JP4881823B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that generates a special gaming state when a game ball that has entered a special entrance has passed a specific area after a plurality of symbol variation results have become a predetermined variation result.

Conventionally, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate, the normal symbol fluctuation display is started, and when the normal symbol hits and stops display with the normal symbol, the start port is opened, and the game ball enters the start port When the special symbol changes display, the special winning symbol is stopped and the special symbol is stopped and displayed, and the special winning opening is opened, and the game ball that entered the special winning symbol passes through a specific area provided in the special winning symbol. There are known gaming machines in which a special gaming state is generated (see Patent Document 1 and Non-Patent Document 1). In this type of gaming machine, a lottery result based on a normal symbol is displayed as a symbol such as “7, 7, 7” on the liquid crystal screen, and a lottery based on a special symbol or passing a game ball to a specific area in the special entrance The special game state is generated as a series of games.
JP 2007-44329 A “Pachinko Strategy Magazine”, Volume 18, Volume 29, Volume 510, Futabasha Co., Ltd., issued on November 12, 2006, page 20

  However, in the above-described conventional gaming machine, the player can recognize only the normal symbol lottery result on the liquid crystal screen, and cannot recognize the special symbol lottery result. For this reason, the fluctuation stop of the normal symbol is recognized as a milestone of the game, and there is a possibility that the special game is not started even though the stop symbol is displayed with the winning symbol, and the normal symbol (first symbol) and the special symbol (second symbol) There is a problem that it is difficult for a player to know that a series of games is configured with a symbol.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to make a player recognize that a flow from a first symbol variation display to a second symbol variation display constitutes a series of games.

In order to achieve the above object, according to the present invention, when a game ball passes a predetermined operation area, the first symbol is displayed in a variable manner on the first symbol display unit, and after the variable display ends, the first symbol is displayed as the first symbol. When the first symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the winning symbol or the first off symbol, and when the first symbol is stopped and displayed by the first winning symbol, the gaming ball is moved from a closed state where the gaming ball cannot enter. When a start opening that changes to an open state in which a ball can be entered, and when a game ball enters the start opening, the second symbol is variably displayed on the second symbol display section, and after the variable display ends, the second symbol is displayed. When the second symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the second winning symbol or the second off symbol, and when the second symbol is stopped and displayed by the second winning symbol, the game ball is not allowed to enter the game from the closed state. and special ball entrance opening that changes in ball entrance can open spheres, the first symbol Variable display and in correspondence with the variable display of the second symbol includes a performance symbol display control means for effect display by performance symbol at the effect display portion,
The effect symbol display control means starts the effect symbol display when the first symbol fluctuating display starts, and when the first symbol stops display at the first off symbol, the effect symbol is displayed. stopped in a display manner out of the effect display by symbols, the first symbol is stopped and displayed in the first per symbol, and when the variable display of the second symbol is started, the who initiated the variable display Until the second symbol is stopped and displayed, the effect display by the effect symbol is continued corresponding to the variation display of the second symbol.

  In this way, when the first symbol variation display starts, the effect symbol representation display starts, the first symbol stops displaying at the winning symbol, and the second symbol variation display starts. By continuing the effect display of the symbol, the effect display of the effect symbol can be continuously performed even during the change of the second symbol. This allows the player to recognize that the stop from the first symbol variation is not a game milestone, and that the flow from the first symbol variation display to the second symbol variation display constitutes a series of games. it can.

Also, the game balls that ball entrance to the special ball entrance port, said comprising a distributing means for distributing the particular region or the non-specific region provided inside the special ball entrance port, the performance symbol display control means, the second When the symbol is stopped and displayed at the second off symbol, the effect display by the effect symbol is stopped in an off display manner, the second symbol is stopped and displayed at the second winning symbol, and the special entrance If the game ball has entered the special is the effect display by the performance symbol, said by sorting means is continued until the game balls are distributed in the specific region or the non-specific region, the gaming ball by said distributing means non When the game is distributed to the specific area, the effect display by the effect design is stopped in the off display mode, and when the game ball is distributed to the specific area by the distribution means, It may be stopped by contact display mode to effect display by symbols out.

  Thus, in a gaming machine in which a series of games is configured by a plurality of symbol variation results and a distribution result by the distribution means, when the second symbol stops and displays with the second off symbol, when the game ball passes a specific area Alternatively, it is possible to make the player recognize that the point of passage through the non-specific area is a game milestone.

  The effect symbol display control means starts the effect display of the effect symbol with the first effect pattern as the first symbol variation display starts, and the first symbol stops display with the first winning symbol. In this case, the effect display of the effect symbol may be continued with the second effect pattern related to the first effect pattern.

  Here, the “second effect pattern related to the first effect pattern” may be an effect mode that changes from the first effect pattern with relevance. For example, “development effect from the effect mode in the first effect pattern”, “story effect that progresses continuously from the effect state of the first effect pattern”, etc., etc. . In this way, by having a relationship between the first effect pattern and the second effect pattern, the flow from the first symbol variation display to the second symbol variation display constitutes a series of games. Can be easily recognized by the player.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. An embodiment in which the gaming machine of the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) is shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 includes a main body frame 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 9, a game board 20, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The main body frame 2 is an assembly of wooden plate-like bodies in a substantially rectangular frame shape, and constitutes an outer frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic, is fitted inside the main body frame 2, and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 is composed of a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part. The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit.

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 4 is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate 4b such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is mounted on the back surface of the front frame 4. Lamps such as LEDs (not shown) are provided around the game board 20 in the front frame 4. These lamps are turned on / off or blinking as the game progresses in order to enhance the gaming effect.

  The upper plate part 5 is provided on the lower side of the front frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The upper dish part 5 includes a dish outer edge part 5a, a discharge port 5b for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and a ball release button 5c for discharging the game balls of the upper dish part 5 to the lower dish part 6. It has. An effect button 5d, a ball lending button 5e, and the like are provided on the upper surface of the dish outer edge 5a.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 6 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate portion 6. An ashtray 7 is provided at the left end of the lower dish portion 6. At the right end of the lower plate part 6, a launching handle 8 is provided for a player to operate a launching device unit (not shown). The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  The locking device 9 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3 and is used to lock the front frame 4 when it is closed.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 10a to 10d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 10 a to 10 d are composed of upper speakers 10 a and 10 b provided at the upper part of the gaming machine 1 and lower speakers 10 c and 10 d provided at the lower part of the gaming machine 1. Further, a prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the game area 21, game devices such as a normal symbol operation gate 24, a ball entrance 25, a start port 26, a big prize device (special electric accessory) 29, a central device 100 and the like are arranged. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 100 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21. The configuration of the central device 100 will be described later.

  The normal symbol operating gate 24 is provided below the central device 100. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 24, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 24s (see FIG. 5) for detecting the passage of the game ball is provided. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 24, the normal symbol starts to fluctuate. A ball entrance 25 is provided below the normal symbol operation gate 24 so that a game ball that has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 24 can enter. When a game ball enters the entrance 25, a predetermined number (for example, 3) of prize balls are paid out to the player.

  The start port 26 is provided on the left side of the central device 100 and is configured as a game ball receiving port that receives a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board 20. The starting port 26 is a so-called tulip type and includes a pair of wing pieces on the left and right sides, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction, and the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces changes by the opening and closing operation. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to expand the game ball receiving port of the start port 26, and the start port 26 functions as a normal electric accessory.

  The start opening 26 includes a start opening detection switch 26s (see FIG. 5) for detecting the entry of a game ball and a start opening solenoid 26c (see FIG. 5) for operating the wing piece. It has been. When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the start port 26 is expanded from the normal time, and the start port 26 is in an open state in which the possibility of entering the game ball is increased. It becomes. On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are erected, the starting port 26 is in a normal state in which the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced. As the game ball enters the start opening 26, a special symbol described later starts to fluctuate. The start-up port 26 in the open state shifts to a normal state when a predetermined time (5 seconds in the present embodiment) elapses after the game ball enters or becomes open.

  A symbol display device 27 is provided at the lower right of the central device 100 in the game area 21. The symbol display device 27 can be configured by using, for example, 7 segments, and includes two display areas capable of displaying the numeric symbols “1” to “9” and the symbol symbol “−”. In the symbol display device 27 of the present embodiment, the left symbol is a normal symbol display device 27a that displays a normal symbol, and the right symbol is a special symbol display device 27b that displays a special symbol. The normal symbol corresponds to the first symbol of the present invention, and the special symbol corresponds to the second symbol of the present invention. Further, the normal symbol variation display performed by the normal symbol display device 27a as the first symbol display unit and the special symbol variation display performed by the special symbol display device 27b as the second symbol display unit are performed in the main control board 200. This is executed under the control of the CPU 200a. Therefore, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 corresponds to the first lottery symbol display control means and the second lottery symbol display control means of the present invention.

  In the normal symbol display device 27a, normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display device 27a, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 24, the normal symbol starts to change, and after a predetermined time has passed, the normal symbol hits and stops display in the normal symbol display mode or the off-normal symbol display mode. Is done. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a preset normal symbol display mode, the start port 26 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 second). The variation patterns set when the normal symbol is variably displayed include a hit variation pattern in which a stop symbol is displayed with a winning symbol, and a variation variation pattern in which a normal symbol is stopped and displayed. In the present embodiment, two types of hit fluctuation patterns A and hit fluctuation patterns B are prepared as normal pattern hit fluctuation patterns.

  In this embodiment, a random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is prepared is used for determining whether or not the starting port 26 is to be operated when a game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 24. The normal symbol success / failure determination random number is set in advance with a winning value, and the normal symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 24 matches the winning value. Determined. When it is determined that the winning symbol is a winning symbol, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed by the normal symbol display device 27a is determined as a winning normal symbol display mode (for example, “7”). On the other hand, when it is determined to be out of place, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 27a is determined as a display mode (eg, “-”) of the out of normal symbol. Note that the normal symbol success / failure determination and the normal symbol stop symbol determination are performed by a CPU 200a of the main control board 200 described later.

  A hold display device 28 is provided below the symbol display device 27. The hold display device 28 displays the number of normal symbols held. In this embodiment, the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 24 during the normal symbol change is the maximum number of holds (four in this embodiment). Can be held until. The normal symbol hold count displays the normal symbol hold count. Each time the next normal symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the normal symbol is started, the number of unstarted times (the number of reservations) is digested, and the number of normal symbol reservations is decreased by one accordingly. The hold display device 28 is composed of four LEDs. By turning off or turning on these LEDs, the number of holds can be displayed up to four.

  The big winning device 29 is provided below the entrance 25. The special winning device 29 includes a special winning opening 29a that is opened in a band shape, an opening / closing plate 29b that opens and closes the special winning opening 29a, and a special winning opening solenoid 29c that opens and closes the opening / closing plate 29b (see FIG. 5). ) And a big winning opening entrance detection switch 29s (see FIG. 5) for detecting the entrance of a game ball.

  In the special symbol display device 27b of the symbol display device 27, the special symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the special symbol display device 27b, when the game ball enters the start opening 26, the special symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner. After a predetermined variation display time has elapsed, the special symbol hits and the display mode of the combination of the special symbols or the special symbol for detachment. The display is stopped for a predetermined stop display time (5 seconds in this embodiment) in the combination display mode (for example, “−”). In the present embodiment, there are two types of hit special symbol display modes: a big hit symbol display mode (for example, “7”) and a small hit symbol display mode (for example, “3”).

  In this embodiment, a special symbol success / failure determination random number is prepared. The random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is obtained is acquired when the game ball enters the start opening 26, and is used for determining whether or not a special game state is to be generated. Specifically, the special symbol success / failure determination random number is set in advance with a winning / failure determination hit value, and the special symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the start opening 26 is hit. If it matches the value, it is determined to be a hit. When it is determined that the game is successful, the special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 27b is determined to be either the big hit symbol display mode or the small hit symbol display mode. On the other hand, when it is determined to be off, the special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 27b is determined as the display mode of the off special symbol. The special symbol success / failure determination random number acquisition, special symbol success / failure determination, special symbol variation mode (variable display time) determination, and special symbol stop symbol determination are performed by a CPU 200a of the main control board 200 described later. Has been.

  When the display mode of the special symbol stopped and displayed by the special symbol display device 27b is the big hit symbol display mode, a special gaming state immediately occurs, and when the special symbol display mode is the small hit symbol display mode, It becomes possible to enter the inside of the central device 100, and a special game state occurs when a game ball that has entered the central device 100 passes through the specific area 113d (see FIG. 4). The configuration of the central device 100 will be described later. As described above, when a combination of special symbols is stopped and displayed in the jackpot symbol display mode, a special gaming state is immediately generated, so it is referred to as “per direct hit”. A case where a combination of special symbols is stopped and displayed in the small hit symbol display mode is referred to as “small hit”.

  During the occurrence of the special game state, the special winning device 29 is operated, and a profit is given to the player regarding the entry of the game ball into the special winning opening 29a. Specifically, when the special gaming state occurs, the special winning device 29 is continuously operated, and the special winning opening 29a is continuously opened. With the start of operation of the special winning device 29 (start of the special gaming state), the special winning opening 29a is opened to enter the gaming ball receiving state. This game ball receiving state is ended when a predetermined end condition is satisfied, and the open big winning opening 29a is closed. As a predetermined end condition, when the opening time of the big winning opening 29a after the start of the game ball receiving state reaches a predetermined time (30 seconds in this embodiment), or after the start of the gaming ball receiving state, the big winning opening 29a When the number of game balls that have entered the ball reaches a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment).

  In the case where one round is from the start to the end of the game ball receiving state, the special game state ends when the predetermined round ends. In the big winning device 29, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) elapses after the game ball receiving state is finished, the big winning port 29a is opened to enter the game ball receiving state again, and the next round starts. The game ball accepting state in which one round is from the start to the end is repeatedly continued until a predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds (15 rounds in this embodiment) is completed. Note that the special game state is configured to be generated by the control by the CPU 200a of the main control board 200.

  FIG. 3 is a front view of the central device 100. As shown in FIG. 3, the central device 100 includes peripheral wall members 101, 102, and 103, a sorting device 109, guide path constituting members 110 and 111, a game ball transfer device 112, and a special game device 113. Each component of the central device 100 is visible to the player.

  The peripheral wall members 101, 102, and 103 are provided so as to protrude forward (player side) in the upper region of the central device 100. The first peripheral wall member 101 has a substantially inverted U shape when viewed from the front, and is disposed at the top of the central device 100. A second peripheral wall member 102 is provided at the lower left of the first peripheral wall member 101, and a third peripheral wall member 103 is provided at the lower right of the first peripheral wall member 101. The second peripheral wall member 102 is inclined from the upper right to the lower left, and the third peripheral wall member 103 is inclined from the upper left to the lower right.

  A gap having a predetermined width (about 2 to 4 times the diameter of the game ball) is provided between the lower left end of the first peripheral wall member 101 and the right end of the second peripheral wall member 102, and the central device 100. Is configured as a first special entrance 104 into which a game ball can be introduced. A gap having a predetermined width (about 2 to 4 times the diameter of the game ball) is also provided between the lower right end of the first peripheral wall member 101 and the left end of the third peripheral wall member 103, and the central device 100. Is configured as a second special entrance 105 into which a game ball can be introduced. In addition, a gap having a predetermined width (a width of about 3 to 5 times the diameter of the game ball) is provided between the right end portion of the second peripheral wall member 102 and the left end portion of the third peripheral wall member 103, so that the game ball The distribution unit 106 that distributes left and right is configured.

  Opening and closing members 107 and 108 are provided at the first special entrance 104 and the second special entrance 104, respectively. The opening / closing members 107 and 108 are constituted by substantially blade-like members, and are rotatable toward the outside of the central device 100 with their lower end portions as rotation axes. In other words, the opening and closing members 107 and 108 are turned upright about the rotation shaft at the lower end portion to be in an upright state and close the special entrance 104 and 105, and the outer side of the central device 100. Can be changed to an open state where the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened. The first opening / closing member 107 and the second opening / closing member 108 open and close in conjunction with each other.

  When the opening / closing members 107 and 108 are closed, the special entrances 104 and 105 are closed, and the game balls flowing down the game area 21 enter the central device 100 via the special entrances 104 and 105. Is impossible. On the other hand, when the opening and closing members 107 and 108 are in the open posture, the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened, and it is possible to enter the central apparatus 100 via the special entrances 104 and 105. When the opening and closing members 107 and 108 are in the open state, the inclined surfaces of the opening and closing members 107 and 108 constitute guiding surfaces for guiding the game balls to the special entrances 104 and 105.

  These open / close members 107 and 108 are configured to be opened and closed by open / close solenoids 107c and 108c (see FIG. 5). The opening / closing control of the opening / closing members 107 and 108 is configured to be performed by a CPU 200a of the main control board 200 described later. As described above, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit symbol display mode, the open / close members 107 and 108 are opened by the open / close solenoids 107c and 108c, and the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened.

  The sorting unit 106 is provided with a sorting member 109. The distribution member 109 is a device for distributing game balls that have entered the central device 100 via the special entrances 104 and 105 to either the right direction or the left direction. The distribution member 109 is configured as a so-called seesaw-type distribution device, and includes a single plate-like member having a plate surface on which a game ball can roll. The sorting member 109 can swing, and both ends thereof can move in directions opposite to each other around a rotation axis near the center. However, the allocating member 109 is located on the left side of the rotation axis and is easily inclined to the left, and the probability that the game ball is distributed to the left side is higher than the probability that the game ball is distributed to the right side. That is, of the two guide path components 110 and 111, the first guide path configuration 110 positioned at the lower left of the distribution member 109 is more than the second guide path configuration 111 positioned at the lower right of the distribution member 109. There is a high probability that game balls will be distributed. The distribution member 109 is configured to swing in a certain pattern while the opening and closing members 107 and 108 are opened.

  The two guide path constituting members 110 and 111 are configured as cylindrical members through which game balls can pass. The upper end openings of the guide path constituting members 110 and 111 are located in the vicinity of the sorting member 109. The game balls distributed to the left side by the distribution member 109 enter the first guide path constituting member 110, pass through the inside of the first guide path constituting member 110, and are guided to the lower left of the central device 100. The game balls distributed to the right side by the distribution member 109 enter the second guidance path constituting member 111, pass through the inside of the second guidance path constituting member 111, and are guided to the lower right of the central device 100.

  At the lowermost end of the central device 100, a game ball transfer device 112 is provided on the left side, and a special game device 113 is provided on the right side. For this reason, the game ball guided by the first guide path constituting member 110 is supplied to the game ball transfer device 112, and the game ball guided by the second guide route forming member 111 is supplied to the special game device 113. . The central device 100 has a special entrance detection switch (not shown) that indicates that a game ball has entered the special entrances 104 and 105, and the distribution member 109 allows the game ball to have any guidance path configuration. A guidance path passage detection switch (not shown) for detecting whether the members 110 and 111 have been distributed is provided.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the game ball transfer device 112 and the special game device 113. The game ball transfer device 112 is configured to transfer the game ball to the special game device 113 or to discharge the game ball to the outside of the central device 100. The special game device 113 includes a plurality of game ball passage areas, and a special game that is relatively advantageous to the player when the game ball passes a specific game ball passage area among the plurality of game ball passage areas. A state is configured to occur.

  As described above, the game balls that have passed through the first guide path constituting member 110 are supplied to the game ball transfer device 112 and further supplied to the special game device 113 via the game ball transfer device 112. On the other hand, the game ball that has passed through the second guide path constituting member 111 is directly supplied to the special game apparatus 113. For this reason, the special game state is more likely to occur when the game ball passes through the second guide path constituent member 110 than when the game ball passes through the first guide path constituent member 110. Therefore, the first guide route constituent member 110 having a high probability that a game ball is distributed constitutes a “normal route” having a low probability that a special game state will occur, and the second guide route having a high probability that a game ball will be distributed. The component 111 constitutes a “special route” that has a high probability that a special gaming state will occur.

  The game ball transfer device 112 includes a roller member 112a, a rolling part 112b, and an inclination guide part 112c. The roller member 112a has a cylindrical shape, and the axial direction is arranged horizontally. The roller member 112a is rotationally driven at a predetermined speed by a transfer roller motor 112m (see FIG. 5). The roller member 112a rotates so that the outer peripheral surface moves upward from the near side and moves to the far side. That is, when viewed from the right side in FIG. 4, the roller member 112a rotates in the clockwise direction.

  A rolling portion 112b is provided on the front side of the roller member 112a. The rolling part 112b is configured such that a game ball can roll on the upper surface, and has an inclined surface that is inclined downward toward the near side (player side) near the center. A plurality of suction pieces 112c are provided on the surface of the roller member 112a. The attracting piece 112c is composed of a permanent magnet that can attract a game ball.

  In the rolling part 112b, the game ball that has not been attracted to the attracting piece 112c falls downward from the front side of the central device 100 and is discharged from the central device 100. When the game ball located on the rolling part 112b is attracted to the attracting piece 112c, it is transferred to the inclination guiding part 112d provided on the back side of the roller member 112a as the outer surface of the roller member 112a rotates. The The tilt guiding portion 112d is tilted from the upper left to the lower right in FIG. 4, and the game ball supplied to the tilt guiding portion 112d is guided to the special game device 113 located on the right side of the game ball transfer device 112. The

  The special gaming device 113 is provided with a disk-shaped rotating body 113a. The rotating body 113a has a plate surface arranged horizontally and is driven to rotate at a constant speed by a rotating body motor 113m (see FIG. 5). A plurality of recesses through which game balls can pass are formed on the outer periphery of the rotating body 113a. One recess among the plurality of recesses is configured as the specific region 113d, and the other three recesses are configured as the non-specific region 113e. The game ball supplied to the special game apparatus 113 passes through either the specific area 113b or the non-specific area 113c of the rotating body 113a and is discharged from the central apparatus 100.

  The central device 100 is provided with a specific area detection switch 114 (see FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has passed through the specific area 113b. Further, the central device 100 detects game balls discharged from the central device 100 without passing through the specific area 113b, that is, game balls that have passed through the non-specific area 113c or dropped by the game ball transfer device 112. A discharge detection switch 115 (see FIG. 5) is provided. The discharge detection switch 115 can detect that the game ball has been confirmed not to pass through the specific area 113b.

  When the game ball supplied to the special game device 113 passes through the specific area 113b, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 generates a special game state.

  Returning to FIG. 3, the central device 100 is provided with an effect display device 116. In the present embodiment, a large-sized liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 116, and an effect symbol display area (not shown) in which an effect symbol is displayed is provided in the display area of the effect display device 116. The normal symbol and the special symbol displayed on the symbol display device 27 function as a lottery symbol for displaying the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination and the special symbol success / failure determination, respectively, and the production symbol is linked with the display of the normal symbol and the special symbol. Perform production display. Note that the display control of the effect symbols on the effect display device 116 is performed by the CPU 260a of the sub-control board 260. Therefore, the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260 corresponds to the effect symbol display control means of the present invention.

  In the effect symbol display area of the effect display device 116, three symbol displays including a left symbol display area in which a left symbol is displayed, a middle symbol display area in which a middle symbol is displayed, and a right symbol display area in which a right symbol is displayed. An area is provided. In addition, the portion of the display screen of the effect display device 116 excluding the effect symbol display area is a background display area in which various background symbols including characters, graphics, symbols, characters, and the like are displayed.

  Each symbol display area of the effect symbol display area is set in the direction substantially perpendicular to the arrangement direction of these display areas, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction). Each symbol display area of the effect symbol display area can be variably displayed as a numerical symbol composed of “1” to “9”, and the effect symbol is configured as a three-digit numerical symbol. The effect symbols of the present embodiment are combinations of even symbols (for example, “7-7-7”, etc.) that are the same in three digits, and the symbol combinations other than these are out of symbol. The determination of the effect display mode of the effect symbol and the stop symbol is performed by the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260 based on a command transmitted from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200.

  The effect symbol starts to be displayed in synchronization with the start of the variable symbol display of the normal symbol. If the normal symbol is out of display and stopped in the symbol display mode, the effect symbol is out and stopped in combination with the symbol. If the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the symbol display mode, the effect symbol is stopped. Continue to display variable without displaying. Thereafter, when the special symbol that has started variably displayed due to the game ball entering the start opening 26 is removed and stopped in combination with the special symbol display mode, the effect symbol is removed and stopped in combination with the special symbol, and the special symbol is displayed. When the stop special symbol display mode is stopped and displayed, the effect symbols are continuously displayed without being stopped. When the game ball that has entered the central device 100 passes through the specific area 113b, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination of symbols, and the game ball passes through the non-specific area 113c or falls by the game ball transfer device 112 In such a case, the effect symbol is removed and the combination of the symbols is stopped and displayed. Details of the variation display of these effect symbols will be described later.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the electronic control unit.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the electronic control device includes a main control board 200 and sub-control boards 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control board 200. The sub control board includes a payout control board (prize ball control board) 230, a sub control board 260, and an effect display control board 280.

  Each control board 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power supply (not shown). Further, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control board 200, 230, 260, 280 when the power is turned on. Note that the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control board 200 and the payout control board 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control board 230 are held.

  The main control board 200 constitutes a main control means that controls the progress of the game, and transmits a command signal (command data) instructing processing contents to each of the sub control boards 230, 260, and each sub control board 230, Reference numerals 260 and 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200a of the main control board 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter also simply referred to as “RAM”), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as “ROM”), etc., and the RAM is controlled by a control program stored in the ROM. As an area, it controls the overall operation of the gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game). In addition, the main control board 200 is configured by a CPU 200a as a main body to determine whether or not the special symbol is determined by a determination program stored in the ROM. Further, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 of this embodiment is set to 4 ms.

  A panel input relay board 201 and a panel output relay board 202 are connected to the main control board 200. The board surface input relay board 201 is connected with a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 24s, a start entrance ball detection switch 26s, a grand prize entrance entrance detection switch 29s, a specific area detection switch 114, and a discharge detection switch 115. This signal is input to the main control board 200. Connected to the panel output relay board 202 are a symbol display device 27, a start opening solenoid 26c, a special winning opening solenoid 29c, opening / closing member solenoids 107c and 108c, a transfer roller motor 112m, and a rotating body motor 113m. A control signal is output from the substrate 200.

  The payout control board 230 includes a CPU having the same configuration as the CPU 200 a of the main control board 200. The discharge control board 230 is connected to the launch control board 250, the CR unit 13, and the like. From the main control board 200 to the payout control board 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction signal for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like.

  The sub-control board 260 is provided with arithmetic circuit components having a CPU 260a, a ROM, a RAM, an input / output port (not shown), and a sound generator, and is connected to the main control board 200 at the input / output port. The sub-control board 260 is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 10a to 10d, effect symbol display by the effect display device 116, and the like.

  Various lamp control commands and various audio control commands are transmitted from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 260. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of effect symbols are transmitted from the main control board 200 to the effect display control board 280 via the sub control board 260. Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control are simultaneously transmitted from the sub control board 260 to the effect display control board 280.

  An effect display control board 280 is connected to the sub control board 260. The effect display control board 280 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) having a CPU, RAM, ROM, input / output port, VDP (video display processor), etc., and is connected to the sub-control board 260 at the input / output port. ing. An effect display device 116 is connected to the effect display control board 280. The effect display control board 280 is configured such that the CPU performs display control of the effect display device 116 using the RAM as a work area according to a control program stored in the ROM. In the ROM of the effect display control board 280, symbol image data for effects displayed on the effect display device 116 is stored.

  Various LEDs and lamps 262 are connected to the sub-control board 260 via a decorative drive board 261. The various LEDs / lamps 262 are for enhancing the gaming effect, and these lamps are turned on / off or blinking in accordance with the progress of the game to enhance the gaming effect. An amplifier board 263 is connected to the sub control board 260. Speakers 10 a to 10 d are connected to the amplifier substrate 263. From the speakers 10a to 10d, various sounds, sounds, and the like are output in accordance with the progress of the game. Further, the effect button 5 d is connected to the sub control board 260 via the effect button board 264. The CPU 260a of the sub-control board 260 selects / executes various LED / lamp lighting / flashing patterns, and the speaker 10a based on various commands (reception of an effect pattern designation command) from the main control board 200 and the effect button 5d. 10d to effect sound data output / output processing, effect display pattern selection / execution processing on the effect display device 116, and the like.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 6 shows an example of a main job executed by the CPU 200a based on a program stored in the ROM by the CPU of the main control board 200. The main job shown in FIG. 6 includes a game start process S200, a normal symbol game process S300, a normal electric game game process S400, a special symbol game process S500, and a special electric game game process S600 after executing the power-on process S100. Each step is repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset. In the power-off generation process S700, when a power-off occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and so on, and when a system reset occurs, the process proceeds to the power-on process S100. It has become.

  The power-on process S100 is performed when the power is turned on and when the power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, a RAM initialization process or the like is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored. The return setting is performed. In the game start process S200, detection of various switch states, update of various random numbers, prize ball control, and the like are performed.

  Next, the normal symbol game process S300 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined by the normal symbol operation gate detection switch 24s whether or not the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 24 (S301). As a result, when it is determined that the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 24 (S301: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol hold number is less than 4 (S302), and the normal symbol hold number is determined. Is less than 4 (S302: YES), a random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is present is stored (S303).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the start port 26 is in operation (S304). If it is determined that the start port 26 is in operation (S304: YES), the routine returns and the start port 26 is in operation. If it is determined that it is not (S304: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is changing (S305). As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol is not changing (S305: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is in the stop display time (S306), and it is determined that the normal symbol is in the normal symbol display time. If this is the case (S306: NO), the process proceeds to S314, which will be described later. If it is determined that the normal symbol display time is not being reached (S306: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol hold count is zero (S306: NO). S307).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of normal symbol hold is zero (S307: YES), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the number of normal symbol hold is not zero (S307: NO), whether or not the normal symbol is determined is determined. (S308), and based on the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination, the normal symbol variation time (ordinary symbol variation pattern) is set (S309). Here, the normal symbol variation pattern defines the variation time of the ordinary symbol, and the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 assigns a specific ordinary symbol variation pattern from the variation symbol table of the ordinary symbol stored in the ROM in S308. It is determined based on the determination result of the normal symbol success / failure determination. When the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination is a win, a stop symbol for winning (winning normal symbol display mode) and a normal symbol variation pattern for winning (hit variation patterns A, B, etc.) are determined. In other cases, the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination is out of order, and a stop symbol for detachment (disconnected normal symbol display mode) and a normal symbol variation pattern for detachment are determined.

  Then, the normal symbol display device 27a starts changing the normal symbol (S310). At this time, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 transmits a normal symbol variation pattern designation command indicating a variation pattern of the normal symbol to the CPU 260a of the sub control substrate 260.

  When it is determined in S305 that the normal symbol is changing (S305: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol change time has passed (S311), and the normal symbol change time has passed. If it is determined that there is not (S311: NO), the process directly returns. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol change time has elapsed (S311: YES), the normal symbol change is stopped (S312), and the normal symbol stop display interval is set (S313).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the interval between the normal symbols has been stopped (S314). If it is determined that the interval between the normal symbols has not been stopped (S314: NO), the process returns as it is. When it is determined that the normal symbol stop display period has elapsed (S314: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol stop symbol is a hit symbol display mode in which the start port 26 is to be operated ( S315). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is not the winning symbol display mode (S315: NO), the stop symbol of the normal symbol is removed and is a normal symbol, so the process returns as it is.

  When it is determined that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is the winning symbol display mode (S315: YES), the operating time of the start port 26 (5 seconds in this embodiment) is set (S316). Then, the operation of the start port 26 is started (S317). At this time, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 transmits a start port opening signal indicating that the start port 26 has been opened to the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260.

  Next, the ordinary electric accessory game process S400 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the start port 26 is in operation (S401). If it is determined that the start port 26 is not in operation (S401: NO), the process directly returns. On the other hand, when it is determined that the start port 26 is in operation (S401: YES), it is determined whether the operation time (5 seconds) of the start port 26 has elapsed (S402). If it is determined that the operating time has not elapsed (S402: NO), it is determined whether or not a predetermined number (1) of winnings has been won at the starting port 26 (S403).

  As a result, when it is determined that there is no predetermined number of winnings at the starting port 26 (S403: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that there is a predetermined number of winnings at the starting port 26 (S403: If it is determined that the operation time of the start port 26 has elapsed (S402: YES), the operation of the start port 26 is stopped (S404). At this time, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 transmits a start port closing signal indicating that the start port 26 is closed to the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260.

  Next, the special symbol game process S500 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not a special gaming state is occurring (S501). As a result, when it is determined that the special gaming state is occurring (S501: YES), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the special gaming state is not occurring (S501: NO), the special symbol changes. It is determined whether it is in the middle (S502).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S502: YES), the process proceeds to S509 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S502: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S503). If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S503: YES), the process proceeds to S512 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S503: NO). ), It is determined whether or not the special entrances 104 and 105 of the central device 100 are open (S504).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special ball openings 104 and 105 of the central device 100 are not open (S504: NO), it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the start port 26 (S505). . As a result, when it is determined that no game ball has entered the start port 26 (S505: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that a game ball has entered the start port 26 ( S505: YES), special symbol winning / no-go determination is performed (S506).

  Next, a special symbol variation pattern determination process is performed (S507). This special symbol variation pattern prescribes the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of reach effect in the variation, and the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 specifies a specific symbol variation pattern table stored in the ROM. The variation pattern is determined based on the determination result of the special symbol success / failure determination in S506. When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, a stop symbol for big hit (big hit symbol display mode) and a special symbol variation pattern for big hit are determined. Further, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a small hit, the stop symbol for small hit (small hit symbol display mode) and the special symbol variation pattern for small hit are determined. In other cases, the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out of order, and the outage stop symbol (outside special symbol display mode) and its variation pattern are determined according to the presence or absence of the reach effect.

  Then, the special symbol display device 27b starts to display the variation of the special symbol (S508). At this time, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 transmits a special symbol variation pattern designation command indicating the variation pattern of the special symbol to the CPU 260a of the sub control substrate 260.

  When it is determined in S502 that the special symbol is changing (S502: YES), it is determined whether the special symbol change time has elapsed (S509). As a result, when it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has not elapsed (S509: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed (S509: YES), the change of the special symbol is stopped, the stop symbol is displayed according to the special symbol determination result (S510), and the special symbol stop display time is set (S511).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop display time has elapsed (S512). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop display time has not elapsed (S512: NO), the process returns as it is, and when it is determined that the special symbol stop display time has elapsed ( S512: YES), it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol is a small hit symbol display mode (S513). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is the small hit symbol display mode (S513: YES), the special entrances 104 and 105 of the central device 100 are opened (S514). At this time, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 transmits a special entrance opening signal indicating that the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened to the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260.

  If the stop symbol of the special symbol is not in the small hit symbol display mode (S513: NO), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol is in the big hit symbol display mode (S515). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol is in the big hit symbol display mode (S515: YES), since it is so-called “direct hit”, the special gaming state is immediately started (S516). If it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is not the jackpot symbol display mode (S515: NO), the stop symbol of the special symbol is removed and is in the special symbol display mode, and the process returns as it is.

  Next, when it is determined in S504 that the special entrances 104 and 105 of the central device 100 are open (S504: YES), whether or not the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has elapsed. Is determined (S517). As a result, when it is determined that the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has elapsed (S517: YES), the special entrances 104 and 105 are closed (S518). On the other hand, when it is determined that the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has not elapsed (S517: NO), it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area 113b of the special game device 113. (S519). As a result, when the game ball has passed the specific area 113b, that is, when the game ball is detected by the specific area detection switch 114 (S519: YES), the special game state is started (S516). In this case, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 transmits a specific area passing signal to the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260. On the other hand, when the game ball has not passed the specific area 113b, that is, when the game ball is detected by the discharge detection switch 115 (S519: NO), the process returns as it is. In this case, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 transmits a non-specific area passing signal to the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260.

  Further, the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 is specially instructed to the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260 when a game ball entering the special entrance 104, 105 is detected by a special entrance detection switch (not shown). A ball entrance signal is transmitted, and a game ball is moved to a normal route (first guide route component 110) or a special route (second guide route component 111) by a guide route passage detection switch (not shown). When it is detected whether the distribution has been made, a guidance route passing signal is transmitted to the CPU 260a of the sub-control board 260.

  Next, the special electric accessory game process S600 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not a special gaming state is occurring (S601), and if it is determined that a special gaming state is not occurring (S601: NO), the process returns as it is and a special gaming state is occurring. If it is determined (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 29a is being opened (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 29a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 29a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 29a is determined. If it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the maximum number of game balls has been won in the special winning opening 29a (S604).

  As a result, if it is determined that the maximum number of game balls has not been won in the big prize opening 29a (S604: NO), the game returns directly, and the maximum number of game balls won in the big prize opening 29a. If it is determined (S604: YES) and if it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 29a has passed (S603: YES), the special winning opening 29a is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in S602 that the special winning opening 29a is not open (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not the number of rounds in the special gaming state has reached a predetermined number (S606). As a result, when it is determined that the number of rounds in the special gaming state has not reached the predetermined number (S606: YES), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the special winning opening 29a has elapsed. (S607) When it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 29a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the process returns as it is, and it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 29a has elapsed. (S607: YES), the special winning opening 29a is opened (S608).

  If it is determined in S606 that the number of rounds in the special gaming state has reached the predetermined number (S606: NO), the special gaming state is terminated (S609).

  Next, an effect symbol display control process for displaying the effect symbols in a variable manner will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B are flowcharts showing the flow of effect symbol display control processing performed by the CPU 260a of the sub-control board 260 in accordance with the control program stored in the ROM.

  First, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol variation display is started (S800). This can be determined by whether or not the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260 has received the normal symbol variation pattern designation command transmitted from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200. As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol has not started to fluctuate (S800: NO), the normal symbol is in a standby state until the fluctuation starts. On the other hand, when it is determined that the normal symbol has started to fluctuate (S800: YES), a first effect symbol effect pattern setting process is performed (S801).

  Here, the first effect design effect pattern setting process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol variation pattern is a hit variation pattern (S801a). As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol variation pattern is a hit variation pattern (S801a: YES), it is determined whether the normal symbol variation pattern is a hit variation pattern A (S801b).

  As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol variation pattern is the hit variation pattern A (S801b: YES), the effect pattern of the effect symbol is set to the effect pattern A-1 (S801c). On the other hand, when it is determined that the normal symbol variation pattern is not the hit variation pattern A, that is, the hit variation pattern B (S801b: NO), the effect pattern of the effect symbol is set to the effect pattern B-1 (S801d). .

  Here, the production patterns A-1 and B-1 in the present embodiment will be described. In the production patterns A-1 and B-1, different types of production symbols are set, and a variation mode of “reach display” is set as a variation mode of the production symbols. The reach display means that after the same symbol is displayed on the left and right symbols on the effect display device 116, the middle symbol is variably displayed and waited (for example, “6. ↓ .6” is displayed on standby). It is an aspect. In addition, whether or not to stop the effect symbol with a predetermined stop symbol combination after reaching the reach display is determined by sending each command signal transmitted from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 as the game progresses to the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260. Is determined when received. Therefore, at the stage when the effect symbol starts reach display, it is not determined at what timing what stop symbol combination is to be stopped and displayed. For this reason, both the winning symbol combination (for example, “6, 6 and 6”) and the off symbol combination (for example, “6, 5 and 6”) are set as the stop symbol combinations of the effect symbols. Which stop symbol is to be stopped and displayed is determined as the game progresses.

  In addition, in the effect patterns A-1 and B-1, a predetermined reach effect display executed by the effect display device 116 during the reach display is also set. As the first reach effect display determined based on the normal symbol hit variation pattern, different effect modes are set for the effect patterns A-1 and B-1. In addition, the reach effect display of a present Example shall perform the confrontation effect display in which the character A and the character B confront the reach effect of the production pattern A-1, for example. This confrontation effect is an effect of setting “big hit” if character A wins. Further, the reach effect of the effect pattern B-1 can be a confrontation effect display in which the character A and the character C confront each other. This confrontation effect is also an effect that is set to “hit” if the character A wins.

  In addition, the first reach effect display of the present embodiment is composed of “process effect A” and “result effect A”, and “process effect A” is the character A and character B (or C) described above. An effect of displaying the confrontation process, and “result effect A” is an effect of displaying “defeat of character A” as a result of the confrontation. The production patterns A-1 and B-1 include these “process production A” and “result production A”. The “result effect A” is executed only when a predetermined game result (described later) is obtained.

  If it is determined in S801a that the normal symbol variation pattern is not a hit variation pattern, that is, a deviation variation pattern (S801a: NO), an effect pattern C is set (S801e). The effect pattern C is an off-effects pattern that causes the effect symbols to be finally stopped and displayed in combination with the symbols without reach display, and no reach effect is set like the effect patterns A-1 and B-1. .

  Next, returning to FIG. 11A, the variation of the effect symbol in each effect pattern set in S801 in the display area of the effect display device 116 is started (S802). As described above, in this embodiment, when the normal symbol variation pattern is a hit variation pattern, the effect display device 116 causes the effect symbol to be reach-displayed and the first reach effect display (the aforementioned “process effect A”). )I do. The first reach effect display is such that the effect content is not completed when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed. That is, even if the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the “result effect A” is not executed. Therefore, the player cannot recognize the result of the game in the confrontation effect (which character has won) when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the variation pattern of the normal symbol is a hit variation pattern (S803). As a result, if it is determined that the variation pattern of the normal symbol is a hit variation pattern (S803: YES), the process waits in a state where the above-mentioned “process effect A” is displayed until a predetermined game result is obtained. . For example, an effect display (standby display) is awaited until the determination result of the match between the character A and the character B (or C) is made until an affirmative determination is made in the processing of S808 described later. If the normal symbol is a hit variation pattern, even if the normal symbol is stopped, the variation of the effect symbol is not ended and the reach display is continued. On the other hand, if the normal symbol variation pattern is a deviating variation pattern (S803: NO), the effect symbol is deviated and displayed in combination with a symbol combination (S820), and the player is notified that the result of the game is “out”. Inform.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the start port 26 has been opened (S804). This can be determined by whether or not the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260 has received the start port opening signal from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200. As a result, when it is determined that the start port 26 is not opened (S804: NO), the standby state is maintained until the start port 26 is opened. On the other hand, when it is determined that the start opening 26 has been opened (S804: YES), a display for causing the player to launch the game ball with the aim of the start opening 26 is performed in the display area of the effect display device 116 ( S805). In the present embodiment, since the start opening 26 is provided on the left side of the effect display device 116, for example, by displaying the left arrow “←”, the player can aim the start opening 26 and fire a game ball. Can do.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the start port 26 is closed (S806). This can be determined by whether or not the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260 has received the start port closing signal from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200. As a result, when it is determined that the start port 26 is not closed (S806: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol has started to change (S807). This can be determined based on whether or not a special symbol variation pattern designation command is received from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200.

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol has not started to change (S807: NO), the process returns to S806. Here, the effect display when the start opening is closed without starting the change of the special symbol (without entering the start opening) is illustrated. In this case, the “result effect A” of effect display in the effect patterns A-1 and B-1 is executed by receiving the start port closing signal. That is, an effect display of “defeat of character A” is displayed. Thereafter, the effect symbols that have fluctuated since the beginning of the normal symbol variation are stopped and displayed with a deviating symbol combination such as “6, 5, 6” (reach-unreachable symbol combination) (S820). Announces that the process has been terminated by detachment.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the special symbol has started to fluctuate (S807: YES), a second effect symbol effect pattern setting process is performed (S808). In the second effect design effect pattern setting process, the second reach effect display related to the first reach effect display is set based on the variation pattern of the special symbol.

  Here, the second effect design effect pattern setting process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation pattern is a hit variation pattern (S808a). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation pattern is a hit variation pattern (S808a: YES), it is determined whether or not the type of the special symbol is small hit (S808b).

  As a result, when it is determined that the game is a small hit (S808b: YES), it is determined whether or not the effect by the effect symbol is executing the effect pattern A-1 (S808c). As a result, when it is determined that the effect pattern A-1 is being executed (S808c: YES), the effect pattern A-2 is set (S808d). On the other hand, when it is determined that the effect pattern A-1 is not being executed, that is, the effect pattern B-1 is being executed (S808c: NO), the effect pattern B-2 is set (S808e).

  When it is determined in S808b that the special symbol hit type is not a small hit, that is, the hit type is a direct hit (S808b: NO), the effect by the effect symbol executes the effect pattern A-1. It is determined whether it is in the middle (S808f). As a result, when it is determined that the effect pattern A-1 is being executed (S808f: YES), the effect pattern A-3 is set (S808g), and the effect pattern A-1 is not being executed. When it is determined that the pattern B-1 is being executed (S808f: NO), an effect pattern B-3 is set (S808h). The effect pattern A-3 is a hit effect pattern having relevance to the effect pattern A-1, and is stopped and displayed with a hit symbol composed of “6, 6 and 6” after a reach effect of “6”, for example. The effect pattern B-3 is a hit effect pattern having relevance to the effect pattern B-1, and is stopped and displayed with a hit symbol composed of “7, 7, 7” after the reach effect of “7”, for example.

  If it is determined in S808a that the special symbol variation pattern is not a hit variation pattern, that is, a variation variation pattern (S808a: NO), whether or not an effect by the effect symbol is executing the effect pattern A-1. Is determined (S808i). As a result, when it is determined that the effect pattern A-1 is being executed (S808i: YES), the effect pattern A-4 is set (S808j), and the effect pattern A-1 is not being executed. When it is determined that the pattern B-1 is being executed (S808i: NO), the effect pattern B-4 is set (S808k).

  Here, the second reach effect display set for each of the aforementioned effect patterns A-2, B-2, A-3, B-3, A-4, and B-4 will be described. The second reach effect display includes “result effect B, C, D”, “new process effect B”, and “new process effect B” following “process effect A” in the first reach effect display. Resulting effects E, F, G ".

  “Result effect B” is an effect in which the result of “process effect A” performed in advance is “draw”. The “result effect C” is an effect in which the result of the “process effect A” performed in advance is “the victory of the character A”. Further, the “result effect D” is an effect in which the result of the “process effect A” performed in advance is “defeat of the character A”. These “result effects B, C, D” are selected and executed when a predetermined game result (described later) is obtained.

  The “process effect B” is an effect that displays the second confrontation process between the same characters as the “process effect A” described above. The “result effect E” is an effect in which the result of the newly performed “process effect B” is “draw”. The “result effect F” is an effect in which the result of the newly performed “process effect B” is “defeat of the character A”. These “result effects E and F” are selected and executed when a predetermined game result (described later) is obtained. Thus, in the second reach effect display, an effect related to the contents of the first reach effect display is set, and the result of the first reach effect display can be changed according to the progress of the game.

  In the production patterns A-2, A-3, and A-4, production images are designed by the same characters as the characters used in the production pattern A-1 performed in advance (a character that is never Etc.). In the effect patterns B-2, B-3, and B-4, effect images are designed by the same characters as the characters used in the effect pattern B-1 performed in advance. In this way, by giving the relevance to the effect image, it is possible to easily inform the player that a series of games are constituted by a plurality of types of symbol variations and game ball rolling situations.

  Next, returning to FIG. 11A, it is determined whether or not the variation pattern of the special symbol is a hit variation pattern (S809). As a result, when it is determined that the variation pattern of the special symbol is a hit variation pattern (S809: YES), it is determined whether or not the type of the special symbol is small hit (S810). As a result, when it is determined that it is a small hit (S810: YES), the second reach effect display is executed based on the effect pattern A-2 or B-2, and the process proceeds to S811. Specifically, first, “result effect B” to be “draw” is selected and executed as “result effect” for “process effect A” performed in advance. Thereafter, “process effect B” is executed, and even if the change of the special symbol stops, the “process effect B” is displayed in a standby state. That is, the standby display for waiting for the determination result of the second confrontation effect executed in the “process effect B” is performed, and the standby display is continued until one of the “result effects E, F” is displayed.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not a small hit (S810: NO), since it is a direct hit, as the second reach effect display based on the effect patterns A-3 and B-3, “Result effect C” which is “Victory of character A” is selected and executed as “result effect” for effect “A”. After that, the effect symbols that have changed since the start of the normal symbol change are stopped and displayed in a winning symbol combination such as “6, 6, 6” (S819), and the player is informed that it is a direct hit.

  If the special symbol variation pattern is not a winning variation pattern (S809: NO), the “process effect A” performed in advance as the second reach effect display based on the effect patterns A-4 and B-4. For “result effect”, “result effect D” to be “defeat of character A” is selected and executed. Thereafter, the effect symbols that have fluctuated since the beginning of the normal symbol variation are stopped and displayed with a deviating symbol combination such as “6, 5, 6” (reach-unreachable symbol combination) (S820). Announces that the process has been terminated by detachment.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened (S811). This can be determined based on whether or not the special entrance opening signal transmitted from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 is received by the CPU 260a of the sub-control board 260. As a result, when it is determined that the special entrances 104 and 105 are not opened (S811: NO), the standby state is kept until the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened. On the other hand, when it is determined that the special entrances 104 and 105 have been opened (S811: YES), the game balls aiming at the special entrances 104 and 105 are displayed on the display area of the effect display device 116. A display for launching is performed (S812). In this embodiment, since the special entrances 104 and 105 are provided above the effect display device 116, for example, by displaying an up arrow “↑”, the player aims at the special entrances 104 and 105. Can play game balls.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special entrance 104, 105 is closed (S813). This can be determined based on whether or not the special entrance closing signal transmitted from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 is received by the CPU 260a of the sub-control board 260. As a result, when it is determined that the special entrances 104 and 105 are not closed (S813: NO), it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the special entrances 104 and 105 (S814). ). This can be determined based on whether or not the special entrance entrance signal transmitted from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 has been received by the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260.

  As a result, when it is determined that no game ball has entered the special entrances 104 and 105 (S814: NO), the process returns to the determination process of S813. Here, the effect display when the game ball is closed without entering the special entrance is illustrated. In this case, the “result effect F” of the effect display in the effect patterns A-2 and B-2 is executed by receiving the special entrance closing signal. In other words, after “process effect B” is displayed, an effect display of “defeat of character A” is displayed. Thereafter, the effect symbols that have fluctuated since the beginning of the normal symbol variation are stopped and displayed with a deviating symbol combination such as “6, 5, 6” (reach-unreachable symbol combination) (S820). Announces that the process has been terminated by detachment.

  If it is determined that a game ball has entered the special entrances 104 and 105 (S814: YES), “result effect E” that is “draw” is selected as the result of “process effect B”. Executed. Then, here, an effect setting process during the small hit game is performed (S815). In the small hit game effect setting process, “process effect C”, which is a new confrontation effect following “result effect E”, and “development effect” in which special character X is cut-in displayed during “process effect C”, A “result effect G” in which the result of “process effect C” is “win of character A” and a “result effect H” in which the result of “process effect C” is “defeat of character A” are set. . The “process effect C” is started immediately after the effect setting process during the small hit game is completed. The “result effects G and H” are selected and executed based on a predetermined condition achieved during the small hit game.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the game balls that have entered the special entrances 104 and 105 have passed through the special route (second guidance route component 111) (S816). This can be determined based on a guidance route passage signal transmitted from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200. As a result, when it is determined that the game ball has passed the special route (S816: YES), an interruption display of “development effect” is displayed during “process effect C” (S817), and the game ball follows the special route. If it is determined that the game ball has not passed, that is, the game ball has passed the normal route (first guide route component 110) (S816: NO), the “process effect C” is performed without performing the “development effect”. continue. A player who is more likely to win a big hit when the game ball passes through the special route is more likely to be in a special game state than when the game ball passes through the normal route. Can be recognized.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area 113b (S818). This can be determined based on whether a specific area passing signal or a non-specific area passing signal transmitted from the CPU 200a of the main control board 200 is received. As a result, when it is determined that the game ball has passed through the specific area 113b (S818: YES), after the “process effect C” is displayed, the “result effect G” that is “the victory of the character A” is selected and displayed. After that, the effect symbol that has changed since the start of the normal symbol variation is stopped and displayed in a winning symbol combination such as “6, 6, 6” (S819), and the player is informed that it is a big hit.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the game ball has not passed through the specific area 113b (S818: NO), “result effect H” which is an effect display of “defeat of character A” after “process effect C” is displayed. Selected and displayed. Thereafter, the effect symbols that have fluctuated since the beginning of the normal symbol variation are stopped and displayed with a deviating symbol combination such as “6, 5, 6” (reach-unreachable symbol combination) (S820). Announces that the process has been terminated by detachment.

  In the embodiment described above, the effect display composed of the “process effect” and the “result effect” is executed in parallel with the change display of the effect symbol, but the present invention is not limited to this. . In particular, as long as the variation of one effect symbol is continued over a plurality of symbol variations, any effect may be performed as an effect display executed in parallel therewith.

  In the above-described embodiment, the number of game balls entering the start opening 26 is one. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of game balls enter the start opening 26. A configuration may be adopted in which a ball can be made and the entered game ball is stored as “special symbol hold”. For example, it is assumed that a plurality of (for example, four) game balls enter the game while the start port 26 is open. In this case, the number of balls entered is stored in the main control board 200 as “reservation of special symbol”, and whether or not the balls are entered is determined in order. In addition, if the result of the success / failure determination is a small hit, the determination of the success / failure for the next holding is suspended and until the game result of the small hit game is obtained (whether the special game state start condition is satisfied or not) Wait until it is confirmed). Then, when “confirmation of non-establishment of start condition of special game state” is obtained as the game result of the small hit game, the determination of whether or not the special symbol is held is resumed. At this time, if the special symbol status is not started and all the special symbol status has been started, or the special game status start condition is in the middle of digesting the special symbol status, If a stop display is made when established, the player can easily recognize the result of a series of games.

  In the above-described embodiment, a gaming machine is described in which a series of games is configured by the variation results of a plurality of symbols (ordinary symbols and special symbols) and the rolling results of game balls in the central device 100. The present invention is not limited to this, and can also be applied to a gaming machine that constitutes a series of games based on a plurality of symbol variation results. For example, in a gaming machine that starts a special game that is advantageous to the player by starting a special symbol change after the normal symbol change result is won, and the special symbol change result is a hit, When the variation starts, the variation display of the production symbol is started.If the result of the normal symbol is a success, the variation display of the production symbol is continued, and the variation display of the production symbol is displayed based on the suspension of the special symbol variation. It may be a gaming machine to be stopped.

  As described above, the effect display of the effect symbol is started in conjunction with the start of the change display of the normal symbol, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning symbol, the effect display of the effect symbol is continued, The effect display of the effect symbol can be continuously performed even during the fluctuation. Thereby, it is possible to make the player recognize that the stop from the variation of the normal symbol is not a game milestone, and that the flow from the variation display of the normal symbol to the variation display of the special symbol constitutes a series of games. As a result, it is easy for beginners to understand the gameability of the two-stage lottery type gaming machine.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is a front view of a central apparatus. It is a perspective view of a central device lower part. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a normal symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a normal electric accessory game process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a special electric accessory game process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of effect design display processing. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of effect design display processing. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a 1st effect design effect pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a 2nd effect design effect pattern setting process.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 24 ... Normal symbol operation gate, 26 ... Starting port, 27 ... Symbol display device, 27a ... Normal symbol display device (1st lottery symbol display means), 27b ... Special symbol display device (2nd lottery symbol display) Means), 29 ... Grand prize device, 29a ... Grand prize port, 100 ... Central prize device, 104, 105 ... Special entrance gate, 113b ... Specific area, 116 ... Production display device (production symbol display means), 200 ... Main Control board (first symbol display control means, second symbol display control means), 260... Sub-control board (effect symbol display control means).

Claims (3)

When the game ball passes a predetermined operating area, the first symbol display unit displays the first symbol in a variable manner, and after the variable display is finished, the first symbol is stopped and displayed in the first winning symbol or the first off symbol. 1st symbol display control means;
A start opening that changes from a closed state in which a game ball cannot enter to an open state in which a game ball can enter, when the first symbol stops and displays the first hit symbol;
When a game ball enters the start opening, the second symbol display unit displays the second symbol in a variable manner, and after the variable display is finished, the second symbol is stopped and displayed in the second winning symbol or the second off symbol. A second symbol display control means;
A special entrance opening that changes from a closed state in which a game ball cannot be entered to an open state in which a game ball can be entered when the second symbol is stopped and displayed in the second hit design,
Production symbol display control means for performing production display by production design in the production display unit in correspondence with the variation display of the first design and the variation display of the second design ,
The effect symbol display control means includes:
With the start of the variable display of the first symbol, the effect display of the effect symbol is started,
When the first symbol is stopped and displayed at the first off symbol, the effect display by the effect symbol is stopped in the off display mode,
When the first symbol stops display at the first winning symbol and the variation display of the second symbol is started, the second symbol is displayed until the second symbol that has started the variation display stops display . A gaming machine characterized in that the effect display by the effect symbol is continued corresponding to the symbol variation display. The special ball entrance of gaming balls which have entered the special port, comprising a distributing means for distributing the particular region or the non-specific region is provided in the interior of the special ball entrance port,
The effect symbol display control means includes:
When the second symbol is stopped and displayed at the second off symbol, the effect display by the effect symbol is stopped in the off display mode,
When the second symbol is stopped and displayed at the second winning symbol and a game ball enters the special entrance, an effect display by the effect symbol is displayed, and the game ball is moved to the specific area by the distributing means. Or continue until it is assigned to the non-specific area ,
When the game ball is distributed to the non-specific area by the distribution means, the effect display by the effect design is stopped in a display mode out of display,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the game ball is distributed to the specific area by the distributing means, the effect display by the effect symbol is stopped in a hit display mode .   The effect symbol display control means starts the effect symbol display of the effect symbol with the first effect pattern as the first symbol variable display starts, and the first symbol stops and displays with the first winning symbol. The game machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the effect display of the effect symbol is continued in a second effect pattern related to the first effect pattern.

Images