JP4942720B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a big winning lottery is performed by winning a game ball.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a jackpot lottery is performed when a game ball wins an object such as a start opening. Then, when the jackpot is won, the winning feature such as a big prize opening is released until a predetermined condition is satisfied, and a gaming state in which many winning balls can be obtained is set. At that time, the “big hit” is usually given a plurality of modes with different winning conditions for the big win in the subsequent lottery. For example, a jackpot with a probability variation (probability variation) mode in which the winning probability of the jackpot fluctuates with a high probability, a variation time shortening (time reduction) mode to increase the frequency of winning the jackpot lottery by shortening the symbol variation time There is a jackpot of the normal mode in which neither the jackpot, the probability variation mode or the time-saving mode is given.

However, in such a gaming machine, by recognizing that a gaming state advantageous to the player is set after the jackpot game is over, the player can reduce the concentration on the game, and May diminish interest.
Therefore, for example, in Patent Document 1, after the jackpot is over, the game state is set to either “probability change state” or “ordinary short time state” to notify that it is in any advantageous game state. In both the “state” and the “normal short-time state”, the contents of the notification are the same, and a gaming machine is described in which the player cannot clearly know which is set.

JP 2004-167111 A

Here, generally, when the notification mode regarding the gaming state with different winning conditions is set to be the same and it is not possible to know which gaming state is, the player is expected to be in the probability variation gaming state and the normal gaming state The game is played in an unstable psychological state with both anxiety about being. Therefore, if the game ball doesn't win a winning feature such as a starting hole and won't even win a jackpot lottery for a long time, the expectation for winning the jackpot will decline, and the player's willingness to play rapidly Easy to decline. As a result, the player may give up the continuation of the game even though the winning probability is set to a gaming state with a high probability.
An object of the present invention is to maintain a player's sense of expectation for winning a jackpot and to increase the player's willingness to continue the game.

The gaming machine of the present invention performs a normal performance when the jackpot winning probability is in a normal state, performs a high probability state when the jackpot winning probability is higher than the normal state, and the gaming state is the normal state. Or a gaming machine that controls the production of the latent state in which the production of the high probability state and the normal production are difficult to distinguish when in the high probability state, and the number of game balls launched in the area where the game is performed or Measuring means for measuring the number of game balls discharged from the area, and when the gaming state is the high probability state, the number of gaming balls measured by the measuring means exceeds a predetermined value, and further waits for a customer When a predetermined time elapses after the screen is displayed, a notification or suggestion that the gaming state is in the high probability state is displayed on a part of the waiting screen, or the gaming state is The high probability state Characterized in that the notification or suggest screen and a notification means for alternately displaying the screen for the plying that there.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to maintain the player's sense of expectation for jackpot winning, and to increase the player's willingness to continue the game as compared with the case where the present invention is not adopted.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
A pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in the figure is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 150 that surrounds the game board 110. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has a game area 111 for playing with a game ball on the front surface, a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111, and a game And a guide member 113 for guiding a game ball on the right side of the region 111.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. As the game progresses by the player, for example, the image display unit 114 notifies the player of the symbol lottery result (symbol variation result) with a decorative symbol, or displays a notice effect by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item. Or As the image display unit 114, for example, a configuration example using a liquid crystal display device, an EL display device, an LED dot display device, a 7-segment display device, or the like can be considered.
In the present embodiment, the front of the game board 110 is provided with a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects. The movable accessory 115 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 110 and performs various effects by movement, and the board lamp 116 performs various effects by light by emitting light.

  The game area 111 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various bonuses relating to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In addition, the game area 111 is provided with a discharge port 117 through which game balls launched into the game area 111 that have not been won in the winning area are discharged out of the game area 111.

In the present embodiment, as various types of prizes and lotteries, the first start port 121 where a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) is started when a game ball enters and a position below the first start port 121 is placed. The game board 110 is provided with a second start port 122 where a special symbol lottery starts when a game ball enters and a gate 124 where a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) starts when the game ball passes. ing. Here, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 operate either one predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 125) or one predetermined special symbol display. It means a winning opening related to winning a game ball.
The second start port 122 includes an electric tulip 123 that is lit while a pair of tulip-shaped blades are opened and closed by an electric solenoid. When the blades of the electric tulip 123 are closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122. However, when the blades are opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 expands and the game ball moves to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times) while lighting or flashing.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 has a high probability state (for example, 1/30) from a low probability state (for example, 1/300) to a high probability state (for example, 1/30) when the jackpot probability that the jackpot is drawn in a special symbol lottery varies under a predetermined condition. ))). In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can reduce the special symbol variation time during the special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition, increase the probability of winning during the normal symbol lottery, or the normal symbol variation time during the normal symbol lottery. In some cases, the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123 may be shortened, or the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 may be opened (electric chew support).

Further, in the present embodiment, as the various prizes related to winning and lottery, a large prize winning port 125 as an example of an electric accessory that is located below the second start opening 122 and opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery. The game board 110 is provided with a normal winning port 126 that does not start the lottery even if the game ball wins. The big winning opening 125 is normally closed, but a round in which the special winning lottery is maintained in an open state is maintained in an open state until a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won). Repeat a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times).
In the present embodiment, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 are disposed in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which only one of them is disposed or another start port is disposed. A configuration example is also conceivable. In the present embodiment, one big prize opening 125 is arranged in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which a plurality of big prize openings 125 are arranged is also conceivable.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110. Details of the display 130 will be described later.

  The payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball wins at the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, a predetermined number of award balls per game ball are paid out according to the place where the game ball has won. It is. For example, when a game ball wins the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when the game ball wins the big prize port 125, When a game ball wins the 13 prize balls and the normal prize opening 126, 10 prize balls are paid out respectively. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

Note that various boards and the like (not shown) are attached to the rear surface of the game board 110. In other words, the main board and the sub board are arranged on the rear surface of the game board 110. That is, on the rear surface of the game board 110, a game control board in which a later-described game control unit 200 that performs internal lottery, determination of winning, and the like is provided as a main board. The game control board is sealed in a main board case made of a transparent member so that a trace remains when opened.
Also, as a sub-board, an effect control board in which an after-mentioned effect control unit 300 for overall control of effects is configured, and an image control board in which an after-mentioned image / sound control unit 310 for controlling effects by images and sounds is configured. In addition, a lamp control board on which a later-described lamp control unit 320 that controls effects by various lamps and the movable accessory 115 is provided. In addition, a switching power supply (not shown) that converts the supplied 24V AC power supply into a DC power supply and outputs it to various boards and the like is disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110.
In other words, a payout control board 400, which will be described later, which controls payout of payout balls, and a supply control board controlled by the payout control board and temporarily replenished from the outside, The frame member 150 is provided with a payout unit (not shown) for paying out and paying out lending balls.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game balls at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle. And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. In addition, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launching device one by one at a timing in conjunction with the operation of the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launching device. A plate 153 (see FIG. 2) for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball by a payout unit is paid out to the plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

The frame member 150 also includes a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launch device, and a game ball stored in the tray 153. A take-out button 155 for dropping and taking out the box (not shown).
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects based on music, voice, and sound effects, and the frame lamp 157 performs various effects based on light depending on a pattern or light emission color caused by lighting and blinking. In addition, about the frame lamp | ramp 157, the structural example which enables it to perform the effect which changes the irradiation direction of light can be considered.
The frame member 150 also includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of a display 130 arranged at the lower right of the game board 110. b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a first special symbol display 221 that operates in response to winning of the first starting port 121 and a winning of the second starting port 122. The second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the above and the normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124 are provided. The first special symbol display 221 variably displays the special symbol resulting from winning of the first start port 121 and displays the lottery result. The second special symbol display 222 variably displays special symbols resulting from winning at the second start port 122 and displays the lottery results. The normal symbol display unit 223 displays the normal symbol variably and displays the lottery result when the game ball passes through the gate 124. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 are configured by a 7-segment display device, and the normal symbol display 223 is configured by an LED display device. .

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. This hold will be described. If there is a prize by another game ball during the fluctuation display operation (while the fluctuation display for one win is being performed), the symbol fluctuation display operation for the prized game ball will be applied to the game ball which has been won first. Until the variable display operation is completed, a predetermined number (for example, four) is held as a limit. The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220. In the present embodiment, each of the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 is constituted by an LED display device arranged in a row, and the lighting thereof The number of holds is displayed according to the mode.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. The production key 162 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center, and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The player can select any of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and can select the selected image by operating the center key. Can be entered as information.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in the figure, the control unit includes a game control unit 200 that performs various controls relating to the number of prize balls to be paid out, such as internal lottery and determination of winning, as main control means. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls effects, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls effects using images and sound, and effects using various lamps and movable accessories 115 A ramp control unit 320 for controlling the payout, and a payout control unit 400 for performing payout control of the payout ball. As described above, the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 400 are each a game as a main board disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, and further, the effect control board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board as sub boards are individually configured.

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of paid-out prize balls, such as internal lottery and winning determination, and a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like. And a RAM 203 used as a working memory for the CPU 201.
The game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and sends a determination result as to whether or not it is a win in the special symbol lottery to the effect control unit 300. Also, fluctuation setting of winning probability at special symbol lottery (for example, fluctuation setting from 1/300 to 1/30), special symbol fluctuation time shortening at special symbol lottery, and normal symbol at normal symbol lottery The variable time is set to be shortened, and the setting content is sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 controls the extension of the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123, the setting of the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 are opened, and the setting of the opening / closing operation interval when the blades are opened. In addition, when a game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the game ball is suspended until the limit number (for example, four) for the undrawn lots, or the game ball continuously passes through the gate 124. The suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) for the undrawn lots.
In addition, the game control unit 200 keeps an open state in a protruding manner until the special winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Is controlled to be repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times). Furthermore, the opening / closing operation interval when the special winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

Further, when the game ball is won in the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, the game control unit 200 has one game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 400 is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of winning balls. For example, when a game ball wins at the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins at the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when a game ball wins the big prize port 125, thirteen prizes. When a game ball wins the ball, the normal winning opening 126, an instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 400 so as to pay out 10 prize balls. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the payout control unit 400 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith.
When the payout control unit 400 pays out a prize ball in accordance with an instruction from the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 400. As a result, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As shown in FIG. 3, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects a winning of a game ball to the first start port 121, and a second start. A second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the mouth 122, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 that opens and closes the electric tulip 123, and a game ball to the gate 124 A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 that detects passage is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 displays the reserved number for the undrawn special symbol lottery (big win lottery) started by winning the game ball at the first start port 121 within the limit number (for example, four). A special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219 for displaying the number of unsold lots in the special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball in the second start port 122 within the limit number, A normal symbol hold indicator 220 is connected to the normal symbol lottery display (open / close lottery) started by the passage of the game ball to the gate 124 and displays the number of unsettled hold numbers within the limit number.
Further, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol display 221 for displaying a result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first start port 121, and a game ball to the second start port 122. A second special symbol display 222 that displays the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning and a normal symbol display 223 that displays the result of the normal symbol lottery are connected.

  Then, detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215 and the normal winning port switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a prize winning opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, and the normal symbol display 223. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 250 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall is connected to the game control unit 200. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information regarding the number of paid-out winning balls acquired from the payout control unit 400, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, and the like to the host computer via the board external information terminal board 250. .

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
Next, the effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect, a ROM 302 that stores programs executed by the CPU 301, various data, and the like, and a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 301 and the like. And a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring the date and time.
The production control unit 300 sets the production content based on, for example, the determination result of whether or not the winning is a special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using the effect button 161 or the effect key 162, the effect content corresponding to the operation input may be set. In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, an instruction to set a screen display for waiting for a customer is given as one of the effects.
Furthermore, when the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, when the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery is shortened, and when the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery is shortened In this case, the production control unit 300 sets the production content corresponding to the set content.

Further, the effect control unit 300 is connected to a discharge port detection unit (discharge port switch (SW)) 163 that detects a game ball that has not been won from the discharge port 117 and is discharged outside the game area 111. Then, the effect control unit 300 measures the number of game balls (hereinafter referred to as “discharge game balls”) detected by the discharge port switch 163. That is, the effect control unit 300 and the discharge port switch 163 function as a measurement unit that measures the discharged game balls (the number of game balls) discharged from the discharge port 117 to the outside of the game area 111. When the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, for example, the effect control unit 300 sets a gaming state (later latent game state) that does not shorten the special symbol variation time, the outlet switch 163 When the count value of the discharged game balls detected in (2) satisfies a predetermined condition, a predetermined effect content is set.
In addition, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is a CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound that expresses the content of the effect, a ROM 312 that stores programs executed by the CPU 311, various data, and the like, and a work for the CPU 311. And a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game on the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player Image data such as a character or item for displaying is stored. Furthermore, various kinds of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles are stored. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and the sound data stored in the ROM 312. Furthermore, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, and the like are performed using the read image data, and voice processing using the read acoustic data is performed.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data that has undergone image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and programs executed by the CPU 321 and various data. A ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 311 are provided.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, the operation of the movable accessory 115 is controlled.
More specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (light emission pattern data) for the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls light emission from the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 corresponding to the production content set by the production control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration and function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 400 includes a CPU 401 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling payout of payout balls, a ROM 402 that stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and a RAM 403 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 401 and the like. And.
The payout control unit 400 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 400 acquires from the game control unit 200 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (such as the first start port 121). Then, the payout driving unit 411 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 411 includes a drive motor that sends out the game ball from the storage unit of the game ball.

The payout control unit 400 also includes a payout ball detection unit 412 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 411, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). Sphere detection unit 413 for detecting whether or not there is a storage, and whether or not the plate 153 in which a game ball used when a player plays a game or a prized ball to be held is full is detected. A full tank detection unit 414 is connected. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, the ball presence detection unit 413, and the full tank detection unit 414, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various types of information to a host computer installed in the hall. Then, the payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 411, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, etc. Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Functional configuration of game control unit]
Next, the functional configuration of the game control unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200. As shown in the figure, the game control unit 200 is a special symbol lottery unit 231, a normal symbol lottery unit 232, a special symbol variation control unit 233, and a special symbol lottery result determination as functional units for executing various lottery processes. A unit 234 and a normal symbol control unit 237. The special symbol lottery unit 231 and the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 function as a lottery means.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a variation pattern selection unit 235 and a game progress control unit 236 as functional units that execute processing associated with special symbol variation.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 is a function unit that executes operation control of various types of objects and data processing related to a prize ball, etc., as a function unit for a prize winning opening operation control unit 238, an electric tulip operation control unit 239, and a prize ball processing unit 240. And an output control unit 241 and a random number control unit 242.

The special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first starting port 121 or the second starting port 122.
The normal symbol lottery unit 232 performs the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 124.
The special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 controls the fluctuation of the special symbol according to the lottery result when the special symbol lottery is performed.

The special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, when a special symbol lottery is performed, the lottery result is “whether it is a big hit”, “a type of jackpot when a big winner is won”, “not a big winner It is determined whether or not it is a small hit or not.
Here, the types of “big hit” include “long hit” in which a long jackpot game time can be expected to be paid out, and “short hit” in which a big hit game time is short. For example, in the “long win”, a round that is maintained until the open state of the big winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) is repeated, for example, 15 times. In the “short win”, the round at the special winning opening 125 is repeated twice, for example.

Furthermore, the “long win” is a jackpot (“specific symbol A” in the subsequent stage), which is also called “15 round probability per change” that generates both a probability change (probability change) gaming state and a time reduction (time reduction) game state after the end of the jackpot game. And a jackpot called “ordinary jackpot” (a jackpot in the “normal symbol” in the subsequent stage) that generates only the short-time gaming state after the jackpot game ends and does not generate the probability variation gaming state. The “short win” is a so-called “two-round probable hit” (a big hit in the “specific symbol B” in the subsequent stage) that generates a probability variation gaming state after the jackpot game ends and does not generate a short-time gaming state.
In addition, the “small winning” in the case of not winning a big win, for example, a small winning game is performed in which the big winning opening 125 is opened and closed twice, and the gaming state at the time of winning the small win is continued even after the winning is completed. It is a win (winning with the “small hit symbol” in the latter part). That is, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the probability variation game state, the probability variation game state is continued even after the end of the small hit game, and the game state does not shift. Similarly, if the game state at the time of winning the small hit is a normal game state (normal game state, normal state) in which neither the probability fluctuation nor the time reduction is made, the normal game state is not changed even after the end of the small hit game. Continuing, gaming state does not transition.
Further, in the “missing”, neither the “big hit” nor the “small winning” is set, and none of the above-described gaming states advantageous to the player is set (setting of the “missing symbol” in the subsequent stage).

The variation pattern selection unit 235 selects the variation pattern of the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222 when the lottery result of the special symbol is “big hit”. Further, it is determined whether or not a reach effect is to be performed. The “reach effect” here is an effect performed by the image display unit 114 or the like for causing the player to expect a big hit.
The game progress control unit 236 controls the progress of the game in each game state.

When the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether the normal symbol lottery result is “winning or lost”. Further, the fluctuation of the normal symbol is controlled according to the lottery result.
When it is determined as “winning”, the electric tulip 123 is opened for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times), thereby increasing the winning probability of the game ball to the second start port 122. Generate a state. In addition, when it is determined as “disengagement”, such an open state of the electric tulip 123 is not generated.

The special winning opening operation control unit 238 controls the opening operation of the special winning opening 125.
The electric tulip operation control unit 239 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123.
The prize ball processing unit 240 controls the management of the number of prizes received for various types of winnings and lotteries, and controls the payout of prize balls according to the prizes.
The output control unit 241 controls the output of control commands from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400.
The random number control unit 242 controls updating of various random number values used in processing by the main control unit and the sub control unit.

[Basic operation of gaming machine]
Next, the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 configured as described above will be described.
The basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is performed by a game control unit 200 that is a main control means. Under the control of the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, which is a sub-control means, controls the game effect, and the payout control unit 400 controls the payout of the prize ball.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main operations of the game control unit 200.
The game control unit 200 repeatedly executes each process shown in FIG. 5 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Referring to FIG. 5, random number update processing, start port switch (SW) processing, gate switch (SW) processing, special symbol processing, normal symbol processing, big prize opening processing, electric tulip (electric chew) processing, prize ball processing, Output processing is sequentially executed (steps 501 to 509).

In the random number update process (step 501), the random number control unit 242 of the game control unit 200 updates various random number values used in the process by the main control unit and the sub control unit. Details of the setting of the random number and the update of the random value will be described later.
In the start port switch process (step 502), the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 monitors the states of the first start port switch 211 and the second start port switch 212 in FIG. In this case, a special symbol lottery process is executed. Details of the start port switch process will be described later.
In the gate switch process (step 503), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the gate switch 214 in FIG. 3, and performs the process for the normal symbol lottery when the switch is turned on. Execute. Details of the gate switch processing will be described later.
In the special symbol processing (step 504), the special symbol variation control unit 233, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, the variation pattern selection unit 235, and the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 perform the special symbol variation and the symbol variation. Processing associated with is performed. Details of the special symbol process will be described later.
In the normal symbol process (step 505), the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 performs the normal symbol variation and the process associated with the symbol variation. Details of the normal symbol processing will be described later.
In the special prize opening process (step 506), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the special prize opening 125 based on a predetermined condition. Detailed contents of the big prize opening process will be described later.
In the electric tulip process (step 507), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 based on a predetermined condition. Details of the electric tulip process will be described later.
In the prize ball processing (step 508), the prize ball processing unit 240 of the game control unit 200 controls the management of the number of winning prizes and the payout of prize balls according to the winning prize.
In the output process (step 509), the output control unit 241 of the game control unit 200 outputs a control command to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400. The control command is generated in each process up to step 508, set in the RAM 203, and output in this output process.

[Start-up switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the start port switch process (step 502 in FIG. 5).
In the start port switch process, the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the start port switches 211 and 212 are turned ON by winning a game ball in the start ports 121 and 122 ( Step 601). If the start port switches 211 and 212 are turned ON, then the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the number U of unreserved reservations is less than the upper limit value (step 602). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds U has reached the upper limit (No in step 602), the winning portion for the undrawn lots cannot be held any longer, and the start port switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations U is less than the upper limit (Yes in step 602), the special symbol lottery unit 231 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations U (step 603). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is obtained and held in the RAM 203 (step 604). Here, since the winning of the start ports 121 and 122 is won, random values for special symbol lottery (a jackpot random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach random number, a variation pattern random number, etc.) are acquired. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. And the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by this random number value.

[Gate switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process (step 503 in FIG. 5).
In this gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the gate 124 and the gate switch 214 is turned on (step 701). If the gate switch 214 is turned on, then the normal symbol lottery unit 232 determines whether or not the number of holds G for the undrawn lot is less than the upper limit value (step 702). In the example shown in FIG. 7, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds G has reached the upper limit (No in Step 702), the winning for the undrawn lots cannot be held any more, so the gate switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations G is less than the upper limit (Yes in Step 702), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations G (Step 703). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is acquired and held in the RAM 203 (step 704). Here, since the gate 124 is won, a random number value (such as a winning random number) for normal symbol lottery is acquired.

[Special symbol processing in game control unit]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol process (step 504 in FIG. 5).
In this special symbol process, the special symbol variation control unit 233 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a big hit (a special symbol lottery win) (step 801). If it is a big hit, since a special symbol representing some big hit has already been selected and stopped, the special symbol processing is terminated without starting the special symbol variation (Yes in step 801). On the other hand, if it is not a big hit (No in Step 801), the special symbol variation control unit 233 determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a special symbol variation (Step 802). If the special symbol is not changing (No in step 802), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 determines whether the number U of unreserved special symbols (see FIG. 6) is 1 or more (step 803). If the number of holdings U = 0 (No in step 803), it means that there is no winning for starting the special symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the special symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the number of holdings U is 1 or more (Yes in Step 803), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the holding number U (Step 804), and then the big hit determination process by another routine Then, the variation pattern selection process is executed (steps 805 and 806). As will be described in detail later, setting information (design, game state, variation pattern, etc.) included in the variation start command sent to the effect control unit 300 is determined by the jackpot determination processing and variation pattern selection processing.

  Thereafter, the special symbol variation control unit 233 generates a variation start command including the setting information determined by the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process, and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 807). Then, based on this setting information, the special symbols on the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 shown in FIG. 3 start to change (step 808), and the special symbols are set for the time set in the change pattern. In order to perform the fluctuation, measurement of the fluctuation time is started (step 809). The variation start command set in step 807 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

  Next, when it is determined in step 802 that the special symbol is changing (Yes in step 802), the special symbol variation control unit 233 determines whether or not the variation time has ended (step 810). That is, it is determined whether or not the variation time started in step 809 has reached the variation time set in the variation pattern selection process in step 806. If the variation time has not ended (No in step 810), the special symbol variation is continued, and the special symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the variation time has ended (Yes in step 810), the special symbol variation control unit 233 first sets a variation stop command in the RAM 203 (step 811). Next, the special symbol variation control unit 233 ends the variation of the special symbols in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 (step 812), and resets the measured variation time (step 812). 813). Then, a stop routine process of another routine is executed (step 814). The contents of the stop process will be described later. The variable stop command set in step 811 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

[Big hit judgment processing by game control unit]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot determination process (step 805 in FIG. 8).
In this jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 of the game control unit 200 first determines a jackpot random number in the current special symbol lottery (step 901), and determines whether or not the jackpot has been won (step 902). ). Whether or not the jackpot has been won is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot.

If the determination in step 901 is a big win (Yes in step 902), then the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 determines a big hit symbol random number (step 903). In this determination, it is first determined whether or not the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is changed (probability change or probability change) (step 904). Whether or not the probability fluctuates is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value.
When the probability changes (Yes in Step 904), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 next determines whether or not to shorten the symbol change time (time reduction, time reduction) (Step 905). Whether or not the time is shortened is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value, similarly to the determination of the probability variation.

  After the above determination, when the time is shortened (Yes in step 905), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 sets a symbol (hereinafter referred to as a specific symbol A) indicating a big hit with probability fluctuation and time reduction. Information is set in the RAM 203 (step 906). When the time is not shortened (No in step 905), a symbol (hereinafter, specific symbol B) representing a big hit with probability variation but not time reduction is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 907). If the probability does not fluctuate (No in step 904), a symbol (hereinafter referred to as a normal symbol) indicating that the game is a big hit with time reduction but no probability variation is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 908).

When the big hit is not made (No in Step 902), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 next judges whether or not the big hit is made (Step 909). Whether or not the jackpot is determined is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot random number obtained in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot, as in the case of the jackpot determination. Is done.
If the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 is a small hit (Yes in Step 909), the symbol (henceforth, a small hit symbol) indicating that there is no probability variation or time reduction is set in the RAM 203 as setting information. Set (step 910). If it is not a small hit (No in step 909), a symbol indicating that the lottery is lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 911).
That is, the “specific symbol A” set in the RAM 203 represents that the lottery result is a big hit with probability fluctuation and time reduction. “Specific symbol B” represents that the lottery result is a big hit with probability fluctuation but not time reduction. “Normal design” represents that the lottery result is a big hit with time reduction but no probability fluctuation. “Small win symbol” represents that the lottery result is a hit without time reduction or probability fluctuation. The “missing symbol” indicates that the lottery result is missing.

[Change pattern selection process by game control unit]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variation pattern selection process (step 806 in FIG. 8).
In this variation pattern selection process, the variation pattern selection unit 235 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery (step 1001). This determination is the same as step 901 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9) (the determination result of step 901 may be used). If it is a big hit (Yes in Step 1001), the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 reads the big hit fluctuation pattern table from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1002).

On the other hand, if the jackpot has not been won (No in step 1001), the variation pattern selection unit 235 then determines a random number for determining whether or not to perform a so-called reach effect for causing the player to expect a jackpot. (Step 1003). Whether or not the reach effect is performed is determined by determining whether or not the reach random number value acquired in step 604 in FIG. 6 matches a preset value.
As a result of determination using random numbers, when a reach effect is performed (Yes in step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads a variation pattern table for reach from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 1005). When the reach effect is not performed (No in Step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for loss from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1006).
Here, the variation pattern table is a table in which a plurality of variation patterns (variation times 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, etc.) prepared in advance are associated with values of variation pattern random numbers.

  Next, the variation pattern selection unit 235 acquires a random number (variation pattern random number) for determining the variation pattern, and stores it in the RAM 203 (step 1007). Then, the fluctuation pattern random number is determined using the fluctuation pattern table set in steps 1002, 1005, and 1006 (step 1008). That is, the variation pattern selection unit 235 refers to the variation pattern table set in the RAM 203 and selects a variation pattern according to the random number value acquired in Step 1007. Therefore, even if the same random number value is acquired, the variation referred to depending on the state difference such as whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit or not and whether or not a reach effect is performed if it is not a big hit Since the pattern tables are different, the determined variation pattern may be different.

  Thereafter, the variation pattern selection unit 235 sets the variation pattern selected in Step 1008 in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1009). The variation pattern setting information set in step 1009 is included in the variation start command set in step 807 of FIG. 8, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

[Processing during stop by game control unit]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stop process (step 814 in FIG. 8).
In the suspension process, the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in the current special symbol lottery (step 1101). If it is a big hit (Yes in step 1101), the game progress control unit 236 next determines whether or not it involves a probability variation (step 1102), and further determines whether or not it involves a time reduction (step). 1103).
These determinations are the same as steps 902, 904, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9) (the determination results of steps 902, 904, and 905 may be used). Moreover, you may determine based on the kind of symbol set to setting information by the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). That is, if the specific symbol A is set, Yes is made in all steps 1101 to 1103. If the specific symbol B is set, Yes in Steps 1101 and 1102, and No in Step 1103. If a normal symbol is set, Yes in Step 1101 and No in Step 1102. If the off symbol or the small hit symbol is set, No in step 1101.

  In the case of a jackpot (specific symbol A) with probability fluctuation and time reduction (Yes in all of Steps 1101 to 1103), the game progress control unit 236 sets the game state setting in the RAM 203 to a probability change game state (Step 1104), A jackpot start command is set in the RAM 203 (step 1106), and the jackpot operation control is started (step 1107). In the case of a jackpot (specific symbol B) with only a probability variation (Yes in steps 1101 and 1102 and No in step 1103), the game progress control unit 236 sets the gaming state setting in the RAM 203 to the latent gaming state (step 1105). The jackpot start command is set in the RAM 203 (step 1106), and the jackpot operation control is started (step 1107). The probability variation gaming state is a gaming state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is shifted to a high probability (probability variation) and the symbol variation time is shortened (time is shortened). The latent game state is a game state in which the probability is changed but the time is not shortened. The jackpot operation control is control of the opening operation of the big prize opening 125. Several types can be set for the probabilistic gaming state and the jackpot operation control based thereon. Which probability variation game state is applied depends on the type of the specific symbol set in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9).

  If the jackpot is not accompanied by a probability change (Yes in Step 1101, No in Step 1102), the game progress control unit 236 sets the gaming state in the RAM 203 to the short-time gaming state (Step 1108), and The number of lotteries (number of fluctuations) J is set (step 1109), a jackpot start command is set in the RAM 203 (step 1106), and the jackpot operation control is started (step 1107). Here, the short-time gaming state is a gaming state in which the probability is not changed and the time is shortened. In this stop process, the lottery count J is designated (100 times in the illustrated example), and if the lottery in the short-time gaming state is performed 100 times, the short-time gaming state ends.

  If it is not a big win (No in Step 1101), the game progress control unit 236 next checks whether or not the lottery number J is 0 (Step 1110). If the number of lotteries J is 0 (Yes in step 1110), the stopped process is terminated. If the lottery number J is not 0 (No in step 1110), the game progress control unit 236 next subtracts 1 from the value of the lottery number J (step 1111), and checks whether the lottery number J is 0 again. (Step 1112). If the number of lotteries J is not 0 (No in step 1112), the stop process is terminated. If the number of times of lottery J is 0 (Yes in Step 1112), the game progress control unit 236 sets the gaming state of the RAM 203 to the normal gaming state (the normal gaming state in which neither the probability variation nor the time is shortened) (Step 1113). ), And terminate the process during stoppage.

[Normal symbol processing by game control unit]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of normal symbol processing (step 505 in FIG. 5).
In this normal symbol processing, the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in an auxiliary game (a winning of normal symbol lottery) (step 1201). If it is during the auxiliary game, since the normal symbol is already selected and stopped, the normal symbol process is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation (Yes in step 1201). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game is not being performed (No in Step 1201), the normal symbol control unit 237 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is changing the normal symbol (Step 1202). If the normal symbol is not changing (No in Step 1202), then the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the number G of reserved symbols for the undrawn normal symbol (see FIG. 7) is 1 or more (Step 1203). If the number of holds G = 0 (No in step 1203), it means that there is no winning for starting the normal symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the reserved number G is 1 or more (Yes in step 1203), the normal symbol control unit 237 subtracts 1 from the value of the reserved number G (step 1204), and the normal random number lottery in this normal symbol lottery A determination is made (step 1205), and it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won (step 1206). Whether or not the game is won is determined by determining whether or not the value of the winning random number acquired in step 704 in FIG. 7 matches the value set as the winning value. When the normal symbol lottery is won (Yes in Step 1206), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets a symbol representing the winning (hereinafter referred to as a winning symbol) in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1207). On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won (No in step 1206), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets a symbol indicating that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 1208). ).

  Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 corresponds to either the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (step 1209). When it corresponds to any game state (Yes in Step 1209), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets the fluctuation time of the normal symbol variation to a short time (Step 1210). In the example shown in FIG. 12, it is set to 3 seconds. On the other hand, when the current operating state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 does not correspond to either the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (No in Step 1209), the normal symbol control unit 237 increases the variation time of the normal symbol variation. Time is set (step 1211). In the example shown in FIG. 12, it is set to 29 seconds.

  Thereafter, the normal symbol control unit 237 starts normal symbol fluctuations in the normal symbol display 223 shown in FIG. 3 based on the setting contents of step 1207 or step 1208 (step 1212). Further, in order to perform normal symbol variation for the time set in step 1210 or step 1211, measurement of the variation time is started (step 1213).

  Next, when it is determined in step 1202 that the normal symbol is changing (Yes in step 1202), the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the fluctuation time has ended (step 1214). That is, it is determined whether or not the variation time started in step 1213 has reached the variation time set in step 1210 or step 1211. If the fluctuation time has not ended (No in step 1214), the normal symbol variation is continued, so that the normal symbol processing is ended as it is.

  On the other hand, when the fluctuation time is over (Yes in step 1214), the normal symbol control unit 237 first ends the fluctuation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display unit 223 (step 1215), and resets the measured fluctuation time. (Step 1216). Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the winning is based on the normal symbol that has been changed and stopped (step 1217). If the winning is made (Yes in Step 1217), the auxiliary game operation control is started (Step 1218). On the other hand, if the lottery is off (No in step 1217), the normal symbol processing is terminated while maintaining the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100.

[Large winning mouth processing by game control unit]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special prize opening process (step 506 in FIG. 5).
In this special winning opening process, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a big hit (step 1301). If it is not a big hit, there is no winning in the big winning opening 125, so the big winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1301). On the other hand, if it is a big hit (Yes in step 1301), then the big prize opening operation control unit 238 performs the opening operation in the operation control at the big hit started in the pachinko gaming machine 100 being stopped (FIG. 11). It is determined whether or not it is in progress (step 1302).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in Step 1302), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next determines whether or not a predetermined time for opening operation (opening time) has elapsed. Judgment is made (step 1303). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation at the special winning opening 125 is continued, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1303). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1303), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 then adds 1 to the value of the open round number R of the special winning opening 125 from the current value (step 1304). Then, the special winning opening 125 is opened (step 1305).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the open state at the special winning opening 125 has passed a preset time (opening time) (step 1306). If the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time (No in step 1306), then the big prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether the number C of winning prizes to the big prize opening 125 is 9 or more. Is determined (step 1307). When the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time and the winning number C is less than 9, the open state of the big prize opening 125 is continued, so the big prize opening process is terminated. (No in step 1307). On the other hand, if the open state of the special winning opening 125 has passed the opening time (Yes in Step 1306) or the winning number C has reached nine (Yes in Step 1307), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 The big prize opening 125 is closed (step 1308).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the number of open rounds R of the special winning opening 125 has reached a preset maximum value (step 1309). If the maximum value has not been reached, since the operation control at the time of the big hit is continued, the big winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1309). This maximum value is set according to the type of jackpot specified by the special symbol set in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). For example, the maximum value is set to 15 rounds for the jackpot of the specific symbol A and the normal symbol, and the maximum value is set to two rounds for the jackpot of the specific symbol B.

  If the number R of open rounds of the big prize opening 125 reaches the maximum value (Yes in step 1309), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 then resets the number of open rounds R to 0 (step 1310), The ending operation in the operation control is started (step 1311). Thereafter, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not an elapsed time from the start of the ending operation has passed a predetermined time (ending time) for the ending operation to be performed (step 1312). If the ending time has not elapsed, the ending operation is continued, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1312). On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1312), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 then ends the big winning operation and ends the special winning opening process (step 1313).

  If it is determined in step 1302 that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not open (No in step 1302), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the special winning opening 125 is open (step). 1314). If it is being opened, the operations after step 1306 are executed (Yes in step 1314).

  If the big prize opening 125 is not open (No in step 1314), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 next determines whether or not the pachinko gaming machine 100 is ending (step 1315). If the ending is in progress, the operation after step 1312 is executed (Yes in step 1315).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not in the ending (No in step 1315), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next performs an opening round execution interval (interval) in which the elapsed time after closing the special winning opening 125 is set in advance. It is determined whether or not (time) has elapsed (step 1316). If the interval time has not elapsed, the next open round is not yet performed, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1316). On the other hand, if the elapsed time after closing the special winning opening 125 has passed the interval time, the operation after step 1304 is executed to execute the next open round (Yes in step 1316).

[Electric tulip processing by game control unit]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of the electric tulip process (step 507 in FIG. 5).
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine is an auxiliary game (step 1401). When the auxiliary game is not being performed, the electric tulip 123 is not opened, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1401). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game is being performed (Yes in Step 1401), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 determines whether or not the gaming machine 100 is in the middle of the opening operation in the operation control during the auxiliary game (Step 1402). ).

  If the gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in Step 1402), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then determines whether or not a predetermined time (opening time) for performing the opening operation has elapsed. (Step 1403). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation is continued, and the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1403). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1403), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then determines whether the current operation state of the gaming machine 100 corresponds to either the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state. Is determined (step 1404). If any game state is satisfied (Yes in Step 1404), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the open time of the electric tulip 123 to a long time (Step 1405). In the example shown in FIG. 14, it is set to 3.5 seconds. On the other hand, when the current operation state of the gaming machine 100 does not correspond to either the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (No in Step 1404), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 shortens the opening time of the electric tulip 123. Time is set (step 1406). In the example shown in FIG. 14, it is set to 0.2 seconds.

  Thereafter, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 opens the electric tulip 123 (step 1407), measures the elapsed time after the release, and determines whether or not the opening time set in step 1405 or step 1406 has elapsed. Judgment is made (step 1408). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening of the electric tulip 123 is continued, and the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1408).

  On the other hand, if the elapsed time after the release of the electric tulip 123 has passed the opening time (Yes in step 1408), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then closes the electric tulip 123 (step 1409), and during auxiliary games The operation control is finished and the electric tulip process is finished (step 1410).

[Random number judgment method]
Subsequently, a determination method using random numbers performed in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the variation pattern selection process (FIG. 10), the normal symbol process (FIG. 12), and the like will be described in detail.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of random numbers used in the present embodiment.
15A shows a configuration example of a jackpot random number, FIG. 15B shows a configuration example of a jackpot design random number, FIG. 15C shows a configuration example of a reach random number, and FIG. Configuration examples are shown respectively.

  Referring to FIG. 15A, two types of jackpot random numbers are set: a jackpot when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the normal gaming state and a jackpot when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the probability variation gaming state. The range of random numbers is 300 from 0 to 299. In the normal gaming state, only one winning value is set, and the winning probability is 1/300. In the case of a probable gaming state, 10 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 10/300 (= 1/30). That is, in the example shown in the figure, if the winning symbols 121 and 122 are won and the special symbol lottery is performed in the probability variation gaming state, the winning probability is 10 times that in the case where the special symbol lottery is performed in the normal gaming state.

  Referring to FIG. 15B, three types of jackpot symbols are prepared: a normal symbol, a specific symbol A, and a specific symbol B. Here, as described in the explanation of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the normal symbol is a symbol indicating that it is a jackpot without probability variation, and the specific symbol A is a jackpot with probability variation and time reduction. The specific symbol B is a symbol indicating that it is a big hit with a probability variation but not with a time reduction. The range of random number values is 10 from 0 to 9. Four values are assigned to each of the normal symbol and the specific symbol A. Two values are assigned to the specific symbol B. That is, in the example shown in the figure, the probability variation probability is 6/10 (= 4/10 + 2/10 = 3/5) and the probability variation probability is 4/10 (= 2/5) in the case of a big hit. In the example shown in the figure, the jackpot symbol is a total of three types including the normal symbol and the two specific symbols. However, the jackpot symbol may be classified into four or more types and assigned a random value.

  Referring to FIG. 15C, the range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249, and 22 random numbers are assigned to the lottery result (with reach) for performing the reach effect, and the lottery without the reach effect is performed. 228 random numbers are assigned to the result (no reach). In other words, in the illustrated example, when a special symbol lottery is not won, a reach effect is performed with a probability of 22/228 (= 11/114).

  Referring to FIG. 15D, the range of random number values is 10 from 0 to 9, and 9 winning values are set. That is, in the example shown in the figure, when a game ball passes through the gate 124 and a normal symbol lottery is performed, the winning is performed with a probability of 9/10.

  These random number values start from a predetermined initial value and are incremented by one each time the random number update process (step 501) shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Then, the values at the time each lottery is performed are acquired by the start opening switch process (FIG. 6) and the gate switch process (FIG. 7), and used in the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process (FIG. 12). The This counter is an infinite loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number). In addition, since the random number update process is performed at regular intervals, if the initial value of each random number is specified, the winning value may be estimated based on such information. Therefore, in general, a mechanism for randomly changing the initial value of each random number at an appropriate timing has been introduced.

Next, the operation of the effect control unit 300 will be described.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the effect control unit 300 when a command is received from the game control unit 200.
When receiving the command from the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether any effect is being executed (step 1601). If the effect is not being executed (No in Step 1601), then the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is a change start command (Step 1602). If it is not a change start command (No in step 1602), the effect display process is terminated.

On the other hand, if the received command is a change start command (Yes in Step 1602), the effect control unit 300 resets the customer waiting waiting time (Step 1603) and resets the customer waiting time (Step 1604). Further, the measurement value (count value) of the number of game balls discharged from the discharge port 117 detected by the discharge port switch 163 is reset, and the number of game balls discharged from the discharge port 117 detected by the discharge port switch 163 is reset. A new count is started (step 1605). Here, the waiting time for waiting for customers means the time from the end of the change of the special symbol until the display screen for waiting for customers (hereinafter referred to as the waiting for customer screen) is displayed. The customer waiting time refers to the time during which the customer waiting screen is displayed.
Next, the effect control unit 300 analyzes the acquired variation start command (step 1606), and determines the effect pattern based on the value of the effect pattern random number included in the change start command (step 1607). Then, according to the determined effect pattern, an effect such as image display, sound output, lamp lighting, etc. is executed (step 1608).

If any effect has been executed at the time of command reception (Yes in Step 1601), the effect control unit 300 next determines whether or not the received command is a change end command (Step 1609). If it is not a change end command (No in step 1609), the effect display process is ended as it is. On the other hand, if the received command is a change end command (Yes in step 1609), the effect control unit 300 ends the effect being executed (step 1610).
Then, the production control unit 300 starts measuring the customer waiting standby time (step 1611). If the customer waiting standby time has not elapsed (No in step 1612), the production display processing ends. On the other hand, if the waiting time for waiting for the customer has elapsed (Yes in step 1612), display of the waiting for customer screen is started (step 1613). At that time, the waiting time for waiting for the customer is reset (step 1614), the measurement of the customer waiting time is started (step 1615), and the effect display process is ended.

[Description of the operation of the effect control unit when the latent mode is set]
Based on the above description, the “latent mode” set in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment and the operation of the effect control unit 300 when the “latent mode” is set will be described.
First, the “latent mode” will be described. In the game control unit 200, a special symbol lottery is performed in response to a winning of a game ball at the first start port 121 or the second start port 122. At this time, if the result of the special symbol lottery is not notified to the player through the image display unit 114 or the like, for example, the player cannot determine whether or not the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the probability variation gaming state. In this way, a state in which a gaming state is set in which the player cannot determine whether or not the probability variation gaming state is set is referred to as a “latent mode”.

For example, one specific example of the latent mode is set by making the jackpot operation the same in the case where the lottery result of the special symbol is winning in the specific symbol A and in the case of winning in the normal symbol. . In other words, if the jackpot movements in the specific symbol A and the normal symbol are both set to be the same in that, for example, the big winning opening 125, which is an example of the electric character, is opened for 15 rounds, the player is in a probable game state. It cannot be distinguished whether the specific symbol A has been won or the normal symbol having a low probability has been won. In this case, when the winning of the specific symbol A or the normal symbol is not notified through the image display unit 114, for example, the latent mode is set.
Furthermore, the player wins the specific symbol A which is a probable game state even when the jackpot movement is approximated in the case of winning in the specific symbol A and in the case of winning in the normal symbol. It is difficult to distinguish whether the winning symbol is a normal symbol that remains low. Therefore, the latent mode is set also in this case.

In addition, as another specific example of the latent mode, the big winning action and the small hit in the specific symbol B, when the special symbol lottery result is the winning in the specific symbol B and the winning in the small bonus symbol It is set by making the small hitting operation with the symbol the same. That is, it is assumed that the big hit operation and the small hit operation in the specific symbol B are both the same in that, for example, the big winning opening 125 is opened for two rounds, and the same in the point that there is no electric chew support. If it does so, the player cannot distinguish whether it wins the specific symbol B which is a probability variation game state, or it wins the small hit symbol with a low probability. In this case, when the winning of the specific symbol B or the small winning symbol is not notified through the image display unit 114, for example, the latent mode is set.
In addition, when winning with the specific symbol B and winning with the small winning symbol, when the big hitting operation with the specific symbol B and the small hitting operation with the small winning symbol are set approximately However, it is difficult for the player to distinguish whether he / she has won the specific symbol B which is a probability-changing gaming state or has won a small hit symbol which has a low probability. Therefore, the latent mode is set also in this case.

  In such a latent mode, it is impossible for the player to know which game state is set, so there is an inconvenience that has both a sense of expectation that the game state is probable and an anxiety that the game state is normal. The game will be played in a stable psychological state. Therefore, if the game ball does not win the first starting port 121 or the second starting port 122 and does not even win a jackpot lottery for a long time, the expectation for winning the jackpot decreases, Motivation for games tends to decline rapidly. As a result, the player may give up the continuation of the game even though the winning probability is set to the probability variation gaming state with a high probability.

Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, when a latent mode is set in which the player is not informed whether the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a high-probability state without any notification effect. When the number of game balls discharged from the discharge port 117 exceeds a predetermined amount after the change of the special symbol is finished, the production control unit 300 that also functions as an example of the means has a probability change game state (latent game state). It is notified that it has been set, or suggests the possibility that a latent gaming state has been set. That is, the effect control unit 300 receives the change start command or the change end command from the game control unit 200 (steps 1602 and 1609 in FIG. 16), and calculates the total number of discharged game balls detected by the discharge port switch 163. On the condition that the numerical value (step 1605 in FIG. 16) exceeds a predetermined value, it is notified that the probability variation gaming state (latent gaming state) is set or the possibility that the latent gaming state is set. The latent notification process to suggest is executed.
As a result, if the game ball does not win the first start port 121 or the second start port 122 and does not even win a lottery, it will be a promising game for a player whose willingness to play has decreased. Informs that the state (latent gaming state) is set and its possibility. As a result, the player is eager to play the game because of the high expectation that the game ball will win the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 and win a lottery. Will be restored.

In addition, when executing the latent notification process, the effect control unit 300 satisfies a predetermined notification start condition as an example of an additional condition in addition to the count value of the discharged game balls exceeding a predetermined value. Alternatively, it may be set to execute the latent notification process.
As a notification start condition set in this case, for example, there is a form in which an operation input from the user using the effect button 161 or the effect key 162 is made. In addition, there is a form in which the type of the symbol selected as the specific symbol (for example, the specific symbol B) matches the predetermined symbol type. Furthermore, there is a mode that requires a player to correctly answer a simple game played on the image display unit 114, for example.
In this way, the effect control unit 300 does not need to satisfy any condition when the count value of the discharged game ball after receiving the variation start command from the game control unit 200 exceeds a predetermined value, An embodiment for executing the latent notification process may be employed. In addition, when the counted value of the discharged game balls exceeds a predetermined value, the effect control unit 300 executes the latent notification process on the condition that a notification start condition as an example of a preset additional condition is satisfied. A form can also be adopted.

[First Embodiment]
First, an embodiment in which the latent notification process is executed without satisfying any condition when the count value of the discharged game balls after the production control unit 300 receives the variation start command exceeds a predetermined value. Will be described.
In the following embodiment, the case where the latent mode is set in relation to the winning in the specific symbol B will be described as an example, but the latent mode is set in relation to the winning in the specific symbol A. Is the same. In addition, the case where the latent notification process is executed when the count value of the discharged game balls after the production control unit 300 receives the change start command exceeds a predetermined value will be described as an example. However, the change end command is received. It may be set so that the latent notification process is executed when the count value of the discharged game balls after the time exceeds a predetermined value.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the contents of the latent notification process of the present embodiment executed by the effect control unit 300. The effect control unit 300 repeatedly executes the latent notification process shown in FIG. 17 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) after the end of the effect (step 1610 in FIG. 16). The same applies to the latent notification processing in the following embodiments.
When the production control unit 300 receives the variation end command from the game control unit 200 (step 1609 in FIG. 16) (step 1701), the variation start command corresponding to the received variation end command (related to the variation of the same special symbol). Based on the analysis result (change start command) (step 1606 in FIG. 16), whether or not the specific symbol B indicating that the winning of the jackpot with the probability change but without the time reduction is included as the setting information in the change start command. (Step 1702).
When it is determined that the specific symbol B is not included in the change start command as setting information (No in Step 1702), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the specific symbol B is included in the change start command as setting information (Yes in Step 1702), the effect control unit 300 receives the change start command from the game control unit 200. The count value of the discharged game balls is acquired (step 1703). Then, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the counted value of the discharged game balls has exceeded a predetermined value (for example, 200 balls) (step 1704). If the count value of the discharged game balls does not exceed the predetermined value (No in step 1704), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.
On the other hand, if the count value of the discharged game balls exceeds the predetermined value (Yes in step 1704), the effect control unit 300 notifies that the probability variation game state is set by the display on the image display unit 114 ( Step 1705).

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of display on the image display unit 114 that notifies that the probability variation gaming state is set. FIG. 18A is a display example on the image display unit 114 that notifies that the probability variation gaming state is set by characters such as “probability variation!”, For example. FIG. 18B is a display example in which a special character / item that does not normally appear, such as a large meteor flowing in the night sky, is expressed to notify that the probability variation gaming state is set. FIG. 18C is a display example for notifying that the probability variation gaming state is set by changing the color of the background screen. Here, while the background screen is usually expressed in one color, for example, it is expressed in a plurality of different colors to notify that the probability variation gaming state is set.

In this case, it is not limited to notifying that the probability variation gaming state is set with 100% accuracy, but can also be displayed so as to suggest the possibility of the probability variation gaming state being set.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a specific example of display on the image display unit 114 that suggests the magnitude of the possibility that the probability variation gaming state is set. In FIG. 19A, for example, a character size such as “probability change!” Is displayed large on the screen of the image display unit 114 to indicate that there is a high possibility that the probability change game state is set. It is a display example in the unit 114. FIG. 19B is a display example that indicates that the probability that the probability variation gaming state is set is about 50% by displaying the size of “probability variation” at a medium size, for example. . FIG. 19A is a display example in which, for example, the size of “probability change!” Is displayed small to suggest that the probability that the probability change game state is set is small. Thus, suggesting the magnitude of the possibility that the probability variation gaming state is set can also encourage the player to maintain his willingness to play the game.

That is, for example, when receiving a notification that the probability variation gaming state is likely to be set, the player predicts that the probability variation gaming state (latent gaming state) is set with a high probability. Thereby, the player has a great sense of expectation that the hidden gaming state is set, and increases the willingness to play. On the contrary, if the player receives a notification that the probability change probability state is unlikely to be set, the player expects that the latent game state is unlikely to be set, but in that case However, the possibility that the latent game state is set is not excluded. Accordingly, the player is stimulated to maintain the player's interest and motivation by having a slight sense of expectation in which the latent gaming state is set.
In this case, the magnitude of the possibility that the latent game state is set is generated by the effect control unit 300 in a game-like manner, for example.

  In addition, as another specific example suggesting the magnitude of the possibility that the probability variation gaming state is set, for example, a special character / item such as a large meteor flowing in the night sky expressed in FIG. It may be suggested by the appearance frequency or the size of the character / item. Further, the possibility that the probability variation gaming state is set may be suggested based on the number of colors used in the background screen expressed in FIG.

In addition, the production control unit 300 executes the latent notification process after satisfying the condition that the count value of the discharged game ball after receiving the change start command exceeds a predetermined value, and waiting for the customer It may be set to be after the time has elapsed (step 1612 in FIG. 16) and the display of the customer waiting screen is started (step 1613 in FIG. 16). Further, the measurement value of the customer waiting time (step 1615 in FIG. 16) may be set after a predetermined time has elapsed. When the customer waiting screen is displayed, a sense of compliment that the probability variation gaming state is set becomes strong. Therefore, by notifying that the probability variation game state is set while the customer waiting screen is displayed and suggesting the possibility, the impression given to the player is strengthened, and the player's interest and motivation for the game is increased. Can be increased. Furthermore, the player's interest and willingness to play can be maintained for a certain period of time after the customer waiting screen is displayed.
In this case, a display screen for notifying that the probability variation gaming state in the image display unit 114 as shown in FIG. 18 is set is displayed instead of the customer waiting screen. Alternatively, it may be displayed as a part of the customer waiting screen or alternately with the customer waiting screen.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, after the count value of the discharged game balls after the production control unit 300 receives the variation start command exceeds a predetermined value, the latent notification process is executed when a predetermined notification start condition is further satisfied. Will be described. Here, for example, a case where the notification start condition is that an operation input from the user using an effect button 161 as an example of an input device is used will be described.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the contents of the latent notification process of the present embodiment executed by the effect control unit 300.
When the effect control unit 300 receives the variation end command from the game control unit 200 (step 1609 in FIG. 16) (step 2001), the analysis result of the variation start command corresponding to the received variation end command (step 1606 in FIG. 16). ), It is determined whether or not a specific symbol B indicating that the winning of the jackpot is accompanied by probability variation but not time reduction is included as setting information in the variation start command (step 2002).
When it is determined that the specific symbol B is not included in the change start command as setting information (No in step 2002), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the specific symbol B is included in the change start command as setting information (Yes in step 2002), the effect control unit 300 receives the change start command from the game control unit 200. A count value of the discharged game balls from is acquired (step 2003). Then, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the counted value of the discharged game balls has exceeded a predetermined value (for example, 200 balls) (step 2004). If the count value of the discharged game balls does not exceed the predetermined value (No in step 2004), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.
On the other hand, if the count value of the discharged game balls exceeds the predetermined value (Yes in step 2004), the effect control unit 300 prompts the player to press the effect button 161 on the display on the image display unit 114. Screen display is performed (step 2005). When the player presses down the effect button 161 (Yes in Step 2006), it is notified that the probability variation gaming state is set (Step 2007).
If the player does not press the effect button 161 (No in step 2006), until the predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the screen display prompting the user to press the effect button 161 (No in step 2008), the effect The control unit 300 waits for the player to press the effect button 161. If the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in step 2008), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the effect control unit 300 performs a process of prompting the player to press the effect button 161 when the count value of the discharged game balls exceeds a predetermined value. As a result, in order for the player to receive notification that the probable gaming state has been set, the player's act of pressing the effect button 161 is required, and the player's interest and concentration are aroused. It will also be.
In addition, regarding a specific display screen in the image display unit 114 when notifying that the probability variation gaming state is set and a mode in which the notification content is a magnitude of the possibility that the probability variation gaming state is set, This is the same as in the first embodiment.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, after the count value of the discharged game balls after the production control unit 300 receives the change start command exceeds a predetermined value, the type of the symbol selected as the specific symbol (specific symbol B) is predetermined. An embodiment in which the latent notification process is executed when the notification start condition of matching with the symbol type is satisfied will be described.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the contents of the latent notification process of the present embodiment executed by the effect control unit 300.
When the effect control unit 300 receives the change end command from the game control unit 200 (step 1609 in FIG. 16) (step 2101), the analysis result of the change start command corresponding to the received change end command (step 1606 in FIG. 16). ), It is determined whether or not the specific symbol B representing the winning of the jackpot with the probability variation but without the time reduction is included as the setting information in the variation start command (step 2102).
When it is determined that the specific symbol B is not included in the change start command as the setting information (No in Step 2102), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the specific symbol B is included in the variation start command as setting information (Yes in Step 2102), the effect control unit 300 next performs the variation start command corresponding to the received variation end command. It is determined whether or not the specific symbol B included as the setting information matches the symbol type stored in advance in the ROM 302 (see FIG. 3) (step 2103). And when it does not correspond with the kind of symbol memorize | stored in ROM302 (it is No at step 2103), the production | presentation control part 300 complete | finishes a latency alerting | reporting process. Here, it is assumed that the effect control unit 300 predetermines the symbol type of the specific symbol B to be subjected to the latent notification process and stores it in the ROM 302.

In addition, when the specific symbol B included as the setting information in the variation start command corresponding to the received variation end command matches the type of symbol stored in advance in the ROM 302 (step 2103). Yes), the count value of the discharged game balls after receiving the variation start command from the game control unit 200 is acquired (step 2104). Then, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the counted value of the discharged game balls has exceeded a predetermined value (for example, 200 balls) (step 2105). If the count value of the discharged game balls does not exceed the predetermined value (No in step 2105), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.
On the other hand, if the count value of the discharged game balls exceeds the predetermined value (Yes in step 2105), the effect control unit 300 notifies that the probability variation game state is set by the display on the image display unit 114 ( Step 2106).

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the count value of the discharged game ball exceeds the predetermined value, the effect control unit 300 is specified as the setting information included in the change start command corresponding to the received change end command. Only when the symbol B matches the symbol type stored in the ROM 302 in advance, the fact that the probability variation gaming state is set is notified. Thereby, the player's sense of luck when there is a notification of the probable gaming state is enhanced, and the player's willingness to play is aroused.
In this case, in addition to the case where the symbol type of the specific symbol B is used as the notification start condition, for example, when the effect control unit 300 generates a random number and the generated random number matches a predetermined random number value, You may comprise so that it may alert | report that the gaming state is set.
In addition, regarding a specific display screen in the image display unit 114 when notifying that the probability variation gaming state is set and a mode in which the notification content is a magnitude of the possibility that the probability variation gaming state is set, This is the same as in the first embodiment.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, the player correctly answers a simple quiz game that is performed on the image display unit 114 after the count value of the discharged game balls after the production control unit 300 receives the change start command exceeds a predetermined value. An embodiment in which the latent notification process is executed when the notification start condition is satisfied will be described.
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the contents of the latent notification process of the present embodiment executed by the effect control unit 300.
When the effect control unit 300 receives the change end command from the game control unit 200 (step 1609 in FIG. 16) (step 2201), the analysis result of the change start command corresponding to the received change end command (step 1606 in FIG. 16). ), It is determined whether or not the specific symbol B indicating that the jackpot is won with a probability variation but not a time reduction is included as setting information in the variation start command (step 2202).
When it is determined that the specific symbol B is not included in the change start command as setting information (No in Step 2202), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the specific symbol B is included in the change start command as setting information (Yes in step 2202), the effect control unit 300 receives the change start command from the game control unit 200. The count value of the discharged game balls from is acquired (step 2203). Then, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the count value of the discharged game balls has exceeded a predetermined value (for example, 200 balls) (step 2204). If the count value of the discharged game balls does not exceed the predetermined value (No in step 2204), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.
On the other hand, if the count value of the discharged game balls exceeds the predetermined value (Yes in step 2204), the effect control unit 300 displays the screen display of the quiz game to be given to the player by the display on the image display unit 114. Perform (step 2005). Then, when the player correctly answers the quiz game presented on the image display unit 114 (Yes in Step 2206), the player is notified that the probability variation gaming state is set (Step 2207).
If the player cannot correctly answer the quiz game presented on the image display unit 114 (No in step 2206), the effect control unit 300 ends the latent notification process.

Thus, in the present embodiment, the effect control unit 300 performs a process of prompting the player to answer, for example, a quiz game when the count value of the discharged game ball exceeds a predetermined value. As a result, in order for the player to be notified that the probable gaming state has been set, it is necessary to participate in the quiz game and correct the game, and this will arouse the player's interest and concentration in the game. .
Here, FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a specific example of a quiz game presented on the image display unit 114. The quiz game displayed on the image display unit 114 is configured as, for example, a four-choice question that searches for one of four answers. The player reads the question sentence of the quiz game (“Mt. Fuji's altitude?”) From the image display unit 114 and inputs an answer that is considered correct by operating, for example, the production key 162. That is, by operating the four surrounding keys of the production key 162, any one of the four presented answers (1: 44.6m, 2: 2956m, 3: 3776m, 4: 8848m) is selected. Then, the center key of the production key 162 is pressed. Thereby, the player answers the quiz game. In the example of FIG. 23, “3: 3776 m” surrounded by a broken line is selected. If the selected “3: 3776 m” is correct, the image display unit 114 notifies that the probability variation gaming state is set.

In this case, a plurality of quiz games may be presented on the image display unit 114, and the notification start condition may be that the correct answer rate of the player's answer regarding the plurality of quiz games exceeds a predetermined value. Also, a competitive game may be presented as a game. In that case, the notification start condition may be that the game is won or that the player's battle result regarding the game exceeds a predetermined winning rate.
In addition, regarding a specific display screen in the image display unit 114 when notifying that the probability variation gaming state is set and a mode in which the notification content is a magnitude of the possibility that the probability variation gaming state is set, This is the same as in the first embodiment.

  By the way, in embodiment mentioned above, based on the measurement result which measured the number of game balls discharged | emitted from the discharge port 117 after the fluctuation | variation of a special symbol was complete | finished, alert | reports that the probability change game state is set etc. went. Not only such a setting but also a notification that the probability variation gaming state is set may be made according to the time after the variation of the special symbol is completed. Also, notification that the probabilistic gaming state has been set based on the result of measuring the number of game balls fired from the launching device that electrically launches the game balls after the special symbol variation has ended and the firing time You may comprise so that it may perform.

  As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, when the latent mode is set in which the player is not informed whether or not the current gaming state is in the high probability state, the effect control unit 300 is a notification that the probability variation gaming state (latent gaming state) is set when the number of game balls discharged from the discharge port 117 exceeds a predetermined amount after the change of the special symbol is completed, or Suggests the possibility that the latent game state is set. As a result, even if the state where the jackpot lottery is not performed continues for a long time, if the game ball wins the first starting port 121 or the second starting port 122 and the jackpot lottery is performed, the jackpot is highly likely This makes it possible for the player to regain the sense of expectation to do and to increase the player's willingness to continue the game.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure explaining the pachinko game machine concerning this Embodiment, (a) is an enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator arrange | positioned at the lower right of a game board, (b) is a pachinko game machine FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of a control unit. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of a game control part. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement of a game control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the fluctuation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during a stop. It is a flowchart which shows the content of normal symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of an electric tulip process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number used by this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the production | presentation control part at the time of receiving a command from a game control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the latent alerting | reporting process of Embodiment 1 which an effect control part performs. It is the figure which showed the specific example of the display in the image display part which alert | reports that the probability change game state is set. It is the figure which showed the specific example of the display in the image display part which suggests the magnitude | size of the possibility that the probability change game state is set. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the latent alerting | reporting process of Embodiment 2 which an effect control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the latent alerting | reporting process of Embodiment 3 which an effect control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the latent alerting | reporting process of Embodiment 4 which an effect control part performs. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the quiz game which is given a question in an image display part.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Pachinko machine 121 ... 1st starting port, 122 ... 2nd starting port, 123 ... Electric tulip, 124 ... Gate, 125 ... Grand prize opening, 126 ... Normal winning port, 130 ... Display, 218 ... 1st Special symbol hold indicator, 219 ... second special symbol hold indicator, 220 ... normal symbol hold indicator, 221 ... first special symbol indicator, 222 ... second special symbol indicator, 223 ... normal symbol indicator, 231 ... Special symbol lottery unit, 232 ... Normal symbol lottery unit, 233 ... Special symbol variation control unit, 234 ... Special symbol lottery result determination unit, 235 ... Variation pattern selection unit, 236 ... Game progress control unit, 237 ... Normal symbol control unit 238 ... Grand prize opening operation control unit, 239 ... Electric tulip operation control unit

Claims (1)

When the jackpot winning probability is in the normal state, the normal performance is performed, and when the jackpot winning probability is higher than the normal state, the high probability state is performed, and the gaming state is in the normal state or the high probability state. A gaming machine that controls the production of the latent state in which the production of the high probability state and the normal production are sometimes difficult to identify,
A measuring means for measuring the number of game balls launched into an area where a game is performed or the number of game balls discharged from the area;
When the gaming state is the high probability state, when the number of gaming balls measured by the measuring unit exceeds a predetermined value and a predetermined time elapses after the waiting screen is displayed, the gaming state Display or suggest that the player is in the high probability state on a part of the customer waiting screen, or display a screen informing or suggesting that the gaming state is in the high probability state. A gaming machine comprising: a waiting screen and an informing means for alternately displaying the screen .

Images