JP5039629B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs a lottery drawing when a game ball enters a start opening.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a gaming machine in which a lottery is drawn by entering a game ball at a start opening, and when a big win is won, an attacker is opened to obtain more prize balls. In such a gaming machine, in order to give the player a sense of expectation for jackpots and to improve gameplay, the lottery lottery results are displayed on the symbol display unit made up of a liquid crystal screen, etc., with various elaborate effects. Like to do.

  As described above, for example, a gaming machine shown in Patent Document 1 is known as a gaming machine that has improved game playability through a sophisticated presentation.

  Normally, when a gaming ball enters the start opening during the special symbol variation display, the gaming machine reserves the right of variation display (hereinafter referred to as “holding ball”) up to a predetermined number (four), The reserved balls are processed in the order in which they are reserved. The gaming machine shown in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 has enhanced the effect by focusing on the point where the processing of the holding ball is sequentially performed. This gaming machine has the following characteristics.

  That is, in general gaming machines, various decorative symbols (design symbols for production) are displayed on the symbol display unit during the special symbol variation display, but for one special symbol variation display, The decorative design is displayed once. When a plurality of reserved balls are reserved, the special symbol variation display is continuously performed. In such a case, the decorative symbol display is also continuously performed in the symbol display unit. .

  Therefore, the conventional gaming machine performs a related effect (display of a related decorative pattern) that completes a story over a plurality of decorative symbols in the symbol display unit, thereby displaying the decorative pattern only once. Compared to the effect that can be obtained, a higher effect is achieved. For example, when there are three reserved balls, the design display unit performs the effect with the decorative symbols three times in succession. At this time, an effect related to the first stage of the story is performed in the first decorative design, and subsequently, an effect related to the middle of the story, which is a continuation of the first effect, is performed in the second decorative design. Then, in the third decorative design, after performing the effect that the story is completed, the player is informed that the jackpot or the loss has been finalized. Thus, if a story is continued over a plurality of decorative symbols, the player's sense of expectation can be gradually increased. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a very high production effect as compared with the production in which the contents are completed by one decoration design.

  Patent Document 2 discloses a gaming machine in which a game board is provided with a priority start port and a non-priority start port. This gaming machine distinguishes between a reserved ball that enters and retains a priority start port and a retained ball that enters and retains a non-priority start port when a game ball enters the start port. Remember. Then, in a state in which the holding ball related to the priority starting port and the holding ball related to the non-priority starting port are simultaneously stored, processing is sequentially performed from the holding ball related to the priority starting port.

JP 2008-000264 A JP 2007-275404 A

  As shown in the above-mentioned Patent Document 2, in a gaming machine in which a priority starting port and a non-priority starting port are provided on the gaming board, when the related effect shown in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 (display of related decorative symbols) is performed, Related effects may be interrupted.

  For example, when there is no holding ball related to the priority starting port and there are four holding balls related to the non-priority starting port, it is assumed that the command of the related effect using the four holding balls related to the non-priority starting port is determined. If this command is finalized, the decorative symbol will be displayed so that a series of stories will develop between the first holding ball related to the non-priority starting gate and the fourth holding ball. It will be displayed continuously on the symbol display section.

  However, during the processing of the first holding ball (the same applies to the second and third balls) (while displaying the decorative symbol related to the first holding ball), a game ball enters the priority starting port. As a result, before the processing of the second holding ball related to the non-priority starting port, the holding ball related to the priority starting port is processed first. In other words, the processing of the reserved ball related to the priority starting port is executed between the processing of the first reserved ball related to the non-priority starting port and the processing of the second reserved ball. Therefore, a series of stories that are originally developed over the four reserved balls of the non-priority start opening are interrupted in the middle, and the effect that is specific to the related effects cannot be exhibited.

  As described above, when a related effect is adopted in a gaming machine provided with two start ports, there is a problem that the effect becomes halfway and the effect of the effect decreases.

  In addition, since the upper limit reserved number of reserved balls is determined for each starting port, the related effects can be performed only within the range of the upper limit reserved number of reserved balls determined for each starting port. That is, when the upper limit number of reserved balls is determined to be 4 at both start ports, only a story extending over a maximum of 4 decorative symbols can be developed.

  Moreover, when the number of reserved balls is reserved up to the upper limit, it is overwhelmingly less than when two or three reserved balls are reserved, so in reality there are stories with two or three decorative symbols. Often deployed.

  As described above, since the related effects can be performed only in a very limited range, the contents of the effects are limited, and there is a problem that it is difficult to enhance the effect of the related effects.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing various effects in related effects made over a plurality of variable displays, and thereby exhibiting a high effect.

  Control means for controlling the progress of the game in the normal game state or in a special game state that gives a player a more advantageous game value than the normal game state, and the special symbol is variably displayed, and the variability display is stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed. A special symbol variation display means for displaying the game state after that, and a start opening for generating a right to start the variation display of the special symbol by the special symbol variation display means when the game ball enters. The starting port includes at least a first starting port, a first state in which the gaming ball has less chance of entering the game ball than the first starting port, and the first starting port than the first starting port. A second starting port that is displaceable to a second state where there are many opportunities for entering a game ball, and the control means draws game data in response to the game ball entering the starting port Game data lottery means acquired by The number of the game balls that have entered the first starting port when the special symbol is variably displayed by the special symbol variation display means is stored, and the right to display the variation of the special symbol triggered by the entry A first variation display holding means for reserving and storing the number of the game balls that have entered the second starting port when the special symbol is variably displayed by the special symbol variation display means; When a game ball is stored in the second variable display holding means, the first variable display holding means and the second variable display holding means, which reserves the right of the variable display of special symbols triggered by Prior determination means for determining the game data acquired by the game data lottery means triggered by the entry before the start of the change display of the special symbol triggered by the entry, and a determination result of the advance determination means Based on multiple Effect control means for controlling the related effects over the variable display of the special symbol, and the control means has the right of the variable display for both the first change display hold means and the second change display hold means. Is retained, the priority is given to the right of variable display stored in the second variable display holding means, and the effect control means is assigned to the right of variable display stored in the first variable display hold means. When the related presentation effect is controlled based on the plurality of times, and the right of variable display is newly stored in the second variable display storage means, the effect at the time of change based on the right of the variable display is Control is performed so as to relate to related effects, and the control means changes the gaming state from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state in which the second start port is more frequently controlled to the second state than the normal gaming state. When migrating The appearance probability of the related effect in the right of variable display stored in the first variable display storage means is the change display right stored in the first variable display hold means set in the normal gaming state. It is characterized by being changed higher than the appearance probability of the related performance.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, the control means shifts the second starting port from the normal gaming state to the second state from the normal gaming state. When transitioning to the special gaming state where there are many opportunities to be controlled, the appearance probability of the related effect in the right of variable display stored in the second variable display storage means is set in the second gaming state in the normal gaming state. It is characterized by being changed to be lower than the appearance probability of the related effect in the right of variable display stored in the variable display holding means.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first or second aspect, the second starting port is moved from the normal gaming state to the second gaming port by the control means. When the state is shifted to the special gaming state where there are many opportunities to be controlled to the state of 2, the related effects appear only in the right of the variable display stored in the first variable display holding means.

  According to the gaming machine of the first aspect of the present invention, the gaming state shifts from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state where the second start port is more often controlled to the second state than the normal gaming state. When this is done, it is possible to increase the appearance probability of a related effect having a high effect in the right of variable display stored in the first variable display storage means.

  Then, when the related effect is processed with the right of variable display stored in the first variable display holding means, when the right of variable display is newly stored in the second variable display storage means, the change Since the effect at the time of change based on the right of display is controlled to be related to the related effect, the related effect can be executed without interrupting the related effect. In addition, in this case, if the game ball continues to enter the second starting port, the related effect will be extended by the number of balls entered, and the related effect will be more than the upper limit reserved number of variable display rights. It can be carried out. Therefore, it is possible to develop various stories in related productions, and the range of productions can be widened to exhibit extremely high production effects.

  According to the gaming machine of the second aspect of the present invention, the gaming state has shifted from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state in which the second start port has more opportunities to be controlled to the second state than in the normal gaming state. The appearance probability of the related effect in the right of the variable display stored in the second variable display storage means is the related effect in the right of the variable display stored in the second variable display holding means set in the normal gaming state. Therefore, the related effect due to the ball entering the second starting port where the reserved ball is preferentially processed is less likely to appear. Accordingly, it is possible to further increase the appearance probability of the related effects due to entering the first starting port where a relatively high effect can be expected.

  According to the gaming machine according to the invention described in claim 3, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 1 or 2, in the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, there are many variations. Since only the related effects over the display times are performed, the player's expectation for the related effects can be increased.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a front view showing an embodiment of a gaming machine of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view of the gaming machine. The gaming machine 1 includes a game board 101. At a lower position of the game board 101, an operation handle 113 including a launching unit (see reference numeral 292 in FIG. 3) is arranged. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown). The game ball is dropped in various directions, and a windmill or a ball that changes the fall direction of the game ball is placed in the middle of the fall. A mouth is provided. A symbol display unit 104 is arranged at the center of the game area 103 of the game board 101. For example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) is used as the symbol display unit 104. Below the symbol display unit 104, a first start port 105 capable of receiving a game ball driven toward the game area 103 is disposed. Below the first start port 105, a second start port 120 having a pair of movable pieces 120a is disposed. When the pair of movable pieces 120a are in the closed state, the second starter port 120 is unable or impossible to receive the game ball. When the pair of movable pieces 120a is in the open state, It becomes easier to accept a game ball than the one start port 105.

  On the left side of the symbol display unit 104, a winning gate 106 is provided. The winning gate 106 is provided to detect the passing of the game ball and to draw a normal symbol for opening the second start port 120 for a predetermined time.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the second starting port 120. FIG. 2A shows a first state in which the pair of movable pieces 120a of the second starting port 120 is “closed”. 2 (b) shows a second state in which the pair of movable pieces 120a is “open”. As shown in FIG. 2A, the second starting port 120 in the present embodiment is normally controlled so that the pair of movable pieces 120 a of the second starting port 120 is in the “closed” state. It is configured so that it is impossible to enter the game balls that flow down.

  Then, when the game ball passes through the winning gate 106, a lottery by the normal symbol lottery means 360 described later is executed, and when the lottery result is a win, as shown in FIG. 2B, a pair of movable pieces 120a Is controlled to be in an “open” state until a predetermined time (which varies depending on the gaming state) or until a predetermined number of gaming balls enter the second starting port 120. In the present embodiment, the second opening in the “open” state is more likely to accept a game ball about 2 to 3 times than the first start port 105 (the chance of entering a game ball is greater). It is configured. In the present embodiment, the chance that the game ball launched into the game board 101 enters the first starting port 105 is configured to be about 1 in 15 to 10, and is in the “open” state. 2. The opportunity for a game ball to enter the starting port 120 is configured to be about 1 to 3-5.

  A normal winning opening 107 is disposed on the side of the symbol display unit 104 or below. When a game ball enters the normal winning opening 107, a predetermined number of winning balls (for example, 10) are paid out. At the bottom of the game area 103, a collection port 108 is provided for collecting game balls that have not entered any of the entrances.

  In the lower right of the symbol display unit 104, a first special symbol display 84 for displaying a lottery result by a first special symbol lottery means 300 described later, and a second special for displaying a lottery result by a second special symbol lottery means 320. A symbol display 86 is provided. In both of these indicators 84 and 86, after the special symbol is variably displayed, the lottery result is finally displayed. When a game ball enters the first start port 105 or the second start port 120 during the special symbol variation display, the right of the special symbol variation display obtained by the entry, the so-called reserved ball is reserved. . The number of reserved balls thus reserved is displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 88 and the second special symbol hold indicator 90. The first special symbol display 84 and the second special symbol display 86 constitute the special symbol fluctuation display means of the present invention.

  Similarly to the above, when the game ball passes through the winning gate 106, the normal symbol lottery means 360 performs a lottery, and a normal symbol display 82 for displaying the lottery result is provided. The normal symbol change display right obtained by passing the game ball through the winning gate 106 during the normal symbol change display, that is, the number of reserved balls is displayed on the normal symbol hold display 92.

  Each of these indicators 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92 is constituted by, for example, an LED. Depending on the lighting state of this LED, the lottery result by the first special symbol lottery means 300, the second special symbol lottery means 320, lottery results by normal symbol lottery means 360, the number of reserved balls obtained by entering the first starting port 105, the number of reserved balls obtained by entering the second starting port 120, The number of reserved balls obtained through the winning gate 106 is notified.

  When the game ball enters the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 120, the symbol display unit 104 described above starts displaying a plurality of decorative symbols and stops the variation of the decorative symbols after a predetermined time. Let When a specific symbol (for example, “777”) is prepared at the time of the stop, a big hit state is obtained. In the big hit state, the operation of opening the large winning opening opening / closing door 109a in the large winning opening opening / closing device 109 located below for a certain period is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times), and the number of awards corresponding to the game balls entered. Pay out the ball. In addition, when the game ball enters the first starting port 105, the symbol display unit 104 displays the decorative symbol related to the ball entering the first starting port 105 in a variable manner, and the game ball is displayed at the second starting port 120. By entering the ball, the decorative symbol related to the ball entering the second start port 120 is variably displayed. In the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start port 105 or the second start port 120, the special symbol is variably displayed on the first special symbol display 84 or the second special symbol display 86. During the special symbol variation display, the symbol display unit 104 displays the decorative symbol variation. If both the first start port 105 and the second start port 120 have a so-called hold ball for variable display, the hold ball obtained by entering the second start port 120 has priority. Digested.

  A frame member 110 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 110 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. Further, the frame member 110 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 toward the player side. Thereby, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment can be made more conspicuous than other types of gaming machines that do not include the frame member 110. By making the gaming machine 1 conspicuous, it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 and to strengthen the deterrence against fraud against the gaming machine 1.

In the frame member 110, effect lights 111 (lamp units) are provided on the two sides on the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103. The effect lights 111 each include a plurality of lights 112. Each light 112 irradiates a player who is in front of the gaming machine 1, and the light irradiation direction can be changed in the vertical direction so that the irradiation position moves along the abdomen from the top of the player. Each light 112 is driven by a motor (not shown) provided in the effect light 111 so as to change the light irradiation direction in the vertical direction.
Moreover, each light 112 can irradiate the surroundings of the gaming machine 1, and the light irradiation direction can be rotated so that the irradiation position forms a circle with respect to the gaming machine. Each light 112 is driven by a motor provided in the effect light 111 so as to rotate the light irradiation direction. The motor that is driven to rotate the direction of light irradiation from each light 112 is a motor different from the motor that changes the direction of light irradiation from each light 112 in the vertical direction.

The effect light 111 can change the irradiation direction of the light irradiated from the entire effect light 111 in three dimensions by rotating the irradiation direction of the light irradiated from each light 112 while changing the vertical direction.
The light irradiation direction is changed when, for example, a big hit state is reached. Thereby, the player and the surroundings of the gaming machine 1 can be sequentially irradiated so that the surroundings can be informed that the gaming machine 1 is in the big hit state, and the attention of the player in the big hit state is increased. Can do.

Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of excitement due to attention, and to continuously or repeatedly use the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment to improve the operating rate of the gaming machine 1.
In the frame member 110, a tray unit 119 to which game balls are supplied is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. The tray unit 119 is supplied with game balls lent out from a rental ball device (not shown).

  An operation handle 113 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 110. The operation handle 113 is operated by the player when the game ball is fired by driving the launching unit. Similar to the frame member 110 described above, the operation handle 113 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 to the player side.

  The operation handle 113 includes a firing instruction member 114 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 114 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 113 so as to rotate clockwise as viewed from the player. The launcher causes the game ball to be launched when the firing instruction member 114 is directly operated by the player. Although not described because it is a known technique, the operation handle 113 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 114.

  On the upper side and the side of the symbol display unit 104 (on the right side in FIG. 1), there are provided effects (hereinafter referred to as “effects”) 115 and 116. The directors 115 and 116 in the gaming machine of the present embodiment schematically represent a part of the Japanese sword (the vicinity of the samurai). The directors 115 and 116 are provided so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the directors 115 and 116 as if the blades are pulled out from the sheath and the pulled blades are returned to the sheath again.

The director 110 is driven by a solenoid, and the director 116 is driven by a motor. By driving the similar directors 115 and 116 with different types of driving sources, it is possible to cause the directors 115 and 116 to perform their own movements, thereby increasing the stage effect.
In the frame member 110, a chance button 117 that accepts an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. The operation of the chance button 117 is effective while guidance for prompting the operation of the chance button 117 is displayed, for example, in a specific reach effect during the game.

  In addition, the frame member 110 incorporates a speaker (see reference numeral 277 in FIG. 3) that outputs a production effect sound or a sound for informing fraud. This speaker 277 is of a type that can output high / mid / low sounds, and outputs high / mid / low sounds in a balanced manner during normal performance. Is controlled to output a high treble region high so that it can be heard well around.

(Internal structure of control means)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control means of the gaming machine 1. The control means 200 is composed of a plurality of control boards. In the illustrated example, the main control board 201, the sub control board 202, the prize ball control board 203, and the lamp control board 206 are configured.

  The main control board 201 controls the basic operation related to the game of the gaming machine 1, and based on the program stored in the ROM 201b, the CPU 201a that executes the basic processing accompanying the progress of the game content, and the data work during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 201a A RAM 201c functioning as an area is provided.

  The main control board 201 performs a jackpot lottery relating to the game, and selects a command of effect recorded in the ROM 201b based on the lottery result. There are about 120 types of effect commands recorded in the ROM 201b, and the effect times are determined for each reach effect command described in detail later.

On the input side of the main control board 201, a first start port detection unit 221 that detects a game ball that has entered the first start port 105, and a second that detects a game ball that has entered the second start port 120. A start opening detection unit 225, a gate detection unit 222 that detects a game ball that has passed through the winning gate 106, a normal winning port detection unit 223 that detects a game ball that has entered the normal winning port 107, and a big winning port opening / closing device A special winning opening detection unit 224 that detects a game ball that has entered 109 is connected.
In addition, a prize winning opening / closing unit 231 is connected to the output side of the main control board 201 to control the opening / closing of the prize winning opening / closing device 109. The special prize opening / closing unit 231 has a function of opening the special prize opening / closing device 109 for a certain period of time in a big hit, and is configured using a solenoid such as a special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b (not shown in detail). This jackpot is pre-programmed to occur with a predetermined probability based on the generated random number.
Connected to the input side of the sub-control board 202 is a chance button detection unit 220 that detects that the chance button 117 has been operated.

  The sub-control board 202 mainly controls the effects during the game. Based on the effect commands transmitted from the main control board 201, the CPU 202a for executing the effect lottery and effect processing, the program and the past effects. A ROM 202b for storing a pattern, a RAM 202c functioning as a data work area at the time of arithmetic processing of the CPU 202a, and the like are provided.

  The sub control board 202 receives an effect command that constitutes a part of the game effect transmitted from the main control board 201, and draws a lottery in the CPU 202a based on the effect command to produce an effect background pattern, a reach effect pattern, and an appearance. An effect such as a character is confirmed, and this effect confirmation command is transmitted to perform sub-control in the game.

  The CPU 202a has a function of performing control so that the same effect pattern is not continuously generated in the range of effect commands transmitted from the main control board 201, compared to the past effect patterns that have been changed a predetermined number of times. It may be.

  The symbol display unit 104 is connected to the output side of the sub-control board 202, and the sub-control board 202 also has a function of executing effect processing based on the above-described effect determination command. That is, the CPU 202a in the sub-control board 202 executes an effect process based on the effect confirmation command, the ROM 202b stores various image data such as a background image, a pattern image, and a character image, and the RAM 202c performs data work during the calculation process of the CPU 202a. Functions as an area. The sub-control board 202 is further provided with a VRAM 202d for writing image data to be displayed on the symbol display unit 104.

  Normally, the CPU 202a reads a program stored in the ROM 202b, executes various image processing such as background image display processing, symbol image display and variation processing, and character image display processing, reads necessary image data from the ROM 202b, and stores it in the VRAM 202d. Write. The background image, the design image, and the character image are superimposed and displayed on the design display unit 104 on the display screen. That is, the design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. At this time, if the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 202d by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. .

  A speaker 277 is connected to the output side of the sub-control board 202, and the sub-control board 202 also has a function of controlling output of sound as an effect process based on the effect determination command described above. That is, in the sub control board 202, the CPU 202a executes audio processing based on the effect confirmation command, the ROM 202b stores various audio data, and the RAM 202c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 202a. When various effects are executed, based on the effect confirmation command, the CPU 202a reads a program stored in the ROM 202b, executes various sound output processes such as effect sound effect processing, and outputs sound from the speaker 277.

  On the output side of the sub-control board 202, a lamp control board 206 for controlling the lamp 262, the effect light 111, and the accessory part 254 is provided.

  The lamp control board 206 functions as a CPU 206a that executes an effect process based on the effect confirmation command transmitted from the sub-control board 202, a ROM 206b that stores various effect pattern data, and a work area for data during the calculation process of the CPU 206a. A RAM 206c and the like are provided.

  The lamp control board 206 performs lighting control for various lamps 262 provided on the game board 101, the base frame, and the like based on the effect confirmation command transmitted from the sub-control board 202. The lighting control for the lights 112 is performed, and the drive control for the motors is performed to change the irradiation direction of the light from each light 112.

  In addition, the lamp control board 206 performs drive control for the solenoid that operates the effect accessory 115 on the accessory part 254 based on the effect confirmation command transmitted from the sub control board 202, and the effect accessory 116. The drive control for the motor that operates is performed.

  In addition, a prize ball control board 203 is connected to the main control board 201 so as to be able to transmit in both directions. The prize ball control board 203 performs prize ball control based on a program stored in the ROM 203a. The prize ball control board 203 includes a CPU 203a that executes prize ball control processing, a RAM 203c that functions as a data work area when the CPU 203a performs arithmetic processing, and the like.

  The prize ball control board 203 performs control for paying out the number of prize balls at the time of entering the ball to the connected payout unit 291. In addition, an operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 292 is detected, and the launch of the game ball is controlled. The payout unit 291 includes a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit.

  The prize ball control board 203 is a game ball that has entered the respective entrances (the first start opening 105, the second start opening 120, the normal winning opening 107, and the big winning opening opening / closing device 109) with respect to the payout unit 291. Control to pay out the number of prize balls corresponding to. The launching unit 292 launches a game ball for gaming, and includes a sensor (not shown) that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like (not shown). When the game operation is detected by the sensor of the launching unit 292, the prize ball control board 203 drives a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation to intermittently fire the game ball, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

(Functional configuration of main control board and sub control board)
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram schematically showing a functional configuration of the control means 200 for controlling the progress of the game.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the ROM 201b of the main control board 201 is a first special symbol lottery means 300, a first special symbol display control, as a means that functions mainly when a game ball enters the first starting port 105. Means 301, first special symbol variation control means 302, and first random number determination means 303 are provided.

  The ROM 201b is a second special symbol lottery means 320, a second special symbol display control means 321 and a second special symbol variation control means as means for functioning mainly when a game ball enters the second start port 120. 322 and second random number determination means 323 are provided.

  The ROM 201b includes jackpot game control means 340, probability change game control means 341, time-short game control means 342, normal game control means 343, pre-determination means 330, and lottery result determination means 310 as means for controlling the progress of the game. Yes.

  Further, the ROM 201b includes a normal symbol lottery means 360, a normal symbol display control means 361, a normal symbol fluctuation control means 362, and a normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 as means that function when a game ball enters the winning gate 106. I have.

  The RAM 201c of the main control board 201 includes a first special symbol hold storage unit 401, a second special symbol hold storage unit 402, a normal symbol hold storage unit 403, and a game state storage unit 404.

  On the other hand, the ROM 202b of the sub-control board 202 includes effect lottery means 501 and effect control means 502.

  Further, the RAM 202c of the sub control board 202 includes a first effect data hold storage unit 510 and a second effect data hold storage unit 511.

  The first special symbol lottery means 300 and the second special symbol lottery means 320 constitute the game data lottery means of the present invention.

  Further, the first special symbol hold storage means 401 constitutes a first variable display hold means of the present invention, and the second special symbol hold storage means 402 constitutes a second variable display hold means of the present invention. Yes. Hereinafter, the configuration and function of each means will be described.

  The jackpot game control means 340, the probability change game control means 341, the short time game control means 342 and the normal game control means 343 are all programs for controlling the progress of the game in each game state.

  The jackpot game control means 340 proceeds with the jackpot game when a transition from the normal game state to the jackpot game state is made as a result of the jackpot lottery by the first special symbol lottery means 300 or the second special symbol lottery means 320 described later. Control. Specifically, the jackpot game control means 340 includes a long hit game in which the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening / closing device 109 is performed for a total of 15 rounds, and a short hit game in which the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening / closing device 109 is performed for two rounds. To control. In the present embodiment, “long win and short win” are collectively referred to as “big hit”, and “long win game and short win game” are collectively referred to as “big hit game”.

  As described above, when a long winning game is executed, the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening / closing device 109 is executed more than the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening / closing device 109 during the short winning game. Yes. The opening / closing operation of the special prize opening / closing device 109 is performed by operating the special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b by the special prize opening / closing part 231. Specifically, the jackpot game control means 340 operates the jackpot opening / closing solenoid 109b from the first round to the 15th round in the long hit gaming state and only two rounds in the short hit gaming state to thereby win the big prize opening / closing door 109a. Open and close. Then, when a game ball enters the big winning opening / closing device 109, the big winning opening detection unit 224 counts the number of balls entered. Further, when the game winning ball detecting unit 224 detects that the game ball has entered the game winning opening / closing device 109, the game ball is paid out by the payout unit 291.

  Here, “round” means that a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses and a predetermined number (for example, 9 balls) of game balls enter when a long game and a short game are being executed. This means a unit for opening / closing the special prize opening opening / closing device 109 by satisfying any of the following conditions. In the present embodiment, the opening time of the big prize opening / closing device 109 per round in the short win game is set to be extremely shorter than the opening time of the big winning opening / closing device 109 per round in the long hit game. ing.

  The probability variation game control means 341 is a probability of winning a big hit when the first special symbol lottery means 300 and the second special symbol lottery means 320 perform a lottery in a game after a long win game or a short win game is executed. Control the probability change game that increases. As will be described in detail later, whether or not the first special symbol lottery means 300 determines whether or not it is successful is determined based on the first special symbol probability change time determination table, and whether or not the second special symbol lottery means 320 determines whether or not the second special symbol is probable. This is performed based on the determination table.

  In the present embodiment, “probability change game” means that the first special symbol lottery means 300 and the second special symbol lottery means 320 determine whether or not the first special symbol probability change per-time determination table and second special symbol probability change, respectively. It means a game played based on the hourly determination table. A gaming state in which a probability variation game is being performed is referred to as a “probability variation gaming state”. Here, the special symbol probability variation time determination table (the first special symbol probability variation time determination table and the second special symbol probability variation time determination table) is longer and shorter than the special symbol normal variation time determination table. The winning probability for winning is set to be high (for example, the winning probability is set to be about 10 times higher than normal. Details will be described later).

  In the present embodiment, if the random number drawn by the first special symbol drawing means 300 is determined to be a long hit, the probability variation game is performed with a probability of, for example, 1/2 after the long hit game is executed. When it is determined that a short win is achieved, the probability change gaming state is entered with a probability of, for example, a half after the short win game is executed. If the second special symbol lottery means 320 is determined to be a long win, the probability change game state is assumed with a half probability after the long hit game is executed, and if it is determined to be a short win, After the short hit game is executed, the probability change game state is entered with a probability of almost 100%. On the other hand, when the random number drawn by the second special symbol lottery means 320 is determined to be a long hit, after the long hit game is executed, the probability change gaming state is established with a probability of 60%, for example. However, if it is determined that a short win is made, as described above, after the short win game is executed, the probability change gaming state is entered with a probability of almost 100%.

  In addition, although it is substantially the same mode as the above short win, any one of the normal short win, the probable gaming state and the short-time gaming state that are not changed to the probable gaming state after the winning game is executed, Needless to say, a small hit or the like in a normal gaming state may be combined as appropriate.

  The short time game control means 342 controls the short time game in which the lottery time is shortened in the lottery by the normal symbol lottery means 360. In the probability variation game state, the time-short game is performed by the time-short game control unit 341 together with the probability variation game by the probability variation game control unit 341.

  In the present embodiment, the “short-time gaming state” means a gaming state in which a lottery by the normal symbol lottery means 360 described later is performed based on a normal symbol short-time hitting determination table. In other words, the normal symbol lottery means 360 performs lottery based on the normal symbol normal hour determination table in the normal gaming state, but in the short time gaming state, the normal symbol lottery means 360 draws based on the normal symbol short time determination table. Done. The normal symbol time per hour determination table has a lottery time shorter than the normal symbol normal time per time determination table.

  As a result of the lottery performed by the normal symbol lottery means 360, if the winning combination is won, the pair of movable pieces 120a are released for a certain period of time, and the game balls can easily enter the second starting port 120. In the normal symbol time / short time determination table, the winning probability is set as high as 90%, for example. Therefore, in the short-time gaming state, it is possible to acquire a lot of winning balls by entering the second starting port 120, and the game can proceed without reducing the gaming balls as much as possible.

  In addition, a game that is performed in a state where a game value advantageous to the player is given, such as the probability variation game and the short-time game, is referred to as a special game.

  Then, the normal game control means 343 controls the progress of a game that does not fall into either the jackpot game or the special game, that is, a normal game. As described above, one of the jackpot game control means 340, the probability variation game control means 341, the short-time game control means 342, and the normal game control means 343 controls the progress of the game depending on the game state. The gaming state in which the control units 340 to 343 are in progress is written in the gaming state storage unit 404 of the RAM 201c.

  Next, the normal symbol lottery means 360, the normal symbol display control means 361, the normal symbol variation control means 362, the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363, and the normal symbol hold, which start control when the game ball passes the winning gate 106. The storage unit 403 will be described.

  When the game ball passes through the winning gate 106 and is detected by the gate detection unit 222, the normal symbol lottery means 360 extracts a random number from a random number value (for example, 0 to 250) prepared in advance. When the random value is extracted by the normal symbol lottery means 360, the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 determines whether or not it is a hit based on the table stored in the ROM 201b. At this time, if the game is in the normal game state, the winning is determined based on the normal symbol normal time per hour determination table, and if it is in the time-short game state (including the probability variation game state), it is based on the normal symbol time per hour determination table. Winning is determined.

  If the result of the determination by the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 is a win, the second starting port opening / closing solenoid 120b is operated to open the movable piece 120a, and if it is lost, the second starting port opening / closing solenoid is operated. The control is terminated without operating 120b. Therefore, when the result of the determination by the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 is lost, the second start port 120 is not opened and the closed state is maintained. The result of determination by the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 is displayed on the normal symbol display 82 by the normal symbol display control means 361.

  It should be noted that a predetermined time is required until the determination result is displayed on the normal symbol display 82 after the game ball passes through the winning gate 106. During this time, if the game ball further passes the winning gate 106, the right to draw by the normal symbol lottery means 360 is reserved in the normal symbol hold storage means 403. The maximum number of reserved rights for the lottery is four, and is displayed on the normal symbol hold display 92 by the normal symbol display control means 361.

  Next, control when a game ball enters the first start port 105 or the second start port 120 will be described.

  When the first start port detector 221 detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 105, the detection signal is transmitted to the main control board 201. If the said signal is received, the 1st special symbol lottery means 300 will extract one random number value from random numbers (for example, 0-600) prepared beforehand. The random value extracted here includes a hit random number, a design random number, and a reach random number. The winning random number is a random number for determining whether or not it is a big hit, and the design random number is a random number for determining the type of winning (long hit, short hit). The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not to perform a reach effect (including a related effect described later).

  The RAM 201c is provided with a game state storage unit 404. Whether the current game state is a normal game state or a special game state (probability game state, short-time game state). Is remembered. When the first special symbol lottery means 300 extracts a random number value, the first random number determination means 303 determines the random number value based on the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage means 404.

  Specifically, if it is a normal gaming state, the extracted random number value is determined based on a special symbol normal time per hit determination table, and if it is a probability variable gaming state, it is determined based on a special symbol probable per hour determination table. In the special symbol normal hour determination table, a first special symbol normal hour determination table and a second special symbol normal hour determination table are prepared, and the first special symbol normal variation determination table is also included in the special symbol normal variation determination table. A symbol probability change time determination table and a second special symbol probability change time determination table are prepared. Each of these determination tables is stored in the ROM 201b, and different tables are referred to based on the gaming state and the starting opening that has entered the ball.

  The random value extracted by the first special symbol lottery means 300 is as shown in FIG. FIG. 5A is an example of a table showing the jackpot winning probability and the winning random number. FIG. 5B is a table (first special symbol random number determination table) for determining the type of jackpot game (number of rounds, probability variation, normal) when winning a symbol random number, that is, jackpot. FIG. 5C is a table (first special symbol reach random number determination table) showing reach random numbers.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, one winning random number is extracted from 601 random numbers from 0 to 600. 7 and 317 are stored as jackpot random numbers in the special symbol normal hourly determination table referred to in the normal gaming state, and the special symbol normal hourly determination table referred to in the probability changing gaming state includes 7, 37, 67, 97, 127, 157, 187, 217, 247, 277, 307, 337, 367, 397, 427, 457, 487, 517, 547, 577 are stored as jackpot random numbers.

  When a game ball enters the first start port 105, the first special symbol lottery means 300 extracts the winning random number. At this time, in the normal gaming state, the first random number determination means 303 determines the hit or loss of the hit random number based on the special symbol normal hour hit determination table. That is, if the winning random number drawn by entering the first starting port 105 is 7 or 317, it is determined to be winning, and if it is any other random number, it is determined to be lost. Further, in the probability variation gaming state, it is determined whether or not it is a win based on a special symbol probability change time determination table.

  As a result of the determination of the winning random number, if it is determined that the winning random number is a jackpot random number, the first special symbol lottery means 300 determines the jackpot type based on FIG. The types of jackpots determined here include “long hits” in which the jackpot game time is long and a large amount of game balls can be expected to be paid out, and “short hits” in which the jackpot game time is short. Furthermore, in the long win, only the "probable change time short length" occurs after the jackpot game ends, and only the short game state occurs after the jackpot game ends (the probability change game state is (It does not occur) There is "normal per length". Also, for short wins, only the short-time gaming state occurs after the end of the jackpot game (the probability-changing gaming state does not occur), and both the probability-changing gaming state and the short-time gaming state occur after the jackpot game ends. There is “Short-term per chance”.

  Further, the first special symbol lottery means 300 determines a reach random number based on FIG. 5C together with the above-described design random number, and the first random number determination means 303 determines the reach random number. FIG. 5C-1 shows a configuration example of the reach random number table at the time of the loss referred to when the hit random number is determined to be lost, and FIG. A configuration example of a reach random number table at the time of jackpot that is referred to when

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5 (c-1) and FIG. 5 (c-2), the gaming state is changed from the normal gaming state to the second starting port 120 in the second state. Appearance probability of related effects in the reserved ball stored in the first special symbol storage unit 401 when a transition is made to a special game state (for example, a short-time game state, etc.) that is often controlled in the “open” state. Is set higher than the appearance probability of the related effects in the held ball stored in the first special symbol holding means 401 set in the normal gaming state. That is, in the normal gaming state, the appearance probability of the related performance by entering the first starting hole 105 is 10/251 at the time of a loss and 121/251 at the time of the big hit, whereas the first starting in the special gaming state described above. Appearance probabilities of related effects due to entering the mouth 105 are set to be high, 20/251 when lost, and 151/251 when jackpot. By configuring in this way, the appearance of a related effect due to entering the first start opening 105 subjected to non-priority processing is set at a high probability, and there are more opportunities for game balls to enter than the first start opening 105. Since it is possible to relatively reduce the probability of execution of the related effect by entering the second starting port 120 in the second state, the related effect by entering the first starting port 105 that is non-prioritized is executed. In this case, the effect by entering the second start port where the reserved ball is processed with priority is associated with the related effect by the interrupt process described later. Therefore, it is possible to increase the probability that an effective related effect is displayed by displaying decorative symbols over many times with a rich storyline.

  In the case of winning the jackpot, random numbers with related effects or reach are extracted with a probability almost close to 100%. Therefore, when the jackpot is won, the related effect or the reach effect is executed with a probability close to 100%. On the other hand, in the case of losing without winning the jackpot, random numbers corresponding to the presence of related effects, the presence of reach effects, and the absence of reach effects are extracted in the first special symbol reach random number determination table. As a result, at the time of losing, the reach effect is often not executed, but there is still a possibility that the related effect and the reach effect are executed (so-called gas effect, gas effect).

  When a game ball enters the second start port 120, the second special symbol lottery means 320 extracts the winning random number. At this time, in the normal gaming state, the second random number determination means 323 determines the hit or loss of the hit random number based on the special symbol normal hour hit determination table. That is, if the winning random number drawn by entering the second starting port 120 is 7 or 317, it is determined to be a winning, and if it is any other random number, it is determined to be lost. Further, in the probability variation gaming state, it is determined whether or not it is a win based on a special symbol probability change time determination table.

  FIG. 6A is a table showing the winning probability and the winning random number when the game ball enters the second starting port 120. FIG. 6B is a table (second special symbol random number determination table) for determining the type of jackpot game when the symbol random number and the jackpot are won. FIG. 6C is a table showing a reach random number (second special symbol reach random number determination table).

  As shown in FIG. 6A, one hit random number is extracted from 601 random numbers from 0 to 600, and this is the same as described above. Further, it is determined based on FIG. 6A whether or not the extracted random number value is won by the jackpot. This random number table is the same as described above.

  If it is determined that the extracted random number is a jackpot random number, the type of jackpot is determined based on FIG. 6B. The lottery probability of this jackpot type is shown in FIG. 5B. It is different from the random number table shown.

  That is, the design random number determination table differs between when the game ball enters the first start port 105 and when the game ball enters the second start port 120. Specifically, when the ball enters the second starting port 120, the percentage of winning per winning length is higher than when the ball enters the first starting port 105. That is, when a game ball enters the second start port 120, the degree of expectation to win per length with a certain change time is increased. In this way, the gameability can be improved by changing the degree of expectation for the jackpot depending on the start opening into which the game ball has entered.

  Further, the second special symbol lottery means 320 determines the reach random number based on FIG. 6C together with the symbol random number, and the second random number determination means 323 determines the reach random number. FIG. 6C-1 shows a configuration example of a reach random number table at the time of a loss referred to when the hit random number is determined to be lost, and FIG. A configuration example of a reach random number table at the time of jackpot that is referred to when

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6 (c-1) and FIG. 6 (c-2), the second starting port 120 is in the second state from the normal gaming state to the normal gaming state. Appearance probabilities of related effects in the reserved ball stored in the second special symbol storage unit 402 when a transition is made to a special game state (for example, a short-time game state, etc.) that is often controlled in the “open” state. Is set lower than the appearance probability of the related effects in the held ball stored in the second special symbol holding means 402 set in the normal gaming state. That is, the appearance probability of the related performance by entering the second starting port 120 in the normal gaming state is 10/251 at the time of losing and 121/251 at the big hit, whereas the second starting in the special gaming state described above. Appearance probabilities of related effects due to entering the mouth 120 are set as low as 1/251 when lost and 51/251 when jackpot. By configuring in this way, it is highly likely that a large number of holding balls will be retained, that is, the second starting port 120 in the second state where there is a greater chance of entering a game ball than the first starting port 105. Execution of related effects by entering the first start opening 105 can be relatively reduced with the probability of execution of related effects by entering the ball set low, the appearance of related effects having a small number of variable displays and poor storyliness can be made relatively low. The effect related to the related effect by entering the second start opening is easily executed. Therefore, it is possible to increase the probability that an effective related effect is displayed by displaying decorative symbols over many times with a rich storyline.

  Further, as is clear from FIG. 6C, when the jackpot is won, random numbers with related effects or reach are extracted with a probability close to 100%. Therefore, when the jackpot is won, the related effect or the reach effect is executed with a probability close to 100%. On the other hand, in the case of losing without winning the jackpot, random numbers corresponding to the related effect, reach effect, and reach effect are extracted in the second special symbol reach random number determination table. As a result, at the time of losing, the reach effect is often not executed, but there is still a possibility that the related effect and the reach effect are executed (so-called gas effect, gas effect).

  As described above, when the first random number determination unit 303 determines the extracted random number value, the first special symbol variation control unit 302 varies the special symbol based on the random number value and the first special symbol. The display control means 301 variably displays the lottery result on the first special symbol display 84. Even when the second random number determination means 323 determines a random value, the same control as described above is performed by the second special symbol display control means 321 and the second special symbol fluctuation control means 322.

  On the other hand, when a game ball enters the first start port 105 and a variation display based on the previous game ball is in progress, the extracted random number value is the first random number in the RAM 201c. It is stored in the special symbol hold storage means 401. The first special symbol storage unit 401 is configured as shown in FIG.

  That is, FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the storage area related to the hold order. As is clear from this figure, the first special symbol hold storage means 401 has a game ball in the first start port detecting unit 221. A random number value (hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number) acquired based on the detection is stored as a holding ball in association with the order in which game balls are detected. In other words, when a game ball enters the first start opening 105, the right of the special symbol change display is stored in the first special symbol hold storage means 401 as a so-called hold ball. The reserved balls retained in the storage unit 401 are digested and processed in the storage unit 401 in the order stored.

  Specifically, the first special symbol storage unit 401 includes four storage areas from the first storage area 401 a to the fourth storage area 401 d, each time a game ball enters the first start port 105. The reserved balls are retained in order from the first storage area 401a. That is, when a game ball enters the first start port 105 in a state where the reserve ball is retained in the first storage area 401a, the reserve ball is retained in the second storage area 401b. In this way, up to four reserved balls are reserved in the first special symbol storage unit 401. On the other hand, when a game ball enters the first starting port 105 in a state where the reserve ball is retained in all of the first storage area 401a to the fourth storage area 401d, the above-mentioned variation display is performed as the reserve ball. Rights are not reserved. In other words, if the number of reserved balls is retained up to the upper limit number of reserves in the first special symbol storage unit 401, even if a game ball enters the first start port 105, the big hit lottery by the entered ball is Not done. However, even in this case, a predetermined number of prize balls for the game balls entering the first start port 105 are paid out.

  Further, the reserved ball retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401 is always digested (processed) from the first storage area 401 a by the first special symbol variation control unit 302. When the reserved sphere stored in the first storage area 401a is digested, the reserved sphere retained from the second storage area 401b to the fourth storage area 401d moves from the storage area to the previous area. That is, when the reserved sphere retained in the first storage area 401a is digested, the retained sphere retained in the second storage area 401b moves to the first storage area 401a. Similarly, the reserved ball retained in the third storage area 401c moves to the second storage area 401b, and the retained ball retained in the fourth storage area 401d shifts to the third storage area 401c. Therefore, the fourth storage area 401d can accept the reserved ball again, that is, can reserve it. Note that the shift process of the reserved balls retained in the storage areas 401 a to 401 d is controlled by the first special symbol variation control means 302.

  On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second starting port 120, if the change display based on the previous game ball is being executed, the second special symbol hold storage means 402 stores the game ball. A random number value (hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number) acquired based on the detection of the ball by the second starting port detection unit 225 is stored as a reserved ball in association with the order in which the game balls are detected. That is, when a game ball enters the second start port 120, the right to display the special symbol, that is, the right to win the big prize is stored in the second special symbol storage unit 402 as a reserved ball. The right to display the variation of the special symbol reserved in the storage area 402 is digested and processed in the storage area 402 by the second special symbol variation control means 322 in the stored order.

  Specifically, the second special symbol storage unit 402 includes four storage areas from the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area 402d, and each time a game ball enters the second start port 120, The reserved balls are retained in order from the fifth storage area 402a. That is, when a game ball enters the second start port 120 in a state where it is retained in the fifth storage area 402a, a reserved ball is retained in the sixth storage area 402b. In this way, up to four reserved balls are reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402. On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second start port 120 in a state where the reserve ball is retained in all of the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area 402d, the above-mentioned variation display is performed as the reserve ball. Rights are not reserved. In other words, if the number of reserved balls is retained up to the upper limit number of reserves in the second special symbol storage means 402, even if a game ball enters the second start port 120, Not done. However, even in this case, a predetermined number of prize balls for the game balls entering the second start port 120 are paid out.

  In addition, when a plurality of reserved balls are reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402, it is digested from the fifth storage area 402a, but the reserved balls stored in the fifth storage area 402a are digested. Then, the reserved ball retained from the sixth storage area 402b to the eighth storage area 402d moves from the storage area to the previous area. That is, when the reserved sphere retained in the fifth storage area 402a is digested, the retained sphere retained in the sixth storage area 402b moves to the fifth storage area 402a. Similarly, the reserved sphere retained in the seventh storage area 402c moves to the sixth storage area 402b, and the retained sphere retained in the eighth storage area 402d moves to the seventh storage area 402c. Therefore, the eighth storage area 402d can accept the reserved ball again, that is, can reserve it. Note that the shift process of the reserved balls retained in the storage areas 402a to 402d is controlled by the second special symbol variation control means 322.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, since the storage balls are reserved for each start opening into which the game balls have entered, the storage balls are reserved, so that the random numbers related to these hold balls and the start openings into which the game balls have entered Are stored in association with each other. However, as described above, the object of the present invention can be achieved even if the holding balls are stored by another method without storing the holding balls separately in the two storage units 401 and 402. For example, the reserved balls are retained in one storage means in the order in which the game balls enter the start opening. At this time, even if the flag that associates which starting ball the game ball has entered is stored in association with the holding ball, and the holding ball with the predetermined flag is preferentially processed, The same effect as the gaming machine 1 can be obtained.

  As shown in FIG. 7C, the eight storage areas from the first storage area 401a to the eighth storage area 402d are all hit random number storage areas, symbol random number storage areas, and reach random number storage areas. have. The hit random number storage area is an area for storing a hit random number used for determining whether or not to start the big hit game. In addition, in the case of a jackpot, the symbol random number storage area determines whether or not the stop symbol form of the first special symbol display 84 or the second special symbol display 86 is a probability variation symbol (the number of rounds is 15 rounds). This is an area for storing symbol random numbers used in the process. The reach random number storage area is an area for storing a reach random number used for determining whether or not to perform a reach effect.

  Then, as described above, when the reserved ball is reserved in the first special symbol storage unit 401, the first special symbol display control unit 301 displays the number of reserved balls held in the first special symbol hold display. Displayed on the device 88.

  Note that the second special symbol lottery means 320 and the second special symbol display control means 321 also when a game ball enters the second start port 120 and the second start port detector 225 detects a game ball. The second special symbol variation control means 322 and the second random number determination means 323 perform the same processing as described above. However, the extracted random number value is stored in any one of the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area 402d.

  In the present embodiment, when a plurality of reserved balls are reserved in the special symbol storage unit 401, 402, the reserved balls stored in the special symbol storage unit 402 are preferentially digested. ing.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a holding ball is reserved in the first storage area 401 a to the third storage area 401 c of the first special symbol holding storage unit 401, and the fifth storage area 402 a of the second special symbol holding storage unit 402. Further, it is assumed that the reserved ball is reserved in the sixth storage area 402b.

  In addition, the order in which the game balls enter the first start port 105 and the second start port 120 is as follows. The first start port 105 is the first, the second start port 120 is the second, It is assumed that the third is the first start port 105, the fourth is the second start port 120, and the fifth is the first start port 105. In this case, since the reserved balls in the second storage area 402a are processed with priority, the reserved balls are digested in the order of the arrows shown in FIG.

  In addition, when it sets so that the reservation ball of the 1st special symbol reservation memory | storage means 401 may be processed preferentially, a reservation ball is digested in the order of the arrow shown in FIG.8 (c).

  Here, in this embodiment, since the reserved ball of the second special symbol storage unit 402 is set to be preferentially processed, for example, as shown in FIG. 8D, non-priority processing is performed. If three reserved balls are retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401, the three retained balls retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401 are digested successively in the order indicated by the dotted lines in the figure. Is done. However, when the first reserved ball is digested, in other words, when the first variation display is performed, the reserved ball is reserved in the second special symbol hold storage means 402 to which priority processing is performed. Then (when the ball enters the second starting port 120), the reservation ball is interrupted, and the reservation ball is digested in the order indicated by the solid line in the figure.

  As is clear from this, in the storage means 401 and 402, when a plurality of reserved balls are reserved in the storage means (storage area) where non-priority processing is performed, the storage means (priority processing is performed) There is a high possibility that an interruption process will be performed when the reserved ball is reserved in the storage area. This means that when a plurality of reserved balls are reserved in the storage means that is subjected to non-priority processing, there is a low possibility that each of these reserved balls will be digested continuously. On the other hand, when a plurality of reserved balls are reserved in the storage means for which priority processing is performed, no interrupt processing is performed, and the plurality of reserved balls are always digested continuously.

  The retained balls are sequentially digested as described above. The CPU 201a controls the digestion of the retained balls, and the first special symbol variation control means 302 and the second special symbol variation control means of the ROM 201b. 322. Both of these fluctuation control means 302 and 322 monitor which of the reserved balls is to be processed, and based on the random number of the reserved balls to be processed stored in the first storage area 401a or the fifth storage area 402a. The variable display has started.

  When the variable display is started as described above, the first special symbol display control means 301 and the second special symbol display control means 321 apply the determination result to the first special symbol display 84 and the second special symbol display 86. Is displayed in a variable manner. However, this variation display is performed for a predetermined time based on the effect random number acquired by the lottery result determination unit 310 at the start of the variation display.

  During the special symbol variation display, the decorative symbol effect by the symbol display unit 104, the lamp effect by the lamp 112 (the lamp 262), the sound effect by the speaker 277, or the effect character 115, 116 (the character object portion 254). An effect production is performed, and a lottery winning result is notified to the player together with various elaborate productions. In order to make this effect more effective, the main control board 201 is provided with a prior determination means 330. The control of the prior determination unit 330 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the first start port detection unit 221 or the second start port detection unit 225 detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 105 or the second start port 120.

(Step S101)
Then, a fluctuation detection unit (not shown) of the main control board 201 detects whether or not the special symbol fluctuation display is being performed.

(Step S102)
If it is determined in step S101 that the change is in progress, the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 or the second special symbol hold storage unit 402 stores random numbers in the fourth storage area 401d or the eighth storage area 402d. Detect whether or not Specifically, when a ball entry signal is received from the first start port detector 221, it is determined whether the number of reserved balls retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401 is less than 4, and the second start When the incoming signal is received from the mouth detector 225, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls in the second special symbol storage unit 402 is less than 4.

  If it is determined in step S102 that there are four reserved balls, the special symbol variation display, that is, the big win lottery is not performed depending on the game ball entering, so the control ends. .

(Step S103)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S102 that the number of reserved balls is less than 4, that is, it is determined that the reserved balls are reserved, the first storage area 401a to the fourth storage area 401d or the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area. A reserved ball (random value) is stored in 402d.

(Step S104)
As described above, when the random number value is stored in the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 or the second special symbol hold storage unit 402, the prior determination unit 330 determines whether the jackpot is based on the random number value. ”“ Hits type (probability per change, normal win, etc.) ”“ reach presence / absence ”“ related production presence / absence ”are determined (preliminary determination) That is, the prior determination means 330 determines game data related to the effect from the extracted random number value.

  Note that the determination of game data by the prior determination unit 330 may determine a random value with reference to the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 or the second special symbol hold storage unit 402, or store the random number value in the prior determination unit 330. A determination may be made by providing an area and directly writing the extracted random number value in the storage area. However, the prior determination is not to be performed immediately after the reach random number is extracted, but at least before the production based on the reach random number is controlled and at the timing at which the related production is possible. If so, it can be done anytime.

(Step S105)
As described above, when the prior determination unit 330 determines an effect command based on the extracted random number value, the effect determination command is transmitted to the sub-control board 202.

  In addition, in the said step S101, when the 1st starting port detection part 221 or the 2nd starting port detection part 225 detects the signal, when the fluctuation | variation regarding the entrance of the game ball before it was made, step is carried out. The process proceeds from step S101 to step S105. That is, when no change is made and a game ball enters one of the start ports, a special symbol related to the entry is changed immediately. Is never remembered. Therefore, when a game ball enters one of the starting ports when no change is made, an effect command is determined based on a random value related to the input ball, and this effect command is also sent to the sub-control board. The effect control means 502 of the sub-control board 202 controls various effects based on this effect command.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the start port in a state where the reserved ball is not reserved, the prior determination by the prior determination unit 330 is not performed. In other words, the preliminary determination unit 330 performs the preliminary determination only when the reserved ball is reserved. This is because the purpose of the “preliminary determination” performed by the prior determination means 330 is to determine whether or not to perform a related effect over a variable display of a plurality of special symbols. The related effects in the present invention refer to the following effects.

(Explanation of related effects)
That is, when a game ball enters either the first start port 105 or the second start port 120, a jackpot lottery is performed as described above. This jackpot lottery is a lottery to determine whether or not the right to proceed with the game can be acquired in a special game state (probability change state, short-time state) that gives a player an advantageous game value over the normal game state. . The lottery result is displayed on the first special symbol display 84 or the second special symbol display 86. In these indicators 84 and 86, the LED is turned on or blinked, as if the lottery is currently being drawn. Such special symbol variation display is performed for a predetermined time.

  This special symbol variation display is performed once for each reserved ball. During this one special symbol variation display, the symbol display unit 104, the speaker 277, the lamp 112, and the directors 115 and 116, Various productions are made. A normal effect, including a reach effect, is a content in which one effect is made with respect to one special symbol variation display, and a story or the like is completed within the range of this one effect.

On the other hand, a related effect is a series of (continuous or intermittent) effects in which a single story is completed or a plurality of effects are related to each other over a variety of special symbols. Means. In other words, a plurality of performances are set to contents related in some way. FIG. 10 shows an example of the related effects using the effect actors 115 and 116 and the symbol display unit 104.
For example, at the time of the first variation display (when the first reserved memory is consumed), as shown in FIG. The blade is pulled out, and operation control is performed to move along the longitudinal direction of the production actor 116. Further, at this time, an LED (indicated by a dotted line in the figure) incorporated in the blade portion is brought into a light-emitting state, so that the player looks as if the blade is shining. However, in the decorative symbol of the symbol display unit 104, after the three numbers arranged in a row scroll for a predetermined time, the symbol display unit 104 finally stops in a state where three identical symbols (symbols) are not aligned, The fact that the lottery result (variation) was lost is notified.

  At the time of the second fluctuation display (when the second reserved memory is digested), as shown in FIG. Is removed, and the movement control is performed to move along the longitudinal direction of the director 115. At this time, the LED (indicated by a dotted line in the figure) built in the blade portion is turned on to make the player feel as if the blade is shining. However, even in the second variation display, after the three numbers arranged in a row scroll for a predetermined time in the decorative symbol of the symbol display unit 104, finally the same three numbers (symbols) are not aligned. It stops in the state and informs the player that the lottery result (fluctuation) was lost.

  At the time of the third variation display (when the third reserved memory is consumed), as shown in FIG. Is removed, and motion control is performed to move along the longitudinal direction of each of the directors 115 and 116. Further, at this time, the above-described LED (details are not shown) is set in a light-emitting state to make the player appear as if both blades are shining. However, even in the third variation display, after the three numbers arranged in a row scroll for a predetermined time in the decorative symbol of the symbol display unit 104, finally the same three numbers (symbols) are not aligned. It stops in the state and informs the player that the lottery result (fluctuation) was lost.

  At the time of the fourth fluctuation display (when the fourth reserved memory is consumed), as shown in FIG. 10 (d), in addition to the operation control of the directors 115 and 116, the upper right of the game board 101 is displayed. A plurality of LEDs (not shown) are set in a light emitting state from the side toward the lower left, and a plurality of LEDs (not shown) are also set in a light emitting state from the upper left to the lower right of the game board 101. This gives the player the impression that the game board 101 has been cut from the left and right with a sword. At the time of the fourth variation display, after the three numbers arranged in a row scroll for a predetermined time in the decorative symbol of the symbol display unit 104, finally three identical numbers (symbols) are arranged. And the player is informed that the lottery result (variation) is a big hit.

  As described above, in the related effects, a continuous effect is performed over a plurality of variations (in this example, a continuous effect by the directors 115 and 116). Therefore, whenever the player sees the effect continuously performed, in other words, as the related effect progresses, the player has a great expectation that the winning will be won in the next variation display.

  Here, the related effects using the effect actors 115 and 116 and the symbol display unit 104 have been described. However, the related effect may be performed by any one of the effect actor, the symbol display unit, the speaker, and the lamp. They may be used in appropriate combination.

  As described above, in order to perform the related effects made over a plurality of variation displays, the pre-determining unit 330 determines a random value before the variation display starts and transmits it to the sub-control board 202. Then, the sub control board 202 controls the related effects based on the effect command transmitted from the prior determination means 330. The control procedure will be described below.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the RAM 202 c of the sub control board 202 includes a first effect data hold storage unit 510 and a second effect data hold storage unit 511. The first effect data hold storage means 510 includes four storage areas from the first storage area 510a to the fourth storage area 510d, and the second effect data hold storage means 511 includes the fifth storage area 511a. 4 to 8th storage area 511d.

  Then, each time the prior determination means 330 determines an effect command, the prior determination means 330 transmits the confirmed effect command, that is, the game data for effect, to the sub-control board 202, and from the first storage area 510a. It is stored in any of up to eight storage areas 511d. Prior determination means 330 associates a signal corresponding to a storage area for storing the effect command when transmitting the effect command. Specifically, when the pre-determination means 330 finalizes the effect command, a storage area in which a random number value as a basis is stored (the first storage area 401a to the fourth storage area 401d of the first special symbol hold storage means 401) is stored. Or the signal which identifies which is the 1st memory area 402a-the 4th memory area 402d) of the 2nd special symbol holding means 402 is attached to an effect command.

  Thereby, for example, when the random number value is stored in the first storage area 401a of the first special symbol storage unit 401 in the main control board 201, the effect command transmitted to the sub control board 202 is the first effect. The data is stored in the first storage area 510a of the data storage means 510.

  The first storage area 401a to the fourth storage area 401d of the first special symbol hold storage means 401 correspond to the first storage area 510a to the fourth storage area 510d of the first effect data storage means 510. Further, the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area 402d of the second special symbol holding storage means 402 correspond to the fifth storage area 511a to the eighth storage area 511d of the second effect data storage means 511. Then, when the variable display is started and the reserved balls retained in the first storage area 401a or the fifth storage area 402a are digested, one random number value or effect command stored in each storage area is one. Shift to the previous storage area.

  A control procedure when an effect command is transmitted from the preliminary determination means 330 to the sub-control board 202 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S201)
When the sub-control board 202 receives the effect command, the effect control means 502 refers to the identification signal attached to the effect command and confirms in which storage area the command is stored.

(Step S202)
Next, the effect control unit 502 determines whether or not the effect command is a command for performing a related effect.

(Step S203)
When it is determined in step S202 that the command is a command for performing a related effect, the effect control unit 502 adds a related effect flag to the effect command. At this time, any one of “1” to “4” is added to the related effect flag, and this is determined by the number of the area in the effect data holding storage means. Is done. For example, when an effect command is stored in the first storage area 510a and the fifth storage area 511a, the related effect flag “1” is attached. Similarly, when the effect command is stored in the second storage area 510b and the sixth storage area 511b, the flag “2” is stored, and when the effect command is stored in the third storage area 510c and the seventh storage area 511c. Is flag “3”, and flag “4” is added when the effect command is stored in the fourth storage area 510d and the eighth storage area 511d.

  However, in the same effect data storage means 510 and 511, when a jackpot effect command is included in another effect command processed before the effect command, the related effect is as follows. A flag is attached. For example, when an effect command is stored in the seventh storage area 511c, the flag “3” is attached to the effect command. However, when the jackpot effect command is stored in the fifth storage area 511a, the flag “2” is attached to the seventh storage area 511c.

(Step S204)
Next, the effect control means 502 determines whether or not the flag attached to the effect command is “1”. In other words, it is determined whether or not there is an effect command to be processed before the effect command in the same effect data storage means 510 and 511.

(Step S205)
In the above step S204, if the flag added to the effect command is other than “1”, that is, “2” to “4”, that is, in the same effect data storage means 510, 511, the effect command. If there is another effect command to be processed before, flags “1” to “3” are attached to the other effect command. For example, when an effect command is stored in the seventh storage area 511c, the flag “3” is attached to the effect command. In this case, the effect control means 502 newly adds a flag “1” to the effect command stored in the fifth storage area 511a that is processed before the effect command in the same effect data storage means 511. The flag “2” is newly added to the effect command stored in the sixth storage area 511b.

  However, in the same effect data storage means 510 and 511, when the jackpot effect command is included in other effect commands processed before the effect command, the jackpot effect command and The related effect flag is not attached to the effect command processed before the jackpot effect command. The related effect flag is attached to the effect command that is processed after the jackpot effect command. For example, when an effect command is stored in the seventh storage area 511c, the flag “3” is attached to the effect command. However, when the jackpot effect command is stored in the fifth storage area 511a, the flag “1” is added to the sixth storage area 511b. This is to prevent the effect of the related effects stored later from being exerted on the effect that has already won the jackpot.

  As a result, when an effect command “with related effects” is transmitted, a series of consecutive related commands from the effect command to be processed first to the effect command are stored in the storage means for storing the effect command. An effect flag will be attached.

(Step S206)
As described above, when a related effect flag is attached to each effect command, the effect command is stored in a predetermined storage area.

  If it is determined in step S202 that “no related effects”, the processes in steps S203 to S205 are unnecessary, and the effect commands are stored as they are in a predetermined storage area.

Furthermore, even when the related effect flag attached to the effect command transmitted from the pre-determining means 330 is “1” in step S204, the process of step S205 is not necessary, and therefore only the effect command. Is stored in a predetermined storage area.
(Variation start processing)
Next, the fluctuation start process will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, preferential processing is performed on the reserved ball obtained by the game ball entering the second start port 120.

(Step S301)
The special symbol variation display is started by digestion of the reserved ball. First, the CPU 201a determines whether the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage unit 404 is a normal gaming state or a special gaming state.

(Step S302)
If it is determined in the above step S301 that the game state is normal, a random number value (holding ball) is stored in the fifth storage area 402a, that is, the holding ball of the second special symbol holding storage unit 402 is stored. It is determined whether it is 1 or more.

(Step S303)
In step S302, if the reserved ball is stored in the fifth storage area 402a, that is, if the reserved ball is not 0 (YES in step S302), the random value stored in the fifth storage area 402a is not illustrated. While shifting to the processing area, the random number values stored in the sixth storage area 402b to the eighth storage area 402d are shifted to the previous storage area. In addition, when the random number value is stored only in the fifth storage area 402a (when the sixth storage area 402b to the eighth storage area 402d are empty areas), the random number value stored in the fifth storage area 402a Only the process of storing in the processing area is performed.

(Step S304) (Step S305)
The case where the process reaches step S304 through the processes of step S301 and step S302 is a case where the game is in the normal gaming state and the reserved ball is reserved in the fifth storage area 402a. Therefore, in this case, the second special symbol variation control means 322 determines the random number shifted to the processing region with reference to the second special symbol normal time determination table (referred to as the first normal time determination table). Process.

  In the determination process in step S305, a jackpot determination is performed. If the CPU 201a determines that the jackpot is determined to be a big hit in step S305, the jackpot flag is turned ON, and then it is determined whether or not the jackpot is long. Specifically, it is determined by referring to the determination table selected in step S304 and the design random number whether the result of the jackpot determination is a long hit. Further, it is determined whether or not there is a reach effect by referring to the determination table and the reach random number. If it is determined that there is a reach production, a production random number is drawn. This production random number is as described above. That is, the contents of the reach effect and the required time for the effect are determined by this effect random number.

  In step S306, the effect random number selected in step S305 is transmitted to the sub control board 202 as an effect execution command.

(Step S307)
On the other hand, when it is determined in the above-described step S301 that the game state is the normal game state, and the reserved ball is not stored in the fifth storage area 402a in step S302, that is, the reserved ball in the second special symbol reserved storage unit 402 is 0 Is determined whether or not the reserved ball is reserved in the first storage area 401a. Here, if it is determined that no holding ball is stored in the first storage area 401a, that is, if it is determined that there is no holding ball in any storage area, the process is terminated.

(Step S308)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S307 that the reserved ball is retained in the first storage area 401a, the same shift process as in step S303 is performed.

(Step S309)
Then, the case where the processing in the above-described step S301 → step S302 → step S307 → step S308 is the case where the game is in the normal gaming state and the reserved ball is reserved only in the first special symbol storage unit 401. . Therefore, in this case, the first special symbol normal time determination table (referred to as the first normal time determination table) is selected, and thereafter, determination processing and transmission of the effect execution command are performed with reference to the first normal time determination table. Is done.

(Step S310)
Furthermore, when it is determined in the above step S301 that the special game state (probability change state, short time state), it is determined in step S310 whether or not the reserved ball is retained in the fifth storage area 402a.

(Step S311)
If it is determined in step S310 that the reserved ball is reserved in the fifth storage area 402a, that is, the game is in a special gaming state, and the reserved ball is reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402. In such a case, a shift process is performed as in step S303.

(Step S312)
As described above, when the game is in the special game state and the reserved ball is reserved in the second special symbol hold storage unit 402, the second special symbol probability change per time determination table (second probability change time) Selection table) is selected. Thereafter, the determination process and the effect execution command are transmitted in the same manner as described above.

(Step S313)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S301 that the game state is a special game state, and no retained ball is stored in the fifth storage area 402a in step S310, that is, the retained ball in the second special symbol reserved storage unit 402 is 0. In this case, it is determined whether or not the reserved ball is reserved in the first storage area 401a. Here, if it is determined that no holding ball is stored in the first storage area 401a, that is, if it is determined that there is no holding ball in any storage area, the process is terminated.

(Step S314)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S313 that the reserved ball is retained in the first storage area 401a, the same shift process as in step S303 is performed.

(Step S315)
Then, the case where the processing in the above-described step S301 → step S310 → step S313 → step S314 is performed is a special gaming state where the reserved ball is reserved only in the first special symbol storage unit 401. . Therefore, in this case, the first special symbol probability variation time determination table (referred to as the first probability variation determination table) is selected, and thereafter, determination processing and transmission of effect execution commands are performed with reference to the first normal determination table. Is done.

  When receiving the effect execution command transmitted as described above, the sub control board 202 starts control of the effect as shown in FIG.

  That is, when an effect execution command is received, the effect execution command is stored in the processing area of the RAM 202c. The effect execution command includes a command related to either the first storage area 401a or the fifth storage area 402a, a command related to jackpot or lose, presence / absence of reach, and type of reach effect The scale and scale are stored. Here, a command transmitted to the sub-control board 202 at the start of the variation process is referred to as an effect execution command, and the above-described effect command transmitted to the sub-control board 202 by the prior determination unit 330 before the start of the variation process. Distinguish.

(Step S401)
The effect control means 502 determines whether the received effect execution command is an effect execution command related to the reserved ball in the first storage area 401a or an effect execution command related to the reserved ball in the fifth storage area 402a. In other words, it is determined whether or not the reserved ball obtained by entering the first starting port 105 is digested or the reserved ball obtained by entering the second starting port 120 is digested.

(Step S402)
The related effect activation monitoring means 512 monitors whether or not the related effect is activated by the reserved ball reserved in the first special symbol storage unit 401, and if it is determined that the related effect is not activated. The process proceeds to step S403.

(Step S403)
When the reserved ball related to the second start port 120 is digested and the related effect is not activated in the hold ball related to the first start port 105 which is a non-priority start port, the flag of the fifth storage area 511a is set. A table is selected based on. The table selected at this time is appropriately selected according to the contents stored in the effect execution command.

  For example, if the received effect execution command is a jackpot command, a jackpot table is selected. In the jackpot table, one table is selected from a plurality of tables prepared for each related effect flag.

  Specifically, the ROM 202b of the sub control board 202 is provided with a table for jackpot and a table for lose, and when these tables do not have a related effect flag (here, the related effect flag is set). A general table selected as “0” and a first table through a fourth table selected when the related effect flags are “1” through “4” are provided.

  Therefore, when the related effect flag is not attached to the fifth storage area 511a, the general table is selected. Moreover, when the related effect flag is attached | subjected to the 5th memory area 511a, the table corresponding to the said related effect flag is selected among the 1st table-the 4th table.

(Step S404)
When a table is selected as described above, the effect lottery means 501 refers to the table and performs an effect lottery, and the lottery result is determined. Here, an effect pattern such as a background pattern, a reach pattern, or an appearance character is determined in accordance with the presence or absence of reach in the effect execution command.

(Step S405)
When the lottery and determination of effects are made in step S404, the effect commands stored in the respective storage areas are shifted.

  When the effect pattern is determined as described above, the effect control unit 502 executes the effect by controlling the symbol display unit 104, the speaker 277, the lamp 112, and the accessory part 254 according to these effect patterns. .

  Here, as described above, the first table to the fourth table are each provided with an effect of content having one continuity or relevance. For example, when a related effect is performed by a lamp effect, a red lamp is lit in the range of 1 to 2 seconds on the first table, and a blue lamp is set in the range of 1 to 4 seconds on the second table. A command to turn on a white lamp for 1 to 5 seconds on the third table, and turn on any two or three of these red, blue and white lamps on the fourth table Is remembered.

  When the related effect appears, control based on the effect execution command related to the related effect flag “1” is first performed, then control based on the effect execution command related to the related effect flag “2” is performed, and then the related effect is performed. Control based on the effect execution command related to the flag “3” is performed, and finally control based on the effect execution command related to the related effect flag “4” is performed.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 15A, the related effect flag “1” is attached to the fifth storage area 511a, the related effect flag “2” is attached to the sixth storage area 511b, and the related effect flag “2” is related to the seventh storage area 511c. It is assumed that the production flag “3” is attached.

  When the reserved ball related to the second start port 120 is digested, the effect lottery means 501 performs the effect lottery based on the first table by receiving the effect execution command. When the effect ends, in other words, when the change ends, the storage area is shifted, and the related effect flag “2” stored in the sixth storage area 511b is set in the fifth storage area 511a. The attached production command is shifted and stored. Therefore, in the next change, the effect lottery means 501 performs the effect lottery based on the second table.

  In this manner, if the related effect flag is attached to the plurality of continuous storage areas of the second effect data hold storage unit 511 by the prior determination unit 330, the effects associated with each other are made over a plurality of variable displays. High expectations can be given to the player.

  In addition, since the 2nd starting port 120 is a priority starting port, when a related production | presentation is activated by the holding ball obtained by having entered the 2nd starting port 120, for example, from the 5th storage area 511a to the 8th storage area When the related effect flags “1” to “4” are added over 511d, the related effect is surely executed four times in succession.

  Next, the case where the related effect is activated by the holding ball obtained by entering the first starting port 105 will be described using a specific example based on FIGS. 14 and 16.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 16A, the first storage area 510a to the fourth storage area 510d are associated with the first storage area 510a with the related effect flags “1” to “4” attached thereto. Suppose that the holding ball is digested. When the reserved ball is digested, an effect execution command related to the reserved ball is transmitted to the sub-control board 202, and the process proceeds from step S401 to step S402 to step S406.

(Step S406)
In the first storage area 510a, an effect command with a related effect flag “1” is stored, and a table based on the related effect flag “1” is selected.

  In step S404, the effect lottery means 501 performs the effect lottery based on the selected first table, and the effect control means 502 performs the first related effect based on the lottery result. Activate.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 16B, in step S405, the effect commands stored in the sub-control board 202 are shifted, and the related effect flag “2” is added to the first storage area 510a. The effect command is stored, the effect command with the related effect flag “3” is stored in the second storage area 510b, and the effect command with the related effect flag “4” is stored in the third storage area 510c. Is done.

  Then, when the first related effect is completed, the same processing as described above is performed, the second to fourth related effects are executed, and all the related effects are completed four times.

  On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second start port 120 during execution of the first related effect, that is, during fluctuation display, the reserved ball is reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402 of the main control board 201. . At this time, an effect command (preliminary determination result) is transmitted to the sub-control board 202 through steps S101 to S105 in FIG. 9, and this effect command is stored in the fifth storage area 511a (FIG. 16C). .

  As described above, when a game ball enters the second start port 120, priority is given to the reserved ball related to the ball. Therefore, the effect related to the second start port 120 is interrupted between the first related effect and the second related effect.

  That is, when the first related effect (variation display) related to the first start port 105 is completed, the CPU 201a of the main control board 201 issues an effect execution command related to the second start port 120 through the steps shown in FIG. Transmit to the sub control board 202. When this effect execution command is received, the process proceeds to step S402 via step S401 shown in FIG.

  Here, it is stored in the related effect activation monitoring means 512 of the sub control board 202 that the related effect is currently activated by the holding ball related to the first start port 105. Therefore, in this case, the process proceeds from step S402 to step S406.

  As already described, in step S406, a table is selected based on the flag of the effect command stored in the first storage area 510a. That is, when the related effect is activated with the holding ball related to the first starting port 105, even if a game ball enters the second starting port 120, the effect by the entering is the first storage area 510a. It is determined based on the flag.

  Therefore, in the above example, since the related effect flag “2” is attached to the effect command stored in the first storage area 510a, the effect lottery is made based on the second table.

  In other words, when the related effect is activated with the holding ball related to the first start port 105 which is the non-priority start port, the game ball enters the second start port 120 and the interruption process (effect) is performed. However, this effect is performed in association with the related effect. Further, even if a game ball enters the second starting port 120, these effects are all related to the related effects according to the same procedure as described above. Become.

  In this way, when the related effect is activated with the holding ball related to the first starting port 105, the game ball continues to enter the second starting port 120, thereby realizing a very long related effect. High production effect is demonstrated.

  In the present embodiment, when a related effect is activated with the holding ball related to the first start port 105, if a game ball enters the second start port 120, the effect is generated from the same table twice in succession. A lottery will be held. In the above example, the effect lottery table is changed from the first table to the second table to the second table, and the effect lottery is performed twice from the same lottery table. In this way, even if the same effect continues multiple times, the relevance with the preceding and subsequent effects is not impaired, and therefore an effect specific to the related effect can be exhibited. However, if the same effect is disliked, a table dedicated to interruption corresponding to the related effect flag may be provided. In this way, the same effect is not repeated, which is particularly effective when a single story is developed using the decorative symbols of the symbol display unit 104.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5C and 6C, the winning probability of the related effect in the random value extracted by entering the first starting port 105 is set to the second starting port. It is set higher than the winning probability of the related effects in the random value extracted by entering 120. Accordingly, the related effect is generated by the plurality of reserved balls related to the first start port 105 that is the non-priority start port, rather than the probability that the related effect is activated by the plurality of reserved balls related to the second start port 120 that is the priority start port. Increases the chance of triggering.

  As described above, when a related effect is activated with a plurality of holding balls related to the first start opening 105, a game ball enters the second start opening 120, thereby developing an effect associated with the related effect being activated. , Long related effects appear throughout. On the other hand, when a related effect is activated with a plurality of holding balls related to the second start opening 120, the related effect is continued only within the range of the number of times (four times) determined when the related effect is activated.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the possibility that the related effect is activated by the holding ball related to the first start port 105 is increased. As a result, a longer related effect is likely to appear throughout, and a very high effect can be achieved.

  In the present embodiment, a related effect may be activated by a plurality of holding balls related to the second starting port 120. Therefore, the table referred to by the second random number determination means 323 includes only a command with “reach” or “without reach” with a predetermined probability, and does not include a command with “related effect”. By doing so, it is possible to completely prevent a related effect having a limited upper limit continuation number in advance. In other words, it is possible to cause only the related effects that are likely to continue for a long time without being limited to the upper limit continuation number, and a high effect by the related effects becomes firm.

  In the above embodiment, the game ball is easy to enter the first start port 105 in the normal game state, and the game ball is easy to enter the second start port 120 in the special game state. The starting ports 105 and 120 may be reversed, or may be provided on the game board completely separately.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the lottery of whether to perform a related effect and the determination of the effect to perform were demonstrated by the process of the main control board 201, this lottery process means and the lottery table were sub-controlled. It may be configured to be stored in the substrate 202 and processed by the CPU 202a of the sub-control substrate 202.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine 1 according to the present invention, the gaming state is controlled from the normal gaming state to the second starting port 120 in the second state (“open” state) rather than the normal gaming state. When a transition is made to a special game state (for example, a short-time game state, etc.) where there are many opportunities to play, the probability of appearance of related effects in the held ball stored in the first special symbol hold storage means 401 (first variation display hold means) is increased. can do.

  Then, when the related effect is processed with the right of variable display stored in the first special symbol hold storage unit 401, the second special symbol hold storage unit 402 (second variable display storage unit) is newly changed. When the right to display is stored, the effect at the time of change based on the right to change display is controlled so as to be related to the related effect being processed, and thus the related effect is executed without interruption. Can do. In addition, in this case, if the game ball continues to enter the second starting port, the related effect will be extended by the number of balls entered, and the related effect will be more than the upper limit reserved number of variable display rights. It can be carried out. Therefore, it is possible to develop various stories in related productions, and the range of productions can be widened to exhibit extremely high production effects.

  Further, when the gaming state shifts from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state in which the second start port 120 has more opportunities to be controlled to the second state than in the normal gaming state, the second special symbol holding storage means 402 Since the appearance probability of the related effect in the stored holding ball can be made lower than the appearance probability of the related effect in the holding ball stored in the second special symbol holding means 402 set in the normal gaming state, Related effects due to entering the second starting port where the ball is processed with priority are less likely to appear. Accordingly, it is possible to further increase the appearance probability of the related effects due to entering the first starting port where a relatively high effect can be expected.

It is a front view of the gaming machine of the present embodiment. It is the elements on larger scale of FIG. It is a block diagram of a control means. It is a detailed block diagram in a main control board and a sub control board. It is an example of the random number value at the time of entering a 1st starting port, and the determination table which determines this random number value. It is an example of the random number value at the time of entering a 2nd start opening, and the determination table which determines this random number value. It is a conceptual diagram of the 1st fluctuation display reservation means and the 2nd fluctuation display reservation means of the present invention. It is a figure explaining the digestion order of holding | maintenance. It is a flowchart which shows control of prior judgment. It is a figure which shows an example of a related effect. It is a conceptual diagram of the memory | storage means which memorize | stores the production command obtained by prior determination. It is a flowchart which shows the control at the time of providing the related production flag for performing a related production. It is a flowchart which shows the change start process in a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the effect process in a sub control board. It is a figure explaining an example of the process of a related effect. It is a figure explaining another example of the process of a related effect.

Explanation of symbols

105 First start port 120 Second start port 200 Control unit 300 First special symbol lottery unit 301 First special symbol display control unit 302 First special symbol variation control unit 303 First random number determination unit 320 Second special symbol lottery unit 321 Second special symbol display control means 322 Second special symbol fluctuation control means 323 Second random number determination means 330 Pre-determination means 401 First special symbol hold storage means 402 Second special symbol hold storage means 502 Production control means

Claims (3)

Control means for controlling the progress of the game in the normal game state or in a special game state that gives a player a more advantageous game value than the normal game state, and the special symbol is variably displayed, and the variability display is stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed. A special symbol variation display means for displaying the game state after that, and a start opening for generating a right to start the variation display of the special symbol by the special symbol variation display means when the game ball enters. A gaming machine,
The starting port is
At least a first start port, a first state in which the game ball has less opportunity to enter than the first start port, and a second state in which the game ball has more opportunity to enter than the first start port A second starter that is displaceable to a state,
The control means includes
Game data lottery means for acquiring game data by lottery when the game ball enters the start opening,
The number of the game balls that have entered the first starting port when the special symbol is variably displayed by the special symbol variation display means is stored, and the right to display the variation of the special symbol triggered by the entry A first variable display holding means for retaining
The number of the game balls that have entered the second starting port when the special symbol is variably displayed by the special symbol variation display means is stored, and the right to display the variation of the special symbol triggered by the entry A second variable display holding means for retaining
When an entry of the game ball is stored in the first variation display holding unit and the second variation display holding unit, the entry is triggered before the start of the variable symbol display of the special symbol triggered by the entry. Pre-determination means for determining the game data acquired by the game data lottery means,
An effect control means for controlling a related effect over a plurality of variations of the special symbol based on the determination result of the prior determination means,
When the right of the variable display is reserved in both the first variable display hold means and the second variable display hold means, the control means assigns the right of the variable display stored in the second variable display hold means. Prioritize processing
The effect control means newly changes to the second change display storage means when the related effect is controlled a plurality of times based on the right of change display stored in the first change display hold means. When the right of display is stored, control is performed so as to relate the effect at the time of change based on the right of change display to the related effect,
When the control means shifts from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state in which the second starting port is controlled to the second state more frequently than the normal gaming state, the first variation display The appearance probability of the related effect in the right of variable display stored in the storage means is represented by the appearance probability of the related effect in the right of variable display stored in the first variable display holding means set in the normal gaming state. A gaming machine characterized by a high change.   When the control means shifts from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state where the second starting port has more opportunities to be controlled to the second state than the normal gaming state, the second variation The appearance probability of the related effect in the right of variable display stored in the display storage means is the probability of appearance of the related effect in the right of variable display stored in the second variable display holding means set in the normal gaming state. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is changed to a lower value.   When the control means shifts the gaming state from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state where the second starting port has more opportunities to be controlled to the second state than the normal gaming state, The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, which appears only in the right of variable display stored in the first variable display holding means.

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