JP4879561B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been proposed a gaming machine that uses a liquid crystal display device that variably displays symbols to scroll symbols vertically or horizontally (for example, Patent Document 1). Variations of this gaming machine are as follows: (1) 5 lines that are “big hit” when the same symbol stops on either the vertical or horizontal 3 lines or the diagonal 2 lines; ) There is one line that becomes “big hit” when the same symbol stops in one vertical or horizontal line. The player can switch the above-described variation mode by operating a button (button switch) during the game in addition to the demonstration screen display of the gaming machine, that is, at any time.
Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-160904 (FIG. 35)

  However, since the player can operate the button switch at any time, no matter how much the change mode is changed by operating the button switch, the player becomes familiar and does not feel fresh. For this reason, the player's willingness to operate decreased, and finally the button switch was not operated.

  Also, once the player's favorite variation mode is determined, the favorite variation mode is maintained, and thereafter, the button switch is not operated to switch the variation mode. Thus, being able to operate the button switch at any time does not necessarily draw out the player's willingness to operate and improve the player's willingness to play.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to suppress a decrease in a player's gaming motivation as much as possible in a gaming machine having a button switch.

  Effective solutions for achieving the above-described object will be described below. In addition, the effect | action etc. are demonstrated as needed. In addition, for easy understanding, the corresponding configuration in the embodiment of the invention is also shown as appropriate, but is not limited at all.

(Solution 1)
Player and button switch operable, and playing ball ball entrance can start winning opening implanted into the game area, and a detection switch for detecting a game ball entering the start winning opening, variations in the plurality of symbols Information In addition to the display, a display for displaying various effects associated with the game, a main control means for controlling the progress of the game, and an effect command output from the main control means are input, and based on the input effect command Sub-control means for controlling various games and display commands output from the sub-control means are input, a display image is created in accordance with the input display command, and the display image is displayed on the display Display control means for controlling the game machine, wherein the main control means stores up to a preset upper limit number of game balls detected by the detection switch. A number storage means, a winning determination means for determining whether or not to give a profit to the player based on the game ball if there is a reserved ball stored in the hold number storage means, A variation display pattern setting means for setting a variation display mode of the plurality of symbol information as a variation display pattern based on the display, and an effect command output means for outputting the set variation display pattern to the sub-control means as an effect command. The sub-control means includes a timer setting means for setting an effective period during which the input of the button switch is effective, an effective period determining means for determining whether the input is the effective period, and an effective period determining means. when the effective period determination result is the valid period, and the input count counting means for counting the number of inputs of the button switches in the person the effective period, the After the effective period has expired, while maintaining the first representation embodiment when the number of inputs of said button switch does not satisfy a predetermined number of times, when the number of inputs of said button switch meets a predetermined number of times Is changed from the first effect mode to the second effect mode different from the first effect mode, and the effect mode avoidance determining means for avoiding the first effect mode to the second effect mode, and the effect mode The maintenance command is set as a display command when the first effect mode is maintained based on the maintenance change determination result by the avoidance determination means, while the change command is displayed when changing from the first effect mode to the second effect mode. Effect mode maintaining / changing command setting means, effect command analysis means for analyzing the input effect command, and effect command analysis means Effect command analysis result by the even if a variable display pattern with the reach demonstration, based on the I that maintain change determination result to the representation embodiment avoidance determination means, when maintaining the first representation embodiment, the said first of the first reach demonstration command for executing the reach demonstration set along the representation embodiment, whereas according to the result of the game indicated by the variable display patterns, without following the reach demonstration indicated by the variable display pattern, monotonous normal reach While setting as a display command to execute an effect, when avoiding from the first effect mode to the second effect mode, the normal reach effect set along the first effect mode along the second effect mode. The second reach effect command for executing the reach effect set including a plurality of reach effects other than The and reach effect neglect display command setting means for setting in accordance with the reach demonstration showing variable display pattern as a display command to execute the reach demonstration, the demonstration mode keep changing command setting means or the reach demonstration negligence with follow the turn of a game showing results seen containing a display command output means for outputting the display command that is set by the display command setting means to said display control means, wherein the display control means, the number of inputs of the button switch said predetermined within the validity period If the number of times is not satisfied, the first effect mode cannot be escaped from the first effect mode, and the first effect mode is repeatedly executed. And executing the normal reach effect set in accordance with the first effect mode. On the other hand, when the number of times the button switch is input within the effective period satisfies the predetermined number of times, the first effect mode can be avoided from the first effect mode. A gaming machine characterized by executing the second effect mode and entering a reach effect set in accordance with the second effect mode .

  This gaming machine includes a button switch, a start winning opening, a detection switch, a display, a main control means, a sub control means, and a display control means. An operation signal (input signal) is input to the button switch by a player's operation. The starting winning opening can enter a game ball that has been driven into the game area, and the detecting ball detects the gaming ball that has entered the starting winning opening. The display device displays various effects associated with the game in addition to a plurality of symbol information fluctuation displays.

  The main control means controls the progress of the game and outputs an effect command related to the progress of the game to the sub means. The sub-control means to which the effect command is input performs control relating to various games based on the effect command, and outputs information symbols to be displayed on the display and display commands related to the effect to the display control means. The display control means to which this display command is input creates a display image according to the display command and performs control to display this display image on the display.

  The main control means includes hold number storage means, winning determination means, variable display pattern setting means, and effect command output means. The holding number storage means stores the game balls detected by the detection switch up to a preset upper limit number (upper limit value). If there is a holding ball stored in the holding number storage unit, the winning determination unit determines whether to give a profit to the player based on the holding ball. The variation display pattern setting means sets the variation display mode of the plurality of symbol information as the variation display pattern based on the winning determination result by the winning determination means. The effect command output means outputs the set variable display pattern as an effect command to the sub-control means.

  Here, “based on a reserved ball” is to use one reserved ball stored in the reserved number storage means, that is, to digest one reserved ball. For example, when there are three holding balls in the holding storage means, one holding ball is used, that is, one holding ball is digested, and it is determined whether or not a profit should be given to the player by the winning determination means. As a result of this digestion, the number of reserved balls is reduced from three to two.

The sub-control means is a timer setting means, an effective period determining means, an input count counting means, an effect mode avoidance determining means, an effect mode maintaining / changing command setting means, an effect command analyzing means, a reach effect neglect display command setting means, and a display command output means. Is included. The timer setting means sets a period (valid period) during which the button switch input is valid. The valid period determining means determines whether or not the valid period is reached. When the valid period determination result is the valid period, the input count counting unit counts the number of times the button switch is input (the number of operations). If the grace period expires, effect is produced avoidance determination means maintains the first representation embodiment when the input count does not meet the number of predetermined other hand, when the meet the number of the input number of times determined in advance Is changed from the first effect mode to the second effect mode different from the first effect mode to avoid the first effect mode to the second effect mode. That is, when the number of inputs does not satisfy the predetermined number, the same first effect mode is repeated. Based on the result of the maintenance change determination by the effect mode avoidance determination unit, the effect mode maintenance change command setting unit sets the maintenance command as a display command when maintaining the first effect mode, while from the first effect mode. When changing to the second effect mode, the change command is set as a display command.

As described above, the sub-control unit receives the effect command output from the main control unit. The command analyzing means analyzes the input effect command. Effect command analysis result by the presentation command analysis means a case where the variable display pattern with the reach demonstration, based on the maintenance change determination result by the representation embodiment avoidance determination means, reach effect negligence display command setting means, first The first reach effect command for executing the reach effect set in accordance with the first effect mode is maintained in accordance with the game result indicated by the variable display pattern, while the reach effect indicated by the variable display pattern is maintained. Is set as a display command for executing a monotonous normal reach effect, and when avoiding from the first effect mode to the second effect mode, along with the first effect mode along the second effect mode. Second for executing a reach effect set including a plurality of reach effects other than the set normal reach effect The chromatography Ji effect command is set as a display command for executing the reach demonstration accordance reach demonstration showing the variation display pattern with follow on the results of the game indicated by the variable display pattern. For this reason, the reach production negligence display command setting means behaves as if it is happening. The display command output means outputs the display command set by the effect mode maintenance / change command setting means or the reach effect neglect display command setting means to the display control means. Here, the “game result” means “big hit” that gives a profit to the player and “out of game” that gives no profit to the player. If the number of times the button switch is input does not satisfy the predetermined number of times within the effective period, the display control means cannot avoid the first effect mode from the first effect mode, and thus the first effect mode. The first presentation mode is repeatedly executed and the normal reach production set in accordance with the first presentation mode is executed, while the number of times the button switch is input within a valid period is determined in advance. Is satisfied, it is possible to avoid the first effect mode from the first effect mode, and the second effect mode is executed while the second effect mode is executed. The reach production set along the aspect is executed.

Thus, unless the player operates the button switch within a period during which the button switch input is valid (valid period), the first effect mode that is repeatedly performed cannot be avoided. In the first effect mode that is repeatedly performed, the variable display mode of the plurality of symbol information is not selected based on the variable display pattern. For this reason, the player feels that he / she wants to operate the button switch in order to avoid the first effect mode that is repeatedly performed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the player's willingness to play as much as possible.

In the present embodiment, the push button switch 18 ′ in FIG. 1 corresponds to a button switch, the start winning port 45 and the electric start winning port 46 in FIG. 4 correspond to start winning ports, and the upper start port switch 55a in FIG. The lower start port switch 55b corresponds to the detection switch, the liquid crystal display 116 in FIG. 5 corresponds to the display, the main control MPU 101a of the main control board 101 in FIG. 4 corresponds to the main control means, and the sub-integration in FIG. The sub-integrated MPU 111a of the board 111 corresponds to the sub-control means, the liquid crystal control MPU 113a and the VDP 113c of the liquid crystal control board 113 of FIG. 4 correspond to the display control means, and the start-up storage storage process of step S32 in the game process of FIG. 11 corresponds to the number storage means, the big hit determination process in FIG. 11 corresponds to the winning determination means, and the variable display pattern setting process in FIG. 8, the command transmission output process of step S19 in the timer interrupt process corresponds to the effect command output means, the timer setting process performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process of FIG. 14 corresponds to the timer setting means, The effective period determination process performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process in FIG. 14 corresponds to the effective period determination unit, the input number count process in FIG. 17 corresponds to the input number count unit, and step S152 in the route determination process in FIG. The left turn permission range and the right turn permission range in the determination processing based on the value of the push button input number BC correspond to the predetermined number of times, and the outer circumference (sea route and city route) in FIG. configuration in the mode "inner loop of FIG. 22 (a) (mountain tunnel route) corresponds to the" second representation embodiment ", the route determination processing produce state of FIG. 19 Avoided corresponds to the determining means, corresponds to the present state route commands maintaining command in step S158 in the route determination process in FIG. 19, corresponds to a right turn route commands change command at step S156 in the route determination process of FIG. 19, FIG. The set of commands for the right turn route in step S156 and the set of commands for the current route in step S158 in the route determination process in 19 correspond to the production mode maintenance change command setting means, and the command analysis processing in FIG. 15 corresponds to the production command analysis means. The reach effect command set corresponds to the reach effect neglect display command setting means based on the normal reach command set in step S172 and the change display pattern in step S174 in the reach effect neglect display process of FIG. 16ms steady processing Information output process in step S95 in corresponds to a display command output unit.

(Solution 2)
The gaming machine according to Solution 1, wherein the sub-control unit includes: a message informing that it is possible to change the effect mode within the effective period; and a message for prompting input of the button switch. A gaming machine including message setting means for setting a message command to be displayed on the front display as a display command. In this way, the player can know when to operate the button switch. In addition, the player operates the button switch with a sense of expectation that the player will see a message displayed on the display and operate the button switch to make a “big hit”. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the willingness to operate the button switch.

  In the present embodiment, the message setting process performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process in FIG. 14 corresponds to the message setting means, and the message MG informing that “turn right by repeated hits” and “do not push straight” in FIG. The button message BM in FIG. 24 corresponds to a message prompting the user to input a button switch.

(Solution 3)
The gaming machine according to Solution 1 or 2, wherein the effect mode has a road as a motif, and includes a sea route, a city route, and a mountain tunnel route.

  Since the production mode is the sea route, the city route, and the mountain tunnel route, the various effects of each route unfolded on the display makes the player feel as if they are enjoying driving, You can enjoy playing in the mood of a short trip to the mountains. Therefore, a decrease in interest can be suppressed.

  In this embodiment, the sea route in FIG. 22A corresponds to the sea route, the city route in FIG. 22A corresponds to the city route, and the mountain tunnel route in FIG. 22A corresponds to the mountain tunnel route. To do.

(Solution 4)
The game machine according to Solution 3, wherein the production mode avoidance determination unit avoids the current route from the current route to the left turn route when the number of inputs is within a left turn permission range after the validity period ends, and the number of inputs A gaming machine that avoids a right turn route from a current route when the is a right turn permitted range, and remains the current route when the number of inputs is neither a left turn permitted range nor a right turn permitted range. In this way, for example, the player can know only the result of the game by selecting the route of the effect mode that does not change, while the effect mode is selected by selecting the route of the effect mode that changes. At the same time, you can know the game results. For this reason, it can respond to a player's various game tastes. In addition, a player who enjoys the sea route enjoys the direction of the sea route, a player who enjoys the city route enjoys the direction of the city route, and a player who enjoys the mountain tunnel route enjoys the direction of the mountain tunnel route. Can be selected with the player's confidence.

(Solution 5)
SOLUTION 3 or a gaming machine according to 4, the sub-control means, the expiration time apart from the navigation display timer setting means for setting a navigation validity period for display input becomes valid button switches And a navigation display valid period determining means for determining whether or not the navigation display valid period, and when the navigation display valid determination result is the navigation display valid period, the travel position of the current route is displayed. A navigation message setting means for setting, as a display command, a navigation message command for displaying a message indicating whether or not to perform, a message for prompting the input of the button switch, and a display command on the display Traveling position setting means for setting a traveling position command to be displayed as a display command, wherein the display command output means The display command set by the means is output to the display control means, and when the button switch is input within the navigation display valid period, the display command set by the travel position setting means is output to the display control means. Game machine to output to. In this way, the player can understand at a glance where the current route is traveling. Further, by giving an opportunity to operate the button switch, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the interest of the player.

  In the present embodiment, the navigation display timer setting process performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process of FIG. 14 corresponds to the navigation display timer setting means, and the navigation display valid process performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process of FIG. The period determination process corresponds to the navigation display valid period determination means, the navigation message setting process performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process of FIG. 14 corresponds to the navigation message setting means, and step S132 in the navigation display determination process of FIG. The navigation display command corresponds to the travel position setting means.

(Solution 6)
The gaming machine according to any one of solution means 1 to 5, wherein the gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, since the gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine, the effects of the solving means 1 to 5 can be obtained in the pachinko gaming machine. As a basic configuration of this pachinko gaming machine, a game ball is driven into a game area (game area 12 in the present embodiment) in accordance with an operation of an operation means (operation handle 18 in the present embodiment), and the game ball that has been driven in Is displayed on the display area 42 in the effect device 40 in the present embodiment on the condition that a winning is made in the start opening provided in the game area (in this embodiment, the start winning opening 45, the electric start winning opening 46). ) Displays the variation of the symbol information and stops the display result of the symbol information. Also, when a profit granting state (a big hit gaming state) occurs, a big winning opening provided in the gaming area (this embodiment, the big winning opening 61) is opened in a predetermined manner to allow a game ball to be won, Based on the winning, a game privilege (awarding a prize ball, writing a point on a magnetic card, etc.) is given to the player.

(Solution 7)
The gaming machine according to any one of solution means 1 to 5, wherein the gaming machine is a spinning type gaming machine.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, since the gaming machine is a spinning type gaming machine, the effects of the solving means 1 to 5 can be obtained in the spinning type gaming machine. As a basic configuration of this spinning machine, after a symbol information string composed of a plurality of symbol information (for example, a plurality of reel columns with a plurality of symbol information) is displayed in a variable manner, the display result of the symbol information is stopped and displayed. Fluctuation display means for starting, the fluctuation display of the symbol information is started based on the operation of the start operation means (for example, the operation lever), and the operation of the stop operation means (for example, the stop button) or the elapse of a predetermined time Based on this, the variable display of symbol information is stopped. And it is provided with the profit provision state generation | occurrence | production means which generate | occur | produces a profit provision state (big hit game state) on the condition that symbol information becomes a predetermined specific display mode.

(Solution 8)
The gaming machine according to any one of solution means 1 to 5, wherein the gaming machine is a fusion gaming machine in which a pachinko gaming machine and a revolving gaming machine are fused.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, since the gaming machine is a fusion gaming machine, the operational effects of the solving means 1 to 5 can be obtained in the fusion gaming machine. As a basic configuration of the fusion gaming machine in which the pachinko gaming machine and the revolving-type gaming machine are fused, a symbol information string composed of a plurality of symbol information (for example, a plurality of reel rows with a plurality of symbols) is variably displayed. After that, it is provided with a fluctuation display means for stopping and displaying the display result of the symbol information, and starting the fluctuation display of the symbol information based on the operation of the start operation means (for example, the operation lever), and the stop operation means (for example, The change display of the symbol information is stopped based on the operation of the stop button) or the elapse of a predetermined time. And it is provided with the profit grant state generation means which generates a profit grant state (big hit game state) on condition that the symbol information becomes a predetermined specific display mode, and by using the game ball as a game medium, A predetermined number of game balls are required at the start of the change, and a large amount of game balls are paid out when a profit granting state occurs.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the player's willingness to play as much as possible.

Next, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, a pachinko machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view showing the pachinko machine 1, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the pachinko machine 1 in a state where the main body frame and the front frame are opened, and FIG. 3 is a rear view showing the back side configuration of the pachinko machine 1. is there.
[1. Configuration of pachinko machine]

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pachinko machine 1 includes an outer frame 2, a main body frame 3, a game board 4, a front frame 5, and the like. The outer frame 2 is formed in a vertically rectangular frame shape by upper, lower, left and right frame members, and has a lower plate 6 that receives the lower surface of the main body frame 3 at the lower front side of the outer frame 2. A main body frame 3 is attached to the front side of the outer frame 2 by a hinge mechanism 7 so as to be opened and closed forward. Further, the main body frame 3 is configured by integrally molding the front frame body 8, the game board mounting frame 9 and the mechanism mounting frame 10 with a synthetic resin material. The front frame 8 formed on the front side of the main body frame 3 is formed in a rectangular frame shape having a size corresponding to the outer shape excluding the support plate 6 on the front side of the outer frame 2.

  A game board 4 is attached to the game board mounting frame 9 integrally formed at the rear part of the front frame body 8 so as to be detachable and replaceable from the front. A guide rail 11 having an outer rail and an inner rail is provided on the board surface (front surface) of the game board 4, and a game area 12 is defined inside the guide rail 11. A low-frequency speaker 14 is mounted via a speaker mounting plate 13 near one side of the front lower portion of the front frame 8 positioned below the game board mounting frame 9. A launch rail 15 that guides a game ball toward the launch path of the game board 4 is attached to the upper portion in the lower region of the front surface of the front frame 8 in an inclined manner. On the other hand, a lower front member 16 is attached to a lower portion in the lower area of the front surface of the front frame body 8. A lower pan 17 is provided substantially at the center of the front surface of the lower front member 16, and an operation handle 18 is provided closer to one side.

  A function of locking the main body frame 3 with respect to the outer frame 2 is provided on the rear surface of the main body frame 3 (front frame body 8) opposite to the side where the hinge mechanism 7 is provided. A locking device 19 having a function of locking the front frame 5 is attached. The locking device 19 includes a plurality of upper and lower body frame locking hooks 21 that are detachably engaged with a closing tool 20 provided on the outer frame 2 to lock the main body frame 3 in a closed state, and an open side of the front frame 5. It includes a plurality of upper and lower door locking hooks 23 that detachably engage with a closing tool 22 provided on the rear surface to lock the front frame 5 in a closed state. Then, the key is inserted into the key hole of the cylinder lock 24 and rotated in one direction, so that the engagement between the main body frame locking hook 21 and the closing tool 20 of the outer frame 2 is released, and the main body frame 3 is released. When the key is locked and the key is rotated in the opposite direction, the engagement between the door locking hook 23 and the closing tool 22 of the front frame 5 is released, and the front frame 5 is unlocked. ing. The front end of the cylinder lock 24 is exposed to the front surface of the lower front member 16 through the front frame body 8 and the lower front member 16 so that the unlocking operation can be performed by inserting a key from the front of the pachinko machine 1. Are arranged.

  A front frame 5 is attached to one side of the front surface of the main body frame 3 by a hinge mechanism 25 so as to be opened and closed forward. The front frame 5 includes a door main body frame 26, a side decoration device 27, an upper plate 28, and an acoustic illumination device 29. The door main body frame 26 is formed of a pressed metal frame member, and is formed to have a size that covers a portion extending from the upper end of the front frame body 8 to the upper edge of the lower front member 16. A substantially circular opening window 30 through which the game area 12 of the game board 4 can be seen through from the front is formed at substantially the center of the door body frame 26. Further, a window frame 31 having a rectangular frame shape larger than the opening window 30 is provided on the rear side of the door main body frame 26, and a transparent plate 32 is attached to the window frame 31.

  On the front side of the door main body frame 26, around the opening window 30, side decoration devices 27 are mounted on the left and right sides, an upper plate 28 is mounted on the lower portion, and an acoustic decoration device 29 is mounted on the upper portion. The side decoration device 27 is mainly configured by a side decoration body 33 in which a lamp substrate is disposed and formed of a synthetic resin material. A plurality of slit-like opening holes that are long in the horizontal direction are arranged in the side decoration body 33 in the vertical direction, and a lens 34 corresponding to a light source disposed on the lamp substrate is incorporated in the opening hole. The acoustic illumination device 29 includes a transparent cover body 35, a middle / high tone speaker 36, a speaker cover 37, a reflector body (not shown), and the like, and these constituent members are assembled together to form a unit.

  Next, the back surface configuration of the main body frame 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, on the upper back side of the main body frame 3, a ball tank 140 that stores a game ball supplied from a ball lifting device installed on the game island, and a game ball stored in the ball tank 140. A tank rail 141 that flows down and a payout device 103 that takes in game balls flowing down along the tank rail 141 are arranged. The payout device 103 is formed in a unit shape and pays out a predetermined number of game balls based on a signal instructing payout of game balls.

  Below the tank rail 141, the above-described game board 4 is disposed. On the upper back side of the game board 4, a lamp drive board box 130 containing a lamp drive board 112 to be described later, and a liquid crystal control to be described later. A liquid crystal control board box 132 containing a board 113 and a liquid crystal display 116 and a relay terminal board box 133 containing a relay terminal board 105 to be described later are disposed. A main control board box 134 containing the main control board 101 is disposed. Between the main control board box 134 and the back side of the game board 4, a sub-integrated board box 136 containing a sub-integrated board 111, which will be described later, is disposed and is superposed on the sub-integrated board box 136. A main control board box 134 is mounted.

  In addition, a board protection cover 142 for protecting the lamp driving board box 130, the liquid crystal control board box 132, and the relay terminal board box 133 is provided on the back side of the game board 4 so as to protrude from the back side of the pachinko machine 1. The lamp driving board box 130, the liquid crystal control board box 132, and the relay terminal board box 133 are covered. The overhang of the board protection cover 142 is designed to be larger than the depth of the superimposition of the main control board box 134 and the sub integrated board box 136.

  A payout control board box 138 containing a payout control board, which will be described later, is disposed below the game board 4, that is, below the back surface of the main body frame 3. The payout control board box 138 is below the main control board box 134 and the sub integrated board box 136 described above. Note that the depth of the payout control board box 138 is designed to be smaller than the depth obtained by superimposing the main control board box 134 and the sub-integrated board box 136.

  In this way, the overhang (depth) from the back side of the main body frame 3 (upper side of the game board 4) to the bottom side of the pachinko machine 1 is reduced. For this reason, even if a sphere falls from the sphere tank 140, it is flipped by the above-described substrate protection cover 140, so that it is difficult to directly hit the main control board box 138, the sub-integrated board box 136, the dispensing control board box 138, etc. The various board boxes 130 to 138 are prevented from being damaged.

  Further, the substrate protection cover 140 prevents the pachinko machine 1 from entering even if the sphere falls from the sphere tank 140. For this reason, for example, even when the game board 4 is removed from the above-mentioned game board mounting frame 9 in the replacement work of the game board 4, the ball that has entered the pachinko machine 1 does not flow into the game board mounting frame 9, and the game When the board 4 ′ is attached, the balls do not engage between the game board 4 ′ and the game board mounting frame 9. Therefore, the replacement work can be performed smoothly.

  On the other hand, a launcher 135 is disposed on the lower side of the back surface of the main body frame 3 (to the left of the above-described payout control board box 138). The launching device 135 includes a launching hammer that launches a ball sent to the launching rail 15 and a launching motor that imparts a reciprocating rotation to the launching hammer. In response, the game ball is launched into the game area 12 along the launch path of the game board 4 described above.

The liquid crystal control board box 132, the main control board box 134, the sub-integrated board box 136, and the payout control board box 138 are sealed with a sealing screw such as a one-way screw and formed of a transparent synthetic resin material. Various board connectors are mounted on various boards housed in these sealed board boxes, and these board connectors are exposed from the sealed board box.
[2. Components of the game board]

  Next, various components provided in the game area 12 partitioned on the game board 4 will be described. FIG. 4 is a front view showing the game board 4.

  An effect device 40 is disposed in the central portion of the game area 12. The stage device 40 includes a special symbol display 41 that variably displays a special symbol by lighting of a plurality of light emitters (for example, four LEDs), and a plurality of types of three symbols including left, middle, and right symbols. Predetermined conditions are established by a liquid crystal display (to be described later) that displays decorative designs in a variable manner and displays various effects in the display area 42, and lighting of a plurality of light emitters (for example, four LEDs) (start winning award 45 and A special figure memory lamp 54 for displaying a memory number (starting memory number) for which a game ball has been won at the electric start winning opening 46 but has not yet started to change special symbols, a special symbol display 41, a liquid crystal display 116 and a special decoration memory lamp 54 are provided on the front surface of the game board 4 (the game area 12). Further, effect lamps 44 a to 44 d are respectively attached to the left side, the upper side, and the right side of the effect device 40. These effect lamps 44 a to 44 d perform lighting display in accordance with the effect display by the display area 42. Further, gradation lamps 49a and 49b whose luminance is adjusted (gradation control is performed) are attached below the rendering device 40 (below the display area 42).

  Below the stage device 40, there are provided a start winning opening 45 and an electric start winning opening 46 having a pair of opening and closing blades 47 below the starting winning opening 45. The electric start winning port 46 includes an opening / closing blade solenoid 63 a that is a driving source for opening and closing the opening / closing blade 47. When the display result of the normal symbol display 50 is “winning”, the opening / closing blade 47 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, normal state: 0.5 seconds (s), or probability variation state: 3 s). To be controlled. It should be noted that a game ball from above can be won in the start winning opening 45, and the upper side is blocked by the start winning opening 45 in the electric start winning opening 46, and a game ball cannot win if the open / close wing 47 is closed. It is in a state. For this reason, when the open / close wing 47 is in the open state, the game ball can be won.

  In addition, the game ball won in the start winning opening 45 is detected by the upper start opening switch 55a, while the game ball won in the electric start winning opening 46 is detected by the lower start opening switch 55b. Based on this detection (predetermined conditions are met), the special symbol display 41 performs special symbol variation display (decorative symbol variation display in the display area 42).

  When a game ball wins the start winning opening 45 or the electric start winning opening 46 and the game ball is detected by the upper start opening switch 55a or the lower start opening switch 55b, the display result of the special symbol on the special symbol display 41 is hit. A jackpot determination random number for determining whether or not to be (a specific display mode) is extracted. Also, if the winning winning opening 45 or the electric starting winning opening 46 is won during the change of the special symbol and the game ball is detected by the upper starting opening switch 55a or the lower starting opening switch 55b, the extracted big hit determination random number is predetermined. Up to the number (for example, 4) is stored. This stored number (starting stored number) is displayed by lighting a special-purpose memory lamp 54 composed of a plurality of light emitters (for example, four LEDs). The special figure storage lamp 54 is arranged at substantially the same position as the special symbol display 41.

  On the left side of the game area 12, a normal symbol display 50 is provided that variably displays a normal symbol by lighting and blinking of a light emitter (for example, LED). Also, a probability variation state lamp 51 that is turned on or off (in this embodiment, lighted in the probability variation state) is attached below the normal symbol display 50 depending on whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. Yes.

  In addition, on the left side and the right side below the rendering device 40, a left gate including a left gate switch 53a and a right gate including a right gate switch 53b are disposed. When the game ball is detected by the left gate switch 53a or the right gate switch 53b based on the game ball passing through the left gate or the right gate, the normal symbol display 50 starts to display the variation of the normal symbol. That is, the normal symbol variation display on the normal symbol display 50 is performed in accordance with the detection of the game ball by the left gate switch 53a or the right gate switch 53b.

  When a game ball is detected by the left gate switch 53a and the right gate switch 53b, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol display result on the normal symbol display 50 is “winning”. Is extracted. Further, when the game ball passes the left gate or the right gate while the normal symbol changes, and the game ball is detected by the left gate switch 53a or the right gate switch 53b, the extracted random numbers for determining the normal symbol are a predetermined number ( For example, 4) are stored. This stored number is displayed by turning on the universal memory lamp 56 composed of a plurality of light emitters (for example, four LEDs). The ordinary memory lamp 56 is arranged on the right side of the game area 12.

Below the electric start winning opening 46, a large winning opening device 60 having an open / close plate 62 for opening and closing a horizontally long rectangular winning opening 61 is disposed. The special winning opening device 60 includes an opening / closing plate solenoid 63b serving as an opening / closing drive source for the special winning opening 61 (opening / closing plate 62), and a count switch 64 that counts game balls won in the special winning opening 61. . Below the big winning opening device 60, that is, at the bottom of the gaming area 12, there is provided an out port 48 through which the gaming balls that have flown down the gaming area 12 and have not won any winning openings or winning devices are taken. Yes. A total of four normal winning ports 66a to 66d are arranged on the left and right sides of the starting winning port 45, the electric starting winning port 46, and the big winning port device 60, respectively, and the normal winning ports 66a and 66b are arranged. The game ball that has won the prize is detected by the left prize opening switch 57a, while the game ball that won the normal prize opening 66c, 66d is detected by the right prize opening switch 57b.
[3. Main board and peripheral board]

Next, the main substrate 100 and the peripheral substrate 110 provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the main board 100 and the peripheral board 110.
[3-1. Main board]

The main board 100 includes a main control board 101 and a payout control board 102 as shown in FIG.
[3-1-1. Main control board]

  As shown in FIG. 5, the main control board 101 includes a main control MPU 101a as a microprocessor and a main control I / O port 101b as an input / output device (I / O device). The main control MPU 101a includes a ROM that stores various processing programs and various commands, and a RAM that temporarily stores data. It also has a built-in function to prevent fraud.

  The main control MPU 101a receives the above-described left gate switch 53a, right gate switch 53b, upper start port switch 55a, lower start port switch 55b, left winning port switch 57a, right winning port switch via the main control I / O port 101b. 57b and the detection signal from the count switch 64 are respectively input, and based on these detection signals, the above-described opening / closing blade solenoid 63a, opening / closing plate solenoid 63b, special symbol display 41, normal symbol display 50, special symbol A drive signal for driving the memory lamp 54 and the general memory lamp 56 is output via the main control I / O port 101b. It should be noted that detection signals from the left winning port switch 57a and the right winning port switch 57b for detecting a game ball winning in the normal winning ports 66a to 66d are input to the main control I / O port 101b via the relay terminal board 105. ing.

Various commands are exchanged between the main control board 101 and the payout control board 102, that is, in both directions, and between the main control board 101 and the sub-integrated board 111, the main control board 101 to the sub-integrated board. Various commands are output to 111, that is, in one direction.
[3-1-2. Dispensing control board]

  As shown in FIG. 5, the payout control board 102 includes a payout control MPU 102a as a microprocessor and a payout control I / O port 102b as an I / O device. The payout control MPU 102a incorporates a ROM that stores various processing programs and various commands, and a RAM that temporarily stores data. It also has a built-in function to prevent fraud.

When a command for driving the payout device 103 (payout motor) output from the main control board 101 is input via the payout control I / O port 102b, the payout control MPU 102a receives the payout device 103 (discharge) based on this command. A drive signal for driving the motor is output via the payout control I / O port 102b. As a result, the payout device 103 pays out a prize ball. In addition, the payout control MPU 102a pays out a ball when a loan request signal is input from a prepaid card unit (not shown).
[3-2. Peripheral board]

As shown in FIG. 5, the peripheral substrate 110 includes a sub-integrated substrate 111 and a liquid crystal control substrate 113.
[3-2-1. Sub-integrated board]

  As shown in FIG. 5, the sub-integrated board 111 includes a sub-integrated MPU 111a as a microprocessor, a sub-integrated ROM 111b that stores various processing programs and various commands, a sound source IC 111c that performs high-quality sound, and the sound source IC 111c. A sound ROM 111d that stores sound information such as music to be referred to and sound effects is provided.

  The sub-integrated MPU 111a incorporates a parallel input / output port, a serial input / output port, and the like. Upon receiving an effect command from the main control board 101, the sub-integrated MPU 111a creates a display command related to display based on the effect command. Are output from the parallel input / output port to the sound source IC 111c and the liquid crystal control board 113, respectively. Further, in accordance with the display command, ON / OFF data for turning on / off (ON / OFF) the above-described effect lamps 44a to 44d and gradation lamps 49a and 49b are provided on the lamp driving board described later from the serial input / output port. The gradation data for lighting the gradation and the drive data for driving the character body (Dracula) are output. The sub-integrated MPU 111a also outputs a lighting signal from the parallel input / output port to the above-described side decoration device 27 in accordance with the effect.

The sound source IC 111c reads sound information from the sound ROM 111b in response to the display command output from the sub-integrated MPU 111a, and outputs music, sound effects and the like according to various effects from the above-described low-frequency speaker 14 and mid-low-frequency speaker 36. Do the control.
[3-2-2. LCD control board]

  As shown in FIG. 5, the liquid crystal control board 113 includes a liquid crystal control MPU 113a as a microprocessor, a liquid crystal control ROM 113b that stores various processing programs and various commands, and a VDP (Video Display Processor) that controls the display of the liquid crystal display 116. (Omitted) 113c and an image ROM 113d for storing various images to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 116.

When the liquid crystal control MPU 113a receives the display command described above from the sub-integrated board 111, the liquid crystal control MPU 113a controls the VDP 113c based on the display command. The VDP 113c performs control to read an image from the image ROM 113d and display it on the liquid crystal display 116.
[4. Lamp drive board]

  The lamp driving board 112 outputs lighting signals to the effect lamps 44a to 44d as shown in FIG. A gradation lighting signal is output to the lamps 49a and 49b.

  Although not shown, the lamp driving substrate 112 includes a plurality of gradation control ICs. These gradation control ICs are connected in a daisy chain, that is, daisy chain connected, and one external resistor (not shown) is connected. The gradation control IC determines the maximum current to be output by the external resistor, and can set the maximum output current to 0 to 127, that is, the output current to be output in 128 steps. In this embodiment, TLC5922 manufactured by Texas Instruments (TI) is used as the gradation control IC. This TLC5922 has 16 channels of output. In addition to individual ON / OFF control for each output channel, a constant current of 1% accuracy that can be programmed in the range of 0 to 80 milliamperes (mA) is supplied to each channel. Can do. Further, the maximum output current can be set by one external resistor, and the output current can be output for each channel in 128 steps from 0 to 127 with respect to this maximum output current.

  The gradation control IC captures ON / OFF data and gradation data serially output from the sub-integrated board 111, and outputs lighting signals to the effect lamps 44a to 44d based on the captured various data. A gradation lighting signal is output to the lamps 49a and 49b.

  The lighting signal output to the effect lamps 44a to 44d outputs the maximum output current, and the gradation lighting signal output to the gradation lamps 49a and 49b corresponds to the maximum output current based on the set gradation data. 0 to 127 stages of output current are output.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the effect lamps 44a to 44d and the gradation lamps 49a and 49b having different output currents are controlled using only the gradation control IC.
[5. Various control processes by main control board]

Next, various control processes performed by the main control MPU 101a of the main control board 101 according to the progress of the game of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the main process, FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the process when the power interruption occurs, FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the timer interrupt process, and FIG. 9 is a game process. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a variation start process, FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a big hit determination process, and FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a variation display pattern setting process. . Note that the timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 8 is performed at predetermined timing (in this embodiment, interrupt timing of 4 milliseconds (ms)) by the main control MPU 101a of the main control board 101.
[5-1. Main processing]

  When the supply of power to the pachinko machine 1 is started, the main control MPU 101a of the main control board 101 performs the main process shown in FIG. When this main process is started, as shown in FIG. 6, the main control MPU 101a performs a power-on process (step S1). In this power-on process, whether backup data is normally stored in the RAM (hereinafter referred to as “built-in RAM”) built in the main control MPU 101a (is set value at the time of power failure) or not? If the backup data is normal, a process for returning to the power failure state is performed according to the backup data stored in the internal RAM (referred to as “power recovery process”). Clear and perform initial setting of the main control MPU 101a (for example, setting of interrupt timing). When the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is stopped during the game, the game state immediately before the power supply is stopped is stored in the built-in RAM as backup data. In the power-on process, if the RAM erase switch for instructing clearing of backup data stored in the built-in RAM is ON, the built-in RAM is cleared and normal initialization is performed. If the backup data is not stored in the built-in RAM in the power-on process, the built-in RAM is cleared. In the power-on process, a process of setting a power-on command indicating that the sub-integrated MPU 111a of the sub-integrated board 111 has been activated when normal initial setting is executed is also performed. The power-on command notifies the sub integrated board 111 that the activation of the main control board 101 has been completed. Note that the backup data is also stored in the built-in RAM when the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is stopped (when the power is turned off) when the amusement store is closed.

  When the power-on process ends, the main control MPU 101a starts a loop process that repeatedly performs each process for gaming. When this loop process is started, the main control MPU 101a first determines whether or not a power failure notice signal has been detected (step S2). In the present embodiment, the power supply voltage used in the pachinko machine 1 is generated by a power supply board (not shown). That is, since a plurality of types of devices mounted on the pachinko machine 1 operate with different power supply voltages, the power supply voltage supplied from the external power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is converted into a predetermined power supply voltage on the power supply board, Supplying to the device. Therefore, when a power failure occurs and the power supply voltage supplied from the external power supply to the power supply board becomes equal to or lower than the predetermined power supply voltage, a power failure notice signal indicating that the supply of the power supply voltage from the power supply board to the main control board 101 is stopped. Sent. Then, when a power failure warning signal is detected by the main control MPU 101a mounted on the main control board 101 in step S2, a process at the time of power failure occurrence is executed (step S4). When the power cut occurs, the operation of the gaming machine is changed from the state before the power failure when the power supply voltage supplied to the power board after the power failure is restored (24V in this embodiment) (hereinafter referred to as power recovery). In order to start, it is the process which memorize | stores the state at the time of a power failure occurrence as backup data in built-in RAM. Although the processing content will be described later, in the present embodiment, as shown in the figure, the power interruption occurrence processing is not an interruption processing, but as a branch processing that is executed immediately after the start of the loop depending on whether or not a power failure warning signal is detected. It is incorporated in the main process (main control process).

If the power failure warning signal is not detected in step S2, that is, if the power from the external power supply is normally supplied, random number update processing 2 for updating various random numbers used in the game is performed (step S3). . The random number updated in the random number update process 2 will be described later.
[5-2. Processing when power is cut off]

  Next, the process at the time of power failure occurrence will be described. This process at the time of power-off occurrence is a process performed when a power failure warning signal is detected in the main process as described above. When the power interruption occurrence process is started, as shown in FIG. 7, the main control MPU 101a first performs an interrupt prohibition setting so that the interrupt process is not performed (step S4a). Then, the checksum of the built-in RAM built in the main control MPU 101a is calculated, and the calculation result is stored in a predetermined area of the built-in RAM (step S4b). This checksum is used to check whether or not the contents of the built-in RAM before the power failure is retained at the time of power recovery.

Subsequently, the main control MPU 101a sets a specified value indicating that the process at the time of power-off occurrence has been performed in a backup flag provided in a predetermined area of the built-in RAM (step S4c). When the above processing is completed, the main control MPU 101a prohibits access to the built-in RAM (step S4d) and enters an infinite loop to prepare for the stop of power supply. In this process, if the power supply voltage becomes unstable due to a very short power failure, etc. (hereinafter referred to as “instant interruption”), Since the power supply voltage is not stopped, there is a possibility that the process described above cannot return from the infinite loop. In order to avoid such adverse effects, the main control MPU 101a of the present embodiment is provided with a watchdog timer, and is configured to be reset if the watchdog timer is not updated for a predetermined time. The watchdog timer is periodically updated while the process is normally performed. However, the watchdog timer enters the process when the power is cut off and is not updated. As a result, even when the power interruption occurs due to a momentary power failure and the infinite loop of FIG. 7 is entered, a reset is applied after a predetermined period of time, and the main control MPU 101a is started in the same process as when the power is turned on. .
[5-3. Timer interrupt processing]

  Next, the timer interrupt process will be described. In the present embodiment, as described above, this timer interrupt process is performed every 4 ms by the main control MPU 101a of the main control board 101 during the execution of the main process. When the timer interrupt process is started, as shown in FIG. 8, the main control MPU 101a performs a register saving process (step S10) and then performs each process from step S11 to step S19. In the switch input process of step S11, the above-described various switches (the left winning port switch 57a, the right winning port switch 57b, the left gate switch 53a, the right gate switch 53b, the upper starting port switch 55a, the lower starting port switch 55b, the count switch, etc. ) To detect the detection signal. In the payout operation process in step S12, a payout command for instructing payout of the game ball is transmitted to the payout control board 102 based on the signal detected in the switch input process (step S11). In the random number update process 1 in step S13, a process of updating various random numbers used in the game is performed. In the present embodiment, the random number updated in the random number update process 1 is different from the random number updated in the random number update process 2 described above. Although these random numbers will be described later, the random numbers updated in the random number update process 2 may be updated in the random number update process 1.

  Moreover, in the game process of step S14, the process which controls the pachinko machine 1 according to the progress of a game is performed. In the normal symbol game of step S15, control processing related to the normal symbol display 50 is performed. In the ordinary electric equipment game of step S16, the opening / closing blade solenoid 63a is movably controlled to perform opening / closing control of the opening / closing blade 47. In the special symbol game of step S17, the special symbol display 41 is variably displayed based on the result of the game process (step S14). In the special electric accessory game in step S18, the open / close plate solenoid 63b is movably controlled to open / close the open / close plate 62. In the command transmission output process of step S19, a process of transmitting the effect command set in the game process (step S14) to the sub-integrated board 111 is performed. In the command transmission output process (step S19), a process of transmitting the power-on command set in the power-on process (step S1) to the sub integrated board 111 when power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is started. Do. In the I / O port output process in step S20, a process for outputting a status signal indicating a gaming state to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 (for example, a management computer, etc.) Processing to output is performed. When the processing from step S11 to step S20 is performed, the register restoration processing (step S21) is performed, and the processing is terminated.

  Here, various random numbers that are updated by the main control MPU 101a mounted on the main control board 101 in the random number update process 1 (step S13) and the random number update process 2 (step S3) described above will be described. In this embodiment, as the various random numbers used in the game, the big hit determination random number used for determining whether or not to generate the big hit gaming state (big hit determination), when it is determined that the big hit gaming state is generated in the big hit determination Probability change random number used for determining whether or not to make a promising big hit (probable change determination), and determining whether or not to make a loss with a reach mode when it is determined that no big hit gaming state is generated in the big hit determination ( Reach determination random number used for reach determination), variable display pattern random number used to determine the variable display pattern of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 41, and the open / close plate 62 of the big prize opening device 60 is opened. There is a normal random number per symbol used for determining whether or not to control (normal symbol per determination). Note that the variable display pattern of the special symbol may be determined using the reach determination random number, and the variable display pattern of the decorative symbol controlled to be displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 may be determined.

Among these random numbers, in the random number update process 1, the jackpot determination random number related to the occurrence of the jackpot gaming state, the probability variation determination random number, and the normal symbol related to whether or not the open / close plate 62 of the big prize opening device 60 is controlled to the open state. Update the hit judgment random number. That is, the random number used for the determination relating to the occurrence of the big hit gaming state and whether to control the open / close plate 62 of the big prize opening device 60 to the open state is updated every 4 ms as a predetermined timing. By doing so, the probability (the probability of determining that a big hit gaming state is generated, the probability of determining that the open / close plate 62 of the big prize opening device 60 is controlled to be opened) in a predetermined period in each random number is made constant. It is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged. On the other hand, in the random number update process 2, the reach determination random number and the variable display pattern random number are updated regardless of the occurrence of the big hit gaming state and the display result of the normal symbol. The random numbers updated on the main control board 101 are not limited to those described above. In the random number update process 2, the initial value of the big hit determination random number that starts counting next when the counter that updates the big hit determination random number makes one round. The initial value determination random number for determining the value is also updated.
[5-4. Game processing]

  Next, game processing will be described. When the game control process is started, as shown in FIG. 9, the main control MPU 101a determines whether or not a game ball has won a winning winning opening 45 or an electric starting winning opening 46 (step S30). Specifically, it is determined whether a detection signal is output from the upper start port switch 57a or the lower start port switch 57b, and a detection signal is output from the upper start port switch 57a or the lower start port switch 57b. It is determined that the game ball has won the upper start port switch 57a or the lower start port switch 57b (YES in step S30), and the detection signal from the upper start port switch 57a or the lower start port switch 57b must be output. For example, it is determined that no game ball has been won in the start winning opening 45 or the electric start winning opening 46 (NO in step S30). When a game ball wins in the start winning opening 45 or the electric start winning opening 46 in step S30, various random numbers (big hit determination random number, probability variation determination random number, etc.) are acquired, and the number of held balls from the built-in RAM of the main control board 101 With reference to the value of the counter, it is determined whether or not the value of the reserved ball number counter is less than 4 which is the upper limit value (step S31). If the held ball number counter is less than 4 in step S31, start memory storage processing is performed (step S32). If the detection signal from the upper start port switch 57a or the lower start port switch 57b is not output in step S30, and if the value of the held ball number counter is 4 in step S31, the start storage storing process Do not do. Thereafter, the main control MPU 101a refers to the value of the process selection flag indicating the progress state of the game and performs any one of steps S40 to S44.

  In the start memory storing process, a process of adding “1” to the held ball number counter, and a process of changing the lighting display mode (the number of lamps to be turned on) of the special figure memory lamp 54 in accordance with the addition of the held ball number counter. And a process of storing the acquired random number value (in this embodiment, the big hit determination random number, the probability variation determination random number) in the storage area of the start memory provided in the built-in RAM in correspondence with the count value of the reserved ball number counter. Do. Thus, the reserved ball number counter is a counter indicating the number of random numbers stored in the storage area of the start memory. If the value of the reserved ball number counter is the upper limit value in step S31, the random number value acquired in step S30 is discarded. When a game ball wins at the start winning opening 45 or the electric start winning opening 46 at step S30, various random numbers may be acquired between step S30 and step S32. For example, various random numbers are not acquired at step S30. In addition, after it is determined in step S31 that the reserved ball number counter is less than the upper limit value, various random numbers may be acquired, or may be acquired in the start storage storage process (step S32).

  In the variation start process (step S40) executed when the process selection flag is “0”, the start memory number is confirmed. If the start memory number is not 0, the setting for starting the variation display of the special symbol is made. Do. As will be described in detail later, specifically, it is determined whether or not a big hit gaming state is to be generated, and if a big hit gaming state is to be generated, it is determined whether or not to be a promising big hit. In the variable display pattern setting process (step S41) executed when the process selection flag is “1”, settings relating to the variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols are performed. Specifically, although the details will be described later, the variation display pattern of the special symbol is determined, and the variation time set corresponding to the variation display pattern (the variation display of the special symbol is started on the special symbol display 41). To the stop display) is set in the timer. In the changing process (step S42) executed when the process selection flag is "2", the timer set with the changing time in the changing display pattern setting process (step S41) is monitored, and the timer is timed out. Then, the special symbol display 41 performs processing for stopping the special symbol variation display. At this time, if it is determined that the big hit gaming state is made in the variation start process (step S40), the process selection flag is updated to “3”, and if it is not judged that the big hit gaming state is made, the process selection flag is set. Update to “0”.

  In the big hit game start process (step S43) executed when the process selection flag is “3”, a setting for starting the big hit game state is performed. Specifically, a jackpot start command for instructing execution of the start display of the jackpot gaming state is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 111, and the number of times the opening / closing plate 62 of the jackpot device 60 is opened is set.

In the big hit game processing (step S44) executed when the process selection flag is “4”, when the big hit gaming state is started, the number of game balls detected by the count switch 64 is determined, and the predetermined number In order to put the special winning opening device 60 in a closed state when (10 in this embodiment) game balls have won the special winning opening 61 or when a predetermined period (30 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed. In addition to the above process, a big hit command for instructing the sub-integrated board 111 to display a big hit gaming state (for example, round display or the like) is transmitted. Further, if the number of rounds in the big hit gaming state has not reached the predetermined number (15 in this embodiment), the process for making the big prize opening device 60 open again is performed, and the number of rounds in the big hit gaming state is performed. When the predetermined number of times is reached, a jackpot end command is sent to the sub-integrated board 111 to instruct the end display of the jackpot gaming state, and the processing selection flag is updated to “0”.
[5-5. Fluctuation start processing]

  Next, the fluctuation start process will be described. When the variation start process is started, as shown in FIG. 10, the main control MPU 101a determines whether or not the value of the reserved ball number counter is 0 (step S401). As described above, since the value of the held ball number counter indicates the number of random numbers stored in the start memory storage area, if the value of the held ball number counter is 0 in step S401, the start memory is stored. It is determined that there is not, and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the value of the held ball number counter is not 0 in step S401, a start memory transfer process is performed (step S402). In the start memory transfer process, after the process of subtracting 1 from the held ball number counter and various random numbers stored in the start memory storage area provided in the built-in RAM of the main control MPU 101a are shifted, A process of reading various random numbers (such as big hit determination random numbers) stored in the storage area corresponding to 0 of the reserved ball number counter is performed. Specifically, various random numbers stored in the storage area corresponding to n (n = 1, 2, 3, 4) of the reserved ball number counter in the storage area of the start memory are stored in the storage area of the start memory. The number is stored in a storage area corresponding to n-1 (n = 0, 1, 2, 3).

Subsequently, in step S402, it is determined whether or not to generate a big hit gaming state using the big hit determination random number read from the storage area corresponding to 0 of the reserved ball number counter among the storage areas of the reserved memory, and the big hit gaming state Is generated (step S403), the process selection flag is updated to “1” (step S404). When the process selection flag is updated to “1” and the next interrupt timer is generated, the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 8 is performed. Then, the variable display pattern setting process (step S41) in the game process shown in FIG. 9 is selected.
[5-6. Big hit judgment processing]

  Next, the big hit determination process will be described. When the jackpot determination process is started, as shown in FIG. 11, the main control MPU 101a determines whether or not the probability change flag set in the big hit game process (step S44) of the game process shown in FIG. 9 is ON. It is determined whether (set) or not (step S51). If the probability variation flag is ON, a probability variation state big hit determination table (not shown) is selected (step S52). A determination table (not shown) is selected (step S53). In the probability change state big hit determination table, 14 big hit determination values that are determined to generate a big hit gaming state by matching the big hit determination random number among 980 big hit determination random numbers from 0 to 979 are set. The jackpot probability, which is the probability of a jackpot, is 1/70. On the other hand, in the normal / short time state big hit determination table, two big hit determination values are set out of 980 big hit determination random numbers from 0 to 979, and the big hit probability is 1/490.

  Then, the determination value set in the probability change state big hit determination table selected in steps S52 and S53, or the normal / short-time state big hit determination table, and the start memory shift in step S402 of the start start process shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not to generate a jackpot gaming state depending on whether or not the value of the jackpot determination random number read in the process matches (step S54). The decision value set in the probability change state big hit determination table selected in steps S52 and S53, or the normal / short time state big hit determination table, and the start memory shift process in step S402 of the start start process shown in FIG. When it is determined that the jackpot gaming state is to be generated based on the fact that the read jackpot determination random number value (the value of the jackpot determination random number stored in the storage area corresponding to 0 of the reserved ball number counter) matches, After setting the flag to the ON state (set) (step S55), it is determined whether or not the probability change big hit is made based on a probability change determination table (not shown) in which a predetermined determination value is set (step S56). Specifically, the value of the probability variation determination random number read in the start memory transition process in step S402 of the start start process shown in FIG. 10 (the value of the probability variation determination random number stored in the storage area corresponding to 0 of the reserved ball number counter). ) And the determination value set in the probability variation determination table determine whether or not the probability variation big hit is made. In the present embodiment, the probability variation entry rate (the ratio of the probability variation to the probability variation big hit) is 2/3, that is, the probability variation big hit among the nine probability variation determination random numbers from 0 to 8. Six determination values to be determined are set in the probability variation determination table.

  In step S56, the probability variation is determined based on the fact that the criterion value set in the probability variation determination table matches the value of the probability variation determination random number read in the start memory transition processing in step S402 of the start start processing shown in FIG. When it is determined that it is a big hit, the probability variation state flag is turned on (set) (step S57). On the other hand, when it is determined in step S54 that a big hit is not made (deviated) and in step S56 it is decided that a probability variation big hit is not made (non-probable variation big hit), the following processing is executed. The process ends without Note that the ON / OFF state (set state, reset state) of the big hit flag and the probability variation state flag is stored in the RAM 104. Further, the OFF state (reset state) of the big hit flag and the probability change state flag is a value of “0”, and the ON state (set state) of the big hit flag and the probability change state flag is a value of “1”. Is set.

Note that the big hit flag is a flag indicating control for shifting to the big hit gaming state. If the big hit flag is set in the big hit game start process (step S43) of the gaming process shown in FIG. 9, the big hit gaming state is set. generate. Further, the probability change state flag is a flag indicating the transition control to the probability variation state after the big hit gaming state is finished, and when the big hit gaming state is ended in the big hit game processing (step S44) of the gaming process shown in FIG. If the probability variation state flag is set, the process of resetting the probability variation state flag and setting the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is executed. In the state in which the probability variation flag is set, the probability variation state is controlled as described above. For example, the probability variation state big hit determination table in step S52 described above is selected and the state other than the probability variation state (normal state, time reduction state). The probability of determining that a big hit gaming state is to be generated is increased. Further, when the probability variation flag is set in the big hit game start processing (step S43) of the game processing shown in FIG. 9, processing for resetting the probability variation flag is executed.
[5-7. Fluctuation display pattern setting process]

  Next, the variable display pattern setting process will be described. When this variable display pattern setting process is started, as shown in FIG. 12, the main control MPU 101a determines whether or not to make a big hit as a result of the current variable display, that is, whether or not the big hit flag is set. If it is determined (step S410) and the big hit flag is set (if it is in the ON state), the big hit hour fluctuation display pattern table (not shown) in which the fluctuation display pattern used when the big hit is set is selected. (Step S412). If the big hit flag is not set (if it is in the OFF state), a reach determination random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined storage area of the built-in RAM of the main control MPU 101a, and a reach with a predetermined determination value is set. Whether or not to reach is determined by whether or not the determination value set in the determination table matches the value of the acquired reach determination random number (step S411). When it is determined that the reach mode is selected, a reach-time variation display pattern table (not shown) in which a variation display pattern showing a mode for deriving an outlier design with the reach mode is selected (step S413), and the reach mode is selected. When it is determined that the change display pattern is not to be selected, a change display pattern table (not shown) at the time of a change display pattern in which a change display pattern in which an outlier design is derived without a reach form is set is selected (step S414). In the reach determination table, the reach probability (reach mode ratio) is 1 / 12.5, that is, two determination values out of 25 reach determination random numbers from 0 to 24 are reach determination. Set in the table.

  Then, the variable display pattern random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined storage area of the built-in RAM, and the big hit time variable display pattern table, the reach variable display pattern table selected in steps S411, S413, and S414 are displayed. The variation display pattern in which the determination value set in any one variation display pattern table of the pattern table matches the value of the acquired variation display pattern random number is determined (step S415).

  Subsequently, a variation display pattern command is set as an effect command for designating the variation display pattern determined in step S415 (step S416), and a timer (this embodiment) provided with a variation time corresponding to the variation display pattern in the built-in RAM. Then, the effective period timer is set (step S417). In step S417, the variation time set in the variation display pattern determined in step S415 is set in the effective period timer. The variable display pattern command set in step S416 is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 111 in the command transmission output process (step S19) of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. Further, when the variable display pattern command is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 111 by the command transmission output process, a drive signal is output to the special symbol display 41 in the special symbol game, and the special symbol variation display is started.

  Here, the variation display pattern command is data of 2 bytes. Each variation display pattern command displays the variation display of the special symbol after the special symbol variation display is started on the special symbol display 41. Data for specifying the variation time until reach and reach production are included. Of the 2-byte variable display pattern command, the first byte is data that can specify a variable display pattern, and the second byte is data that can specify a variable number (variable display pattern). . In other words, the sub-integrated MPU 111a of the sub-integrated board 111 can recognize the variable display pattern based on the first byte data, and further specifies the variable display pattern based on the second byte data.

  Each variation display pattern is set with a special symbol variation time (the time from when the special symbol variation display is started on the special symbol display 41 until the special symbol variation display is stopped). Yes. The variation time of the special symbol is set to substantially coincide with the variation time of the decorative symbol designated by the variation display pattern command transmitted to the sub-integrated board 111. In step S415, the variation corresponding to the variation time of the special symbol is set. The variation display pattern having the symbol variation time is determined. In other words, the variation time of the special symbol and the variation time of the decorative symbol do not have to completely match.

  Subsequently, the main control MPU 101a checks whether or not the probability variation state flag is set (step S418). When the probability variation state flag is set, the main control MPU 101a issues a probability variation big hit command which is an effect command indicating that the probability variation big hit is set. Set (step S419). Then, the process selection flag is updated to “2” (step S420). The probability variation jackpot command set in step S419 is transmitted to the sub integrated board 111 in the command transmission output process (step S19) of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 8 together with the variation display pattern command. As a result, the sub-integrated MPU 111a of the sub-integrated board 111 can recognize that the current variation display results in a probable big hit.

  In the variation display pattern setting process, whether or not the big hit flag and the probability change status flag are set in addition to the probability change big hit command as an effect command indicating the result of the win, the big hit flag is set. Processing is performed to set a winning command indicating an uncertain variable big hit when the status flag is not set, or a winning command indicating a deviation when the big hit flag is not set. The sub-integrated MPU 111a of the sub-integrated board 111 can recognize that the current variation display results in an uncertain variation big hit by the winning command transmitted together with the variation display pattern command. In the present embodiment, the variable display pattern command also includes information indicating the winning result, and the sub-integrated MPU 111a determines whether or not the winning result indicated by the variable display pattern command and the winning command match. ing. As a result, the sub-integrated MPU 111a can reliably recognize the result of the current fluctuation display, and prevents a malfunction such as failure to receive a command due to the influence of external noise or the like, and displaying an incorrect fluctuation display result. be able to.

  Also, in the variation display pattern setting process, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation flag or the time reduction flag is set as an effect command indicating the gaming state, and the gaming state is the probability variation state when the probability variation flag is set. A processing for setting a gaming state command indicating that the gaming state is in the short-time state when the short-time flag is set is performed. The gaming state command is transmitted to the sub integrated substrate 111 in the command transmission output process (step S19) of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 8 together with the change display pattern command and the winning command. The integrated CPU 112 mounted on the sub-integrated board 111 can recognize that the gaming state is a certain change state when the gaming state command indicates a certain change state, and the gaming state is a short time state by indicating the short time state. I can recognize that.

  Note that the time reduction flag is a flag that is set when it is determined in step S56 of the jackpot determination process shown in FIG. 11 that it is not determined to be a probable change big hit (non-probability variable big hit), and the game process shown in FIG. In the big hit game processing (step S44), a process is performed that is set when the big hit game state is terminated. When the time-short flag is set, the time-short state is controlled. For example, in step S414, a variation display pattern in which the variation time of the special symbol is shortened from the normal state is selected from the variation-time variation display pattern table. In addition, when it is determined that the next big hit game state is to be generated in step S54 of the big hit determination process shown in FIG. 11 until the predetermined number of special symbol fluctuation display is executed after the big hit gaming state is completed, When a special symbol variation display is executed a predetermined number of times after the gaming state is finished, a process for resetting the time reduction flag is executed. The ON / OFF state (set state, reset state) of the time reduction flag is stored in the built-in RAM of the main control board 101. Further, the OFF state (reset state) of the time reduction flag means that a value of “0” is set, and the ON state (set state) of the time reduction flag means that a value of “1” is set.

  The valid period timer set with the variation time in step S417 starts when the variation display pattern command is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 111 in the command transmission output process (step S19) of the timer interruption process shown in FIG. When the valid period timer times out in the game process variation process shown in FIG. 9 (step S42), a drive signal is output to the special symbol display 41 to stop the special symbol variation display by the main control MPU 101a. At the same time, an effect command (variation stop command) for instructing the sub-integrated board 111 to stop the variation display of the decorative symbols is transmitted. The sub-integrated board 111 performs control for confirming and displaying the stop of the decorative symbol based on the reception of the change stop command.

In addition, when a plurality of display areas are provided on the liquid crystal display 116 and symbols are displayed in a variable manner in each display area, when the big hit determination process shown in FIG. If there are multiple display lines that are stopped and displayed as a result of the display, a symbol that is not yet stopped on any of the display lines is stopped at a predetermined symbol, and the symbol that is stopped and displayed on the display line is specified. A state that is a display result or a state in which all symbols are synchronously variably displayed in a combination that results in a specific display result on any display line is referred to as a reach mode. In other words, the reach mode is a mode (a mode immediately before a big hit) representing a step before a specific display result (big hit display). In the present embodiment, there is only one display line as described above, and among the left, middle, and right decorative symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display 116, the left decorative symbol and the right decorative symbol (of any two decorative symbols). A combination of the two) may stop at the same symbol, and the middle decorative symbol (the remaining decorative symbol when the combination of two arbitrary decorative symbols is stopped) is variably displayed, or the liquid crystal display 116 A state in which all the decorative symbols that are displayed are variably displayed synchronously with the same symbol combination (for example, the variably displayed synchronously so that the left, middle, and right decorative symbols are always the same symbol) State) is called a reach mode, and after reaching the reach mode, the side decoration device 27, the production lamps 44a to 44d, the gradation lamps 49a and 49b, the bass speaker 14, the middle / high tone speaker 36 and the liquid crystal display 1 6 etc. (for example, the side decoration device 27 is turned on or blinking in a predetermined manner, a predetermined image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 116, and a predetermined sound is output from the low tone speaker 14 and the middle / high tone speaker 36) Is called reach production.
[6. Various control processing by sub-integrated board]

Next, various control processes performed by the sub integrated MPU 111a of the sub integrated substrate 111 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of sub-main processing, FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of 16 ms steady processing, FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of command analysis processing, and FIG. 16 is a branch guidance display determination processing. FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the input count counting process, FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the navigation display determination process, and FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the route determination process. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of reach effect neglect display processing, and FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of cut-in determination processing.
[6-1. Sub-main processing]

  When power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is started, the sub-integrated MPU 111a of the sub-integrated board 111 performs sub-main processing shown in FIG. When this sub-main process is started, as shown in FIG. 13, the sub-integrated MPU 111a performs a power-on process initial setting process (step S71). In the initial setting process, a process of clearing an internal RAM (hereinafter referred to as “sub-integrated internal RAM”) built in the sub-integrated MPU 111a is performed. Note that interrupts are prohibited during this initial setting process, and interrupts are permitted after the initial setting process. When the initial setting process (step S71) ends, a loop process for monitoring whether or not the 16 ms elapsed flag T is set is started (step S72).

  In the present embodiment, the sub-integrated MPU 111a generates an interrupt every 2 ms and performs a 2 ms steady process. In the 2 ms steady process, the 16 ms progress monitoring counter is incremented (the 16 ms progress monitoring counter is incremented by 1). When the value of the 16 ms progress monitoring counter reaches 8, that is, when 16 ms has elapsed, the 16 ms progress flag is displayed. At the same time as T is set, the 16 ms progress monitoring counter is reset (set to 0). In this way, the 16 ms elapsed flag T is set (set) to “1” every 16 ms in the 2 ms steady process, and is normally set (reset) to “0”. If the 16 ms elapsed flag is set in step S72 (the 16 ms elapsed flag T is “1”), the 16 ms elapsed flag is reset (step S73), and then the 16 ms steady process is performed (step S74).

In the 16 ms steady process, based on the effect command received from the main control board 101, the side decoration device 27, the low tone speaker 14, the mid-high tone speaker 36, the effect lamps 44a to 44d, the gradation lamps 49a and 49b, and the liquid crystal display The process which controls the device 116 etc. is performed. When the 16 ms steady process ends, the process returns to step S72 again, and every time the 16 ms elapse flag T is set, that is, every 16 ms, the above steps S73 to S74 are repeated. On the other hand, if the 16 ms elapsed flag T is not set in step S72 (the 16 ms elapsed flag T is “0”), the loop processing is performed until the 16 ms elapsed flag T is set.
[6-2.16 ms steady processing]

  Next, the 16 ms steady process will be described. When the 16 ms steady process is started, as shown in FIG. 14, the sub-integrated MPU 111a performs the processes of steps S91 to S95. In the command analysis process of step S91, the effect command received from the main control board 101 is analyzed. In the effect control process of step S92, when the effect command analyzed in step S91 is a variable display pattern command, a control process related to the liquid crystal display 116 based on the variable display pattern command (for example, a background image, a decorative design, etc.). In addition to the display control process, a branch guidance display determination process, an input frequency count process, a navigation display determination process, a route determination process, and the like, which will be described later, are also performed.

  Further, in the sound control process in step S93, a control process related to the bass speaker 14 and the middle / high tone speaker 36 is performed. In the lamp control process in step S94, control processes related to the side decoration device 27, the effect lamps 44a to 44d, and the gradation lamps 49a and 49b are performed. In the information output process in step S95, a display command is transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 113, and ON / OFF data that is a lighting signal to the effect lamps 44a to 44d and the gradation lamps 49a and 49b are sent to the lamp driving board 112. The gradation data which is the gradation lighting signal is transmitted (output). In the random number update process of step S96, a process of updating random numbers used for various settings in the effect control process (step S92) is executed. In this 16 ms steady process, in addition to the processes in steps 91 to 96, although not shown, a timer setting process, an effective period determining process, a message setting process, a navigation display timer setting process, and a navigation display effective period determining Other control processing such as processing and navigation message setting processing is also performed.

  As described above, the timer setting process is performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process, and sets a period (effective period) during which the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ is valid. For example, as an effective period, when a background image displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 described later is a sea route, the effect command output from the main control board 101 (main control MPU 101a) is a variable display pattern. From the time when the inputted fluctuation display pattern becomes 70 times until the 71st fluctuation display pattern is inputted. When the effective period ends and the route continues from the sea route to the city route, the effective period is from when the input variable display pattern reaches 60 times until the 61st variable display pattern is input. When the sea route is changed to the mountain tunnel route, the effective period is from when the input variation display pattern reaches 50 times until the 51st variation display pattern is input.

  As described above, when the variable display pattern command is received from the main control board 101, the effective period of the push button switch 18 ′ is changed by changing the effective period of the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′. Not. For this reason, the operation effective time of the push button switch 18 'becomes irregular. Therefore, the player can find out the effective operation time of the push button switch 18 ′ with his / her own sensitivity, and can suppress a decrease in interest.

  As described above, the valid period determination process is performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process, and when the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ enters the valid period, the push button valid flag is set to ON. When this valid period ends, the push button valid flag is set to OFF. When there is an input (operation) of the push button switch 18 'even within the effective period, the route flag is set to ON. This route flag is a flag for changing a road destination (route), which is a background image displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116, and is ON when changing the route, and when maintaining the route (within the effective period). Each time the push button switch 18 'is not input (operated), it is set to OFF.

  In the message setting process, as described above, the process is performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process. When the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ is in a valid period, a message indicating that it is possible to change the route, A message prompting input (operation) of the button switch 18 ′ and a message command for displaying in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 are set as display commands. Specifically, as will be described later, the messages indicating that it is possible to change the route are “turn right by repeated hits” and “do not press straight”, and prompt the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′. The message is “PUSH”. These messages are output as display commands to the liquid crystal control board 113 in the information output process of step S95 described above.

  In the navigation display timer setting process, as described above, it is performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process. In the navigation game effect to be performed, a period (effective period for navigation display) in which the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ is valid is set. For example, as the navigation display valid period, the effect command output from the main control board 101 (main control MPU 101a) is a variable display pattern, and the input fluctuation display pattern becomes tenth from the time when the input variable display pattern becomes ten times. Until the display pattern is input. When the effective period ends and the 16 ms steady process is performed again, when the effect command output from the main control board 101 is a variable display pattern command in the command analysis process in step S91, the push button switch 18 ' The navigation display valid period for the input (operation) is set again. At this time, for example, the navigation display valid period is from when the received variable display pattern command is 26 times to when the 27th variable display pattern command is received.

  As described above, when the variation display pattern command is received from the main control board 101, the operation display time of the push button switch 18 ′ is changed by changing the navigation display valid period of the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′. No longer has a constant period. Note that the effective period set for changing the above-described route and the navigation display effective period set for displaying the traveling position of the current route are set so as not to overlap each other. That is, when the navigation effect mode is being performed, the route is not changed.

  As described above, the navigation display valid period determination process is performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process. When the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ becomes the navigation display valid period, the input of the push button switch 18 ′ is performed. (Operation) is enabled. If there is an input (operation) of the push button switch 18 'even within this navigation display valid period, the navigation flag is set to ON. This navigation flag is a flag indicating whether or not the travel position of the current route is to be displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116. (When there is no input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′), each is set to OFF.

  As described above, the navigation message setting process is performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process. When the navigation display valid period is reached, a message indicating whether or not to display the traveling position of the current route and the push button switch 18 ′. And a message for prompting the user to input (operate) and a navigation message command for displaying in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 are set as display commands. Specifically, as will be described later, the message indicating whether or not to display the travel position of the current route is “view navigation”, and the message prompting the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ is as follows: “PUSH”. These messages are output as display commands to the liquid crystal control board 113 in the information output process of step S95 described above.

  Here, various random numbers that are updated by the sub-integrated MPU 111a of the sub-integrated board 111 in the above-described random number update process (step S96) will be described. In this embodiment, the probability variation jackpot design random number used to determine the probability variation jackpot symbol as the decoration symbol stop symbol, the non-probability variation jackpot symbol random number used to determine the non-probability variation jackpot symbol as the decoration symbol stop symbol, and the decoration symbol stop symbol There are an off symbol random number used for determining the off symbol, a cut-in determination random number used for determining whether or not to perform a cut-in effect, which will be described later, and the like.

  Note that various random numbers (probability large hit symbol random number, non-probable variable hit symbol random number, outlier symbol random number, etc.) are acquired when the effect command received from the main control board 101 in the command analysis process (step S91) is a variable display pattern. Is done.

  In addition, the processes in steps S91 to S96 in the 16 ms steady process are completed within 16 ms. Even if it takes 16 ms or more from the start of the 16 ms steady processing to the end of the 16 ms steady processing, the 16 ms steady processing is started from the beginning immediately after the 16 ms has elapsed since the start of the 16 ms steady processing (step S91 described later). (From the command parsing process) That is, when 16 ms steady processing is performed, when 16 ms has elapsed, only the 16 ms elapsed flag is set, and when it is determined in step S72 that the 16 ms elapsed flag has been set after the end of the 16 ms steady processing, 16 ms Start steady processing.

In the present embodiment, the random number update process (step S96) is performed in the 16 ms steady process to update various random numbers. However, the timing (timing) for updating the various random numbers is limited to this. is not. For example, various random numbers may be updated in one or both of the loop process and the 16 ms steady process in the sub-main process shown in FIG.
[6-3. Command analysis processing]

  Next, command analysis processing will be described. When this command analysis processing is started, as shown in FIG. 15, the sub-integrated MPU 111a determines whether or not an effect command has been received from the main control board 101 (step S601). In the present embodiment, when an effect command is received from the main control board 101, other processes such as a 16 ms steady process are interrupted to generate a command reception interrupt process, and the received effect command is used for sub-integration of the sub-integrated MPU 111a. Store in the received command storage area in the built-in RAM. The reception command storage area is provided with a plurality of areas corresponding to the reception order of the production commands, and in the command reception interrupt process, the reception command storage areas are stored in the areas corresponding to the reception order of the production commands. In step S601, the contents of the received command storage area are confirmed. If the received command is stored, the effect command in the order of reception in the received command storage area is read (step S602).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the read effect command is a variable display pattern command (step S603). If the read effect command is a variable display pattern command (YES in step S603), a variable display pattern reception flag is set. At the same time, it is stored in the variable display pattern storage area in the sub-integrated built-in RAM (step S604).

On the other hand, if the read effect command is not a variable display pattern command (NO in step S603), it is determined whether the read effect command is a probability change jackpot command (step S605), and the read effect command is a probability change jackpot command. If there is (YES in step S605), a probability variation jackpot flag is set (step S606). If the read effect command is not a probability change jackpot command (NO in step S605), it corresponds to the received effect command (a winning command other than the probability change jackpot command, a gaming state command, a variable stop command, a jackpot start command, etc.). A flag is set (step S607).
[6-4. Branch guidance display determination process]

  Next, the branch guidance display determination process will be described. This branch guidance display determination process is performed as one process of the effect control process of step S92 in the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG. 14, and as will be described later, the character displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 runs on a motorcycle. In the middle, a command for displaying the distance until reaching the branch point of the road as a guide plate in the display area 42 is set.

When the branch guidance display process is started, as shown in FIG. 16, the sub-integrated MPU 111a checks the value of the variation counter C (step S100). This variation counter C is a counter that is incremented by 1 when the effect command received from the main control board 101 is a variation display pattern command in the command analysis processing in step S91 in the 16 ms steady processing shown in FIG. If the value of the variation counter C is within the 10 km display range in step S100, a guide board display command of “10 km until branch” is set (step S102), and if it is within the 5 km display range, the guidance of “5 km until branch” is set. A board display command is set (step S104). When it is within the 1 km display range, a guide board display command of “1 km until the branch” is set (step S106), and when within the 500 m display range, “500 m until the branch”. The guide plate display command is set (step S108), and if it is within the 100 m display range, the guide plate display command of “100 m until branch” is set (step S110), and this routine is terminated. On the other hand, if the value of the variation counter C is other than that in step S100, that is, not within the above-described display ranges, this routine is terminated as it is. In this way, based on the value of the fluctuation counter C, a command for displaying the distance to the branch point as a guide plate is set. Each display range described above is set in advance according to the route. The value of the variation counter C is set to the initial value 0 at the branch point.
[6-5. Input count processing]

  Next, the input number counting process will be described. This input number counting process is performed as one process of the effect control process of step S92 in the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG.

When the input number counting process is started, as shown in FIG. 17, the sub-integrated MPU 111a determines whether or not the push button valid flag is ON (step S120). As described above, this push button valid flag is set to ON when the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 'enters the valid period, and is set to OFF when the valid period ends. When the push button valid flag is ON in step S120, that is, when the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 'is in the valid period, it is determined whether or not there is an input (operation) of the push button switch 18'. (Step S122). When there is an input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ', a value 1 is added to the push button input count BC (step S124), and this routine is terminated. On the other hand, when the push button valid flag is OFF in step S120, that is, when the valid period of the input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ has ended, or when there is no input of the push button switch 18 ′ in step S122, This routine is finished as it is. Thus, in the input count counting process, the number of inputs (operations) of the push button switch 18 'is counted only when the push button valid flag is ON, that is, when the input (operation) of the push button switch 18' is in the valid period. .
[6-6. Navigation display determination process]

  Next, the navigation display determination process will be described. This navigation display determination process is performed as a process of the effect control process of step S92 in the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG. 14, and will be described later. Then, a command for displaying the traveling position of the current route in the display area 42 is set.

  When the navigation display determination process is started, as shown in FIG. 18, the sub-integrated MPU 111a determines whether or not the navigation flag is ON (step S130). As described above, this navigation flag is a flag indicating whether or not to display the traveling position of the current route in the background image displayed on the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116. When the position is not displayed (when there is no input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ within the above-described navigation display valid period), each is set to OFF.

When the navigation flag is ON in step S130, that is, when the traveling position of the current route is displayed, a command for displaying the traveling position of the current route is set (step S132), and this routine is terminated. On the other hand, when the navigation flag is not ON (OFF) in step S130, the traveling position of the current route is not displayed (when there is no input (operation) of the push button switch 18 'within the effective period), this End the routine.
[6-7. Route determination process]

  Next, route determination processing will be described. This route determination process is performed as one process of the effect control process of step S92 in the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG. 14, and will be described later. While the character displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 is running on a motorcycle, Based on the number of times the push button switch 18 'has been input (operated) from before the branch point to the branch point, a command for the destination (route) of the traveling road is set.

  When the route determination process is started, as shown in FIG. 19, the sub-integrated MPU 111a determines whether or not the route flag is ON (step S150). As described above, this route flag is a flag for changing the road destination (route), which is the background image displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116, and when changing the route (even once within the effective period). ON (when there is an input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ') and OFF when maintaining the route (when there is no input (operation) of the push button switch 18' within the valid period). Yes. When the route flag is ON in step S150, that is, when changing the route, the value of the push button input count BC is checked (step S152).

  If the value of the push button input count BC is within the left turn allowable range in step S152, a left turn route command is set (step S154), and if it is within the right turn allowable range, a right turn route command is set (step S156). If it is not the left turn allowable range or the right turn allowable range, the current route command is set (step S158). Following any of step S154, step S156, and step S158, the route flag is set to OFF (step S160), that is, the route that is the initial setting is maintained (step S162), and the push button input count BC Is set to the initial value 0, and this routine is terminated.

  Here, the left turn permission range and the right turn permission range described above are set in advance according to the route. In the present embodiment, even if the operation of the push button switch 18 ′ is slow, such as an elderly person, The width of the range is set wide so that it can be changed. Therefore, it can be enjoyed regardless of the age group of the player.

On the other hand, when the route flag is not ON (OFF) in step S150, that is, when the route is maintained (when there is no input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ within the effective period), this is left as it is. End the routine. In this way, the player changes the road destination (route) displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 by operating the button switch within the period (valid period) in which the button switch input is valid. Can get an opportunity to do. Based on the above-mentioned push button input count BC, the current route is avoided and the route is changed to the left turn route or the right turn route. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the player's willingness to play as much as possible.
[6-8. Reach production neglect display processing]

  Next, the reach effect negligence display process will be described. This reach effect neglect display process is performed as one process of the effect control process of step S92 in the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG. 14, and as will be described later, the character displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 is a motorcycle. While traveling on any of the sea route, the city route, and the mountain tunnel route, a reach effect or the like is performed based on the above-described variation display pattern. In the variable display pattern, an expectation level of “big hit” is determined in advance, and this expectation level is set higher as the time during which the reach effect is performed (hereinafter referred to as “reach effect time”). . For example, the reach performance time includes 12 seconds (s), 30 s, 97 s, 180 s, and the like. When the reach performance time is 12 s, the expectation is the lowest, while when the reach performance time is 180 s, the expectation is The degree is the highest. Thus, there are various reach production times, that is, expectations, from low to high. A detailed description of the reach effect will be described later.

  When the reach effect neglect display process is started, as shown in FIG. 20, the sub-integrated MPU 111a determines whether the current route is a sea route or a city route (step S170). When the current route is a sea route or a city route, as a permanent production mode, when the current route is a sea route, the command “normal reach” of the sea route is set, while when the current route is a city route, the city route The “normal reach” command is set (step S172), and this routine is terminated. In the reach effect of the sea route and the city route, the reach effect corresponding to the expectation set in the variable display pattern is not selected, and “normal reach” is set as the permanent effect mode regardless of the degree of the expectation. In this way, the standing effect mode follows the game result indicated by the variable display pattern, while “normal reach” of the sea route or the city route is set without following the reach effect corresponding to the expectation set in the variable display pattern. .

  On the other hand, when the current route is neither a sea route nor a city route, that is, when the current route is a mountain tunnel route, a reach effect command is set based on the change display pattern (step S174), and this routine is terminated. . In the mountain tunnel route, unlike the sea route and the city route, a reach effect that matches the degree of expectation set in the change display pattern is selected. Here, “appropriate to the degree of expectation” means that one having the same degree of expectation is selected from a plurality of reach effects (one reach for one variable display pattern). It does not mean that the production will be decided).

  As described above, in the reach effect neglect display process, the reach effect that matches the expected degree of the variation display pattern is not selected in the sea route and the city route. That is, the sub-integrated MPU 111a selects a reach effect that matches the expectation level of the variable display pattern only in accordance with the game results such as “win” and “out” of the output command (variable display pattern) output from the main control board 101. do not do. For this reason, the sub-integrated MPU 111a behaves as if processing is negligent (ie, it is foolish).

On the other hand, in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116, when the reach effect of the sea route and the city route is achieved, the “normal reach” of the sea route and the city route regardless of the expectation of the change display pattern output from the main control board 101. Since the performance is always performed, the player keeps watching the monotonous “normal reach” repeatedly.
[6-9. Cut-in determination process]

  Next, the cut-in determination process will be described. This cut-in determination process is performed as one process of the effect control process in step S92 in the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG. 14, and as will be described later, the character displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 is a motorcycle, While traveling on any one of the route, the city route, and the mountain tunnel route, it is determined whether or not to perform a cut-in effect of moving at a time to the next branch point of the traveling route. A detailed description of the cut-in effect will be described later.

  When the cut-in determination process is started, as shown in FIG. 21, the sub integrated MPU 111a determines whether or not the cut-in flag is OFF (step S180). This cut-in flag is set to ON when the cut-in effect is performed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116, and is set to OFF when it is not performed. When the cut-in flag is OFF in step S180, that is, when the cut-in effect is not performed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116, it is determined whether or not the cut-in determination random number matches the cut-in value. This is performed (step S182). This determination is performed based on the cut-in determination random number updated in the random number update process in step S96 in the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the cut-in determination random number is set to a value from “0 to 65535”, the cut-in value is set to “7”, and the probability that the cut-in determination random number matches the cut-in value is 65536 minutes. It is 1 of.

  When the cut-in determination random number matches the cut-in value in step S182, a cut-in display command is set (step S184), and this routine is terminated. On the other hand, when the cut-in flag is not OFF (ON) in step S180, that is, when the cut-in effect is performed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116, or the cut-in determination random number is the cut-in value in step S182. If not, the routine is terminated.

Thus, when a cut-in display command is set in step S184, a cut-in effect is performed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116. Then, when the cut-in effect is completed, a branch point effect for changing the current route is subsequently performed. At this time, the cut-in flag is set to OFF as an initial value.
[7. Reach production]

Next, the reach effect in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, there are three routes, a sea route, a city route, and a mountain tunnel route. Each of the sea route and the sea route has a reach production along the route, and the mountain tunnel route has various special reach. Production is prepared. For each route, the distance to the branch point at which the route is changed is displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 as a guide plate.
[7-1. Sea route]

Reach production on the sea route includes “normal reach” along the sea route. In this “normal reach”, the main character travels on the sea route with a motorcycle, and a special background image or the like informing that the “reach (reach mode)” has been displayed is displayed on the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116. No directing is performed. That is, in “normal reach”, the background image along the sea route is simply displayed in the display area 42 regardless of the degree of expectation of “big hit” described above. Specifically, a special image that informs the player that “reach” has been reached is not displayed as a background image in the display area 42, and a background image along a sea route that is normally changing is lazy and displayed in the display area 42 42 continues to be displayed.
[7-2. Town route]

Reach production in the city route includes “normal reach” along the city route. In this “normal reach”, the main character travels on a city route on a motorcycle, and a special background image or the like informing that the “reach (reach mode)” has been displayed is displayed on the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116. No directing is performed. In other words, in “normal reach”, the background image along the city route is simply displayed in the display area 42 regardless of the degree of expectation of “big hit” described above. Specifically, a special image that informs the player that “reach” has been reached is not displayed as a background image in the display area 42, and a background image along a city route that is normally changing is displayed in a lazy manner. 42 continues to be displayed.
[7-3. Mountain tunnel route]

Reach production in mountain tunnel reach includes various reach production such as “Normal reach”, “Okeke reach”, “Restart reach”, “Pickup reach” and “Subspace tunnel reach”. In addition to these reach effects, there is also a notice effect that gives notice of the reach effect, and a variety of effects are prepared for the mountain tunnel route. First, the notice effect will be described, and then various reach effects of the mountain tunnel route will be described.
[7-3-1. Advance notice]

  The notice production includes a “Selif notice” that displays the hero's dialogue, a “title notice” that informs the start of the reach production by displaying the title of the reach production, and the hero is running on a motorcycle. There is a “step-up notice” that informs the degree of expectation that a reach effect will be performed by characters that appear one after the other.

  The “Selif notice” includes “Yabai…”, “Such a victory”, “Yay”, “Mama, Masaka ...!”, Etc., and the player is within a predetermined period (3 seconds in this embodiment). ) Is operated in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 and continues to “normal reach” described later. These lines are pre-set to increase the expectation of a “hit” in the order of “Dangerous…”, “This is an easy victory”, “Yay”, and “Ma, no, no ...” Yes.

  In the “title notice”, the main character is running on a motorcycle, and for example, the title “Secret of the mountain, ghost appears!” Is displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116. When this title is displayed, it develops to “Okeke Reach” described later.

The “step-up notice” develops into a reach effect by the characters appearing sequentially from step 1 to step 4 in front of the motorcycle while the main character is traveling on the motorcycle. For example, a sign of “Attention to falling stones” appears as Step 1, “Parent and Monkey” sitting on the guardrail appears as Step 2, “Stag” appears from the shade as Step 3, and the main character appears as Step 4 If she appears, it will develop into “Pickup Reach”, which will be described later. On the other hand, if a door with a spell written (hereinafter referred to as “subspace door”) appears as Step 4, the subspace door is opened. It develops into “subspace tunnel reach”. In addition, when the “step-up notice” stops in any one of step 1, step 2 or step 3, it becomes “disconnected”.
[7-3-2. Reach production on mountain tunnel route]

  Next, various reach effects in the mountain tunnel route will be described. As described above, the mountain tunnel route has various reach effects such as “Normal reach”, “Okeke reach”, “Restart reach”, “Pickup reach”, and “Subspace tunnel reach”.

  “Normal reach” is a reach effect that is performed more often than “Okeke Reach”, “Restart Reach”, “Pickup Reach”, and “Subspace Tunnel Reach” described later. When this `` normal reach '' is started, the front of the motorcycle becomes a sharp curve while the main character is running on a motorcycle, and if it turns completely sharply, it will be a `` big hit '', while if it falls over the sharp curve and falls, it will be `` falling '' Become. The “normal reach” is also performed after the lines are displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 in the “line notice” described above.

  If the title of the reach production is displayed as “The Secret of the Mountain, Okay Appears!” In the “Title Notice” described above, it develops into “Okechi Reach”. When this `` Obake Reach '' starts, the main character attacks the ghost that appeared in front of the bike with the headlight beam of the bike and if it can be repelled, it will be a `` big hit '', while if it can not be repelled, it will be `` outside '' Become. In addition, when it becomes “out of”, the parts of the hero's motorcycle are taken away by the ghost. If the hero's motorcycle becomes unable to run due to the robbed parts several times with this `` Obake Reach '', it is forcibly changed from the mountain tunnel route to the sea route, and the hero goes to the parts shop along the sea route It will be a stroll that draws a motorcycle. If the repair of the motorcycle is not completed at one parts shop, the motorcycle will be drawn and walked to another motorcycle shop until the repair of the motorcycle is completed. When the repair of the motorcycle is completed, it is possible to travel on the sea route again and change from the sea route or the city route to the mountain tunnel route at the branch point.

  In "Restart Reach", the main character's motorcycle suddenly causes engine trouble, making it impossible to run, and the main character operates the motorcycle's keys to try to start the engine. The protagonist shouts, “Move, move, move! This “restart reach” is not the reach direction that develops after being announced in the above-mentioned “Selif Notice”, “Title Notice” and “Step Up Notice”, but the hero is traveling on the mountain tunnel route with a motorcycle. It is a reach production that suddenly happens and becomes a “big hit”.

  When the protagonist appears in front of the motorcycle in the “step-up notice” described above, it develops into “pick-up reach”. When this “pickup reach” begins, the hero stops the bike to pick up her. And when she whispered “Mitsumechaiyan”, she changed to “big hit” when she changed into a costume, and when she stopped changing, she became “out of”. When she changes into a swimsuit instead of a costume, the mountain tunnel route is forcibly changed to the sea route.

  In the “step-up notice” described above, the subspace door appears in front of the motorcycle, and when this subspace door is opened, it develops into “subspace tunnel reach”. When this “subspace tunnel reach” starts, the hairstyle of the hero changes immediately after the hero enters the tunnel. When the hero's hairstyle changes from Regent to Afro, it becomes a “big hit”, while when the hero's hairstyle changes from Regent to the bald, it becomes “out of”.

  When it is a “big hit”, you will meet the Afro President respected by the hero, become a member of the Afro Dancers, and dance with Afro President Afro samba. On the other hand, when it becomes “outside”, the mountain tunnel route is forcibly changed to the city route, and the hair care product is purchased to the hair care shop along the city route. In this production, when the push button switch 18 ′ is repeatedly hit, the effect of the purchased hair care product is quickly activated, the hair of the main character grows little by little, and the production that can help to return from bald to regent is also performed. Note that this “subspace tunnel reach” is a premier and rare valued reach production, unlike the “normal reach”, “ghost reach”, “restart reach” and “pickup reach” described above. In addition, the degree of expectation for “big hit” is also set high.

In this way, in the mountain tunnel route, in addition to a wide variety of productions, there is also a special and rare reach production, so the player actively operates the push button switch 18 'when the route becomes a branching point. I want to. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the decrease in the drive motivation of the push button switch 18 ′ as much as possible. In addition, the player can know how long it is to reach the branch point by looking at the information board, so it seems that he will continue to play a little more when he sees the reach production of the mountain tunnel route. The game time of the player can be increased.
[8. Direction]

Next, an effect displayed on the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 will be described. FIG. 22 is an example of setting of the route outline and the number of times of change, FIG. 23 is an example of an effect of a guide board displaying the distance to the branch point, and FIG. 24 is a case where the route is changed at the branch point. FIG. 25 is an example of an effect that displays the travel position of the current route, and FIG. 26 is an example of a cut-in effect. First, an outline of the route to be traveled will be described, followed by a guide board for displaying the distance to the branch point, route change, display of the travel position of the current route, and cut-in effects.
[8-1. Route overview]

  As a background image displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116, there are three routes, a sea route, a city route, and a mountain tunnel route, as shown in FIG. 22 (a). There is a sea route and a city route, and there is a mountain tunnel route as an inner route around the outer route.

  The outer route includes a branch point A that branches into a city route or a mountain tunnel route while traveling along the sea route of FIG. 22A in the clockwise direction, and a sea route or There is a branch point B that branches to the mountain tunnel route. Further, the inner route, that is, the mountain tunnel route, is an 8-shaped route, and there is a tunnel in the center thereof. There is a branch point C in this tunnel, and the above-mentioned branch point A and branch point B are present at two circumferential portions of the figure 8, which are connected to the sea route and the city route.

The timing at which the above-described three branch points A, B, and C are displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 is set in advance according to the route. As described above, this timing is set as the number of times the variation display pattern command is received when the effect command output from the main control board 101 is the variation display pattern command. As shown in FIG. 22B, 70 times are set for the sea route, 60 times for the city route, and 50 times for the mountain tunnel route.
[8-2. Distance to branch point and route change at branch point]

  Next, a guide plate that displays the distance to the branch point will be described, and then the route change at the branch point will be described. First, a decorative design and the like displayed on the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 will be described. As shown in FIG. 23A, a decorative symbol L is displayed at the lower left of the display area 42, a decorative symbol M is displayed at the lower center, and a decorative symbol R is displayed at the lower right. The decorative symbols L, M, and R are displayed in an opaque manner until the change display is started. When the change display is started, the display is changed from the stop display to the high speed change from the upper side to the lower side. To be migrated. At this time, the decorative symbols L, M, and R are changed to a semi-transparent mode so that the background image can be seen, and then fluctuate at a low speed before being stopped and displayed. At this time, the decorative symbols L, M, and R are returned to the opaque state again, and then stopped and displayed. In addition, in the vicinity of the center of the display area 42, the character C0 as the main character (hereinafter referred to as “the main character C0”) is controlled to be displayed. In addition, in each effect of FIGS. 23B to 23F and FIGS. 24 to 26, in order to make it easy to see the effect displayed in the display area 42, the decorative symbols L, M, and S shown in FIG. R is omitted.

  The main character C0 is traveling on a motorcycle on the sea route shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 23A, when the hero character C0 is traveling, the guide plate DA gradually appears from the front in the traveling direction of the hero character C0 (left center of the display area 42). When this guide plate DA is in front of the main character C0 passing (upper left of the display area 42), the distance to the branch point A is displayed on the guide plate DA as “10 km to the branch” (FIG. 23). (B)). After passing through the guide plate DA, the guide plate DA gradually appears again from the front in the traveling direction of the main character C0 (left center of the display area 42). When this guide plate DA is in front of the main character C0 passing (upper left of the display area 42), the distance to the branch point A is displayed as "5 km to the branch" on the guide plate DA (FIG. 23). (C)). When the main character C0 continues to travel to the point before the branch point A, the distance to the branch point A is “1 km to the branch”, “500 km to the branch” and “100 m to the branch” one after another. Displayed (FIGS. 23D to 23F).

  When the hero character C0 reaches before the branch point A, the guide plate DA appears in front of the hero character C0 in the traveling direction (above the display area 42). At this time, in the display area 42, a message MG indicating that “turns right by continuous hitting” and “does not push straight” by an input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ to the center left, and a push button switch to the lower left. A button message BM indicating that “18” is to be “PUSHed” is displayed (FIG. 24G).

  If the player repeatedly presses the push button switch 18 ′ and the number of inputs (operations) satisfies the right turn permission range in step S152 of the route determination process shown in FIG. 19, the player can make a right turn. This is an effect along the route (here, the mountain tunnel route shown in FIG. 22A) (FIG. 24 (h ′), (i ′)).

On the other hand, when the player does not repeatedly press the push button switch 18 'or the number of repeated hits is small, the number of inputs (operations) satisfies the right turn permission range in step S152 of the route determination process shown in FIG. First, it becomes an effect of traveling around the city route, that is, outward (FIGS. 24H and 24I).
[8-3. Navigation display]

Next, display of the travel position of the current route (referred to as “navigation game effect”) will be described. When the main character C0 is traveling, the display area 42 has a message MG informing that “view navigator” is displayed on the left side of the center, and a button informing that the push button switch 18 ′ is “PUSHed” in the lower left. Each message BM is displayed (FIG. 25A). At this time, if there is an input (operation) on the push button switch 18 ′, the traveling position of the current route of the main character C0 is displayed in the upper left of the display area 42 as a navigation display (navigation display) NAV (FIG. 25). (B)).
[8-4. Cut-in production]

  Next, the cut-in effect will be described. When the main character C0 is traveling, the background image displayed in the display area 42 is suddenly switched, and a light ball B0 appears from the center of the display area 42 (FIG. 26A). When this Hikari ball B0 begins to swell, Hikari Kodama B1 is born from Hikari Ball B0, and Hikari Kodama B1 scatters in all directions while shining (FIG. 26 (b)). Thereafter, as the Hikari Kodama B1 finishes being scattered from the Hikari ball B0, a cut-in character C2 (hereinafter referred to as “cut-in character C2”) appears from the swollen Hikari ball B0 (FIG. 26C). After the appearance of the cut-in character, the background image is switched, and the effect of the branch point (for example, FIG. 24G) is obtained. In this way, when the cut-in effect is performed, for example, the effects shown in FIGS. 24B to 24F are omitted, and the effect moves to the branch point effect (FIG. 24G) at a time. For example, when the hero character C0 is traveling on the sea route shown in FIG. 22 (a) by a motorcycle toward the branch point A, if the cut-in effect is performed, then the effect at the branch point A (FIG. 24 ( g)).

  According to the embodiment described above in detail, the pachinko machine 1 includes the push button switch 18 ′, the start winning port 45, the electric start winning port 46, the upper start port switch 55a, the lower start port switch 55b, the liquid crystal display 116, A main control board 101, a sub-integrated board, and a liquid crystal control board 113 are provided. An operation signal (input signal) is input to the push button switch 18 ′ by a player's operation. The start winning opening 45 and the electric start winning opening 46 can enter a game ball that has been driven into the game area 12, and the start winning opening 45 and the electric start winning opening 46 by the upper start opening switch 55a and the lower start opening switch 55b. Each of the game balls that enter is detected. The liquid crystal display 116 displays the destination of the road (sea route, city route, or mountain tunnel route) in addition to the change display of the decorative symbols L, M, and R.

  The main control MPU 101a as a microprocessor of the main control board 101 controls the progress of the game and outputs an effect command related to the progress of the game to the sub means. The sub integrated MPU 111 a as a microprocessor of the sub control means to which the effect command is input creates a display command based on the effect command and outputs the display command to the liquid crystal control board 113. The liquid crystal control MPU 113a as a microprocessor of the liquid crystal control board 113 to which this display command is input controls the VDP 113c based on this display command. The VDP 113c performs control to read an image from the image ROM 113d and display it on the liquid crystal display 116.

  In step S32 in the game process shown in FIG. 9, the main control MPU 101a receives the game ball detected by the upper start opening switch 55a provided in the start winning opening 45 or the lower start opening switch 55b provided in the electric start winning opening 46. The upper limit value (four in this embodiment) is stored in the built-in RAM built in the main control MPU 101a. In the jackpot determination process shown in FIG. 11, if there is a holding ball stored in the built-in RAM, it is determined whether or not it should be “hit” based on the holding ball. In the variation display pattern setting process shown in FIG. 12, a variation display pattern for variably displaying the decorative symbols L, M, and R is set based on the determination result. In the command transmission output process of step S32 in the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 8, the set variation display pattern is output to the sub-integrated board 111 as an effect command.

  In the timer interruption process performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG. 14, the sub integrated MPU 111a is a period in which the input of the push button switch 18 ′ is valid when the analysis result is the above-described variation display pattern. (Effective period) is set. In the effective period determination process performed as one process of the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not the effective period is reached. In the input count counting process shown in FIG. 17, when the determination result is a valid period, the input count (push button input count BC) of the push button switch 18 'is counted. When this valid period ends, in the route determination process shown in FIG. 19, when the push button input count BC is within the left turn allowable range, the left turn route command is set as a display command, and the push button input count BC is within the right turn allowable range. Is set as a display command, the command for the current turn is set as a display command when the push button input count BC is neither the left turn allowable range nor the right turn allowable range. That is, the player can avoid the current route from the current route to the left turn route or the right turn route by operating the push button switch 18 '. On the other hand, if the player does not operate the push button switch 18 'at least once, the current route remains and the same route is repeated.

  As described above, the sub-integrated MPU 111a receives the effect command output from the main control board 101 (main control MPU 101a). The sub integrated MPU 111a analyzes the input effect command in the command analysis processing shown in FIG. If this analysis result is a variation display pattern with “reach” and the current route is a sea route or a city route, in step S172 in the reach effect neglect display process shown in FIG. 20, “normal reach” is displayed. Set the command. In this reach effect negligence display process, according to only the game results such as “win” and “out of game”, the reach effect corresponding to the expected degree of the variable display pattern is not selected (“normal reach” is set as the permanent effect mode). The sub-integrated MPU 111a behaves as if it is happening. Subsequently, the set display command is output to the liquid crystal control board 113 in the information output process of step S95 in the 16 ms steady process shown in FIG.

  Thus, unless the player operates the push button switch 18 ′ within a period (valid period) in which the input of the push button switch 18 ′ is valid, the sea route and the city route that are repeatedly performed cannot be avoided. . In addition, since “normal reach” is always selected as the reach effect for the sea route and the city route, the player feels that he / she wants to operate the push button switch 18 ′ in order to avoid the sea route and the city route. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the player's willingness to play as much as possible.

  Further, in a period (valid period) in which the push button switch 18 ′ is valid, a message informing the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 that it is possible to change the route as shown in FIG. Since the MG and the button message BM prompting the operation of the push button switch 18 ′ are respectively displayed, the player can know the timing of operating the push button switch 18 ′. In addition, the player sees the message MG displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 and operates the push button switch 18 ′ to drive a “big hit”. The button switch 18 'is operated. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the willingness to operate the push button switch 18 '.

  Furthermore, since the background image displayed in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 is a sea route, a town route, and a mountain tunnel route with a road as a motif, the background image is unfolded in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116. With the various effects of each route, the player feels as if he / she is enjoying a drive, and can enjoy the game in the mood of a short trip to the sea, city or mountain. Therefore, a decrease in interest can be suppressed.

  For example, when the motorcycle travels on the sea route shown in FIG. 22A toward the branch point A, after the period (effective period) in which the push button switch 18 ′ is effective ends, FIG. In the route determination process shown, when the push button input count BC is within the right turn allowable range, the command of the mountain tunnel route is set as a display command in order to avoid from the outer route to the inner route, that is, from the sea route to the mountain tunnel route. On the other hand, since the push button input count BC is outside the right turn allowable range, it remains outside, that is, the sea route is changed to the city route, and the city route command is set as the display command. In this way, the player can know the result of the game of “big hit” or “out of the game” by running on the outer circumference (sea route and city route) where only the monotonous “normal reach” is performed, It is possible to know the result of the game while navigating to an effect unfolded in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116 by traveling along the inner circle (mountain tunnel route) where various effects (notice effect and reach effect) are performed. For this reason, it can respond to a player's various game tastes. In addition, a player who enjoys the outside route can select the sea route and the city route, while a player who enjoys the inside route can select the mountain tunnel route with the player's confidence.

  Further, when the main character C0 is traveling, a message MG informing that “see navigation” is displayed on the left side of the center and a push button switch 18 ′ is displayed on the lower left side in the display area 42 of the liquid crystal display 116. A button message BM that indicates “PUSH” is displayed (FIG. 25A). At this time, when the number of times of input (operation) of the push button switch 18 ′ is even once, the current route travel position of the hero character C0 is displayed in the upper left of the display area 42 (FIG. 25B). . For this reason, the player can understand at a glance where the current route is traveling. Further, by giving an opportunity to operate the push button switch 18 ′, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the interest of the player.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 22 (a), there are branch points on the outer and inner sides so that the vehicle can travel around the inner route (mountain tunnel route) where various reach effects can be seen. A, B, and C are provided. For this reason, the opportunity which can operate pushbutton switch 18 'increases, and the fall of the operation motivation of pushbutton switch 18' can be suppressed as much as possible.
[9. Another example]

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it goes without saying that the present invention can be implemented in various modes as long as it belongs to the technical scope of the present invention.

  For example, in the embodiment described above, the pachinko machine 1 has been described as an example. However, a gaming machine to which the present invention can be applied is not limited to a pachinko machine, and a gaming machine other than a pachinko machine, such as a slot machine or a pachinko machine. The present invention can also be applied to a fusion game machine (which performs a slot game using a game ball) in which a slot machine is fused.

1 is a front view showing a pachinko machine 1. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the pachinko machine 1 of the state which open | released the main body frame and the front frame. It is a rear view which shows the back surface structure of the pachinko machine. 2 is a front view showing a game board 4. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main substrate 100 and a peripheral substrate 110. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a main process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process at the time of power failure generation | occurrence | production. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a game process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation | variation start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big hit determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation | variation display pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a sub main process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of 16 ms regular process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a branch guidance display determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an input frequency count process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a navigation display determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a route determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a reach production negligence display process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a cut-in determination process. It is an example of the setting of the outline | summary of a route, and the frequency | count of fluctuation. It is an example of the effect of the guide board in which the distance to the branch point is displayed. It is an example of the production | presentation with the case where a route is changed at a branch point, and the case where it is not changed. It is an example of the effect which displays the traveling position of the present route. It is an example of a cut-in effect.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine (game machine), 4 ... Game board, 12 ... Game area (game area), 18 '... Push button switch (button switch), 42 ... Display area, 44a-44d ... Production lamp, 45 ... Start prize Mouth (start winning port), 46 ... Electric start winning port (start winning port), 49a, 49b ... Gradation lamp, 55a ... Upper start port switch (detection switch), 55b ... Lower start port switch (detection switch), 101 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS ... Main control board, 101a ... Main control MPU (main control means), 102 ... Discharge control board, 105 ... Relay terminal board, 111 ... Sub integrated board, 111a ... Sub integrated MPU (sub control means) 112 ... Lamp drive board, 113 ... Liquid crystal control board, 113a ... Liquid crystal control MPU (display control means), 113c ... VDP (display control means), 116 ... Liquid crystal display (display), BM ... Button message Page, MG ... message, DA ... guide board, C0 ... hero character, C1 ... opponent character, C2 ... cut-in character, B0 ... hikaridama, B1 ... hikarikodama, NAV ... navi display.

Claims (1)

A button switch that can be operated by the player;
A start winning opening where game balls that have been driven into the game area can enter,
A detection switch for detecting a game ball that has entered the start winning opening;
A display for displaying various effects associated with the game in addition to a plurality of symbol information fluctuation displays;
Main control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Sub-control means that receives an effect command output from the main control means, and controls various games based on the input effect command;
Display control means for inputting a display command output from the sub-control means, creating a display image according to the input display command, and performing control for displaying the display image on the display;
A gaming machine comprising
The main control means includes
A holding number storage means for storing up to a preset upper limit number of game balls detected by the detection switch;
If there is a holding ball stored in the holding number storage unit, a winning determination unit that determines whether to give a profit to the player based on the gaming ball;
Fluctuation display pattern setting means for setting the fluctuation display mode of the plurality of symbol information as a fluctuation display pattern based on the corresponding drop determination result;
Effect command output means for outputting the set variable display pattern as an effect command to the sub-control means;
Including
The sub-control means includes
Timer setting means for setting a valid period during which the input of the button switch is valid;
Effective period determining means for determining whether or not the effective period;
When the effective period determination result of the effective period determination means is the effective period, the input count counting means for counting the number of inputs of the button switches in the person the effective period,
When the number of times of input of the button switch does not satisfy a predetermined number of times after the effective period ends, the first effect mode is maintained, while the number of times of input of the button switch satisfies a predetermined number of times. There is an effect mode avoidance determining means for changing from the first effect mode to the second effect mode by changing from the first effect mode to the second effect mode different from the first effect mode ;
The maintenance command is set as a display command when the first effect mode is maintained based on the result of the maintenance change determination by the effect mode avoidance determination means, while the change command is set when changing from the first effect mode to the second effect mode. Production mode maintenance change command setting means for setting as a display command,
Effect command analysis means for analyzing the input effect command;
The effect command analyzing effect command analysis result by means a case where the variable display pattern with the reach demonstration, based on the representation embodiment avoidance determination means by that maintain change determination result, to maintain the first representation embodiment sometimes, the first reach demonstration command for executing the reach demonstration set along the first representation embodiment, whereas according to the result of the game indicated by the variable display pattern, to follow the reach demonstration indicated by the variable display pattern Without setting as a display command for executing a monotonous normal reach effect, when avoiding from the first effect mode to the second effect mode, set along the first effect mode along the second effect mode. The second reach effect for executing the reach effect set including a plurality of reach effects other than the normal reach effect. The command, and reach effect neglect display command setting means for setting a display command to execute the reach demonstration accordance reach demonstration indicated by the variable display pattern with follow on the results of the game indicated by the variable display pattern,
Display command output means for outputting the display command set by the effect mode maintenance change command setting means or the reach effect neglect display command setting means to the display control means;
Only including,
The display control means includes
When the number of times of input of the button switch does not satisfy the predetermined number of times within the effective period, the first effect mode cannot be avoided from the first effect mode. While executing the first effect mode repeatedly and entering the normal reach effect set in accordance with the first effect mode, in a state that can not be escaped,
If the number of times the button switch is input within the effective period satisfies the predetermined number of times, the first effect mode can be avoided from the first effect mode. A gaming machine characterized by executing the second effect mode in a state of being able to escape and executing a reach effect set along the second effect mode .