JP5041350B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a pachinko machine that performs effect display in a symbol display device arranged in a game area.

  Conventionally, a plurality of variation symbols are variably displayed when, for example, a game ball is won at a start winning opening by various symbol display devices using a CRT, an LCD or the like provided in the game area. There is known a pachinko machine that generates a jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player when it stops with a combination of a particular jackpot symbol.

  In this type of pachinko machine, it is common to perform effect display such as displaying various characters different from the variation symbols in the process of sequentially stopping and displaying a plurality of variation symbols. By performing such an effect display, the player's expectation for jackpot is increased.

  As a pachinko machine that performs such an effect display, for example, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-222922) discloses a so-called step-up notice in which a plurality of images are displayed step by step according to a predetermined order and timing. A pachinko machine provided with a control means for performing is disclosed. In a pachinko machine that makes such a step-up notice, it is possible to give a player an expectation that the probability of a jackpot will increase as the number of stages in which images are displayed increases. Thereby, it is possible to give the player an interest in which level the image is displayed and to pay attention to the contents of the effect display.

  However, in the pachinko machine structured as described above, the display order of images and the switching timing are determined in advance, so that the timing at which the next stage image should be displayed is easily predicted by the player. Therefore, there is a possibility that the player may not pay attention to the contents of the effect display only at the switching timing. If the image does not develop to the next stage at the switching timing, it is easily predicted that the image does not develop further, and the player is interested in the contents of the subsequent effect display. There was a risk of disappearing. As described above, the conventional step-up notice control means cannot keep the player gazing at the effect display, and is still insufficient for accurately transmitting the contents of the effect display to the player.

JP 2004-222922 A

  Here, the present invention has been made in the background as described above, the place to be solved is provided with a control means capable of accurately transmitting the contents of the effect display by the player, It is to provide a pachinko machine having a new structure.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention made to solve the above-described problems will be described. In addition, the component employ | adopted in each aspect as described below is employable by arbitrary combinations as much as possible.

  In other words, the pachinko machine according to the present invention can select either one of the losing based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening provided in the gaming area and the jackpot that generates a gaming state more advantageous to the player than the losing. Based on the determination result of the jackpot determination means, the variation mode storage means for storing a plurality of variation modes of the variation symbols displayed on the symbol display device provided in the game area, and the determination result of the jackpot determination means A variation mode selection unit that selects any one of the plurality of variation modes stored in the variation mode storage unit, and a notification that issues the variation mode selected by the variation mode selection unit as a notification start command And an effect mode storage unit for storing a plurality of effect modes, and the effect mode storage unit based on the variation mode of the notification start command issued from the notification unit. The effect mode selection means for selecting any one effect mode from the plurality of effect modes stored, the effect image storage means for storing a plurality of effect images, and the effect selected by the effect mode selection means Based on the aspect, the effect image display means for displaying the effect image stored in the effect image storage means on the symbol display device, and a plurality of insertion images whose appearances are different from each other in a plurality of predetermined stages. From the inserted image storage means for storing in association with any stage, the display period storage means for storing the displayable period of the inserted image at each stage stored in the inserted image storage means, and the notification means Step display determination means for determining whether or not to perform step display for displaying the insertion image based on the issued notification start command, and a determination result of the step display determination means performs the step display. In other words, a stage number determining means for determining the number of stages to display, a display timing storage means for storing the display timing of the inserted image associated with each stage determined by the stage number determining means, and the stage When the determination result of the display determination means performs the step display, the indeterminate display for determining whether or not to perform the indefinite display for the inserted image associated with the step determined by the step number determination unit. When the determination means and the determination result of the indefinite time display determination means perform indefinite display, the display timing of the inserted image is randomly selected from the range of the displayable period stored in the display period storage means. If the determination result of the display timing random determination means and the step display determination means to be stored in the display timing storage means performs the step display, the display type In accordance with the display timing stored in the ming storage means, a stage display means for displaying the insertion images stored in the insertion image storage means in a superimposed manner on the effect image, and the insertion image storage means Standard timing storage means for storing the standard display timing of the inserted image at each stored stage, and the display of the inserted image at each stage stored in the display period storage means is possible The period includes the standard display timing and is set to be different from each other, and is set so that at least a part of the displayable period of the inserted image at the adjacent stage overlaps. The display order of the inserted image at a non-stage is set so as not to be switched.

  In the pachinko machine structured according to this aspect, by providing the display timing random determination means, the display order and display timing of each inserted image are displayed in the stage display for displaying the inserted image, that is, in the step-up notice. It is possible to perform display control that changes irregularly. As a result, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to predict the display timing of the inserted image and to give an interest in when the inserted image is displayed. I can do it. As a result, it is possible to realize display control for accurately transmitting the contents of the effect display to the player. Furthermore, in this aspect, depending on the determination result of the display timing random determination means, the inserted image may be displayed in an order different from the order in which it is normally displayed. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult to predict the number of stages in which the inserted image is displayed, and it is possible to make a wider step-up notice. Can give a strong interest.

  In addition, the specific aspect of the display timing determination method in the display timing random determination means is not particularly limited. For example, it may be selected randomly from a plurality of preset timings within the displayable period of the inserted image at each stage, or each time an indefinite display is performed based on a predetermined calculation formula Alternatively, the display timing may be calculated and determined.

The front view which shows the pachinko machine as 1st embodiment of this invention. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display mode of the stage display of the pachinko machine. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display timing of the same step display. The block diagram of the main control circuit of the pachinko machine. The block diagram of the display control circuit of the pachinko machine. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the memory content of a timing table storage area, a possible period table storage area, and a standard timing table storage area. The flowchart which shows the game process which main control CPU performs. The flowchart which shows the starting port entrance process which main control CPU performs. The flowchart which shows the special symbol display process which main control CPU performs. The flowchart which shows the privilege provision process which main control CPU performs. The flowchart which shows the display control process which display control CPU performs. The flowchart which shows the fluctuation | variation display process which display control CPU performs. The flowchart which shows the step-up notice setting process which display control CPU performs. The flowchart which shows the step-up notice display process which display control CPU performs. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display aspect of the stage display as 2nd embodiment of this invention. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display timing of the same step display. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the different aspect of the switching display of a background. The flowchart which shows the step-up notice setting process as 2nd embodiment of this invention. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the memory content of a different aspect of a timing table storage area, a possible period table storage area, and a standard timing table storage area. The flowchart which shows the different aspect of duplication correction processing. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the processing content at the time of redeciding a timing number.

  Hereinafter, in order to clarify the present invention more specifically, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  First, FIG. 1 shows a pachinko machine 10 as a first embodiment of the present invention. In the pachinko machine 10, a vertical rectangular inner frame 14 for setting various game components is assembled on the front side of the opening of the outer frame 12 that forms the outer shell of the machine body so as to be opened and closed and detachable. On the front side of the middle frame 14, a glass frame 18 that holds a glass plate for see-through protection of the game board 16 that is detachably attached to the middle frame 14, and a dish plate 22 that includes an upper dish 20. Are assembled in a state that can be opened and closed. A lower plate 24 is provided below the upper plate 20, and a firing handle 26 is provided to the right of the lower plate 24. Then, when the player rotates the launch lever 28 that is attached to the launch handle 26 so as to be able to rotate, the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 passes through a ball feed mechanism (not shown). After being sent to a launching device (not shown), it is fired toward a game area 30 formed on the game board 16.

  The game board 16 includes a game board having a synthetic resin sheet attached to the surface thereof, and is substantially at the center of a substantially circular game area 30 surrounded by a guide rail 32 fixed to the surface side of the game board. Is attached with a liquid crystal display 34 as a symbol display device. The liquid crystal display 34 has a horizontally long display screen, and the left special symbol 36a, the middle special symbol 36b and the right special symbol 36c as the variable symbols are displayed on the display screen so as to fluctuate and stop. Has been. The symbol display device is not necessarily limited to a liquid crystal display, and a CRT or the like may be used.

  In the present embodiment, these three special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are all configured by numerical symbols from “0” to “9”, and “0” is displayed from the upper side to the lower side of the liquid crystal display 34. "→" 9 "" 0 "... Are scrolled and displayed in a loop. In the present embodiment, the three special symbols 36a, 36b and 36c are started to display all at once, while the left special symbol 36a, the right special symbol 36c and the middle special symbol 36b are in this order. Is stopped and displayed. Note that the variable display in the present embodiment refers to a display state in which a special symbol is recognized as if it is not fixed, for example, a state in which the special symbol is scroll-displayed. A state in which the symbols of the left special symbol 36a, the middle special symbol 36b, and the right special symbol 36c are determined and recognized is set as a stop symbol. In addition, the stop display in the present embodiment refers to a display state that is recognized as if the stop symbol of the special symbol is confirmed, for example, a state in which the scroll display of the special symbol ends and the stop symbol is stopped at the stop symbol. Say.

  In addition, a start opening 40 as a start winning opening is provided below the liquid crystal display 34. In the start opening 40, there is a ball passage on which a game ball that has entered is discharged to the back side of the game board 16. In FIG. 4, a starting port switch 42 (see FIG. 4) is provided as a starting ball detecting means constituted by a proximity switch. When a game ball enters the start port 40, the start port switch 42 detects the passage of the game ball and outputs an electrical signal (detection signal) as a start signal. Based on the start signal, After the determination, the variable display of the plurality of special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c according to the contents determined based on the determination result is started.

  On the other hand, a plurality of holding LEDs 44 (four in this embodiment) are provided above the liquid crystal display 34. While the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are variably displayed, one of the hold LEDs 44 is turned on every time the game ball enters the start port 40, and the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are displayed. The player is notified that the variable display is held for a predetermined number of times (maximum of four in this embodiment).

  Furthermore, a large winning opening 46 as a variable winning opening is provided below the start opening 40. A door 48 that opens and closes when the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are all stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display 34, that is, when a big hit occurs, is provided at the entrance of the big prize winning opening 46. Yes. The door 48 is maintained in a closed state in a normal gaming state and is in a disadvantageous state for the player. On the other hand, when a big hit occurs, the door 48 is opened and closed so as to be in a big hit state that is advantageous to the player. It has become.

  In such a pachinko machine 10, when a player inserts a game ball into the upper plate 20 and rotates the launch lever 28, the game ball is launched into the game area 30 and hit against the game area 30. It falls so as to hit the obstacle nail (not shown).

  Here, when the game ball enters the start opening 40, the liquid crystal display 34 starts the variable display of the three special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c. When a predetermined time elapses from the start of the variable display, the left special symbol 36a and the right special symbol 36c are temporarily stopped in this order, and the presence or absence of the reach state is determined depending on the symbol combination of the left special symbol 36a and the right special symbol 36c. Informed. The reach state means a state in which the left special symbol 36a and the right special symbol 36c are stopped at the same symbol. Further, in such a temporary stop, the left special symbol 36a and the right special symbol 36c are displayed so as to be shaken in the liquid crystal display 34, and it is visually expressed that there is a possibility that the display is changed again.

  When a predetermined time further elapses, the middle special symbol 36b is temporarily stopped following the left special symbol 36a and the right special symbol 36c. Then, the left special symbol 36a, the right special symbol 36c, and the middle special symbol 36b are set as stationary symbols that are stationary along one horizontal line. The player is notified of the big hit state or the missed state by the combination of the stopped symbols of these three special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c.

  In the present embodiment, the specific symbol combination that becomes the jackpot symbol is a combination in which all of the three special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are arranged in the same symbol. On the other hand, the other symbol combinations are out-of-band symbols. Further, as for the off symbol, the symbol combination in which the left special symbol 36a and the right special symbol 36c are the same, and the middle special symbol 36b is different is the reach off symbol, and the left special symbol 36a and the right special symbol 36c are different. Is considered to be a completely off-line design. Note that the determination result of the start signal triggered by entering the start port 40 is referred to as a jackpot symbol, and the determination result that is a completely missed symbol is completely defeated, and the reach is a miss symbol. The determination result is referred to as “reach”.

  Then, when the three special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are stopped at the jackpot symbol, the jackpot game is started. The jackpot game allows the player to win the big winning opening 46 by opening the door 48 of the big winning opening 46, and the player is in a normal gaming state, that is, a gaming state where no big hit has occurred. You can get more prize balls than you can get. The door 48 is held in an open state until a number condition for winning a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls or a time condition for elapse of a predetermined time (for example, 27 seconds) is satisfied.

  Such a single opening operation of the door 48 is referred to as a jackpot round. When the above condition is satisfied, the door 48 is closed and a predetermined interval between rounds (in this embodiment, The next jackpot round is started after 2 seconds). Note that the number of jackpot rounds performed in one jackpot game is determined in advance, and in this embodiment, 15 jackpot rounds are performed in one jackpot game.

  As described above, on the liquid crystal display 34, the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are displayed in a variable manner, and various characters are displayed in accordance with the variable symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c. An effect display is performed.

  Here, particularly in the present embodiment, the step-up notice as the stage display shown in FIG. 2 is started after the change display of the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c is started until the right special symbol 36c is stopped. May be performed. In the step-up notice, the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d as insertion images are displayed in a step-by-step manner in a randomly determined number (in this embodiment, a maximum of four). . The player is expected to have a higher probability that a reach state will occur as the number of first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d to be displayed, that is, the number of step-up notice stages increases. .

  The first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d are visually different from each other. In the present embodiment, the first notice character 50a is "O", the second notice character 50b is "Ni", and the third notice. The character 50c has an appearance of “gi” and the fourth notice character 50d has an appearance of “ri” superimposed on a circular background.

  FIG. 3 shows the display timing of the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d. Here, FIGS. 3A to 3C correspond to FIGS. 2A to 2C, respectively. Further, “St1” to “St4” in FIG. 3 and the subsequent drawings and tables indicate the first to fourth stages in the step-up notice, and the first notice character 50a is displayed in “St1”. The second notice character 50b is displayed at "St2", the third notice character 50c is displayed at "St3", and the fourth notice character 50d is displayed at "St4". That is, “St1” to “St4” in FIG. 3 are the display timings of the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d, respectively.

  In many cases, as shown in FIGS. 2 (a) and 3 (a), the step-up notice is displayed at the display timing at which the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d have substantially equal time intervals. The notice character 50a is switched to the fourth notice character 50d in this order, and the display timings shown in FIGS. 2A and 3A are standard timings.

  Here, particularly in the present embodiment, the display timing and display order of the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d may be changed. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 3B, the second notice character 50b and the fourth notice character 50d are delayed from the standard timings shown in FIGS. 2A and 3A. As shown in FIGS. 2 (c) and 3 (c), the first notice character 50a and the fourth notice character 50d are shown in FIGS. 2 (a) and 3 (a). It may be displayed later than the standard timing. In particular, in FIGS. 2C and 3C, the display timing of the first notice character 50a is later than the display timing of the second notice character 50b, thereby the second notice character 50b. The first notice character 50a, the third notice character 50c, and the fourth notice character 50d are displayed in the order (that is, in the order of “ni”, “o”, “gi”, “ri”).

  However, particularly in this embodiment, when the display timings of the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d are changed, they are shown in FIG. 2 (a) and FIG. 3 (a) displayed in many cases. The display is delayed from the standard timing, and is not displayed earlier than the standard timing.

  2A to 2C and FIGS. 3A to 3C exemplify the case where all the four notice characters 50a to 50d are displayed, the notice to be displayed is displayed. The number of characters 50a to 50d is determined at random, and one, two, or three of the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d may be displayed.

  Next, a control structure for controlling the above jackpot game processing and effect display will be described. The control unit of the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment is a main control circuit as a main control unit that determines whether or not the game ball won at the starting port 40 is a big hit and determines the variation mode of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c. 52 and a display control circuit 54 as a sub-control unit for controlling the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c on the liquid crystal display 34 and the effect display. The display control circuit 54 is operated based on a control signal from the main control circuit 52.

  FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the main control circuit 52. The main control circuit 52 includes a main control CPU 56 that controls the entire main control circuit 52, a main control RAM 58 that stores various processing data, and a main control that stores control programs, data necessary for various control processes, and the like. A ROM 60, an input circuit 62, and an output circuit 64 are provided, and these are connected to each other by a bus. The main control CPU 56 is connected to a clock circuit 66 that outputs a clock signal.

  Further, the input circuit 62 is provided inside the start opening switch 42 that is provided at the start opening 40 and detects the entrance of a game ball, and is provided inside the big winning opening 46 to count the winning balls to the big winning opening 46. A count switch 68 or the like is connected.

  Furthermore, the output circuit 64 opens and closes a display control circuit 54 as a sub-control unit for displaying the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c on the liquid crystal display 34, and a door 48 that closes the entrance of the special winning opening 46. A solenoid driving circuit 72 for driving a door opening / closing solenoid 70 for driving, a holding LED control circuit 74 for controlling light emission of the holding LED 44, and the like are connected.

  When the clock signal is input from the clock circuit 66 every predetermined cycle (for example, 4 ms in the present embodiment), the main control CPU 56 follows the parameters and control program stored in the main control ROM 60. A game process configured to include a start opening ball process and a special symbol display process, which will be described later, is executed, whereby various control signals are generated based on an input signal or the like input via the input circuit 62. These various control signals are output to the display control circuit 54, the solenoid drive circuit 72, etc. via the output circuit 64. The input circuit 62 is a circuit that converts an analog signal or the like input from the outside into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal. The output circuit 64 is a circuit that converts various data generated by the main control CPU 56 into serial data or the like and outputs the data.

  The main control RAM 58 is provided with various counters shown below.

The jackpot determination counter 80 is a counter used for jackpot determination, and is incremented by “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 66 and is incremented from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “299”. Later, it returns to “0” and is added.
The initial value determination counter 82 is a counter that determines the addition start value of the big hit determination counter 80, and is incremented by “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 66. After being added to the value “299”, it is returned to “0” and added.
The reach deviation determination counter 84 is a counter used to determine reach deviation or complete deviation, and is incremented by “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 66, and the maximum value “0” from the initial value “0”. After being added to “9”, it is added back to “0”.

The jackpot symbol counter 86 is a counter used to determine a symbol combination of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c displayed at the time of jackpot determination, and is “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 66. After being added and added from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “9”, the value is returned to “0” and added.
The left symbol counter 88 is a counter used to select the symbol of the left special symbol 36a displayed at the time of determination of complete deviation or reach deviation, and is “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 66. They are added one by one, added from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “9”, then returned to “0” and added.
The middle symbol counter 90 is a counter used for selecting the symbol of the middle special symbol 36b displayed at the time of determining whether the symbol is completely out of reach or reach, and each carry when the left symbol counter 88 is reset to “0”. Is incremented by “1”, added from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “9”, then returned to “0” and added.
The right symbol counter 92 is a counter used for selecting the symbol of the right special symbol 36c displayed at the time of determining whether the symbol is completely out of reach or reach, and each carry when the middle symbol counter 90 is reset to “0”. Is incremented by “1”, added from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “9”, then returned to “0” and added.

The fluctuation pattern counter 94 is a counter used for selecting a fluctuation pattern as a fluctuation mode, and is incremented by “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 66, and the maximum value from the initial value “0”. After being added to the value “99”, it is returned to “0” and added.
The variation display timer counter 96 is a counter used for measuring the variation display time of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c, and sets the variation display time according to the variation pattern selected in the special symbol display processing described later. Is done.

  The start ball number counter 98 is a counter used for counting the number of game balls that have entered the start port 40. In the range from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “5”, game balls “1” is incremented each time a ball enters the start port 40, and “1” is decremented each time a big hit determination process is performed.

The winning number counter 100 is a counter used for counting the number of game balls won in the big winning opening 46 in the big hit round, and every time a gaming ball wins the big winning opening 46 from the initial value “0”. Is incremented by “1” and initialized to “0” at the end of the jackpot round.
The round counter 102 is a counter used for counting the number of rounds of the jackpot round, and is incremented by “1” every time the jackpot round is started within the range from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “14”. At the same time, it is initialized to “0” at the end of the jackpot game.
The door timer counter 104 is a counter used for measuring the opening time of the door 48 of the special winning opening 46, and a value corresponding to the opening time of the door 48 is set.
The door interval timer counter 106 is a counter used for measuring the waiting time in the closed state of the door 48 before the first round at the start of the jackpot game or at the interval between rounds during the jackpot game. A value corresponding to the waiting time is set.

  Further, the main control RAM 58 is provided with various flags shown below that are used in each determination process. In the following description, a flag is a value that stores either “0” or “1”. “Turn on a flag” indicates that “1” is stored in the flag. “Turn flag off” indicates that “0” is stored in the flag. Further, even if each flag is set to ON after being already set to ON, or is set to OFF after being already set to OFF, the value of the flag does not reverse.

The jackpot flag 108 is a flag indicating the result of the jackpot determination. When it is “ON”, it indicates that it is a jackpot, and when it is “OFF”, it indicates that it is not a jackpot.
The variation processing flag 110 is a flag indicating whether or not the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are in a variable display. When the special symbol 36a is "ON", the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are displayed in a variable manner. On the other hand, when it is “OFF”, it indicates that the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c are not displayed in a variable manner.
The door opening flag 112 is a flag indicating whether or not the door 48 of the special winning opening 46 is open. When it is “ON”, it indicates that the door 48 is open, while “OFF”. In some cases, the door 48 is closed.

  Further, the main control RAM 58 is provided with various storage areas shown below as temporary storage locations for information used for game processing.

In the first to fifth counter value storage areas 114a to 114e, counter values of a big hit determination counter 80, a reach loss determination counter 84, and a big hit symbol counter 86 when a game ball enters the start port 40 are stored. The
In the variation pattern storage area 116, data of the selected variation pattern is stored.
The stop symbol storage area 118 stores data of symbol combinations of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c.

  On the other hand, the main control ROM 60 is provided with various table storage areas shown below for storing tables used for various determinations and selections.

  The jackpot determination table storage area 120 stores the jackpot determination table shown in Table 1. The jackpot determination table is composed of a “big hit determination counter value” indicating the counter value of the jackpot determination counter 80 and a “big hit determination” corresponding to this counter value. The jackpot determination table and the counter of the acquired jackpot determination counter 80 are acquired. It is determined whether or not it is a big hit based on the value. In this embodiment, when the acquired value of the jackpot determination counter 80 is “7”, it is determined as “big hit”, and when it is any other value, it is determined as “out of place”.

  The reach deviation determination table storage area 122 stores a reach deviation determination table shown in Table 2. The reach / miss judgment table is composed of “reach / miss judgment counter value” indicating the counter value of the reach / miss judgment counter 84 and “reach miss judgment” corresponding to this counter value. The reach / miss judgment table and the acquired reach Based on the counter value of the deviation determination counter 84, it is determined whether or not the reach is a deviation. In the present embodiment, when the acquired reach deviation determination counter 84 is “3”, it is determined as “reach out”, and in other cases, it is determined as “complete out”. It is like that.

  In the winning symbol selection table storage area 124, the winning symbol selection table shown in Table 3 is stored. The winning symbol selection table is composed of a “hit symbol counter value” indicating the counter value of the jackpot symbol counter 86 and a “hit symbol symbol combination” corresponding to this counter value. The winning symbol selection table and the acquired jackpot symbol counter Based on the 86 counter values, the jackpot symbol combination of the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c is selected. In this embodiment, when the count value of the jackpot symbol counter 86 is “0”, “000” is “1”, “111” is “2”, “222” is “3” When “333” is “4” When “444” is “5” When “555” is “6” When “666” is “7” When “777” is “8” When “888” is “9”, “999” is selected as the jackpot symbol combination of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c, respectively. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the jackpot symbol combination of the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c selected in this way is stored in the stop symbol storage area 118, the special symbol 36a, Data of each stop symbol of 36b and 36c is stored.

  A left symbol selection table shown in Table 4 is stored in the left symbol selection table storage area 126a. The left symbol selection table includes a “left symbol counter value” indicating the counter value of the left symbol counter 88 and a “left special symbol” corresponding to the counter value. The left symbol selection table and the acquired left symbol counter Based on the counter value of 88, the stop symbol of the left special symbol 36a is selected. In this embodiment, when the counter value of the left symbol counter 88 is “0”, “0” is “1”, “1” is “2”, “2” is “3”. When “3” is “4” When “4” is “5” When “5” is “6” When “6” When “7” When “7” is “8” When “8” is “9”, “9” is selected as the stop symbol of the left special symbol 36a.

  The middle symbol selection table storage area 126b and the right symbol selection table storage area 126c store the middle symbol selection table and the right symbol selection table shown in Tables 5 and 6, respectively. The table configuration and stored contents of the middle symbol selection table and the right symbol selection table are the same as those of the left symbol selection table described above, respectively, and the middle symbol selection table and the middle symbol counter 90 based on the acquired counter value of the middle symbol selection table. While the stop symbol of the special symbol 36b is selected, the stop symbol of the special right symbol 36c is selected based on the right symbol selection table and the acquired counter value of the right symbol counter 92.

  First to third variation pattern selection tables shown in Tables 7 to 9 are stored in the first to third variation pattern selection table storage areas 128a to 128c. These variation pattern selection tables are composed of a “variation pattern counter value” indicating the counter value of the variation pattern counter 94 and a “variation pattern” corresponding to this counter value. A variation pattern is selected based on the counter value of the counter 94. Thus, in the present embodiment, the variation mode storage unit is configured including the first to third variation pattern selection table storage areas 128a to 128c.

  The first variation pattern selection table shown in Table 7 is used to select a variation pattern in the case of complete deviation. In this embodiment, when the counter value of the variation pattern counter 94 is “0” to “99”. “Fluctuation pattern A” is selected.

  The second variation pattern selection table shown in Table 8 is used to select a variation pattern in the case of a loss of reach. In this embodiment, when the counter value of the variation pattern counter 94 is “0” to “95”. When the “variation pattern B” is “96” to “99”, the “variation pattern C” is selected.

  The third variation pattern selection table shown in Table 9 is used to select a variation pattern in the case of jackpot. In this embodiment, when the count value of the variation pattern counter 94 is “0” to “39”, “ When the “variation pattern D” is “40” to “99”, the “variation pattern E” is selected.

  The variation patterns A to E are different in the time required for the variation display of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c. In this embodiment, the variation pattern A is 5 as shown in Table 11 to be described later. Second, the fluctuation pattern B is set to 20 seconds, the fluctuation pattern C is set to 30 seconds, the fluctuation pattern D is set to 22 seconds, and the fluctuation pattern E is set to 32 seconds.

  Next, the configuration of the display control circuit 54 will be described with reference to FIG. The display control circuit 54 is the display control CPU 130, the input circuit 132 connected to the display control CPU 130, the display control RAM 134, the program ROM 136, the VDP 138, the image data of the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c, and the first used for effect display. The image data, moving image data, and the like of the fourth notice character 50a to 50d are stored and include a character ROM 140, work RAM 142, and output circuit 144 as effect image storage means connected to the VDP 138. The display control CPU 130 is connected to a clock circuit 146 that outputs a clock signal. Furthermore, an output circuit 64 constituting the main control circuit 52 is connected to the input circuit 132. A liquid crystal display 34 is connected to the output circuit 144.

  When the clock signal is input from the clock circuit 146 every predetermined cycle (for example, 4 ms in this embodiment), the display control CPU 130 will be described later according to the parameters and control program stored in the program ROM 136. The display control process is executed, thereby generating a control signal indicating the editing content of the image based on the control signal from the main control circuit 52, and exchanging the control signal with the VDP 138. . Based on the control signal from the display control CPU 130, the VDP 138 reads the image data of the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c, the moving image data as the effect display, the image data of the warning characters 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d and the like from the character ROM 140. The work RAM 142 is edited as a work area, and these image data are output to the liquid crystal display 34 via the output circuit 144.

  In addition, the display control RAM 134 is provided with various counters, flags, and the like used to perform display control as described below.

The effect pattern counter 148 is a counter used to select an effect pattern, and is incremented by “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 146, and the initial value “0” to the maximum value “13”. Is added back to “0”.
The advance notice determination counter 150 is a counter used for determining whether or not to perform a step-up advance notice. The advance notice counter 150 is incremented by “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 146 and has an initial value “0”. Is added to the maximum value “9” and then returned to “0” and added.
The stage number counter 152 is a counter used for determining the number of stages of the switching display in the step-up notice. The stage number counter 152 is incremented by “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 146 and has an initial value “0”. ”Is added to the maximum value“ 9 ”and then returned to“ 0 ”to be added.
The random display stage determination counter 155 determines which display timing of the advance notice characters 50a to 50d is to be randomly determined when the display timing of the advance notice characters 50a to 50d is randomly determined in the step-up notice. The counter is used to add “1” based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 146, and from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “14”, returns to “0”. Are added.
The first to fourth timing counters 156a, 156b, 156c, and 156d are counters used when randomly determining the display timing of the first to fourth notice characters 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d, respectively. It is counted and reset during the counter value update process and the step-up notice setting process.
The notice timer counter 158 is a counter used for measuring the display timing of the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d in the step-up notice, and is counted and reset during a step-up notice display process described later.

The variation pattern storage area 160 stores the received variation pattern data.
The special symbol storage area 162 stores the received symbol combination data of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c.
The effect pattern storage area 164 stores the effect pattern selected as the effect display.
In the step number storage area 166, the number of the notice characters 50a to 50d displayed at the time of the step-up notice, that is, the number of steps of the step-up notice is stored.

  The display timing storage area 168 as display timing storage means stores the display timing of each stage in the step-up notice. As shown in Table 10, the display timing storage area 168 stores the display timing of each stage of St1 to St4 as the timing number of the timing table stored in the timing table storage area 186 described later. . It should be noted that “t1”, “t3”, “t7”, and “t9” in Table 10 are merely examples, and the timing numbers determined in the step-up notice setting process to be described later are stored in the corresponding portions. It has become.

The fluctuation display flag 170 is a flag indicating whether or not the fluctuation display of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c is performed. When it is “ON”, the fluctuation display of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c is performed. On the other hand, when it is “OFF”, it indicates that the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c are not displayed in a variable manner.
The notice flag 172 is a flag indicating whether or not to perform a step-up notice. When it is “ON”, the step-up notice is given, while when it is “OFF”, the step-up notice is not given. It shows that.

  On the other hand, the program ROM 136 is provided with a table storage area shown below for storing tables used for various determinations and selections.

  An effect selection table shown in Table 11 is stored in the effect selection table storage area 174 as effect mode storage means. The effect selection table is a table used for selecting an effect pattern to be performed when the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c are variably displayed by entering the starting port 40. “Pattern”, “Production pattern counter value” indicating the counter value of the production pattern counter 148, “Production pattern” corresponding to these fluctuation patterns and counter values, and “Final” indicating the final result after the production pattern is displayed. It consists of “final results”. Note that “display time” is for ease of understanding, and information excluding the “display time” column is stored in the effect selection table.

In the present embodiment, when the “variation pattern A” is received and the counter value of the effect pattern counter 148 is “0” to “12”, the “effect pattern A1” is “13”. The production pattern A2 ”is selected.
Further, when “variation pattern B” is received and the counter value of the effect pattern counter 148 is “0” to “10”, “effect pattern B1” is “11” to “13”. The production pattern B2 ”is selected.
Further, when “variation pattern C” is received and the counter value of the effect pattern counter 148 is “0” to “9”, “effect pattern C1” is “10” to “13”. The production pattern C2 ”is selected.
Also, when “variation pattern D” is received and the counter value of the effect pattern counter 148 is “0” to “2”, “effect pattern D1” is “3” to “13”. The production pattern D2 ”is selected.
In addition, when “variation pattern E” is received and the counter value of the effect pattern counter 148 is “0” to “3”, “effect pattern E1” is “4” to “13”. The production pattern E2 "is selected.

  An image selection table shown in Table 12 is stored in the image selection table storage area 176 serving as an insertion image storage unit. The image selection table is a table used for selecting a notice character to be displayed at each stage of the step-up notice. From the “stage” indicating the stage of the step-up notice and the “notice character” corresponding to this stage. It is configured. In the present embodiment, when the stage is “St1”, “Image A” is “St2”, “Image B” is “St3”, “Image C” is “St4”. In this case, “image D” is selected. Here, “Image A” is the first notice character 50a, “Image B” is the second notice character 50b, “Image C” is the third notice character 50c, and “Image D” is the fourth notice character 50d.

  The notice determination table storage area 178 stores the notice determination table shown in Table 13. The notice determination table is a table used to determine whether or not to perform step-up notice. The notice notice determination counter value indicating the counter value of the notice determination counter 150 and the notice notice determination corresponding to this counter value are used. ]. In the present embodiment, when the counter value of the notice determination counter 150 is “0” to “6”, it is determined as “not notice”, while when it is “7” to “9”, “notify”. It is to be judged.

  The complete deviation stage number selection table storage area 180 stores a complete deviation stage number selection table shown in Table 14. The completely out-of-stage number selection table is a table used for selecting the number of stages for the step-up notice when the final result is completely out of order, and is a “stage number counter value” indicating the counter value of the stage number counter 152. The “number of stages” corresponding to this counter value. In the present embodiment, when the counter value of the stage number counter 152 is “0” to “3”, “1”, when the counter value is “4” to “6”, “2”, “7” to “8”. “3” is selected in the case of “4”, and “4” is selected in the case of “9”. Thereby, when the final result is completely out of order, that is, when the reach state does not occur, the number of steps of the step-up notice is not easily increased.

  The reach stage number selection table storage area 182 stores the reach stage number selection table shown in Table 15. The reach stage number selection table is a table used to select the number of stages for the step-up notice when the final result is out of reach or a big hit, and indicates the counter value of the stage number counter 152 “stage number counter value” ”And“ number of stages ”corresponding to the counter value. In the present embodiment, when the counter value of the stage number counter 152 is “0”, “1”, when “1” to “2” is “2”, and when “3” to “5”, “ In the case of “3”, “6” to “9”, “4” is selected. As a result, when the final result is out of reach or a big hit, that is, when a reach state occurs, the number of steps for the step-up notice is likely to increase.

  The random display stage selection table storage area 185 stores a random display stage selection table shown in Table 16. The random display stage selection table is a table used to determine which stage display timing is random when performing random display in the step-up notice. The random display stage determination counter 155 determines the counter value. The “random display stage determination counter value” and the “random display stage” corresponding to the counter value are shown. In the present embodiment, when the counter value of the random display stage determination counter 155 is “0”, “1” (“St1”) is “1”, and when the counter value is “1”, “2” (“St2”) is “ 3 is “1”, “2” (“St1” and “St2”), and “14” is “1”, “2”, “3”, “4” (“St1”, “St2”). All combinations of cases where random display is performed and cases where random display is not performed are stored for each of “St1” to “St4”, such as “St2”, “St3”, and “St4”.

  The timing table shown in Table 17 is stored in the timing table storage area 186. The timing table stores the timing at which step-up notice switching display can be performed in each variation pattern as the elapsed time from the start of variation, and within a plurality of locations within the display time of each variation pattern (in this embodiment, With respect to the display timings set to (10 locations), timing numbers “t1” to “t10” are assigned in order from the earliest. In the present embodiment, an appropriate range from when the variation display of the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c in each variation pattern is started to when the right special symbol 36c is stopped is divided into substantially equal intervals. The timing numbers “t1” to “t10” are assigned in order from the earliest elapsed time.

  Specifically, for example, in the case of “variation pattern A”, ten display timings are provided at substantially equal intervals in a period from 1 second after the start of variation to 3 seconds, and “t1” is “1.00 s” (s is second), “t2” is “1.22 s”, “t3” is “1.44 s”, “t4” is “1.66 s”, “t5” is “1.88 s” , “T6” is “2.10 s”, “t7” is “2.32 s”, “t8” is “2.54 s”, “t9” is “2.76 s”, “t10” is “3.00 s”. It is said that. Also, “variation pattern B” to “variation pattern E” are substantially the same. “Variation pattern B” is from 1 second to 10 seconds after the start of variation, and “variation pattern C” is 1 second after the start of variation. 15 seconds to 15 seconds, “variation pattern D” is 10 display timings at approximately equal intervals from 1 second to 15 seconds after the start of variation, and “variation pattern E” is 1 second to 15 seconds after the start of variation. Is provided.

  In Table 17, for the sake of easy understanding, the elapsed time from the start of the variable display is shown as each display timing, but the timing table storage area 186 has a notice corresponding to the elapsed time. The counter value of the timer counter 158 is stored.

  The possible period table storage area 188 as a display period storage means stores the possible period table shown in Table 18. The possible period table stores a period in which switching display of each stage in the step-up notice is possible as a timing number of the above-described timing table. A "stage" indicating the stage of the step-up notice and this stage Are composed of a “start timing” indicating a start timing number and an “end timing” indicating a last timing number. In this embodiment, when the stage is “St1”, “t1” as the start timing and “t10” as the end timing, and when the stage is “St2”, “t1” and the end timing as the start timing. When “t10” is “St3”, the start timing is “t1” and the end timing is “t10”. When the stage is “St4”, the start timing is “t1” and the end timing is “t10”. Is stored.

  The standard timing table shown in Table 19 is stored in the standard timing table storage area 190 as the standard timing storage means. The standard timing table stores the standard display timing, which is the standard timing at which each stage of the step-up notice is displayed, as the timing number of the above-described timing storage table, and indicates the stage of the step-up notice. And “standard timing” indicating the standard display timing at this stage. In this embodiment, when the stage is “St1”, “t2” is set, when “St2” is set, “t4” is set, when “St3” is set, “t6” is set, and when “St4” is set, “t8” is set. Is stored.

  The storage contents in this embodiment of the timing table, possible period table, and standard timing table are illustrated in FIG. That is, ten timings “t1” to “t10” are set in the timing table from when the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c start to change until the right special symbol 36c is stopped. . The left special symbol 36b is stopped from the start of the change until the right special symbol 36c is stopped. In the possible period table, a period in which each of the stages “St1” to “St4” can be switched and displayed is set. In the present embodiment, displayable periods at all stages are “t1” to “t10”. Further, the standard timing table stores standard timings of stages “St1” to “St4”, “St1” is “t2”, “St2” is “t4”, “St3” is “t6”, “St4” is set to “t8”.

  Next, game processing executed by the main control CPU 56 will be described with reference to FIG. First, in step (hereinafter referred to as S) 1, the main control CPU 56 that is turned on executes a power-on process only when the power is turned on. In this power-on process, the main control CPU 56 initializes each RAM such as the main control RAM 58 and performs initial setting of each device around the main control CPU 56. Then, the main control CPU 56 sets interrupt permission and starts interrupt processing. Thereby, after the power-on process (S1) is executed, the processes after S2 are repeatedly executed for each interrupt.

  Then, the main control CPU 56 executes an input process in S2. This input process is performed by adding 1 to each of the counter values of the jackpot determination counter 80, the initial value determination counter 82, the reach loss determination counter 84, the jackpot symbol counter 86, the left symbol counter 88, and the variation pattern counter 94. . If the counter value of the jackpot determination counter 80 goes around, the value of the initial value determination counter 82 is set as the initial value of the jackpot determination counter 80. Thereby, the timing at which the jackpot determination counter 80 becomes a value indicating the jackpot ("7" in the present embodiment) can be changed. Further, by adding 1 to the counter value of the left symbol counter 88, when the counter value of the left symbol counter 88 makes one round, the counter value of the middle symbol counter 90 is incremented by one. Further, when the counter value of the middle symbol counter 90 makes one round, the counter value of the right symbol counter 92 is incremented by one.

  Subsequently, in S3, the main control CPU 56 executes a start opening ball entry process. This starting entrance ball processing will be described with reference to FIG. First, in S10, the main control CPU 56 determines whether or not a game ball has entered the start port 40, that is, whether or not a detection signal output when the start port switch 42 detects the passage of the game ball is input. If the game ball has not entered the start port 40 (S10: NO), the start port entry process is terminated, while the game ball has entered the start port 40 (S10: YES). ), In S11, it is determined whether or not the counter value of the starting pitch counter 98 is “5” or more, that is, whether or not the number of balls to be held is an upper limit.

  When the number of held balls has reached the upper limit (S11: YES), the main control CPU 56 ends the start opening ball entering process (S3). On the other hand, if the number of reserved balls has not reached the upper limit (S11: NO), the main control CPU 56 determines the counter values of the current jackpot determination counter 80, reach miss determination counter 84, and jackpot symbol counter 86 in S12. Acquired and stored in a vacant storage area on the first counter value storage area 114a side among the first to fifth counter value storage areas 114a to 114e.

  Specifically, when the counter value is not stored in the first counter value storage area 114a, that is, when the first counter value storage area 114a is empty, the first counter value storage area 114a Each counter value is already stored in one counter value storage area 114a, that is, if the first counter value storage area 114a is not empty, the first and second counter value storage areas 114b When the counter value storage areas 114a and 114b are not vacant, the third counter value storage area 114c is used. When the first to third counter value storage areas 114a to 114c are not vacant, the fourth counter value is stored. When the first to fourth counter value storage areas 114a to 114d are not vacant in the storage area 114d, the fifth counter value storage area 114e Each counter value obtained is stored.

  Thereafter, the main control CPU 56 adds 1 to the counter value of the starting pitch number counter 98 in S13. Then, the main control CPU 56 executes a hold display process in S14. The hold display process is performed by transmitting a control signal for turning on the hold LED 44 to the hold LED control circuit 74 by a number obtained by subtracting 1 from the counter value of the starting pitch number 98, that is, the number of the hold balls. Then, the hold LED control circuit 74 turns on the hold LED 44 based on the received control signal. When such a hold display process is completed, the main control CPU 56 ends the start opening ball entry process (S3).

  The main control CPU 56, which has finished the start opening ball entry process (S3) as described above, next executes a special symbol display process (S4). This special symbol display process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main control CPU 56 determines in S20 whether or not the jackpot flag 108 is ON. If the jackpot flag 108 is ON (S20: YES), a special symbol display process (S4). Exit.

  When the big hit flag 108 is OFF (S20: NO), the main control CPU 56 determines in S21 whether or not the counter value of the starting and entering ball number counter 98 is “1” or more and starts the engine. If the counter value of the number of entered balls 98 is “0” (S21: NO), the special symbol display process (S4) is terminated, while the counter value of the starting number of entered balls 98 is “1” or more. If there is (S21: YES), it is determined in S22 whether or not the fluctuation processing flag 110 is ON.

  When the fluctuation processing flag 110 is OFF (S22: NO), the main control CPU 56 turns on the fluctuation processing flag 110 in S23, and then in S24, the big hit determination table and the first counter value storage area 114a. It is determined whether or not the counter value of the jackpot determination counter 80 is a jackpot value based on the counter value of the jackpot determination counter 80 stored in. Thus, in this embodiment, the jackpot determination means is configured including the jackpot determination table, the jackpot determination counter 80, and S24.

  When the value is a big hit value (S24: YES), the main control CPU 56 performs special processing based on the counter value of the big hit symbol counter 86 stored in the winning symbol selection table and the first counter value storage area 114a in S25. The jackpot symbol combination of symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c is selected, and the data of the jackpot symbol combination of the selected special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c is stored in the stop symbol storage area 118. Next, in S26, the main control CPU 56 selects a variation pattern based on the third variation pattern selection table and the current variation pattern counter 94, and the selected variation pattern data is stored in the variation pattern storage area 116. After storing, the processing after S32 is executed.

  If it is not a big hit (S24: NO), the main control CPU 56 determines that the reach shift occurs based on the reach shift determination table and the counter value of the reach shift determination counter 84 stored in the first counter value storage area 114a in S27. It is determined whether or not.

  If it is reach lose (S27: YES), the main control CPU 56 selects the symbol of the left special symbol 36a based on the counter value of the left symbol selection table and the current left symbol counter 88 in S28, and selects the middle symbol. After selecting the symbol of the middle special symbol 36b based on the table and the counter value of the current middle symbol counter 90, and further selecting the same symbol as the symbol of the left special symbol 36a as the symbol of the right special symbol 36c. The selected combination of the left, middle and right special symbols 36 a, 36 b and 36 c is stored in the stop symbol storage area 118. If the symbol of the left special symbol 36a and the symbol of the middle special symbol 36b become the same, the symbol of the middle special symbol 36b is changed to a symbol different from the symbol of the left special symbol 36a. Specifically, for example, the symbol of the middle special symbol 36b is made one larger than the symbol of the left special symbol 36a, or the symbol of the middle special symbol 36b is made one smaller than the symbol of the left special symbol 36a. Next, in S29, the main control CPU 56 selects a variation pattern based on the second variation pattern selection table and the current variation pattern counter 94 and stores the selected variation pattern data in the variation pattern storage area 116. After storing, the processing after S32 is executed.

  If it is not reach lose (S27: NO), the main control CPU 56 selects the symbol of the left special symbol 36a based on the counter value of the left symbol selection table and the current left symbol counter 88 in S30, and selects the middle symbol selection table. The middle special symbol 36b is selected based on the counter value of the current middle symbol counter 90, and the right special symbol 36c is selected based on the counter value of the right symbol selection table and the current right symbol counter 92. After that, the combination of the left, middle and right special symbols 36a, 36b and 36c selected in this way is stored in the stop symbol storage area 118. If the symbol of the left special symbol 36a and the symbol of the right special symbol 36c become the same, the symbol of the right special symbol 36c is changed to a symbol different from the symbol of the left special symbol 36a. Specifically, for example, the symbol of the right special symbol 36c is made one larger than the symbol of the left special symbol 36a, or the symbol of the right special symbol 36c is made one smaller than the symbol of the left special symbol 36a. Next, in S31, the main control CPU 56 selects a variation pattern based on the first variation pattern selection table and the current variation pattern counter 94, and the data of the selected variation pattern is stored in the variation pattern storage area 116. After storing, the processing after S32 is executed. As described above, in the present embodiment, the variation mode selection means includes the first to third variation pattern selection table storage areas 128a to 128c, the variation pattern counter 94, and S26, S29, and S31. .

  In S32, the main control CPU 56 sets the initial value of the variation display timer counter 96 so as to correspond to the variation display time of the variation pattern stored in the variation pattern storage area 116.

  Next, the main control CPU 56 transmits the data of the variation pattern stored in the variation pattern storage area 116 to the display control circuit 54 as a notification start command in S33, and then stored in the stop symbol storage area 118 in S34. The data of the symbol combinations of the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c are transmitted to the display control circuit 54. Then, the main control CPU 56 ends the special symbol display process (S4) after the process of S34. Thus, in this embodiment, the notification means is configured including the variation pattern storage area 116 and S33.

  When the fluctuation processing flag 110 is ON (S22: YES), the main control CPU 56 determines whether or not the counter value of the fluctuation display timer counter 96 is “0” in S35, that is, fluctuation display. It is determined whether or not the time has ended, and if the variable display time has not ended (S35: NO), in S36, the counter value of the variable display timer counter 96 is decremented by 1, and then a special symbol display process is performed. End (S4). On the other hand, when the variable display time has ended (S35: YES), the control for ending the variable display of the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c and stopping and displaying the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c in S37. A stop display process for transmitting a signal to the display control circuit 54 is executed.

  Next, the main control CPU 56 sets the variation processing flag 110 to OFF in S38, and then in S39, whether the variation pattern data stored in the variation pattern storage area 116 is the big hit data or not. Determine whether or not.

  If it is not the data of the fluctuation pattern in the case of the big hit (S39: NO), the main control CPU 56 executes the processes after S41 described later, while it is the data of the fluctuation pattern in the case of the big win (S39: YES). In step S40, the main control CPU 56 turns on the jackpot flag 108.

  Subsequently, the main control CPU 56 ends the variation display process in S41. This variation display end processing is performed in various counter values stored in the first counter value storage area 114a, variation pattern data stored in the variation pattern storage area 116, and special information stored in the stop symbol storage area 118. The data of the symbol combinations of symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are deleted.

  Thereafter, in S42, the main control CPU 56 determines whether or not the counter value of the starting and entering number counter 98 is “2” or more, and if the counter value of the starting and entering number counter 98 is not “2” or more ( In S42: NO), the processing after S44 is executed.

  On the other hand, when the counter value of the starting pitch number counter 98 is “2” or more (S42: YES), the main control CPU 56 stores in the second to fifth counter value storage areas 114b to 114e in S43. The various counter values are shifted by one and stored in the counter value storage area on the first counter value storage area 114a side.

  Specifically, when various counter values are stored in the second counter value storage area 114b, they are stored in the first counter value storage area 114a and in the third counter value storage area 114c. Is stored in the second counter value storage area 114b, in the case where the fourth counter value storage area 114d is stored, in the third counter value storage area 114c, and in the fifth counter value storage area 114e. If they are, they are stored again in the fourth counter value storage area 114d.

  Thereafter, the main control CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the counter value of the starting and entering ball number counter 98 in S44 and ends the special symbol display process (S4).

  The main control CPU 56 that has finished the special symbol display process (S4) performs a privilege grant process (S5). This privilege provision process is demonstrated based on FIG. First, the main control CPU 56 determines whether or not the big hit flag 108 is ON in S50. When the big hit flag 108 is not ON (S50: NO), the privilege grant process (S5) is terminated.

  When the big hit flag 108 is ON (S50: YES), the main control CPU 56 turns on the door opening flag 112 indicating that the door 48 of the big winning opening 46 is opened in S51. It is determined whether or not. When the door opening flag 112 is ON (S51: YES), the main control CPU 56 executes the processes after S57.

  If the door opening flag 112 is not ON (S51: NO), the main control CPU 56 determines in S52 whether or not the interval period has ended. Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the value of the door interval timer counter 106 is “0”.

  When the value of the door interval timer counter 106 is not “0”, that is, when the interval period has not ended (S52: NO), the main control CPU 56 sets the counter value of the door interval timer counter 106 to 1 in S53. The privilege grant process (S5) is completed by subtraction.

  When the interval period ends (S52: YES), the main control CPU 56 opens the door 48 by supplying power to the door opening / closing solenoid 70 through the solenoid drive circuit 72 in S54. Subsequently, the main control CPU 56 sets the door opening flag 112 to ON in S55, sets the counter value of the door timer counter 104 to a predetermined value in S56, and then performs the processing after S57.

  Subsequently, the main control CPU 56 determines whether or not the game ball has won the big winning opening 46 in S57. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the count switch 68 provided in the special winning opening 46 detects the passage of the game ball, and the count switch 68 detects the passage of the game ball (S57: YES). In S58, after the counter value of the winning number counter 100 is incremented by 1, the processing after S59 is executed. On the other hand, when the count switch 68 does not detect the passing of the game ball (S57: NO), S59 is executed. The subsequent processing is executed.

  Subsequently, the main control CPU 56 determines whether the counter value of the winning number counter 100 is 10 or more in S59. If the counter value of the winning number counter 100 is not 10 or more (S59: NO), it is determined in S60 whether or not the opening time of the door 48 has elapsed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the counter value of the door timer counter 104 is “0”. If the opening time of the door 48 has not elapsed (S60: NO), the counter value of the door timer counter 104 is decremented by 1 in S61, and the privilege granting process (S5) is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the counter value of the winning number counter 100 is 10 or more in S59 (S59: YES) or when the opening time of the door 48 has elapsed in S60 (S60: YES), the main control CPU 56 performs S62. In step S63, the door opening flag 112 is turned off. In S64, the counter value of the winning number counter 100 is set to zero. Thereby, one round is complete | finished.

  Next, in S65, the main control CPU 56 determines whether or not the counter value of the round counter 102 is 14 or more, that is, whether or not the maximum number of rounds in one big hit gaming state has been reached.

  If the counter value of the round counter 102 is not 14 or more (S65: NO), the main control CPU 56 adds 1 to the counter value of the round counter 102 in S66 to perform the next round, and then in S67. A value corresponding to the preset length of the interval between rounds is set in the door interval timer counter 106, and the privilege granting process (S5) is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the maximum number of rounds in one jackpot game has been reached (S65: YES), the main control CPU 56 returns the counter value of the round counter 102 to 0 in S68, and turns off the jackpot flag 108 in S69. Then, the privilege grant process (S5) is terminated.

  Next, main control CPU56 which complete | finished privilege provision process (S5) performs an output process in S6. In this output process, various data held by the main control circuit 52 are output, and commands are transmitted to an unillustrated payout control board, lamp control board, voice control board, etc. connected to the main control circuit 52. is there.

  Then, the main control CPU 56 performs a remaining time process in S7. In the remaining time processing, the counter value of the initial value determining counter 82 in the main control RAM 58 is added for the remaining time until the next interrupt processing is performed.

  Next, display control processing executed by the display control CPU 130 in the display control circuit 54 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the display control CPU 130 executes a counter value update process in S80.

  The counter value update processing is performed by adding 1 to the counter values of the effect pattern counter 148, the notice determination counter 150, the stage number counter 152, the random display stage determination counter 155, and the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d.

  Here, the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d are respectively associated with the first to fourth notice characters 50a to 50d in the step-up notice, and the minimum value and the maximum value of the counter values are the possible period. It is set based on the start timing to the end timing of the stages “St1” to “St4” of the possible period table (see Table 18) stored in the table storage area 188. That is, for example, the range of the counter value of the first timing counter 156a is associated with the start timing to the end timing of “St1” stored in the possible period table, and the minimum value is “1” corresponding to “t1”. The maximum value is “10” corresponding to “t10”. Therefore, after adding the first timing counter 156a to the maximum value “10” corresponding to “t10” based on the possible period table in the counter value update process, the display control CPU 130 corresponds to “t1”. It returns to “1” and is added. As a result, the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d are counted with values within the displayable period of the corresponding stage.

  Display control CPU130 which complete | finished the counter value update process (S80) performs a fluctuation | variation display process in S81. The fluctuation display process S81 will be described with reference to FIG. First, in S90, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not the fluctuation display flag 170 is ON. When the fluctuation display flag 170 is OFF (S90: NO), the data of the fluctuation pattern is obtained in S91. It is determined whether it is received.

  When the variation pattern data is not received (S91: NO), the display control CPU 130 ends the variation display process (S81), while when the variation pattern data is received (S91: YES). In S92, the display control CPU 130 turns on the fluctuation display flag 170, and in S93, selects the corresponding presentation pattern based on the presentation selection table, the received variation pattern, and the counter value of the presentation pattern counter 148. Then, it is stored in the effect pattern storage area 164. Thus, in this embodiment, the effect mode selection means is comprised including the effect selection table storage area 174, the effect pattern counter 148, and S93.

  In step S94, the display control CPU 130 performs step-up notice setting processing. Such step-up notice setting processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in S110, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not to perform step-up notification as a step display based on the notification determination table and the counter value of the notification determination counter 150. As described above, in this embodiment, the stage display determination unit is configured to include the notice determination table storage area 178, the notice determination counter 150, and S110. If the step-up notice is not to be performed (S110: NO), the display control CPU 130 ends the step-up notice setting process (S94).

  On the other hand, when the step-up notice is performed (S110: YES), the display control CPU 130 turns on the notice flag 172 in S111 and then stores it in the effect pattern storage area 164 based on the effect selection table in S112. It is determined whether or not the effect pattern being performed is a completely out of effect pattern.

  When the effect pattern is completely out of step (S112: YES), the display control CPU 130 determines the number of steps for the step-up notice based on the complete out-of-step number selection table and the counter value of the step number counter 152 in S113. If the stage number storage area 166 is not a completely off-line production pattern (S112: NO), the display control CPU 130 determines in S114 based on the reach stage number selection table and the counter value of the stage number counter 152. The step number of the step-up notice is determined and stored in the step number storage area 166. As described above, in this embodiment, the stage number determining means is configured to include the completely out-of-stage number selection table storage area 180, the reach stage number selection table storage area 182, and the stage number counters 152, S113, and S114. .

  Next, display control CPU130 performs the process of S115-S120 about each of each step memorize | stored in the step number storage area 166 in S115. First, in S115, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not to perform random display as an indefinite display for the stage. Specifically, based on the random display stage selection table and the counter value of the random display stage determination counter 155, a stage for performing random display is selected, and when the stage currently set is included in the selection result Then, it is determined that random display is performed for this stage (S115: YES). For example, in the case where “St2” is currently set, if the value of the random display stage determination counter 155 is “9”, the selection results based on the random display stage selection table are “St2” and “St4”. (See Table 16) Since “St2” is included, it is determined that “St2” at that stage is to be displayed randomly (S115: YES). As described above, in this embodiment, the random display stage selection table storage area 185, the random display stage determination counter 155, and S115 constitute the indefinite display determination unit. When the random display is not performed (S115: NO), the display control CPU 130 executes the processing after S120.

  On the other hand, when random display is performed (S115: YES), the display control CPU 130 determines the display timing based on the counter values of the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d corresponding to the stage in S116. . For example, when the display timing of the first stage is determined, the counter value of the first timing counter 156a is referred to. When the counter value is “1”, it is “t1”, and when it is “2”, “t2”. To be determined. In step S117, the display control CPU 130 resets the counter values of the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d corresponding to the stage to the initial values. For example, in the present embodiment, the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d are all set to “1” because the start timing is “t1” (see Table 18). As a result, only the timing counters 156a to 156b at the stage where the display timing is randomly determined are reset, and the relative positions of the counter values indicated by the timing counters 156a to 156d are changed.

  Next, in S118, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not the determined display timing is earlier than (including at the same time as the standard timing) the standard timing at the stage based on the standard timing storage table. When the determined display timing is not before the standard timing (S118: NO), the display control CPU 130 performs the processing after S120, whereas when it is before the standard timing (S118: YES), the display control CPU 130 In step S119, the standard timing + 1 is determined as the display timing at this stage. For example, when the display timing of the first stage is determined as “t1”, “t3”, which is one greater than the standard timing “t2” of the first stage, is determined as the display timing of the first stage. Thus, in the present embodiment, the delay setting means is configured including S118 and S119.

  Then, the display control CPU 130 stores the determined display timing in the display timing storage area 168 in S120. If it is determined in S115 that random display is not performed (S115: NO), the standard timing stored in the standard timing table storage area 190 is stored. As described above, in the present embodiment, the display timing random determining means includes the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d, S116 and S120, and S118 and S119 constituting the delay setting means.

  Next, in S121, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not the display timing has been determined for all the stages stored in the stage number storage area 166, and when the display timing has been determined for all the stages (S121: YES). ), If the display timing is not determined for all the stages (S121: NO), the processes from S115 to S120 are repeated for the remaining stages. It is determined and stored in the display timing storage area 168.

  Subsequently, in S122, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not there is an overlapping display timing for the display timing stored in the display timing storage area 168, and if there is an overlapping display timing. Correct so that the display timings of all stages do not overlap. Specifically, for example, for each display timing stored in the display timing storage area 168, in the case where overlapping display timings are set in subsequent stages in order from the lowest number of stages, any stage is set. The display timing is corrected so that there is no duplication of the display timing at each stage by resetting the display timing to the earliest among the display timings not used. Thus, in this embodiment, the duplication correction means is comprised including S122.

  The display control CPU 130 that has completed the step-up notice setting process (S94), in S95, the effect pattern data stored in the effect pattern storage area 164 and the special symbol 36a stored in the special symbol storage area 162. , 36b, and 36c are transmitted to the VDP 138, and a display start process for causing the VDP 138 to display an image based on these data on the liquid crystal display 34 is executed. Thereby, the variation display and the effect display of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are started. Thus, in this embodiment, the effect image display means is comprised including VDP138 and S95. Then, the display control CPU 130 ends the variable display process (S81).

  On the other hand, when the variable display flag 170 is ON (S90: YES), the display control CPU 130 receives a control signal (stop command) for stopping and displaying the special symbols 36a, 36b, 36c in S96. Determine whether or not. When the stop command is received (S96: YES), the display control CPU 130 executes the processing after S98, while when the stop command is not received (S96: NO), the display control CPU 130 In step S97, step-up notice display processing is executed.

  FIG. 14 shows step-up notice display processing (S97). First, in S130, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not the notice flag 172 is ON. If the notice flag 172 is not ON (S130: NO), the step-up notice display process (S97) is terminated. When the advance notice flag 172 is ON (S130: YES), the processing after S131 is performed.

  The display control CPU 130 increments the notice timer counter 158 by 1 in S131, and then determines whether or not the time for displaying the notice characters 50a to 50d has been reached in S132. Specifically, for example, the counter value of the notice timer counter 158 is compared with the counter value stored in the timing table storage area 186 so that the notice timer counter 158 corresponds to the timing numbers “t1” to “t10”. When the counter value corresponding to the timing numbers “t1” to “t10” is reached, it is determined whether or not the timing number is stored in the display timing storage area 168. To do. Then, when the timing number is stored in the display timing storage area 168, it is determined that the advance notice time has been reached.

  When the advance notice time has not been reached (S132: NO), the display control CPU 130 ends the step-up advance notice display process (S97). When the advance notice time has been reached (S132: YES), the display control CPU 130 In S133, the CPU 130 transmits the data of the notice characters 50a to 50d at the stage where the display timing corresponding to the counter value of the notice timer counter 158 is set to the VDP 138. Then, the VDP 138 selects the notice characters 50a to 50d based on the received data from the character ROM 140, and displays them on the effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display 34. The notice characters 50a to 50d are erased within the period of one timing number.

  Next, in S134, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not the notice display of all the stages stored in the stage number storage area 166 has been completed. Specifically, for example, when the counter value of the notice timer counter 158 reaches the display timing stored in the display timing storage area 168, the last display timing stored in the display timing storage area 168 is displayed. If it is, it is determined that the notice display of all stages has been completed.

  When the notice display of all the stages has not been completed (S134: NO), the display control CPU 130 ends the step-up notice display process (S97) while completing the notice display of all the stages (S134). : YES), the display control CPU 130 resets the notice timer counter to “0” in S135, turns off the notice flag 172 in S136, and ends the step-up notice display process (S97). As described above, in this embodiment, the stage display means is configured to include the VDP 138, the notice timer counter 158, the display timing storage area 168, and S97.

  On the other hand, when the stop command is received in S96 in FIG. 12 (S96: YES), the display control CPU 130 ends the change display of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c for the VDP 138 in S98. Based on the data of the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c transmitted in S95, a special symbol confirmation display process for stopping and displaying the special symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c is executed.

  Next, in S99, the display control CPU 130 determines whether or not it is a jackpot effect pattern based on the effect selection table and the effect pattern stored in the effect pattern storage area 164, and if it is a jackpot effect pattern (S99). : YES), the processing after S101 is executed after performing the jackpot effect display in S100, while the processing after S101 is executed when it is not the jackpot effect pattern (S99: NO).

  In step S101, the display control CPU 130 changes the variation pattern data stored in the variation pattern storage area 160, the special symbol data 36a, 36b, and 36c stored in the special symbol storage area 162, and the effect pattern storage area 164. A data erasing process is executed to erase the effect pattern data stored in the display timing and the display timing data stored in the display timing storage area 168, respectively.

  Subsequently, the display control CPU 130 ends the display process (S81) after turning off the variable display flag 170 in S102.

  In the pachinko machine 10 having such a structure, the display timings of the notice characters 50a to 50d may be displayed later than the normal display timing. Thereby, after giving the player the impression that the notice characters 50a to 50d are not displayed without displaying the notice characters 50a to 50d at the normal timing to be displayed, the game is displayed with a delay. Can be surprised. At the same time, even if the notice characters 50a to 50d are not displayed at the normal timing, it can be given an expectation that they may be displayed with a delay. Thereby, the player can be watched on the effect display, and display control for accurately transmitting the contents of the effect display to the player can be realized.

  Further, in this aspect, the display order of the notice characters 50a to 50d may be changed. Accordingly, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to predict the number of steps for the step-up notice, and it is possible to perform display control that allows the player to pay more attention to the effect display.

  In the pachinko machine 10 according to the first embodiment described above, when the display timing of the advance notice characters 50a to 50d is determined at random, the timing is later than the standard timing stored in the standard timing table storage area 190. For example, it is possible to determine the timing earlier than the standard timing.

  FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 illustrate a step-up notice mode displayed at a timing earlier than the standard timing as the second embodiment of the present invention. 15 (a) and 16 (a) are similar to FIGS. 2 (a) and 3 (a) described above, and show the display mode of the standard timing displayed in many cases. It is.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15 (b) and 16 (b), notice characters 50b and 50d at predetermined stages (in the figure, “St2” and “St4”) are provided. In some cases, it is displayed at a timing earlier than the standard display timing.

  Further, particularly in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15 (c) and 16 (c), the notice character 50b at a certain stage (“St2” in the figure) is more than the standard display timing. When displayed at an early timing, the display timing of the notice characters 50c and 50d in the subsequent stages (in the figure, “St3” and “St4”) is the same as the standard timing of the previous stage. (In this figure, the display timing of “St3” is shifted to the standard timing of “St2” and the display timing of “St4” is shifted to the standard timing of “St3”) There is.

  Although not shown, also in the present embodiment, for example, when the display order is changed by determining the display timing of a predetermined stage before the display timing of the previous stage, etc. Can also happen.

  A specific structure and processing procedure of a pachinko machine as a second embodiment for performing such display control will be described below. The specific structure and processing procedure of the pachinko machine in the present embodiment is substantially the same as that of the pachinko machine 10 in the first embodiment described above, except for the step-up notice process (S94) shown in FIG. In addition, about the member and processing procedure which were made into the structure substantially the same as the pachinko machine 10 in 1st embodiment, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the code | symbol similar to above-mentioned 1st embodiment.

  First, a transition determination counter is provided in the display control RAM 134 of the display control circuit 54 shown in FIG. The transition determination counter is a counter used to determine whether or not to perform transition display, and is based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 146 in the counter value update process (S80) illustrated in FIG. “1” is incremented by one, added from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “9”, then returned to “0” and added. The display control circuit according to the present embodiment adds a transition determination counter to the display control RAM 134 in the display control circuit 54 shown in FIG. 5 described above, and a transition determination table storage area to be described later on the program ROM 136. The illustration is omitted because only the added points are different.

  Further, the program ROM 136 of the display control circuit 54 in the present embodiment is provided with a transition determination table storage area for storing the transition determination table shown in Table 20. The transition determination table is a table used for determining whether or not to perform transition display. From the “transition determination counter value” indicating the counter value of the transition determination counter and the “transition determination” corresponding to this counter value. It is configured. In this embodiment, when the counter value of the transition determination counter is “0” to “7”, it is determined that “transition display” is performed, while when it is “8” to “9”, “transition display is not performed”. Is determined.

  In the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, the processing content of the step-up notice setting process (S94) shown in the first embodiment is different. FIG. 17 shows the processing contents of the step-up notice setting process in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the display control CPU 130 randomly determines the display timing at this stage in S116, resets the corresponding first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d in S117, and then determines in S118. The determined display timing is compared with the standard timing stored in the standard timing table storage area 190 to determine whether or not the determined display timing is before the standard timing (not including the standard timing).

  If the determined display timing is not earlier than the standard timing (S118: NO), the display control CPU 130 performs the processing after S120. On the other hand, if the determined display timing is earlier than the standard timing (S118: YES), whether the display control CPU 130 performs transition display based on the transition determination table and the counter value of the transition determination counter in S140. If no transition display is performed (S140: NO), the processing after S120 is executed.

  When the transition display is performed (S140: YES), the display control CPU 130 stores the standard stored in the standard timing table storage area 190 for the remaining stages after the stage stored in the stage number storage area 166 in S141. With reference to the timing, the standard timing of the previous stage is stored in the display timing storage area 168 as its own display timing. For example, if the display timing of “St2” is set to a timing earlier than the standard timing while the number of steps for the step-up notice is determined to be “4”, the remaining “St3” after “St2” As the display timing of “St4”, “t4” (see Table 19), which is the standard timing of “St2”, which is the stage immediately before “St3”, is changed to the stage immediately before “St4”, respectively. “T6” which is the standard timing of “St3” is stored in the display timing storage area 168. As described above, in this embodiment, the timing transition means is configured to include the standard timing table storage area 190, S118, S140, and S141.

  Then, in S122, the display control CPU 130 corrects, if there is an overlapping timing, in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above, and then ends the step-up notice setting process.

  In such a pachinko machine, display control for displaying the notice characters 50a to 50d earlier than the standard timing can be performed. Furthermore, the display timing of a certain stage may be set earlier than the display timing of the previous stage, and in such a case, the display order of the notice characters 50a to 50d is also changed. Thereby, it is possible to perform display control in which the display mode of the notice characters 50a to 50d is changed and the player is focused on the effect display.

  Further, particularly in the present embodiment, when the display timing of a certain stage is set earlier than the standard timing, there is a transition means for setting the display timing of the subsequent stage to the standard timing of the previous stage. Is provided. As a result, the display timings of stages other than the stage where the timing is set earlier can be aligned with the standard timing. As a result, it is possible to make the display of the stage displayed at an early timing stand out, and to perform display control for accurately transmitting the change in the display timing to the player.

  As mentioned above, although several embodiment of this invention has been explained in full detail, these are illustrations to the last, Comprising: This invention is not limited at all by the specific description in this embodiment. .

  For example, the maximum value of the number of steps performed in the step-up notice is not limited as long as it is at least two steps or more at which a step change is recognized. Further, a plurality of types of insertion images may be prepared as the insertion images in one stage.

  In the above-described embodiment, the displayable ranges of the respective stages “St1” to “St4” stored in the possible period table (see Table 18) are all “t1” to “t1” as illustrated in FIG. Although it was set equal to “t10”, for example, as shown in FIG. 18, the displayable range of each stage may be stored in the possible period table differently. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 18, at least a part of the displayable periods in adjacent stages (for example, “St1” and “St2”) is set to overlap. In this way, depending on the result determined at random, the display order of each stage may be changed, and a wide display mode can be obtained as in the above embodiment.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the duplication correcting means for avoiding duplication of display timing at each stage is configured including S122 in FIGS. 13 and 17, but the specific mode of the duplication correcting means is as follows. The structure is not limited to that described above. Hereinafter, different modes of the duplication correcting means (S122) are shown.

  First, a redetermination counter is provided in the display control RAM of the display control circuit 54 shown in FIG. The redetermination counter is a counter used to select one display timing from display timings that are not used as the display timing of each stage. In the counter value update process (S80) shown in FIG. Then, “1” is added based on the clock signal input from the clock circuit 146, added from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “504”, then returned to “0” and added. The display control circuit according to the present embodiment adds a redetermination counter on the display control RAM 134 in the display control circuit 54 shown in FIG. 5 and stores a redetermination selection table storage area to be described later on the program ROM 136. The illustration is omitted because only the difference is added.

  Further, the program ROM 136 of the display control circuit is provided with a redetermination selection table storage area for storing the redetermination selection table shown in Table 21. The redetermination number selection table is a table used to select which timing is used among the timings that are not used as the display timing of each stage. The redetermination number selection table indicates the counter value of the redetermination counter. It is composed of “determination counter value” and “th” indicating which timing is used corresponding to this counter value.

  Here, the “redecision counter value” in the redetermination selection table is set for each number of display timings that are not used. In this aspect, the number of display timings that are not used is “9”. , “Redetermined counter value” is set for “8” and “7”. Then, the values of the redetermination counter are assigned substantially evenly to the respective display timings that are not used.

  In this aspect, the duplication correction process shown in FIG. 19 is executed in S122 in FIGS. First, in step S150, the display control CPU 130 determines, for each stage stored in the display timing storage area 168, whether or not overlapping timing numbers are set for the subsequent stages. For example, if the display contents of the display timing storage area 168 are as shown in Table 22 as a result of the random determination of the display timing at each stage in S115 to S121, first, regarding “St1”, It is checked whether the same timing number “t5” as “St1” is set in “St2”, “St3”, and “St4”. In Table 22, since “t5” is not set in any of “St2” to “St4”, it is determined that the overlapping timing number is not set (S150: NO). On the other hand, when “St2” is determined as the stage, the subsequent timing numbers set in “St3” and “St4” are checked. Here, since “t4”, which is the same as “St2”, is set in “St3”, in this case, it is determined that an overlapping timing number is set (S150: YES).

  When the overlapping timing number is set (S150: YES), the display control CPU 130 selects the number based on the redetermination selection table and the counter value of the redetermination counter in S151. Here, the redetermined selection table is provided with three types of remaining timing numbers “9”, “8”, and “7”, and the display control CPU 130 displays a display timing storage area. The “th” is determined using a table corresponding to the number of remaining timings after subtracting the number of timings stored in 168 (the overlapping timing number is counted as one). For example, in the case of Table 22, since “t4”, “t5”, and “t6” are already stored, there are seven remaining timing numbers, and “7” table of redetermination selection table. Is used. For example, when the counter value of the redetermination counter is “320”, “5” is selected as the “th”.

  Next, in S152, the display control CPU 130 resets the timing number corresponding to the “th” acquired in S151 among the unused timing numbers in the display timing storage area 168 as the timing number of the stage. . For example, as shown in FIG. 20, when the “th” acquired in S151 is “5”, among the unused timing numbers “t1” to “t3” and “t7” to “t10” In this case, “t8” corresponding to “fifth” is reset as the timing number of the stage.

  Subsequently, in S153, the display control CPU 130 checks whether or not all stages stored in the display timing storage area 168 have been checked, specifically, the number of stages stored in the display timing storage area 168 is -1. It is determined whether or not duplication correction processing has been performed for all of the stages. If all the stages are not checked (S153: NO), the duplication correction process is performed for the next stage, while all the stages have been checked. In the case (S153: YES), the duplication correction process is terminated.

  In this way, when the display timing is determined at random, as a result of the duplication, any timing is reset with a substantially equal probability from the remaining timing numbers. As a result, the overlapping timing can be corrected more evenly.

  Note that tables such as “9”, “8”, and “7” provided as redetermination selection tables in this aspect can be used for the number of timings that can be selected in each stage and in other stages. The number is determined in consideration of the number of timings, and each number from “maximum number of selectable timings−1” to “maximum number of selectable timings—maximum number of timings that can be used in other stages”. A table corresponding to is provided. In other words, in the above aspect, 10 timings “t1” to “t10” can be selected in any of “St1” to “St4”. Since a maximum of four stages of step-up notice is performed, a maximum of three different timings are used for other stages, and the number of timings that can be used when resetting the timing of the stage is the minimum. It becomes “7”. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a table of “9”, “8”, and “7” timing numbers is provided as the remaining timing numbers. And, when using any timing number table, the least common multiple of timing numbers is adopted as the maximum value of the redetermination counter so that each “th” is selected with an equal probability, and each “th” In addition, the counter values of the redetermination counter are assigned substantially evenly. That is, in this aspect, “504” which is the least common multiple of “9”, “8”, and “7” is set as the maximum value of the redetermination counter, and the redetermination counter is set to each “th”. The counter values are allocated almost evenly.

  Therefore, for example, when the display timing usable in each stage is set as shown in FIG. 18, the redetermined selection table can be set as shown in Table 23. That is, in FIG. 18, the maximum number of timings that can be selected as the display timing of “St1” is “4” (“t1” to “t4”), and only the display timing of “St2” overlaps. The maximum number of timings that can be used is “1”. Accordingly, “three” tables are prepared as the redetermination selection table for “St1”. For “St2”, the maximum number of timings is “4” (“t3” to “t6”), and any of “St1”, “St3”, and “St4” is overlapped. The maximum number of timings that can be used in this stage is “3”. Therefore, the “3”, “2”, and “1” tables are required as the redetermined selection table for “St3”. As for “St3”, “St2” and “St4” overlap each other, so that “3” and “2” tables are required. For “St4”, the maximum number of timings is “5” (“t6” to “t10”), and “St3” and “St2” overlap each other. Is needed. Therefore, as a whole, the tables of “4”, “3”, “2”, “1” shown in Table 23 are required. The common multiple “12” is set, and is allocated to each “th” approximately equally.

  However, the step-up notice in the present invention does not necessarily prevent the display timing of each stage from overlapping. For example, the display timing overlap may be allowed by simultaneously displaying the notice characters 50a to 50d in a plurality of stages at different positions on the liquid crystal display 34 without executing S122.

  The displayable period is not necessarily limited to the period until the right special symbol 36c is stopped, that is, whether or not the reach state occurs. For example, by setting the displayable period to a period until the medium special symbol 36b is stopped and displayed, the step-up notice can be used as a notice whether or not a big hit will occur.

  Further, in the first embodiment described above, in order to facilitate understanding, S118 and S119 in FIG. 13 are provided, and when the determined timing is earlier than the standard timing, the timing is set to the standard timing + 1. Thus, the delay setting means is configured. However, in the configuration as described above, when the standard timing is set near the end of the displayable period (“t8”), for example, “St4”. In many cases, the timing before the standard timing is determined, and as a result, in S119, the standard timing + 1 (for example, “t9” in the case of “St4”) is often selected and is determined at random. The results tend to be biased. Thus, for example, in the first embodiment, the standard value of each stage (see Table 19) is used as the initial value of the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d set in advance in the counter value update process (S81) and S117. ) May be configured to constitute a delay setting means. In this way, since the timing after the standard timing is always selected, the processing of S118 and S119 is not necessary, and the display timing can be determined with randomness without bias.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, in order to facilitate understanding, the first to fourth timing counters 156a to 156d are provided for each stage, and each timing counter is counted within a range corresponding to the displayable period. Thus, the display timing is randomly determined based on the counter value. For example, one counter is provided as such a timing counter, and the display timing is determined by the calculation formula based on Formula 1. You may do it.

  Here, START in Equation 1 is a timing number that is a starting point of a range that can be determined as random display. For example, in the case of the first embodiment described above, values after the standard timing can be determined. Standard timing is set. That is, in the case of “St1”, “2” corresponding to “t2” is set (see Table 19), and in the case of “St2”, “4” corresponding to “t4” and “St3”. Is “6” corresponding to “t6”, and “8” corresponding to “t8” in the case of “St4”. In the case of the second embodiment described above, since it may be determined before the standard timing, “t1” (see Table 18), which is the start point of the displayable period, is set. On the other hand, END in Formula 1 is a timing number that is the end point of a range that can be determined as random display. In the case of the first and second embodiments, the end timing “t10” (see Table 18) at all stages. ) Corresponding to “10”. AmodB indicates the remainder of A / B.

  In this way, since the delay from the timing set as START is determined at random, the display timing bias is avoided as described above. Also in this aspect, by setting the standard timing to START in Formula 1, it is possible to select only the timing after the standard timing, thereby configuring the delay means. Furthermore, since the display timing can be determined randomly by one counter, storage areas and processing procedures for managing the counters corresponding to the number of steps are not required.

  Alternatively, within the range of the counter value of the advance timer counter 158 corresponding to the start point and end point of the display timing number (“t1” and “t10” in the above embodiment), for example, when displaying four steps 4 random numbers may be obtained and used as the display timing of each stage, or the start point and end point of the noticeable period assigned to each stage (for example, in the case of “St1” in FIG. 18) May obtain a random number within the range of the counter value corresponding to “t1” and “t4”), and use the random number as the display timing at this stage. In this way, it is possible to make a step-up notice at a finer timing.

  In addition, although not enumerated one by one, the present invention can be carried out in a mode to which various changes, modifications, improvements and the like are added based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art. It goes without saying that all are included in the scope of the present invention without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  The technical ideas (1) to (3) that can be grasped from the above embodiment will be described below. Note that the constituent elements employed in each technical idea described below can be employed in any combination as much as possible.

  (1) Inserted image storage means for storing a plurality of inserted images having different appearances in association with any one of a plurality of predetermined stages, and whether or not to perform stage display for displaying the inserted images A step display determining unit for determining whether or not the determination result of the step display determining unit is a step display, a step number determining unit for determining the number of steps to be displayed, and each step determined by the step number determining unit Display timing storage means for storing the display timing of the inserted image associated with the step, and when the determination result of the step display determination means performs the step display, it is associated with the step determined by the step number determination means. Indeterminate display determination means for determining whether or not to perform indefinite display for the inserted image, and when the determination result of the indefinite display determination means performs indefinite display, the displayable period of the inserted image Remember Display timing random determining means for randomly determining the display timing of the inserted image from the range of the displayable period stored in the display period storage means and storing the display timing in the display timing storage means; and the stage display determination means If the determination result indicates that the stage display is performed, the insertion images stored in the insertion image storage unit according to the display timing stored in the display timing storage unit are superimposed on the effect image. And a stage display means for performing the operation.

  In the pachinko machine structured according to the technical idea (1), by providing the display timing random determining means, the display order of each inserted image is displayed in the stage display for displaying the inserted image, that is, in the step-up notice. It is also possible to perform display control that changes the display timing irregularly. As a result, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to predict the display timing of the inserted image and to give an interest in when the inserted image is displayed. I can do it. As a result, it is possible to realize display control for accurately transmitting the contents of the effect display to the player. Furthermore, in this aspect, depending on the determination result of the display timing random determination means, the inserted image may be displayed in an order different from the order in which it is normally displayed. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult to predict the number of stages in which the inserted image is displayed, and it is possible to make a wider step-up notice. Can give a strong interest.

  In addition, the specific aspect of the display timing determination method in the display timing random determination means is not particularly limited. For example, it may be selected randomly from a plurality of preset timings within the displayable period of the inserted image at each stage, or each time an indefinite display is performed based on a predetermined calculation formula Alternatively, the display timing may be calculated and determined.

  (2) In the pachinko machine according to the technical idea (1), the pachinko machine includes standard timing storage means for storing the standard display timing of the inserted image at each stage stored in the inserted image storage means, and the insertion Delay setting means for randomly determining an image display timing within a range of the displayable period stored in the display period storage means and within a range later than the standard display timing stored in the standard timing storage means The display timing random determining means is configured to include the above.

  In the pachinko machine structured according to the technical idea (2), it is possible to perform display control for delaying the display timing of the inserted image from the standard display timing displayed in many cases. As a result, the insertion image is not displayed at the standard timing at which the insertion image will be displayed, thereby giving the player the impression that the insertion image is not displayed, and then the insertion image is displayed. By displaying it, the player can be surprised, and even if the inserted image is not displayed at the standard timing, the player can expect that it may be displayed late. It becomes possible to perform display control that can increase interest in the effect display.

  (3) In the pachinko machine according to the technical idea (1), the pachinko machine includes standard timing storage means for storing the standard display timing of the inserted image at each stage stored in the inserted image storage means, and the previous stage If the display timing of the inserted image is determined by the display timing random determining means before the standard display timing of the inserted image at the previous stage, the display timing of the inserted image at the subsequent stage is determined. And a timing shift means for storing the standard display timing of the inserted image of the stage immediately before the inserted image of the subsequent stage in the standard timing storage means.

  In the pachinko machine structured according to the technical idea (3), when an inserted image at a certain stage is displayed at a timing earlier than the standard timing, the display timing of the inserted image at the subsequent stage is It is possible to shift to the standard display timing of the previous stage and display. As a result, it is possible to display the inserted image at the subsequent stage on the normal standard display timing, and to perform display control to align the display interval at which the inserted image is displayed with the normal display timing. Is possible. Therefore, it is possible to make the timing difference of the inserted image displayed earlier than the standard display timing stand out, and display control for clearly transmitting the change of the display timing of the inserted image to the player. Can be done.

10: Pachinko machine, 30: gaming area, 34: liquid crystal display, 36a: left special symbol, 36b: middle special symbol, 36c: right special symbol, 40: start opening, 46: big prize opening, 48: door, 50a : First notice character, 50b: Second notice character, 50c: Third notice character, 50d: Fourth notice character, 52: Main control circuit, 54: Display control circuit

Claims (1)

A jackpot determination means for alternatively determining whether the game ball wins at a start winning opening provided in the game area, or a jackpot that generates a gaming state more advantageous to the player than the slippage;
A variation mode storage means for storing a plurality of variation modes of the variation symbol displayed on the symbol display device provided in the game area;
A variation mode selection unit that selects one variation mode from the plurality of variation modes stored in the variation mode storage unit based on a determination result of the jackpot determination unit;
Notification means for issuing the change mode selected by the change mode selection means as a notification start command;
Production mode storage means for storing a plurality of production modes;
Effect mode selection means for selecting any one effect mode from the plurality of effect modes stored in the effect mode storage means based on the variation mode of the notification start command issued from the notification means;
Effect image storage means for storing a plurality of effect images;
Effect image display means for displaying the effect image stored in the effect image storage means on the symbol display device based on the effect mode selected by the effect mode selection means;
Inserted image storage means for storing a plurality of inserted images having different appearances in association with any one of a plurality of predetermined stages;
Display period storage means for storing a displayable period of the insertion image at each stage stored in the insertion image storage means;
Stage display determination means for determining whether to perform stage display for displaying the inserted image based on the notification start command issued from the notification means;
When the determination result of the step display determination means performs the step display, the step number determination means for determining the number of steps to be displayed;
Display timing storage means for storing the display timing of the inserted image associated with each stage determined by the stage number determination means;
When the determination result of the step display determination means performs the step display, it is not determined whether or not to perform the indefinite display for the inserted image associated with the step determined by the step number determination means. Timed display determination means;
When the determination result of the indefinite time display determination unit performs indefinite time display, the display timing of the inserted image is determined at random from the range of the displayable period stored in the display period storage unit. , Display timing random determination means stored in the display timing storage means,
When the determination result of the step display determination unit performs the step display, the insertion images stored in the insertion image storage unit are stored in accordance with the display timing stored in the display timing storage unit. Stage display means for displaying over the effect image;
Standard timing storage means for storing a standard display timing of the inserted image at each stage stored in the inserted image storage means, and
The displayable period of the inserted image at each stage stored in the display period storage means includes the standard display timing and is set to be different from each other. A pachinko machine that is set so that at least a part of the displayable periods overlap, and is further set so that the display order of the inserted images at a stage not adjacent to each other is not changed.

Images