (S1219), and the number of times that the gaming state confirmation switch 50 is turned on is counted. It is determined whether or not the confirmation number counter value is 1 or more (S1220). Then, after subtracting 1 from the confirmation counter value (S1221), an operating effect determination random number (for example, any one of 0 to 19) is acquired (S1222), and the presence or absence of the operating effect flag is determined ( S1223). This operating effect flag is a flag indicating that the operating effect is currently being executed. That is, if the determination in S1223 is negative, even if there is a condition for performing the operation effect determination process (S1213) during the operation effect, only random number acquisition is performed, and a new operation effect is started during the operation effect. This process is terminated so as not to cause the error to occur. On the other hand, if the determination in S1223 is negative, it can be identified that the current operation effect is not being executed. Therefore, in S1223, the current background is checked based on the type of the background flag, and A table corresponding to the background flag is determined from the distribution TB for determining the operation effect as shown in Table 1 or 2 (S1224). Next, the operation effect determination random number is read, and the operation effect pattern is determined from this and the determined distribution TB (S1225).

(Table 1)
Background A: Sea

(Table 2)
Background B: Mountain

  Then, an operation effect designation command for instructing execution of the determined operation effect is generated and stored in the transmission buffer of the overall control board 27 (S1226), and the effect time β2 is added to the timer B2 for managing the operation effect execution time. (20 seconds: interrupt count value 10000) is set (S1227). Then, an operation effect flag indicating that the operation effect is being performed is set (S1228), and this process ends.

  As described above, in the present invention, the operation effect pattern corresponding to the background image as the game state notification effect is selected and determined from a plurality of types set in the distribution TB. As a result, each pachinko machine 10 according to the present invention has its own operation effect, so that the player has some positive correlation between the displayed background image and the probability of winning the jackpot. When selecting a gaming machine, by contrasting the background image displayed on the gaming machine that other players are playing with the number of acquired gaming balls, , It is possible to provide the player with the pleasure of reminiscent of an occult feeling such as “It is easy to win if a game is played on a gaming machine on which this background image is displayed”.

  If the determination in S1220 is negative and the confirmation number counter is 0, it is determined whether or not the operating effect determination random number has been acquired (S1229). That is, this is when the game state confirmation switch 50 has not detected a game ball (S1202: N, S1220: N), and there is no production execution instruction from the main CPU 26a (S1214, S1219), and the operation production is also performed. Even when it is not executed (S1223: N), it is a process to be performed because there is a possibility that a random number for determining the operation effect is acquired in S1222. And if the random number for operation effect determination is acquired (S1229: Y), an operation effect is determined (S1224-S1228).

  As will be described later, in the effect management process S1004, the operation effect start flag is cleared when there is no operation effect flag (step S425). For example, if the operation effect is determined in S1224 to S1228 when the remaining time of the management timer B1 of the operation effect start flag is 1 second, the effect time β2 (20 seconds) longer than the remaining time 1 second of the timer B1. Is set in the timer B2. If the operation effect start flag is cleared ignoring the presence of the operation effect flag, S1215 is affirmed, and the demonstration effect is started immediately even though the operation effect is being executed. It will be. As in the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment, such a malfunction is prevented by performing control to clear the operation effect start flag and shift to the demonstration effect only when there is no operation effect flag. At the same time, the regulation time for the demonstration can be substantially extended.

[Production management processing (S1004): FIG. 11]
Next, in the overall CPU 27a, an effect management process S1004 is performed.
The presence / absence of a big hit effect flag based on step S1103 is determined (S1401). If this flag exists, an ending designation command based on step S106 of the main CPU 26a is sent to the input buffer of the overall control board 27 according to the routine shown in FIG. After this is determined (S1402), if it is affirmed, the winning effect flag is cleared (S1403), and the effect management process S1004 ends.

  If S1401 is denied, the presence / absence of a fluctuating effect flag based on step S1108 is determined (S1404). If this flag exists, the presence / absence of input based on step S404 of the main CPU 26a is determined according to the routine shown in FIG. After the determination (S1405), when this is affirmed, the variable effect flag is cleared (S1406), and the effect management process S1004 is ended.

  In S1407, a preliminary effect flag indicating that the preliminary effect is being executed is determined. If the determination is affirmative, 1 is subtracted from the timer A (S1408), and if it is 0 (Yes in S1409), a preliminary effect stop command for stopping the preliminary effect is generated and stored in the transmission buffer. (S1410), the preliminary effect flag is cleared (S1411). On the other hand, when the result of the determination in S1409 is negative, this process ends because it is during the period in which the preliminary effect is to be executed.

  If the presence of the preliminary effect flag is denied in S1407, the presence / absence of the operation effect start flag is determined (S1412). If the determination is denied, the demonstration effect is being executed. After confirming the remaining time (S1413), if there is remaining time, 1 is subtracted from the timer C (S1414), and this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the determination in S1412 is affirmative, 1 is subtracted from the timer B1 (S1415), and the remaining time is determined (S1416). If the remaining time of the timer B1 is present (S1416: N), it is determined whether or not the operation effect is currently being performed (S1417). If the determination is affirmative, the operation effect execution management timer B2 is set to 1. Subtraction is performed (S1418). If the timer B2 is 0 (Yes in S1419), the operation effect is ended, and thus the operation effect flag is cleared (S1420). The stop control of the operation effect is independently performed by the effect control circuit, and in this embodiment, no special instruction is given from the overall control circuit.

  If the determination in S1416 is affirmative, for the reason described in the description of the operation effect determination process, it is determined whether or not the operation effect is actually performed, instead of immediately clearing the operation effect start flag. (S1412) If the determination is affirmed, 1 is subtracted from the timer B2, and the operating effect flag is managed (S1423, S1424). If the determination in S1416 is affirmative and the determination in S1421 is negative, there is no production instruction from the main CPU 26a, and the player has not played the game for a predetermined period. Etc. are cleared (S1425 to S1427), and the demonstration effect can be executed by the next interruption (S1213 to S1217).

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) As long as it is detected that a game ball has passed in the operation detection area, even if the winning detection at the start winning opening 22 is not made for a predetermined time, the demonstration effect is not performed and the operation effect is executed. As a result, the player can maintain the gaming interest until the winning detection at the start winning port 22 is detected.
(2) In particular, since the operation detection area is set as a rolling path of game balls having a relatively low winning probability at the start winning opening 22, the game balls fired by the player are frequently and suitably detected. can do.
(3) In addition, a timer (B1) for maintaining and managing an operation effect start flag that is set when the game ball passes through the operation detection region and restricts execution of the demonstration effect is provided in the operation detection region. Since the game ball is reset every time the game ball is passed through, as long as the player launches the game ball, it is possible to suitably extend the regulation period for executing the demonstration effect.
(4) Furthermore, since the operation effect start flag is configured not to be cleared during the operation effect, even if the operation effect start flag is cleared during the operation effect, the operation effect ends during the effect. Since the demonstration production is not executed, the regulation time required for the demonstration production execution can be substantially extended.

3 is a schematic diagram of the machine surface side of the pachinko machine 10. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control configuration of the pachinko machine 10. FIG. 4 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing performed by the main CPU 26a of the main control board 26. 4 is a flowchart of input processing performed by the main CPU 26a of the main control board 26. 7 is a flowchart of a variable game start process performed by the main CPU 26a of the main control board 26. 7 is a flowchart of a variable game end process performed by the main CPU 26a of the main control board 26. 7 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing performed by a central CPU 27a of the central control board 27. 4 is a flowchart of command input processing performed by a central CPU 27a of the central control board 27. 7 is a flowchart of a gaming state confirmation process performed by a central CPU 27a of the central control board 27. 7 is a flowchart of an operation effect determination process performed by the overall CPU 27a of the overall control board 27. 10 is a flowchart of an effect management process performed by the overall CPU 27a of the overall control board 27. It is a flowchart of a routine associated with effect management processing. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a center accessory 20.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine 13 Game board 13a Game area 19 Ball-ball apparatus 20 Center object 22 Start prize opening 26 Main control board 27 General control board 28 Production control board 29 Peripheral board 40 Variable display device 50 Game state confirmation switch 51 Pass detection switch

Claims (6)

A bullet ball device that launches a game ball toward the game area, a variable display device that displays a symbol change by changing the game symbol, and a start prize that is provided in the game area so that the game ball can win with a predetermined probability And a winning detection means for detecting a winning of a game ball in the starting winning area and outputting a winning signal for causing the variable display device to execute the symbol variation display over a predetermined time, and the symbol variation display. In a gaming machine in which a gaming state advantageous to the player is formed according to the game pattern pattern
An operation detection area provided on a path within the game area, where the launched game ball reaches with a higher probability than the start winning area;
When it is detected that a game ball has passed through the operation detection area, operation confirmation means for outputting an operation detection signal for executing an operation effect in the variable display device;
Demo for causing the variable display device to execute a demonstration effect when a predetermined time has not passed and the operation detection signal has not been output for a predetermined time. Demo signal output means for outputting a signal;
A gaming machine comprising:   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the operation detection signal is output from an operation confirmation unit during execution of the demonstration effect, the operation effect is executed by a variable display device.   3. The game according to claim 1, wherein when the operation detection signal is output from the operation confirmation unit, the operating effect is not executed at least while the symbol variation display is executed on the variable display device. Machine.   When the winning signal is input from the winning detection means, a main control board provided with a main CPU for determining a display symbol to be displayed in a variable display on the variable display device, and the operating detection signal is input from the operation confirming means. 4. A gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a sub control board provided with a sub CPU for determining whether or not to execute the operating effect on the variable display device.   When the game area is provided with a preliminary prize detection area through which a game ball passes with a predetermined probability, and when it is detected that the game ball has passed through the preliminary prize detection area during execution of the demonstration effect or the operation effect, The gaming machine according to claim 4, further comprising preliminary winning confirmation means for outputting a preliminary winning signal for executing a preliminary presentation on the variable display device toward the main control board.   The preliminary winning detection area has a higher probability that the launched game ball reaches the start winning area via the preliminary winning detection area than the probability that the launched winning ball reaches the starting winning area via the operation detection area. The gaming machine according to claim 5 provided.

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