JP5073261B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine that performs variable display of identification information.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a variable display can be performed when a predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied, such as a game ball passing through a start area provided in a game area where a launched game ball can roll. Variable display control means is provided for controlling the display of the identification information in a variable manner on the display area of the apparatus, and for controlling the display of the identification information on which the variable display is performed. There is provided a game in which the game state is shifted to a big hit gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is advantageous to the player in the case of (specific display mode).

  In such a gaming machine, for example, after the above-described big hit gaming state is completed, for example, a probability change state in which it is easy to shift to the big hit gaming state, a normal gaming state in which it is difficult to shift from the positive change state to the big hit gaming state, and the like. In the probability variation state, the probability of shifting to the big hit gaming state is set higher than in the normal gaming state.

In this type of gaming machine, for example, as shown in Patent Document 1, operating means that can be operated by a player are provided, and depending on the operation of the operating means, is a big hit in the variable display of the current identification information? What is recognizable is disclosed.
JP 2005-204941 A

  However, in the above-described gaming machine, whether or not a big hit is obtained in the variable display of the identification information this time can be recognized only before the result of the variable display of the identification information is derived and displayed. This operation is not advantageous to the player at all, and the significance of the operation by the operation means may be lost.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by improving the significance of the operation means. .

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.

(1) Variable display means for variably displaying identification information, and control for shifting to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player when the result of variable display of identification information in the variable display means is in a specific display mode And a probability variation state in which the probability that the result of variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display mode after the jackpot game state controlled by the jackpot game control means is finished is relatively high A transition gaming state determination means for determining whether to shift to a relatively low normal gaming state, a gaming state control means for performing control to shift to the gaming state determined by the transition gaming state determination means, And an operating means that can be operated by a player, and the transition gaming state determining means is determined to be shifted to a probability variation state Sometimes, it is possible to recognize that the big hit gaming state is transferred to the probability variation state after the big hit gaming state is completed on condition that the operation means is operated during the big hit gaming state transferred by the big hit gaming control means. Determining whether or not to perform notification by the gaming state notification means when there is an operation by the operating means during the big hit gaming state transferred by the big hit gaming control means Notification determining means, and a symbol display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols in a plurality of symbol display areas , wherein the notification determining means indicates a result of variable display of symbols in the plurality of symbol display areas, Variable display result determining means for determining whether or not to make a special display mode, the special display mode is a probability variation by the transition gaming state determination unit A combination of special symbols determined when it is determined to be transferred to a state, and a normal gaming state when it is determined that the transition gaming state determination means shifts to a probability variation state and when the transition gaming state determination means A combination of specific symbols that is determined when it is determined that the transition is to be made, and the variable display result determination means is only when the transition gaming state determination means determines that the transition to the probability variation state is made. The combination of the special symbols is determined with a predetermined probability, and when it is determined that the transition gaming state determination means shifts to the probability variation state, the transition gaming state determination means shifts to the normal gaming state. And determining the combination of the specific symbols with a higher probability than when it is determined that the game state notification means is configured to output the operating hand during the jackpot gaming state. On the condition that there has been an operation according to the above, there is a derivation display means for deriving and displaying the result of the variable display of the symbol determined by the variable display result determination means, the operation means, each of the plurality of symbol display areas The symbols in the symbol display area corresponding to the operation means out of the plurality of symbol display areas are displayed on the condition that there is an operation by the operation means during the jackpot gaming state. Display control means for performing, pseudo notification means for performing pseudo notification in a manner difficult to distinguish from notification by the gaming state notification means when it is determined by the transition gaming state determination means that the transition to the probability variation state is not performed, Whether or not to perform pseudo notification by the pseudo notification unit when an operation by the operation unit is performed during the big hit gaming state is performed by the notification determination unit. Pseudo notification determining means for determining at a second probability different from the first probability determined in the above, the pseudo notification means when the pseudo notification determining means determines to perform the pseudo notification A gaming machine having a function of performing pseudo notification .

( 2 ) In the gaming machine according to ( 1 ), a variable winning device that can be varied between a first state that is relatively easy to win and a second state that is relatively difficult to win, and the jackpot game control means. Round control execution means for executing round control in which the variable winning device is set to the first state and then to the second state by establishment of a predetermined condition up to a predetermined number of times during the jackpot gaming state transferred by , And the notification determining unit has a function of determining whether or not to perform notification by the gaming state notification unit for each round control executed by the round control execution unit.

  According to the invention described in (1), after the jackpot gaming state is ended on condition that there is an operation by the operating means during the jackpot gaming state when it is determined to shift to the probability variation state. Notification is given in a manner that allows the transition to the probability variation state to be recognized. Therefore, it is possible to recognize whether or not the gaming state after the jackpot gaming state has ended is a probability variation state by operating the operating means during the jackpot gaming state, and it becomes a guideline for whether or not to continue the game Therefore, it is possible to create an advantageous state in which the game state can be recognized by the operation of the operation means, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game by improving the significance of the operation means.

In addition , it is determined whether or not to notify in a manner in which it is possible to recognize the transition to the probability variation state after the big hit gaming state is ended when there is an operation by the operating means during the big hit gaming state. Therefore, since it is determined whether or not to be notified on the condition that there is an operation by the operating means during the big hit gaming state when it is determined to shift to the probability variation state, the normal game is not notified. Even if the game state is actually changed to the normal game state without easily recognizing the change to the state, it is possible to give a sense of expectation to the probability variation state and to improve the interest in the game. .
In addition, it is determined whether or not the result of variable display of symbols in a plurality of symbol display areas is set as a special display mode. Then, the result of variable display of the determined symbol is derived and displayed on condition that there is an operation by the operating means during the big hit gaming state. Therefore, by operating the operation means, it is possible to recognize whether or not the symbols in the plurality of symbol display areas that are derived and displayed have a special display mode. Can be enhanced and the interest in games can be improved.
In addition, the operation means is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of symbol display areas, and the operation of the plurality of symbol display areas is performed on condition that there is an operation by the operation means during the big hit gaming state. The symbol in the symbol display area corresponding to the operated means is stopped and displayed. Therefore, when the operation means is operated, the symbols can be stopped and displayed in the symbol display area corresponding to the operation means, and every time the operation means is operated, a special display mode is expected. It can be raised and the interest in games can be improved.
In addition, when it is determined that the state is not shifted to the probability variation state, it is possible to recognize that when the operation means is operated in the big hit gaming state, the transition to the probability fluctuation state is performed after the big hit gaming state is ended. Whether or not to perform pseudo notification, which is an aspect that is difficult to identify, is determined with a second probability different from the first probability of determining whether or not to perform the notification described above. Therefore, since it becomes possible to recognize whether or not the transition to the probability variation state is made depending on the ratio of notification and pseudo notification, that is, depending on the notification probability, and it becomes a guideline whether or not to continue the game, It is possible to create an advantageous state in which the state can be recognized, and it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by improving the significance of the operation means.

According to the invention described in ( 2 ), the round control in which the variable winning device is set to the first state in which the winning is easy and the second state in which the winning is difficult due to the establishment of the predetermined condition is performed in the big hit gaming state. Executes the maximum number of times Then, for each round control to be executed, it is determined whether or not to notify in a manner in which it is possible to recognize the transition to the probability variation state after the jackpot gaming state has ended. Therefore, in order to determine whether or not to notify each round control, by giving the opportunity to enable the notification multiple times, further improving the significance of the operation means operation, improving the interest of the game Can be achieved.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the interest of the game by improving the significance of the operation means.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Composition of gaming machine]
An overview of the gaming machine in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the embodiment described below, a case where the present invention is applied to a first type pachinko gaming machine (also referred to as “digital pachi”) is shown as a preferred embodiment for a gaming machine according to the present invention.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a gaming machine main body 3a to which the gaming board 2 is mounted so as to be rotatable to a wooden base frame 3b fixed to the island facility via a hinge. (In other words, the gaming machine main body 3a is supported by using one end of the gaming machine main body 3a as a rotation fulcrum and is attached to the base frame 3b so as to be freely opened and closed.) The gaming machine main body 3 is configured by the frame 3b. And with respect to the gaming machine main body 3a of such a gaming machine main body 3, a glass door 9 and an upper plate (ball) that covers the speakers 8a and 8b, the liquid crystal display (LCD) 21, and the gaming board 2 so as to be visible. 4), a lower plate part 5, a cover 6, a handle 7a, and an ashtray 7b.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the game board 2 is surrounded by a rail 11 and has a game area 2a in which game balls can flow down. The game area 2a includes a number of obstacles (not shown) such as game nails and windmills, a general winning port 12, a passing gate 13, a grand winning port 15, an out port 16, a starting winning port 14, and A gaming member comprising a start winning opening 17 having a normal electric accessory 18 is arranged.

  Here, the general winning opening 12 is a device in which a predetermined number of game balls are paid out when a game ball is won. The passing gate 13 is a device for changing and stopping a plurality of symbols displayed in the normal symbol display area when a game ball has passed. The start winning ports 14 and 17 are devices for changing and stopping the special symbols displayed on the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b on condition that the game ball has won. The special winning opening 15 is a special symbol combination (a jackpot display mode) in which a special symbol combination when the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b are stopped is a jackpot display state (a jackpot gaming state) When the process shifts to a so-called big hit, the door opens and closes a predetermined number of times under a predetermined condition according to a predetermined setting (that is, the big winning opening 15 is easy to accept a game ball a predetermined number of times). It is a device that is controlled so as to change between a state of 1 and a second state that is difficult to accept, and an operation that changes between the first state and the second state is called a round operation. That is, the big winning opening 15 corresponds to an example of a variable winning device that can be changed between a first state in which a winning is relatively easy and a second state in which a winning is relatively difficult. The out port 16 is a device for collecting and collecting game balls that have not won any of the general winning port 12, the starting winning ports 14, 17 and the big winning port 15.

  The passing gate 13 detects a passing game ball. The game ball that has passed through the passing gate 13 is stored as passing memory information, and based on this passing memory information, a variable display of symbols in the normal symbol display area is performed. Further, four normal symbol memory LEDs (not shown) for displaying the number of passage memories of the passage gate 13 are provided on the upper right side of the game area 2a. The number of stored game balls that have passed through the passage gate 13 can be displayed by the number of lighting of the normal symbol memory LEDs.

  In the above normal symbol display area, for example, two normal symbols blink alternately, and when the reduction of the two normal symbols is completed and “win” is displayed, the normal electric accessory The start winning opening 17 provided at 18 switches to the first state in which it is easy to accept the game ball for a predetermined time.

  Instead of the normal symbol display area, two normal symbol display LEDs may be provided at an arbitrary place on the game board 2, and "winning" may be displayed by blinking these LEDs. Further, the two normal symbol display LEDs can be constituted by, for example, a 7-segment display. In this case, numbers such as “0”, “1”, “2”,... “7”, “8”, “9”, etc. are displayed in a variable manner as normal symbols displayed on the 7-segment display. The case where the stop-displayed number becomes “3” or “7” is defined as “winning”.

  The start winning port 17 has a receiving port for receiving a game ball, and includes an opening / closing mechanism that can be switched between a first state in which the game ball is easily received and a second state in which it is difficult to receive the game ball. Device. The start winning port 17 is in a second state in which it is difficult to accept a game ball in a normal state, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, the normal symbol in the normal symbol display area means “win”). In the case of stopping with a symbol), it is switched to the first state in which it is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds) and it is easy to accept a game ball. A predetermined number of game balls are paid out when a game ball wins the receiving port.

  The winning balls to the start winning ports 14 and 17 can be memorized, and based on this memorized memory, the special symbols on the two special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b provided at predetermined positions on the game board 2 are stored. Fluctuation display is performed. In the center of the game area 2a, four special symbol storage LEDs for displaying the number of winning prizes stored in the start winning openings 14, 17 are provided. Based on the number of lighting of the special symbol memory LED, the number of winning prizes stored in the start winning holes 14, 17 can be displayed.

  In addition, as a type of variable display result of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b, a special display mode indicating that the special big hit (probable big hit) has been made, and a non-special big hit (normal big hit). There are three types, a non-special display mode to be shown and a non-big hit mode to indicate that the game has been lost. That is, the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b perform variable display of the special symbol (identification information). In the present embodiment, the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b that perform variable display of such special symbols correspond to an example of variable display means. These special display mode, non-special display mode, and non-big hit mode will be described in detail later.

  Note that the big win game state means, for example, for a player who makes it easier to win more game balls than in the normal game state when the big prize opening SOL (solenoid) opens and closes the door of the big prize opening 15 a predetermined number of times. This is an advantageous gaming state.

  When the special symbol variation display result becomes a special display mode (that is, when the probability variation big hit), the probability variation with a high probability that the special symbol variation display result in the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b becomes the big hit display mode after the big hit gaming state is finished. Transition to a state (probability variation state). On the other hand, when the display mode of the special symbol becomes a non-special display mode (that is, when it becomes a normal big hit), after the big hit gaming state is ended, the state is shifted to the normal gaming state. In other words, the probability variation state is a gaming state in which the result of the variable display of the identification information has a relatively high probability of being in a specific display mode (big hit). This is a gaming state in which the probability of a mode (big hit) is relatively low.

  In the present embodiment, the above-mentioned winning memory number and passing memory number are displayed on the normal symbol memory LED and the special symbol memory LED, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited to this and is displayed by other display methods. May be. For example, it may be displayed in the display area 21a.

  Further, on the back surface of the game board 2, a display having a display area 21a capable of displaying an effect image (for example, an animation corresponding to a game state or other notification information; hereinafter referred to as an “effect information image”) or the like. A liquid crystal display (LCD) 21 which is a device is arranged.

  The liquid crystal display device 21 displays an arbitrary image on the display area 21a based on an instruction from the image control circuit.

  The display area 21a of the liquid crystal display device 21 includes an information display area for displaying effect images and other notification information, a normal symbol display area (normal symbol display device) for displaying normal symbols in a variable manner, and a decorative symbol (identification). It includes a decorative symbol display area (variable display device) that performs variable display of symbols.

  In the present embodiment, the decorative symbols are composed of three columns of symbols, left symbol, middle symbol, and right symbol arranged in the horizontal direction, and are variably displayed so as to rotate from top to bottom. That is, the liquid crystal display device 21 variably displays a plurality of types of decorative symbols in a plurality (a plurality of columns) of symbol display areas. In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 21 that performs variable display of such decorative symbols corresponds to an example of symbol display means. The arrangement of the decorative symbols will be described in detail later. However, the decorative symbols do not have to be three symbols, and the variation display mode may be the horizontal direction or the front-rear direction instead of the vertical direction.

  In the present embodiment, the square display area 21a may be larger or smaller than the game area 2a. Further, the shape of the display area 21a is not limited to a square, and may be another shape. For example, it may be circular.

  In the present embodiment in which the game board 2 is transparent, the display area 21 a of the liquid crystal display device 21 is disposed so as to be visible through the game board 2. Further, instead of the liquid crystal display device 21, for example, a CRT (cathode ray tube) or a plasma display can be used.

  Further, one end of each of the glass door 9 and the upper plate portion 4 is pivotally supported by the gaming machine main body 3a, and the other end is engaged with the gaming machine main body 3a. The glass door 9 covers the game board 2 so as to be visible.

  At a predetermined position of the upper plate part 4, a shutter lever 10 is provided that is operated when the game ball stored in the upper plate part 4 is moved to the lower plate part 5 to be described later and taken out at the end of the game. Yes.

  The lower tray part 5 located on the lower side of the upper dish part 4 is fixed to the gaming machine main body part 3a, and has a storage surface 5a for storing game balls overflowed from the upper dish part 4 by payout. .

  A handle 7a is provided on the left side of the lower plate part 5. The handle 7a is rotated when a game ball is driven into the game area 2a of the game board 2 via the rail 11, and is provided with a stop button (not shown) for stopping the launch of the game ball. ing. Further, an ashtray 7b is provided on the right side of the lower tray part 5 for the convenience of a player who plays a game while smoking. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is different from many conventional gaming machines in that the handle 7a is provided on the left side and the ashtray 7b is provided on the right side, that is, the left and right are opposite to each other.

  The cover 6 located on the upper side of the glass door 9 is fixed to the gaming machine main body 3a, and on the left and right sides of the cover 6, there are a number of slits respectively corresponding to the left and right speakers 8a and 8b provided on the gaming machine main body 3a. Is formed so that the sound from the speakers 8a and 8b can be heard. The speakers 8a and 8b have a function of outputting a predetermined sound (for example, music corresponding to a gaming state or other notification information).

  An operation button 50 that can be operated by a player is provided on the front surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The operation buttons 50 include a left symbol stop button (hereinafter referred to as “left button”) 50a, a middle symbol stop button (hereinafter referred to as “middle button”) 50b, and a right symbol stop button (hereinafter referred to as “right button”). .) 50c, and are arranged in parallel in the horizontal direction.

  These left button 50a, middle button 50b and right button 50c are electrically connected to a sub CPU 301 which will be described later. When the left button 50a is pressed, the left symbol stop signal is input to the sub CPU 301. When the middle button 50b is pressed, the middle symbol stop signal is input to the sub CPU 301. When the right button 50c is pressed, the right symbol stop signal is input to the sub CPU 301. It is like that.

  The left symbol stop signal is a signal for stopping and displaying the left symbol in the decorative symbol row being variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 301 that has received this signal performs control for stopping and displaying the left symbol in the symbol row being variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21. That is, the left button 50a corresponds to the left symbol, and when the left button 50a is pressed, the left symbol is stopped and displayed.

  The middle symbol stop signal is a signal for stopping and displaying the middle symbol in the symbol sequence of the decorative symbols that are variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 301 that has received this signal performs control for stopping and displaying the middle symbols in the symbol row being variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21. That is, the middle button 50b corresponds to the middle symbol, and when the middle button 50b is pressed, the middle symbol is stopped and displayed.

  The right symbol stop signal is a signal for stopping and displaying the right symbol in the symbol string of the decorative symbols being variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 301 that has received this signal performs control for stopping and displaying the right symbol in the symbol row being variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21. That is, the right button 50c corresponds to the right symbol, and when the right button 50c is pressed, the right symbol is stopped and displayed.

  That is, the left button 50a, the middle button 50b, and the right button 50c have a function of stopping the decorative symbols that are variably displayed (that is, the left symbol, the middle symbol, and the right symbol), respectively. Note that the operation button 50 in the present embodiment can be operated by the player, and corresponds to an example of operation means provided corresponding to each of the plurality of symbol display areas.

  As described above, since the handle 7a is provided on the left side, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the left hand operates the handle 7a while the right hand is at the front edge of the upper platen portion 4. The decorative pattern that is changing is stopped by pressing the left button 50a, the middle button 50b, and the right button 50c at a desired timing.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
Next, a control system of the pachinko gaming machine 1 having the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control system of the gaming machine shown in FIG.

  The control system of the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a main control circuit 200, a sub control circuit 300 connected to the main control circuit 200, a payout control circuit 70a, and a launch control circuit 70b. This control system is mounted on the back side of the game board 2.

  A card unit 81 is connected to the payout control circuit 70a of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The card unit 81 is installed in the vicinity of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and has an insertion slot into which a prepaid card can be inserted, and reads the recorded information recorded on the prepaid card inserted into the insertion slot. In accordance with the operation of the means, the ball lending operation panel 55 (see FIG. 3), the lending command signal output means for outputting the lending command signal for instructing the lending of the game ball to the payout control circuit 70a, and the reading means are read. Writing means for subtracting the number of loans commanded by the lending command signal output means from the lending possible number specified from the record information and recording the information on the prepaid card inserted in the insertion port. is doing.

  The main control circuit 200 includes a main CPU (ultra-compact processing unit) 201 that controls the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a preset program, and a lamp control circuit 207 that controls lighting of the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b. , An initial reset circuit 204 that generates a reset signal for starting the program from the beginning at the time of abnormality or power-on, a main RAM 203 that stores various data necessary for the main CPU 201 to operate, and the main CPU 201 is the pachinko machine 1 A program for processing and controlling game operations, a jackpot determination table referred to when determining a big hit by random number lottery, a normal hit determination table referred to when determining a normal hit by random number lottery, a variable display pattern of special symbols Variable display pattern selection that is referred to when determining Table, and the main ROM202 that stores various probability table is referred to when drawing other effect is implemented.

  The main RAM 203 has a holding memory counter for counting the holding memory stored in a holding memory area (“0” to “4”) described later, the number of passing memories counted by the main CPU 201 (the passing ball of the passing gate 13). Pass memory counter for storing the number), a big prize winning prize counter for memorizing the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening 15 during the operation of one round, and during one big hit gaming state There is provided a grand prize opening number counter for storing the number of times the door of the big prize opening 15 is opened (that is, the number of round operations in one big hit gaming state).

  The main RAM 203 has a reserved storage area (“0” to “4”). The reserved storage area refers to the jackpot determination random number extracted on the condition that the game ball has passed through the start area provided in the start winning openings 14 and 17 in order from the reserved storage area “0”. It is an area that is stored. In addition, the combination in which the jackpot determination random number value or the like is stored in the reserved storage area (“1” to “4”) is displayed on the special symbol storage LED according to the stored number, and the reserved storage area “0” is stored. The random number value for jackpot determination stored in “” is used for jackpot determination.

  Further, the main RAM 203 has a high probability flag. Here, (77) can be set in the high probability flag when the gaming state is shifted to the probable change state, while (00) is set when the gaming state is shifted to the normal gaming state. Yes. The main CPU 201 functions as various means described later.

  The I / O port 205 of the main control circuit 200 is provided on the inner side of the pass gate 13 and starts a pass gate SW (switch) 19Sa, which is a sensor for detecting the passing of a game ball, and start winning ports 14, 17 Start ports SW19a and 19b, which are sensors provided in the area and detect game balls that have passed through the start area of the start winning ports 14 and 17, are connected.

  Further, the I / O port 205 is provided in a passing area in the special winning opening 15 and detects a game ball that has won a prize in the general winning opening 12 as a count SW 19Se that is a sensor for detecting a gaming ball passing through the passing area. A general winning opening SW19Sb, which is a sensor to be used, and a backup clear SW74S for erasing various data stored in the main RAM 203 are connected.

  Further, the following components are connected to the I / O port 205. That is, actuators such as a movable member SOL (solenoid) 71S for driving the movable blades 18a and 18b of the ordinary electric accessory 18 and a large winning opening SOL (solenoid) 72S for opening and closing the door of the large winning opening 15 are connected.

  Here, when each of the sensors detects a game ball, the detection signal is input to the main CPU 201 of the main control circuit 200. Therefore, the main CPU 201 determines that each of the actuators 71S and 72S corresponds to the input detection signal. Are driven and controlled.

  Control commands (commands) are transmitted from the command output port 206 of the main control circuit 200 to the sub control circuit 300, the payout control circuit 70a, and the launch control circuit 70b, respectively.

  The sub-control circuit 300 that has received this control command (command) controls the operation of the liquid crystal display device 21, the speakers 8a and 8b, and the lamp / LED 39a, and the payout control circuit 70a and the launch that have received this control command (command). Operations of the dispensing device 82 and the launching device 90 are controlled by the control circuit 70b.

  The payout control circuit 70a is connected to a payout device 82 for paying out award balls and rental balls. The payout control circuit 70a drives and controls the payout device 82 in accordance with a payout command signal output from the main control circuit 200 on condition that a game ball has entered the general winning opening 12 and the big winning opening 15 and the like. A number of game balls are paid out as prize balls. Also, the payout control circuit 70a controls the payout device 82 in accordance with the payout command signal output from the card unit 81, and pays out a predetermined number of game balls as the payable balls.

  A launch device 90 that launches a game ball toward the game area 2a is connected to the launch control circuit 70b. Further, the launch control circuit 70b causes the launching device 90 to launch a game ball by drivingly controlling the launch solenoid in accordance with the turning operation of the handle 7a.

  Next, the configuration of the sub control circuit 300 will be described. The sub control circuit 300 includes a sub CPU 301, a program ROM 302, a work RAM 303, a command input port 304, an image control circuit 305, an audio control circuit 306, and a lamp control circuit 307. As described above, the left button 50a, the middle button 50b, and the right button 50c are connected to the sub CPU 301.

  In the program ROM 302, the sub CPU 301 controls the image control circuit 305 for processing control based on various commands output from the main control circuit 200, and the sound control circuit 306 for processing control. A control program, a control program for controlling the processing of the lamp control circuit 307, data on a plurality of types of notification modes, and the like are stored.

  The work RAM 303 serves as a temporary storage unit when the sub CPU 301 performs processing control according to the control program, and includes a reception buffer area (not shown) for storing commands transmitted from the main CPU 201, and processing. A work area (not shown) for storing data necessary for control is allocated.

  The sub CPU 301 determines a command received from the main control circuit 200 via the command input port 304, and controls the image control circuit 305, the sound control circuit 306, the lamp control circuit 307, and the like according to the determination result. The sub CPU 301 functions as various means described later.

  The image control circuit 305 executes display of a variable game or the like in the display area 21a in response to an instruction from the sub CPU 301 (instruction based on the effect data set in a predetermined work area of the work RAM 303). Image data ROM (image data storage means) 305b for storing various image data and corresponding image data are extracted from the image data ROM 305b in accordance with control from the sub CPU 301, and based on the extracted image data, a variable game, A VDP (Video Display Processor) 305a for generating data for executing display of an effect image and the like, and a D / A conversion circuit (D / A converter) 305d for converting the display image data generated by the VDP 305a into an analog signal; It comprises.

  For example, the image control circuit 305 performs an image display control process for causing the display area 21a to display a variable game or an effect image corresponding to the result of the big hit determination based on an instruction from the sub CPU 301.

  The image data ROM 305b also includes identification information image data for variably displaying the decorative symbol in the decorative symbol display area of the display area 21a, and a normal symbol image for variably displaying the normal symbol in the normal symbol display area of the display area 21a. Data, effect image data for displaying the effect image in the regular display area of the display area 21a, and the like are stored. Here, each image data includes a plurality of pieces of image data (data in dot units) necessary to display each image data in the display area 21a.

  Here, a VRAM 305c having two buffer areas is connected to the VDP 305a. The VDP 305a performs the following processing when generating data for executing display in the display area 21a based on an instruction from the sub CPU 301 transmitted every predetermined time (for example, 1/30 second).

  The VDP 305a reads predetermined image data from the image data ROM 305b, develops it to the VRAM 305c, and reads the decompressed image data from the VRAM 305c. Specifically, the VDP 305a performs expansion processing on one buffer area provided in the VRAM 305c, and reads image data that has already been expanded from the other buffer area. Next, the VDP 305 a switches between a buffer area to be expanded and a buffer area to be read based on an instruction from the sub CPU 301. The VDP 305a displays the read image data on the display area 21a via the D / A conversion circuit 305d.

  In this embodiment, the VRAM is used as a storage device for developing image data. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other storage devices may be used. For example, an SDRAM that can read and write data at high speed may be used.

  Speakers 8 a and 8 b are connected to the audio control circuit 306. The sound control circuit 306 generates a sound signal based on the control of the sub CPU 301. The speakers 8a and 8b generate sound based on the input sound signal.

  A lamp / LED 39 a is connected to the lamp control circuit 307. The lamp control circuit 307 generates a signal based on the control of the sub CPU 301. The lamp / LED 39a performs lighting display of lamps and LEDs (for example, a normal symbol memory LED, a special symbol memory LED, etc.) provided in various places of the pachinko gaming machine 1 based on this input signal.

  In this way, the speakers 8a and 8b, the lamp / LED 39a, and the liquid crystal display device 21 perform an effect based on the effect data set (control program) by the sub CPU 301.

  Each process in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled by the main control circuit 200 and the sub control circuit 300. The main control circuit 200 processes all or part of the processes controlled by the sub control circuit 300. Alternatively, the sub control circuit 300 may process all or part of the processing controlled by the main control circuit 200.

[Special design LED]
The special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b in the pachinko gaming machine 1 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b are composed of two 7-segment indicators and the like. These special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b can respectively derive and display 21 types of special symbols shown in FIG.

  Specifically, the special symbol is displayed as “-” displayed as symbol number 01, “0” displayed as symbol number 02, “1” displayed as symbol number 03, and symbol number 04. Displayed as symbol number 05, “3” displayed as symbol number 05, “4” displayed as symbol number 06, “5” displayed as symbol number 07, and symbol number 08. “6”, “7” displayed as symbol number 09, “8” displayed as symbol number 10, “9” displayed as symbol number 11, and “0” displayed as symbol number 12 .. ”,“ 1. ”displayed as symbol number 13,“ 2. ”displayed as symbol number 14,“ 3. ”displayed as symbol number 15, and“ 16. ” “4.” is displayed as symbol number 17 "5." displayed as symbol number 18, "7." displayed as symbol number 19, "8." displayed as symbol number 20, and as symbol number 21 “9.” displayed. Since “.” Is displayed in a small size, for example, it is not easy to distinguish between “0” displayed as symbol number 02 and “0.” displayed as symbol number 12. .

  Further, as described above, these special symbols are derived and displayed as special display modes, non-special display modes, and non-hit modes. When the special symbol is derived and displayed as a special display mode or a non-special display mode, it is a big hit and the game is shifted to the big hit gaming state. In addition, when the special symbol is displayed as a special display mode, after the jackpot gaming state is ended, the state is shifted to a probability change state, and when the special symbol is displayed as a non-special display mode, after the jackpot gaming state is ended. The game state is shifted to the normal gaming state. When the special symbol is derived and displayed as a non-hit display mode, the game is out of play, and the probability change state and the normal game state are maintained without shifting to the big win game state.

  Specifically, as a non-hit display mode, the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b include a combination of symbol number 01 and symbol number 01.

  Further, as a non-special display mode, as shown in FIG. 5, the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b include a combination of symbol number 11 and symbol number 12, a combination of symbol number 10 and symbol number 13, symbol number 09, A combination of symbol number 14, a combination of symbol number 08 and symbol number 15, a combination of symbol number 07 and symbol number 16, a combination of symbol number 06 and symbol number 17, a combination of symbol number 05 and symbol number 18 The combination of symbol number 04 and symbol number 19, the combination of symbol number 03 and symbol number 20, the combination of symbol number 02 and symbol number 21, the combination of symbol number 04 and symbol number 18, the symbol number 17 and symbol The combination of number 02, the combination of symbol number 08 and symbol number 11, the combination of symbol number 19 and symbol number 16, the combination of symbol number 13 and symbol number 05, and symbol number 06 A combination of symbol number 04, a combination of symbol number 11 and symbol number 13, a combination of symbol number 15 and symbol number 17, a combination of symbol number 20 and symbol number 19, and a combination of symbol number 02 and symbol number 20 The combination of symbol number 10 and symbol number 18, the combination of symbol number 03 and symbol number 09, the combination of symbol number 16 and symbol number 03, the combination of symbol number 07 and symbol number 15, and the symbol number 18 and symbol A combination of number 11, a combination of symbol number 14 and symbol number 12, a combination of symbol number 11 and symbol number 04, a combination of symbol number 15 and symbol number 07, a combination of symbol number 02 and symbol number 06, A combination of symbol number 09 and symbol number 10, a combination of symbol number 12 and symbol number 14, a combination of symbol number 16 and symbol number 12, and a combination of symbol number 19 and symbol number 11 A combination of symbol number 07 and symbol number 08; a combination of symbol number 08 and symbol number 19; a combination of symbol number 05 and symbol number 16; a combination of symbol number 13 and symbol number 20; The combination of symbol number 13 is included.

  Moreover, as a special display mode, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b include a combination of symbol number 08 and symbol number 16, a combination of symbol number 11 and symbol number 20, and a symbol number. 02, combination of symbol number 03, combination of symbol number 07, symbol number 02, combination of symbol number 15, symbol number 11, combination of symbol number 20, symbol number 05, symbol number 04, symbol number 09 The combination of symbol number 19 and symbol number 07, the combination of symbol number 13 and symbol number 14, the combination of symbol number 16 and symbol number 18, the combination of symbol number 02 and symbol number 19, and symbol number 03 The combination of symbol number 08, the combination of symbol number 19 and symbol number 02, the combination of symbol number 11 and symbol number 15, the combination of symbol number 08 and symbol number 10, and the symbol number 16, combination of symbol number 04, combination of symbol number 10, symbol number 17, combination of symbol number 15, symbol number 13, combination of symbol number 07, symbol number 11, symbol number 04, symbol number 16 A combination of symbol number 11 and symbol number 07; a combination of symbol number 20 and symbol number 15; a combination of symbol number 14 and symbol number 03; a combination of symbol number 03 and symbol number 10; The combination of symbol number 06, the combination of symbol number 18, symbol number 09, the combination of symbol number 17, symbol number 18, the combination of symbol number 09, symbol number 21, and the combination of symbol number 06, symbol number 02 The combination of symbol number 02 and symbol number 04, the combination of symbol number 19 and symbol number 20, the combination of symbol number 12 and symbol number 16, the symbol number 05 and symbol number 17 The combination of symbol number 21, symbol number 14, the combination of symbol number 04, symbol number 02, the combination of symbol number 08, symbol number 21, the combination of symbol number 17, symbol number 05, and symbol number 06 The combination of symbol number 13, the combination of symbol number 13 and symbol number 19, the combination of symbol number 20 and symbol number 08, the combination of symbol number 02 and symbol number 20, the combination of symbol number 10 and symbol number 09 A combination of symbol number 05 and symbol number 07, a combination of symbol number 21 and symbol number 03, a combination of symbol number 16 and symbol number 14, a combination of symbol number 03 and symbol number 15, and a symbol number 09, The combination of symbol number 06, the combination of symbol number 18, symbol number 21, the combination of symbol number 07, symbol number 12, the combination of symbol number 14, symbol number 08, and symbol number 0 5, combination of symbol number 05, combination of symbol number 09, symbol number 09, combination of symbol number 12, symbol number 11, combination of symbol number 13, symbol number 10, symbol number 14, symbol number 09 The combination of symbol number 15 and symbol number 08, the combination of symbol number 16 and symbol number 07, the combination of symbol number 17 and symbol number 06, the combination of symbol number 18 and symbol number 05, and symbol number 19 , A combination of symbol number 04, a combination of symbol number 20 and symbol number 03, and a combination of symbol number 21 and symbol number 02 are included.

  As described above, the non-big hit mode, the special display mode, and the non-special display mode can be easily identified. However, since “.” Is displayed in a small size as described above, Since there are as many as 100 combinations of symbols, the distinction between the special display mode and the non-special display mode is not easy, and depending on the result of the variable display of the decorative symbol executed in the big hit gaming state as described later Can be identified.

[Decorative design]
The decorative symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21 in the pachinko gaming machine 1 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG.

  As described above, in the display area 21 a of the liquid crystal display device 21, an image simulating the reel of the slot machine is displayed, and variable display of the decorative pattern in the left column, the decorative symbol in the middle column, and the decorative symbol in the right column is performed. Is called. As shown in FIG. 8, 21 decorative symbols are determined in a predetermined display order for each of the decorative symbol in the left column, the decorative symbol in the middle column, and the decorative symbol in the right column. This display order is stored in the program ROM 302 in the sub-control circuit 300 as a symbol arrangement table. In the symbol arrangement table, the symbol located at the middle stage of the liquid crystal display device 21 is defined as symbol position “0”, the symbol positions “0” to “20” corresponding to the symbol counter described above, and the symbol corresponding to each symbol position. The type is specified. Specifically, as the type of each symbol, red 7 (symbol 61), blue 7 (symbol 62), VThunder (symbol 63), VVersus (symbol 64), V (symbol 65), BAR (symbol 66), watermelon (Symbol 67), bell (symbol 68), cherry (symbol 69) or replay (symbol 70) are arranged. Each decorative symbol is displayed in a variable manner in the direction of the arrow.

[Pocket determination table]
The small combination determination table stored in the program ROM 302 in the pachinko gaming machine 1 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG. Even if the small role determination table described below is not stored in the program ROM 302, data and programs having such functions may be stored in the program ROM 302.

  The small combination determination table stored in the program ROM 302 is a table for determining a small combination for each round control at the time of probability variation big hit or normal big hit. In the small combination determination table, as shown in FIG. 9, a big hit type, a small combination, and a probability are stored in association with each other.

  Specifically, when the big hit type is a probable big hit, the bell is determined as a small role with a probability of “80%”, the cherry is determined as a small role with a probability of “5%”, and “15 % Is determined as a small role. On the other hand, when the big hit type is a normal big hit, a bell is determined as a small role with a probability of “60%”, a dismissal is determined as a small role with a probability of “40%”, and a cherry is selected as a small role. It will not be judged.

  In this way, the small combination is determined based on the big hit type. Also, in the case of a probable big hit, the probability that a bell or cherry is selected is higher than in the case of a normal big hit, and the probability that an outlier is selected is set low. In, cherry is never selected. For this reason, when the bell is determined as a small role and the decorative symbol is derived and displayed as a bell, the probability of a probabilistic big hit is high, the detachment is determined as a small character, and the decorative symbol is derived and displayed as a loss There is usually a high probability of being a big hit. In addition, when cherry is determined as a small role and a decorative symbol is derived and displayed as cherry, it is determined that it is a probable big hit. Therefore, the big hit type can be predicted by the small combination derived and displayed.

[Description of display screen]
Further, display screens related to the special symbol game executed in the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Description of special symbol game]
Special symbols are variably displayed on the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10A, when a special symbol is derived and displayed, when a predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied, as shown in FIG. 10B, the special symbol is displayed. The variable display is executed. Then, as shown in FIG. 10 (C), the special symbol that is displayed in a stopped state is in a non-hit state, and does not shift to the big-hit gaming state. As shown in FIG. 10D, the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state on condition that the gaming state is changed to the special display mode or the non-special display mode.

  In addition, on the display area 21a in the liquid crystal display device 21, a variable display of a plurality of decorative symbols for decorating the special symbols in the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b is performed. In the liquid crystal display device 21, as shown in FIG. 10A, an area 21L for displaying the left row of decorative symbols, an area 21C for displaying the middle row of decorative symbols, and an area for displaying the right row of decorative symbols. 21R. Specifically, when the special symbol is derived and displayed, the decorative symbol is also derived and displayed as shown in FIG. Then, when the predetermined variable display start condition described above is satisfied, the variable display of the decorative symbol is also executed as shown in FIG. Then, before the special symbol is derived and displayed, the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed in the left column, and thereafter, the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed in the middle column, and the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed in the right column. Then, as shown in FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D, the special symbol is derived and displayed at the timing when the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed, or after that timing. In FIG. 10, the state in which the operations of the left button 50a, the middle button 50b, and the right button 50c are invalidated is maintained.

  Further, when the game state shifts to the big hit gaming state, the operation of the left button 50a, the middle button 50b, and the right button 50c is validated for each round. In this case, the decorative symbol that has been derived and displayed as shown in FIG. 11A is displayed in a variable manner as shown in FIG. “Time!” “Increased probability expectation with bell” “Cherry is ...” is displayed, and the operation button 50 is activated. Then, as shown in FIG. 11C, when the left button 50a is pressed, the decorative symbols in the left column are stopped and displayed according to the operation, and as shown in FIG. When the button 50b is pressed, the middle row of decorative symbols is stopped and displayed according to the operation. When the right button 50c is pressed as shown in FIG. Accordingly, the decorative symbols in the right column are stopped and displayed. In addition, after the operation of the operation button 50 is validated and then the operation button 50 is operated once, the operation button on which the operation has been performed is invalidated. Then, every time one round is finished, as shown in FIG. 11 (F), a decorative symbol is derived and displayed. In this case, the decorative symbols are derived and displayed in such a manner that the bells are aligned.

  Similarly, in the next round, the decorative symbols derived and displayed as shown in FIG. 12 (A) are subjected to variable display and left button 50a as shown in FIG. 12 (B). The operation of the middle button 50b and the right button 50c is validated. Then, as shown in FIG. 12C, when the left button 50a is pressed, the decorative symbols in the left column are stopped and displayed according to the operation, and as shown in FIG. When the button 50b is pressed, the decorative symbols in the middle row are stopped and displayed according to the operation. When the right button 50c is pressed as shown in FIG. Accordingly, the decorative symbols in the right column are stopped and displayed. Then, as shown in FIG. 12 (F), the decorative symbols are derived and displayed. In this case, the decorative symbols are derived and displayed in such a manner that cherries are aligned as the decorative symbols in the left column.

  Depending on the display mode of the decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed in this way, it is possible to predict and recognize whether or not the game is in a probable change state or a normal game state after the end of the big hit game state. Specifically, when the decorative symbol is derived and displayed in the off mode, the probability that it is a probable big hit is low, and as shown in FIG. 11 (F), the decorative symbol is derived and displayed in a manner in which the bells are aligned. The probability of a probable big hit is high, and as shown in FIG. 12 (F), if a decorative symbol is derived and displayed in a manner in which cherries are aligned as a decorative symbol in the left column, it is determined that the probable big hit is Will be.

[Game machine operation]
The processing executed in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is shown in FIGS. 13 to 15 and FIGS. 17 to 25 below. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process (FIG. 15) performed with the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 13, initial setting processing such as RAM access permission, backup restoration processing, and work area initialization is executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 15, a special symbol control process relating to the progress of the special symbol game, the special symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21 and the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b, and the decorative symbols is executed (step S15). ). Then, the main CPU 201 executes a normal symbol control process related to the normal symbol displayed in the normal symbol display area in the normal symbol game progress (step S16). Then, the main CPU 201 executes a symbol display device control process for performing display control of variable display such as a special symbol in accordance with the execution results of step S15 and step S16 (step S19). As described above, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the processes in step S15, step S16, and step S19 are repeatedly executed.

[System timer interrupt processing]
Further, even when the main CPU 201 is executing the main process, the main CPU 201 may interrupt the main process and execute the system timer interrupt process. The following system timer interrupt process is executed according to a clock pulse generated every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). This system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 14, the main CPU 201 executes a random number update process so as to increase the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, and the like by “1” (step S42). Then, the main CPU 201 executes an input detection process for detecting the winning or passing of the game ball to the start winning opening 14, 17, etc. (step S43). In this process, the main CPU 201 stores, in a predetermined area of the main RAM 203, data indicating that a game ball is paid out (wins) on the condition that a game ball has been won at various winning ports. A waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 200 and the sub control circuit 300, a big prize opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 15 that is opened when a big hit occurs, Various timer update processes are executed (step S44). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor or the like (step S46). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

  In step S47, command output processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 supplies various commands to the sub control circuit 300. Specifically, these various commands include a demo display command, a derived symbol designation command indicating the type of special symbol derived and displayed, a variation pattern designation command indicating a variation display pattern of the special symbol, and the like. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S49.

  In the process of step S49, the main CPU 201 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 82 to perform a prize ball to the payout control circuit 70a. Specifically, the main CPU 201 supplies to the payout control circuit 70a a prize ball control command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls as a result of the game balls winning in various winning holes. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is returned to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S15 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 15, the numerical values drawn on the sides of step S72 to step S80 indicate the control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 15, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 201 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S72.

  In steps S72 to S80, which will be described later, the main CPU 201 determines whether or not to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag, as will be described later. This control state flag indicates the state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S72 to step S80 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 201 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined according to a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S72, a special symbol memory check process is executed. As will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 17, the main CPU 201 checks the number of holdings when the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check, and determines the big hit if there is a holding number. , Derived special symbol, variation pattern of special symbol, etc. are determined. Further, the main CPU 201 sets a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag, and sets the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the current process in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S73 is executed after the fluctuation time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern determined this time has elapsed. On the other hand, if there is no pending number, a demonstration display process for displaying a demonstration screen is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S73.

  In step S73, a special symbol variation time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 sets the control state flag to a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management, and when the variation time has elapsed, sets the value (02) indicating special symbol display time management to the control state flag. Set the waiting time after confirmation (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the processing of step S74 is executed after the waiting time after determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S74.

  In step S74, a special symbol display time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 determines whether or not it is a big hit when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time after determination has elapsed. In the case of a big hit, the main CPU 201 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time (for example, 10 seconds) corresponding to the big hit start interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the big hit start interval elapses, the setting of step S75 is performed. On the other hand, the main CPU 201 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when it is not a big hit. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S80. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S75. When the result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display mode (including a special display mode and a non-special display mode), the main CPU 201 that executes such processing enters a jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player. Control to be transferred is performed. The main CPU 201 executing such processing corresponds to an example of a big hit game control means.

  In step S75, a big hit start interval management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 has a value (03) indicating that the control status flag indicates the jackpot start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the jackpot start interval has elapsed, the main CPU 201 Based on the data read from the ROM 202, the variables positioned in the main RAM 203 are updated. The main CPU 201 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag, and stores data indicating the special winning opening open command indicating that the special winning opening 15 is opened in a predetermined area of the main RAM 203. At the same time, the opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) is set in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S77. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S76.

  In step S76, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 sets the special prize opening number counter to “0” when the control state flag is a value (06) indicating the big prize opening reopening waiting time management and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. Update the memory so that it increases by 1 ″. The main CPU 201 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open to the control state flag, and stores data indicating the special winning opening open command indicating that the special winning opening 15 is opened in a predetermined area of the main RAM 203. Set to. The main CPU 201 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S77. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S77.

  In step S77, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control status flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 201 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big prize opening time timer is “0” is satisfied (a predetermined closing condition is satisfied). The main CPU 201 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 203 in order to close the special winning opening 15 when any of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 201 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball residual ball in the control state flag. The main CPU 201 sets the winning ball remaining ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S78 is executed after the winning ball residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. Note that the main CPU 201 does not execute the above-described processing when none of the conditions is satisfied. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S78.

  In step S78, a special winning opening residual ball monitoring process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 indicates that the control state flag is a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball in the winning prize mouth, and when the remaining winning ball monitoring time in the winning game mouth has elapsed, It is determined whether or not the condition that the number of times of release is equal to or greater than the maximum value (the final round) is satisfied. When this condition is satisfied, the main CPU 201 sets a value (07) indicating the big hit end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the big hit end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit end interval has elapsed, the setting of step S79 is executed. On the other hand, when this condition is not satisfied, the main CPU 201 sets a value (06) indicating management of the special winning opening reopening waiting time in the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 201 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the setting of step S76 is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S79.

  In other words, the main CPU 66 performs round control for setting the second state by satisfying a predetermined condition such as winning a predetermined number of game balls, etc., for a predetermined number of times after the big winning opening 15 is set to the first state during the big hit gaming state. Will be executed as the upper limit. In the present embodiment, such a main CPU 201 corresponds to an example of a round control execution unit.

  In step S79, a big hit end interval process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 201 sets the value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed. Set to flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S80. The main CPU 201 performs control to shift to the probability variation state when the big hit symbol is a probability variation symbol, and performs control to shift to the normal gaming state when the big hit symbol is a non-probability variation symbol. Become. That is, the main CPU 201 shifts to the probable change state or shifts to the normal game state after the big win game state is ended depending on whether or not a predetermined game state transition condition such as the jackpot symbol is a probable variation symbol is satisfied. It is determined whether or not to be performed, and control to shift to the determined gaming state is performed. In the present embodiment, such a main CPU 201 corresponds to an example of a transition game state determination unit and a game state control unit. Further, when it is determined that the main CPU 201 shifts to the probability changing state, the main CPU 201 sets data indicating a game state command for shifting to the probability changing state in a predetermined area of the main RAM 203. Further, the data indicating the game state command indicating the transition to the probability change state set in this way is transferred from the main CPU 201 of the main control circuit 200 to the sub CPU 301 of the sub control circuit 300 by the process of step S47 in FIG. It is supplied as a gaming state command for transitioning to a state. As a result, the sub-control circuit 300 can recognize the shift to the probability changing state. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S80.

  In step S80, a special symbol game end process is executed. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 201 stores and updates the data indicating the number of holdings (starting storage information) so as to decrease by “1”. Then, the main CPU 201 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next fluctuation display. The main CPU 201 sets a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S72. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the main CPU 201 sets the control status flags to “00”, “01”, “02” By setting “08” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S80 shown in FIG. 15 is executed at a predetermined timing. In addition, when the main CPU 201 is not in the big hit gaming state, when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit, the main CPU 201 sets the control state flag in order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03”, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 15 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Further, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 201 sets the control state flags in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S77 shown in FIG. The processing of step S78 and step S76 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the specific game is executed. When a specific game is being executed and the end condition (specific game end condition) for the big hit gaming state is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, and “08” are set in this order. Thus, the processing from step S77 to step S80 shown in FIG. 15 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the big hit gaming state is terminated. The specific game ending condition is to end the big hit gaming state on condition that the maximum number of continuation of the big hit round (upper limit number of rounds) has ended.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 15 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 17, it is determined whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S101), and the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step S102. If it is not determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, this subroutine is terminated. In step S102, it is determined whether or not the reserved number is “0”. If it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number is “0”, the process proceeds to step S103, and the reserved number is stored. If it is not determined that the data indicating “0” is “0”, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S103, a demonstration display process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 stores in the main RAM 203 a variable for supplying a demo display command to the sub-control circuit 300 in order to perform a demo display. Thereby, the sub-control circuit 300 can recognize that the customer waiting state (predetermined waiting state) has been entered. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S104, a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 stores a value indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S105.

  In step S105, a big hit determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 reads out the high probability flag, and selects one jackpot determination table from a plurality of jackpot determination tables having different numbers of jackpot determination values (big hit determination values) based on the read high probability flag. . For example, in the jackpot determination table at normal time, two jackpot determination values are set, but in the jackpot determination table at high probability, ten jackpot determination values are set, and based on the high probability flag By selecting the jackpot determination table, the probability of shifting to the jackpot gaming state is different. Thus, when the high probability flag is a predetermined value (for example, “77”), that is, when the gaming state is a probable variation state, the probability of transition to the big hit gaming state (specify the result of variable symbol special display) The probability of the display mode is improved over the normal time. Then, the main CPU 201 refers to the jackpot determination random number extracted at the time of starting winning and the selected jackpot determination table. That is, the main CPU 201 determines whether or not to enter into a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player, and determines at least a result of variable display of identification information such as big hit and loss. In the present embodiment, the main CPU 201 that executes such processing corresponds to an example of a variable display result determination unit. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S106.

  In step S106, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit. In this process, the main CPU 201 determines whether or not it is a big hit based on the result of the reference in step S105. If the main CPU 201 determines that it is a big hit, it moves the process to step S107, and if it does not determine that it is a big hit, moves the process to step S108.

  In step S107, the main CPU 201 extracts the jackpot symbol random number extracted at the time of starting winning, determines a special symbol based on the jackpot symbol random value, and stores data indicating the special symbol in the main RAM 203 in a predetermined manner. Store in the area. Further, when determining that the special symbol is a special display mode (a display mode in which the jackpot symbol becomes a probable variation symbol), the main CPU 201 performs control for shifting to the probable variation state in step S79 described above. The data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied to the lamp control circuit 207. As a result, the lamp control circuit 207 derives and displays the special symbol on the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b. Further, the data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied as a derived symbol designation command from the main CPU 201 of the main control circuit 200 to the sub CPU 301 of the sub control circuit 300 by the process of step S47 in FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  On the other hand, in step S108, a missing symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 determines the off symbol as a special symbol and stores data indicating the special symbol in a predetermined area of the main RAM 203. The data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied to the lamp control circuit 207. As a result, the lamp control circuit 207 derives and displays the special symbol on the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b. Further, the data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied as a derived symbol designation command from the main CPU 201 of the main control circuit 200 to the sub CPU 301 of the sub control circuit 300 by the process of step S47 in FIG. As a result, in the sub control circuit 300, the decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol is derived and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In step S109, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 201 selects a variation pattern distribution table for determining a variation pattern based on the special symbol determined in steps S107 and S108. Then, the main CPU 201 determines a variation pattern based on the rendering condition selection random number extracted from the rendering condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores the variation pattern in a predetermined area of the main RAM 203. The main CPU 201 determines the variation display mode (in particular, the variation display time) of the special symbol based on the data indicating such a variation pattern. The data indicating the variation pattern thus stored is supplied to the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b. As a result, the special symbol display LEDs 23a and 23b are variably displayed with the variation pattern determined by the special symbol. Further, the data indicating the variation pattern stored in this way is supplied as a variation pattern designation command from the main CPU 201 of the main control circuit 200 to the sub CPU 301 of the sub control circuit 300 by the process of step S47 in FIG. The sub CPU 301 of the sub control circuit 300 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110.

  In step S110, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern in the waiting time timer is executed. In this process, the main CPU 201 calculates the fluctuation time based on the fluctuation pattern determined by the process of step S109 and the fluctuation time table indicating the fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern, and sets a value indicating the fluctuation time. Store in the waiting time timer. Then, a process of clearing the storage area used for the current variation display is executed (step S111). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Sub control circuit main processing]
On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 300 executes the sub-control circuit main process. The sub control circuit main process will be described with reference to FIG. The sub-control circuit main process is a process that starts when the power is turned on.

  First, as shown in FIG. 18, the sub CPU 301 executes initial setting processing such as RAM access permission and work area initialization (step S201). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S202.

  In step S202, the sub CPU 301 executes a random number update process. In this process, the sub CPU 301 updates the random number values of various random number counters positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S203.

  In step S203, the sub CPU 301 executes command analysis processing. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 23, the received command is analyzed, and processing corresponding to the analyzed command is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S204.

  In step S204, the sub CPU 301 executes display control processing. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 25, the sub CPU 301 performs image display control in the liquid crystal display device 21.

  Then, the sub CPU 301 executes a sound control process for controlling sounds generated from the speakers 8a and 8b (step S205) and a lamp control process for controlling light emission of various lamps / LEDs 39a (step S206). When this process ends, the process is moved again to step S202.

  As described above, in the sub control circuit main process, after the initial setting process in step S201 is completed, the processes from step S202 to step S206 are repeatedly executed.

[Command interrupt processing]
Further, the sub control circuit 300 executes the command interrupt process at a predetermined timing (for example, the timing at which the command is received). This command interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 19, the sub CPU 301 saves the register (step S <b> 221), and stores various received commands received from the main control circuit 200 in a command buffer positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. (Step S222). Then, the sub CPU 301 restores the register saved in step S221 (step S223). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[VDP interrupt processing]
Further, the sub control circuit 300 executes the VDP interrupt process at a predetermined timing (for example, every predetermined period such as the vertical synchronization timing (1/60 s) in the display device). This VDP interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 20, the sub CPU 301 saves the register (step S231), and increments the VDP counter positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303 by 1 (step S232). This VDP counter is a counter for displaying an image, and counts the timing for displaying the image. Specifically, the VDP counter is incremented by “1” every time this process called at each vertical synchronization timing is executed. Thus, in the display control process (see FIG. 25) described later, the sub CPU 301 supplies data for performing display control to the image control circuit 305 every time the VDP counter increases by “2”. That is, the sub CPU 301 that executes this process counts the timing for displaying an image. Then, the sub CPU 301 restores the register saved in step S231 (step S233). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Timer interrupt processing]
In the sub control circuit 300, a timer interrupt process is executed at a predetermined timing (for example, every 2 ms, etc.). This timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 21, the sub CPU 301 saves the register (step S241) and executes various timer update processes (step S242). Then, the sub CPU 301 executes switch input processing (step S243). In this process, the sub CPU 301 executes various processes according to the player's operation. In particular, the sub CPU 301 detects operation signals from the left button 50a, middle button 50b, and right button 50c. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 301 corresponds to an example of an operation detection unit. Then, the sub CPU 301 executes a reel stop control process. (Step S244). Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 22, the sub CPU 301 performs display control of the decorative symbol stop display according to the operation of the left button 50a, the middle button 50b, and the right button 50c. Then, the sub CPU 301 restores the register saved in step S241 (step S245). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Reel stop control process]
The subroutine executed in step S244 in FIG. 21 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 22, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not it is within the stop button valid period (step S251). In this process, the sub CPU 301 receives the command for opening the special prize opening indicating that the special prize opening 15 has been opened, and then displays the inter-round display command supplied from the main control circuit 200 when the round control ends. Depending on whether or not it is a period until the jackpot end display command is received, it is determined whether or not it is within the stop button valid period. If the sub CPU 301 determines that it is within the stop button valid period, it moves the process to step S252. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that it is not within the stop button valid period, it moves the process to step S255.

  In step S252, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not there is an operation button pressing operation. In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not the pressed operation button 50 has been pressed. If the sub CPU 301 determines that there is an operation button pressing operation, it moves the process to step S253. On the other hand, when the sub CPU 301 determines that there is no operation button pressing operation, the sub CPU 301 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S253, the sub CPU 301 invalidates the corresponding operation button. Then, the sub CPU 301 sets “5” as the number of checks positioned in the predetermined area of the work RAM 303 (step S254), and moves the process to step S261.

  On the other hand, in step S <b> 255, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not it is a symbol stop time during the change. In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not it is the symbol stop time during the change depending on whether or not it is the timing to stop and display the decorative symbol in response to the received change pattern designation command. If the sub CPU 301 determines that it is the symbol stop time during the change, it sets “5” to the number of checks positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303 (step S257), and moves the process to step S261. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that it is not the symbol stop time during the change, it moves the process to step S256.

  In step S256, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not the operation button valid time has expired. In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines that the effective time of the operation button 50 has ended when it receives a round-to-round display command or a jackpot end display command supplied from the main control circuit 200 when the round control ends. Will be. If the sub CPU 301 determines that it is the timing when the operation button valid time has ended, it sets “5” to the number of checks positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303 (step S257), and moves the process to step S261. . On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that it is not the timing when the operation button valid time ends, this sub-routine ends.

  In step S261, the sub CPU 301 checks the set stop control data, and searches for the symbol position with the highest priority within the range of the set number of checks from the current symbol position. In this process, the sub CPU 301 reads and checks the stop control data determined in an effect determination process or an in-round effect process described later and set in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. Further, the sub CPU 301 reads the number of checks set in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. Then, the sub CPU 301 has the highest priority within the range corresponding to the number of checks from the symbol position of the decorative symbol displayed in the current reel image (for example, within the range of four frames not including the current position). Search for a higher symbol position.

  Specifically, the sub CPU 301 corresponds to each of the decorative symbols in all columns based on the automatic stop control data because the operation button 50 remains disabled when the decorative symbol is changing. When the stop timing is reached, a predetermined symbol position is searched. In particular, the sub-CPU 301 searches for a symbol position where the loss is established when it is out of place, and searches for a symbol position where the bonus symbols are aligned when it is a big hit.

  On the other hand, when the sub CPU 301 is in the big hit gaming state, during the effective period of the operation button 50, based on the stop control data corresponding to the established small role, at a timing according to the operation of the operation button 50, The symbol positions where the small roles are arranged are searched. Further, the sub CPU 301 searches for a symbol position where the established small part is out of order when all the operation buttons 50 are not operated within the effective period of the operation button 50. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S262.

  In step S262, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not the bonus symbols are aligned. In this process, the sub CPU 301 reads out the stop control data set in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303 based on the variation pattern designation command as described later, and determines whether or not the bonus symbols are aligned. If the sub CPU 301 determines that the bonus symbols are to be aligned, the process proceeds to step S263. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that the bonus symbols are not aligned, the sub CPU 301 proceeds to step S264.

  In step S263, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not there is a desired bonus symbol within the range of the number of checks. In this process, the sub CPU 301 reads the number of checks set in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303, searches the design pattern for the number of times of the read check from the current symbol position, and finds a desired bonus symbol within that range. It will be determined whether or not there is. If the sub CPU 301 determines that there is a desired bonus symbol within the range of the number of checks, it moves the process to step S264. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that there is no desired bonus symbol within the range of the number of checks, it moves the process to step S265.

  In step S264, the sub CPU 301 determines the number of sliding frames based on the search result. In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines a sliding piece at a desired symbol position based on the search result in step S261 and sets it in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S267.

  On the other hand, in step S265, the sub CPU 301 replaces the display position of the reel image with the position three frames before the desired bonus symbol, and determines the number of sliding frames (step S266). In this process, the sub CPU 301 replaces the current reel image display position with the reel image display position at a position three frames before the desired bonus symbol, and after the replacement, the sliding symbol at the desired symbol position is obtained. Is set in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. As a result, a desired bonus symbol is stopped and displayed at a desired position. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S267.

  In step S267, the sub CPU 301 sets symbol stop display data corresponding to the number of sliding symbols in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines the display position of the reel image according to the number of sliding frames determined in steps S264 and S266, and sets the symbol stop display data in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. As a result, a desired decorative design is stopped and displayed.

[Command analysis processing]
The subroutine executed in step S203 in FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 23, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not there is a reception command (step S401). In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not there is a received command depending on whether or not the command is stored in the command buffer in step S222 of the command interrupt process (see FIG. 19). In this process, if the sub CPU 301 determines that there is a received command, it reads the command data from the command buffer located in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303 (step S402), and moves the process to step S403. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that there is no received command, the sub CPU 301 ends this subroutine.

  That is, the sub CPU 301 that executes Step S402 receives various commands (for example, a variation pattern designation command, a derived symbol designation command, etc.) transmitted by the main control circuit 200. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 301 that executes step S402 corresponds to an example of a command receiving unit.

  In step S403, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received. In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received based on the command data read in step S402. In this process, if the sub CPU 301 determines that a variation pattern designation command has been received, it moves the process to step S404. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that it has not received the variation pattern designation command, it moves the process to step S406.

  In step S <b> 404, the sub CPU 301 sets presentation control data corresponding to the variation pattern designation command in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. Then, the sub CPU 301 executes an effect determination process. In this process, the sub CPU 301 sets control data for stopping the decoration symbol in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303 based on the variation pattern designation command. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S406, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not a gaming state command has been received. In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not a gaming state command has been received based on the command data read in step S402. In this process, if the sub CPU 301 determines that a gaming state command has been received, the sub CPU 301 sets data corresponding to the gaming state command (step S407) and ends this subroutine. In particular, when the sub CPU 301 receives a gaming state command indicating a transition to the probability changing state, the sub CPU 301 sets a high probability flag. Further, when the sub CPU 301 receives a jackpot start command to shift to the jackpot state, the sub CPU 301 clears the high probability flag. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that a gaming state command has not been received, it moves the process to step S408.

  In step S408, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not a special winning opening open command has been received. In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not a special winning opening opening command has been received based on the command data read in step S402. In this process, if the sub CPU 301 determines that the command for opening the big prize opening has been received, the sub CPU 301 executes an effect process during round, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 24 in detail (step S409), and ends this subroutine. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that it has not received the command for opening the big prize opening, it moves the process to step S410.

  In step S410, the main CPU 201 sets presentation control data corresponding to the received command, and ends this subroutine. As a specific example, the sub CPU 301 sets data corresponding to the received demo display command or the like in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303.

[Direction processing during round]
The subroutine executed in step S409 in FIG. 23 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 24, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not it is a probable big hit (step S271). In this process, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not it is a probable big hit based on the type of the derived symbol designation command received at the start of variable display of the identification information that is a big hit. In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the probability variation big hit is based on the derived symbol designation command. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the variation varies depending on whether the probability big hit or the normal big hit. If it is a pattern, it may be determined whether or not it is a promising big hit based on the type of the fluctuation pattern designation command received at the start of variable display of the identification information that is a big hit. Furthermore, for example, if the jackpot start command is different for the case of a promiscuous jackpot and the case of a normal jackpot, the probability jackpot is based on the type of jackpot start command received when the jackpot is reached. It may be determined whether or not. If the sub CPU 301 determines that it is a probable big hit, it moves the process to step S272. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that it is not a probable big hit, it moves the process to step S273.

  In step S272, the sub CPU 301 refers to the small combination determination table (see FIG. 9) at the time of the probability variation big hit, and determines the established small combination. In this process, the sub-CPU 301 refers to the small role determination table (see FIG. 9) at the probability variation big hit and uses the established small role as a bell with a probability of “80%”, and determines the established small role with a probability of “5%”. As a cherry, the established small role is determined as a loss with a probability of “15%”. This process is executed every time round control is started, and a winning combination that can be derived and displayed when the operation button 50 is operated is determined. That is, the sub CPU 301 notifies in a manner in which it is possible to recognize that, in each round control executed during the big hit gaming state, when the big hit gaming state ends when the operation is performed by the operation button 50, the state shifts to the probability change state. It will be decided whether or not to perform. In other words, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not the result of variable display of decorative symbols in a plurality of columns (plural symbol display areas) is a special display mode such as a bell or cherry. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 301 that executes such processing corresponds to an example of notification determination means and variable display result determination means.

  Therefore, since it is determined whether or not to be notified on the condition that there is an operation by the operating means during the big hit gaming state when it is determined to shift to the probability variation state, the normal game is not notified. Even if the game state is actually changed to the normal game state without easily recognizing the change to the state, it is possible to give a sense of expectation to the probability variation state and to improve the interest in the game. . In addition, in order to determine whether or not to notify each round control, by giving the opportunity to be notified multiple times, further improving the significance of the operation means operation, improving the interest of the game Can be achieved. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S274.

  On the other hand, in step S273, the sub CPU 301 refers to the small winning combination determination table (see FIG. 9) for the normal big hit, and determines the established small winning combination. In this process, the sub CPU 301 refers to the small bonus determination table (see FIG. 9) at the time of the normal big hit, sets the established small role as a bell with a probability of “60%”, and determines the established small role with a probability of “40%”. It is determined as a gap. In this way, unlike the above-described probabilities, the established small combination has a high probability of being determined as an outlier and the probability of being determined as a bell or cherry is set low. In addition, when the bell is derived and displayed, the sub CPU 301 has a high probability of shifting to the probability variation state, so that the transition to the probability variation state is informed, but is usually a big hit and the bell is derived and displayed. In some cases, since the actual game state is not shifted to the actual probability change state, a pseudo notification regarding the transition to the probability change state is performed. That is, the sub CPU 301 has a lower probability than whether or not to perform pseudo notification when there is an operation with the operation button 50 during the big hit gaming state, and whether or not to shift to the above-described probability change state. Will be decided. In other words, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not to perform the pseudo notification when the operation with the operation button 50 is performed during the big hit gaming state, and whether or not to shift to the above-described probability changing state. It is determined with a second probability different from the probability. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 301 that executes such processing corresponds to an example of a pseudo notification determination unit.

  Therefore, since it becomes possible to recognize whether or not the transition to the probability variation state is made depending on the ratio of notification and pseudo notification, that is, depending on the notification probability, and it becomes a guideline whether or not to continue the game, It is possible to create an advantageous state in which the state can be recognized, and it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by improving the significance of the operation means. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S274.

  In step S274, the sub CPU 301 sets stop control data corresponding to the established small combination. In this process, the sub CPU 301 sets stop control data corresponding to the established small combination determined in step S272 or step S273 in a predetermined area of the work RAM 303. Thereby, the variable display of the decorative design is performed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Display control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S204 in FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 25, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not the VDP counter is “2” (step S351). In this process, the sub CPU 301 reads the VDP counter value from the VDP counter counted in step S232 of the above-described VDP interrupt process (see FIG. 20), and determines whether it is “2”. That is, as described above, in the VDP interrupt process, the VDP counter is incremented by “1” every 1/60 s, so the sub CPU 301 determines whether 1/30 s has elapsed. In this process, if the sub CPU 301 determines that the VDP counter is “2”, it moves the process to step S352. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 301 determines that the VDP counter is not “2”, this sub-routine ends.

  In step S352, the sub CPU 301 executes control data output processing. In this processing, the sub CPU 301 supplies control data for displaying an image to the image control circuit 305. For example, the sub CPU 301 supplies control data indicating an effect such as data indicating image data to the image control circuit 305. Then, the sub CPU 301 sets “0” in the VDP counter (step S353). Then, the sub CPU 301 supplies a bank switching instruction to the image control circuit 305 (step S354). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the sub CPU 301 and the image control circuit 305 correspond to the operation button 50 in a plurality of columns (a plurality of symbol display areas) on the condition that there is an operation by the operation button 50 in the big hit gaming state. The decorative symbol in the column to be displayed (symbol display region) is stopped and displayed. Therefore, since it becomes possible to recognize whether or not the transition to the probability variation state is made depending on the ratio of notification and pseudo notification, that is, depending on the notification probability, and it becomes a guideline whether or not to continue the game, It is possible to create an advantageous state in which the state can be recognized, and it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by improving the significance of the operation means.

  Further, when it is determined that the sub CPU 301 and the image control circuit 305 are to be shifted to the probability changing state, the decoration pattern determined can be changed on condition that the operation with the operation button 50 is performed during the big hit gaming state. The result of the display is derived and displayed, and notification is given in a manner in which it is possible to recognize the shift to the probability change state after the jackpot gaming state is completed. Therefore, it is possible to recognize whether or not the gaming state after the jackpot gaming state has ended is a probability variation state by operating the operating means during the jackpot gaming state, and it becomes a guideline for whether or not to continue the game Therefore, it is possible to create an advantageous state in which the game state can be recognized by the operation of the operation means, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game by improving the significance of the operation means. In addition, by operating the operation means, it is possible to recognize whether or not the symbols in the plurality of symbol display areas that are derived and displayed have a special display mode. Can be enhanced and the interest in games can be improved. Furthermore, when the sub CPU 301 and the image control circuit 305 are determined not to shift to the probability changing state and are determined to perform the pseudo notification, it is difficult to distinguish from the notification when it is determined to shift to the probability changing state. In this manner, pseudo notification is performed. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 301 and the image control circuit 305 that execute such processing correspond to examples of display control means, derived display means, gaming state notification means, and pseudo notification means.

[Other Embodiments]
In this embodiment, in the big hit gaming state, when it is determined that the state is not shifted to the probability changing state, whether or not the pseudo notification is performed when the operation with the operation button 50 is performed is shifted to the probability changing state. Is determined with a second probability lower than the first probability by notification when it is determined, but not limited to this, for example, whether to perform pseudo notification is determined with a second probability higher than the first probability May be. Furthermore, for example, pseudo notification may not be performed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the result of variable display of a plurality of rows of decorative symbols is to be displayed as a special display mode, on condition that there is an operation with the operation button 50 during the big hit gaming state. Of the plurality of decorative symbols, the decorative symbol of the column corresponding to the operation button 50 is stopped and displayed, and the result of the variable display of the determined decorative symbol is derived and displayed. The decorative symbols in a column not corresponding to 50 may be stopped and displayed. Further, for example, instead of a plurality of rows of decorative symbols, a single row of decorative symbols may be variably displayed.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not notification is performed every round. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be determined whether or not notification is performed every multiple rounds. Of course, it is also possible to determine whether or not to notify each time a transition to the big hit gaming state. Further, for example, there is no case where notification is not performed, and it may be determined not to determine whether notification is performed.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the decorative symbols are automatically stopped and displayed during the variable display of the identification information. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed according to the operation of the operation button 50. May be. Further, for example, the decorative symbol may not be variably displayed during the variable display of the identification information.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the sub control circuit 300 determines whether or not the current gaming state is a probable change state by receiving the gaming state command. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state may be recognized by receiving the derived symbol designation command in, and it may be determined whether or not the current gaming state is a probable change state.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the notification is performed in a display mode in which it is possible to recognize that the gaming state is a probable change state by displaying an image called a decorative symbol on the liquid crystal display device 21, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In addition, notification may be performed in a display mode in which it is possible to recognize that the gaming state is a probable change state by sound from the speakers 8a and 8b or blinking of the lamp / LED 39a. Of course, a combination of these may be used. Furthermore, although the decorative design is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, other electrical display devices such as a 7-segment or dot LED can be used as the decorative design. For example, a mechanical display device such as a drum or a belt can be used.

[Composition of game board]
In the above-described embodiment, the entire game board 2 is configured by a permeable member. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another mode may be used. An example of a specific configuration of the game board will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 26, a plurality of obstacle nails and the like are omitted for easy understanding.

  For example, a part of the game board may be configured with a member that does not have permeability. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 26A, the game board 314 is configured by combining a member 314a having permeability and a member 314b (for example, wood) having no flat permeability. May be. Of course, as shown in FIG. 26 (A), not only the member 314a having permeability and the member 314b having no permeability are simply combined, but also as shown in FIG. It is good also as a structure which couple | bonds the member 315a which has transparency so that it may surround with the member 315b which does not have permeability.

  For example, you may comprise so that the process which shields a part of game board which has permeability | transmittance may be performed. For example, as shown in FIG. 26C, a part 316b of the game board 316 having transparency may be painted with a color having light shielding properties. As a result, as shown by reference numeral 316a, it is possible to configure a game board 316 that is partially transparent. Of course, instead of coating, a blasting process or a light scattering process for forming a fine rough surface by sandpaper may be performed to make it appear as if visible light is scattered and light is emitted.

  That is, the game board should just have a part at least partially permeable. In other words, if the display area 21a located behind the whole or a part of the game area 2a is configured so that the image can be viewed from the front through the vicinity of the whole or part of the game area 2a. Good.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the game board 2 having transparency in part or in whole is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a game having no transparency A board may be used.

[Configuration of display device]
A configuration using a gaming board that does not have transparency will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 27, the door 311 is provided with a display device 332, on which various effect images are displayed. The display device 332 includes a touch panel 351 for detecting a coordinate position touched by a player, transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355 as protective covers, and a transparent liquid crystal display device between the transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355. And a liquid crystal display device 354 to be stacked. The display device 332 (liquid crystal display device 354) can display a highly transmissive image in the display area. Note that the liquid crystal display device 354 not only displays a highly transmissive image in the display area, but also performs variable display of special symbols, variable display of normal symbols, display of effect images for effects, and the like.

  Further, above and below the liquid crystal display device 354, a liquid crystal backlight 352 serving as an illumination device as a backlight of the liquid crystal display device 354 is provided. Further, the liquid crystal backlight 352 is controlled to be lit when power is supplied. For this reason, the liquid crystal backlight 352 is always driven at the time of power supply so that the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 354 can be clearly seen by the player. The liquid crystal backlight 352 is mainly a cold cathode tube, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  A obstacle nail 313 is driven into the game board 314. A game area 315 is provided between the game board 314 and the door 311, and a game ball 317 launched into the game area 315 can roll.

  The display device 332 includes a touch panel 351, transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355, a liquid crystal display device 354, a liquid crystal backlight 352, and the like. There is no problem even if only the liquid crystal display device 354 is provided without including the touch panel 351, the transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355, the liquid crystal backlight 352, and the like.

  As described above, the liquid crystal display device 354 is disposed in front of the game board 314 so that the display area and the whole or part of the game area 315 in the game board 314 overlap with each other, and an image with high transparency is displayed on the display area. Since display is possible, all or a part of the game area 315 is displayed through the liquid crystal display device 354 so that the image can be viewed from the front. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 354 is a device that is provided in front of the game board 314, has a display area that can be seen through the game board 314 and displays an effect image related to the game. The game board and the display device may be configured not to overlap in the depth direction.

  In the present embodiment, the configuration is such that a plurality of control circuits of the main control circuit 200 and the sub control circuit 300 are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another configuration may be used, for example, as shown in FIG. In addition, the sub control circuit 300 and the main control circuit 200 may be configured as one board.

  In the above-described embodiment, the first type pachinko gaming machine has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the second type pachinko gaming machine referred to as a wing mono, Hikoki mono, a first referred to as a right mono. It may be a three-type pachinko gaming machine or another mode.

  In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to the pachinko gaming machine as shown in FIG. 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a pachislot gaming machine 410 as shown in FIG. The present invention may be applied to various game machines such as the game machine 501. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 29, the pachislot machine 410 includes a liquid crystal display device 430 capable of displaying a highly transmissive image, and a reel (not shown) behind the liquid crystal display device 430. I have. For this reason, when a highly transmissive image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 430, the player can visually recognize the reel. As shown in FIG. 30, the game machine 501 also includes a liquid crystal display device 505 that can display an image with high transparency, and reels 503L, 503C, and 503R behind the liquid crystal display device 505.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention. That is, the present invention mainly provides a variable display means for variably displaying identification information, and a jackpot advantageous to a player when the result of variable display of identification information in the variable display means is in a specific display mode. Relative probability that the result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display mode after the jackpot gaming state controlled by the jackpot gaming control means is finished and the jackpot gaming control means for performing control to shift to the gaming state A transition gaming state determination means for determining whether to shift to a relatively high probability fluctuation state or a relatively low normal gaming state, and control to shift to the gaming state determined by the transition gaming state determination means A game state control means, wherein the game device is shifted to a probability variation state by an operation means operable by a player and the transition game state determination means. When it is determined that the jackpot game state has been transferred by the jackpot game control means, and the operation by the operation means has been performed, the transition to the probability variation state after the jackpot game state has ended Game state notification means for notifying in a recognizable manner, variable display means, jackpot game control means, transition game state determination means, game state control means, operation Specific means such as means, gaming state notification means, notification determination means, variable winning device, round control execution means, symbol display means, variable display result determination means, derivation display means, display control means, pseudo notification means, pseudo notification determination means, etc. The design of the configuration can be changed as appropriate.

  It should be noted that the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention only list the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

It is a front view which shows the game board in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. 1 is an external view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the special symbol in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the special symbol in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the special symbol in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the special symbol in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the decorative design in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the small combination determination table in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen etc. which are displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen etc. which are displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen etc. which are displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition of the control process performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the game board in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the door and game board which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the general view in the pachislot gaming machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view showing the appearance in the game machine of one embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 2 Game board 7a Launch handle 14,17 Start winning opening 15 Large winning opening 21 Liquid crystal display device 21a Display area 23a, 23b Special symbol display LED
200 Main control circuit 201 Main CPU
202 Main ROM
203 Main RAM
300 Sub control circuit 301 Sub CPU
302 Program ROM
303 Work RAM

Claims (2)

Variable display means for performing variable display of identification information;
A jackpot game control means for performing control to shift to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player when the result of variable display of the identification information in the variable display means becomes a specific display mode;
After the big hit game state controlled by the big hit game control means is ended, the probability that the result of variable display of the identification information will be the specific display mode is shifted to a probability fluctuation state or relatively Transition game state determination means for determining whether to shift to a low normal game state;
A gaming state control means for performing control to shift to the gaming state determined by the transition gaming state determination means,
Operation means that can be operated by the player;
When it is determined by the transition gaming state determination means that the transition to the probability variation state is made, on condition that there is an operation by the operation means during the big hit gaming state transferred by the big hit game control means Gaming state notifying means for notifying in a recognizable manner that the transition to the probability variation state after the big hit gaming state is completed;
Notification determining means for determining whether or not to perform notification by the gaming state notification means when there is an operation by the operation means during the big hit gaming state transferred by the jackpot gaming control means;
In a plurality of symbol display areas, a symbol display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols ,
The notification determining means has variable display result determining means for determining whether or not to make the result of variable display of symbols in the plurality of symbol display areas a special display mode,
The special display mode is a combination of a special symbol determined when it is determined that the transition gaming state determination means shifts to the probability variation state, and the transition gaming state determination means shifts to the probability variation state. And a combination of specific symbols determined when determined to be transferred to the normal gaming state by the transition gaming state determination means,
The variable display result determining means determines the combination of the special symbols with a predetermined probability only when it is determined that the transition gaming state determination means shifts to the probability variation state, and the transition gaming state determination means determines the probability. When it is determined that the transition to the change state is determined, the combination of the specific symbols is determined with a higher probability than when the transition gaming state determination means determines that the transition to the normal gaming state is performed,
The gaming state notifying means derives and displays the result of variable display of the symbols determined by the variable display result determining means on the condition that there is an operation by the operating means during the jackpot gaming state. Have
The operation means is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of symbol display areas,
Display control means for stopping and displaying symbols in the symbol display area corresponding to the operation means among the plurality of symbol display areas on the condition that the operation means has been operated during the jackpot gaming state;
Pseudo notification means for performing pseudo notification in a manner difficult to distinguish from notification by the gaming state notification means when it is determined by the transition gaming state determination means that the transition to the probability variation state is not made;
Whether or not to perform the pseudo notification by the pseudo notification means when there is an operation by the operation means during the big hit gaming state, with a second probability different from the first probability determined by the notification determination means. A pseudo notification determining means for determining,
The game machine having a function of performing the pseudo notification when the pseudo notification means is determined to perform the pseudo notification by the pseudo notification determination means . In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
A variable winning device that can be varied between a first state that is relatively easy to win and a second state that is relatively difficult to win;
During the big hit gaming state transferred by the big hit game control means, the variable winning device is set to the first state, and then the round control for setting the second state when the predetermined condition is satisfied is executed up to a predetermined number of times. Round control execution means,
The game determination unit has a function of determining whether or not to perform notification by the game state notification unit for each round control executed by the round control execution unit .

Images