JP5075998B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention includes variable display means capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of the identification information. After a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, the variable display start condition is satisfied. Start variable display of identification information, and when the display result of variable display of multiple types of identification information becomes a specific display result, shift to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player, and identify by establishing a specific transition condition The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine that shifts to a specific advantageous state, which is a state in which the probability that a display result of variable display of information is a specific display result is improved as compared to a normal state.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, a variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information is provided, and configured to be able to control to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result. There is something that was done.

  The specific game state means a state advantageous for a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the specific gaming state is, for example, a state in which the state of the variable winning ball apparatus is advantageous for a player who is easy to win a ball (a big hit gaming state), or a state in which a right to be advantageous for a player has occurred. A state in which a predetermined game value is given, such as a state where conditions for paying out premium game media are easily established.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, the display result of the variable display means for variably displaying the special symbol (identification information) (displaying the symbols visually recognized by the player among a plurality of types of symbols as time passes) A combination of specific display modes that have been defined (for example, a big hit symbol) is usually referred to as “big hit”. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus) is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state in which a hit ball is easy to win.

  And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is ended.

  In addition, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) on the variable display means continue for a predetermined time and stop, swing, or expand in a state that matches the specific display result. The possibility of big hits continues before the final result is displayed due to a reduced or deformed state, or multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol changing. An effect performed in a state in which the player is in a state (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. In the reach state, the interest of the game is enhanced by making the variation pattern different from the variation pattern in the normal state. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display means does not satisfy the condition for reaching the reach state, it becomes “displaced”, and the variable display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Further, when a special condition is established such that the display result of the variable display means is a special jackpot symbol among the jackpot symbols, the probability of occurrence of a jackpot increases thereafter (also referred to as a probable variation state). There are gaming machines configured to transition. When the probability variation control that controls to the probability variation state and the time variation control that controls the special symbol variation time (variable display period) to be shorter than when it is in the normal state is executed and the probability variation control is performed. There is a gaming machine configured such that a display image for probability change is displayed and a display image for time reduction is displayed when time reduction control is performed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  Further, there is a gaming machine configured to display the number of times of time-short control that is a variable number of times of display of a special symbol for continuing time-shortening control when it is determined to control to the time-short state (see, for example, Patent Document 2). ).

JP 10-266 (paragraph 0032, FIG. 23) JP-A-9-262347 (paragraph 0035, FIG. 18)

  However, in the gaming machines described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, when it is determined that the gaming state is to be a probable change state or a short-time state, the determined gaming state is notified. Depending on the gaming state (including the case where it is determined that the normal state is not the probability variation state or the short time state), there is a possibility that the player's interest in the game may be reduced.

  In addition, when a player easily recognizes a gaming state such as whether or not the current gaming state is a probable change state, for example, because a state that is not a probable change state continues or the probability change state ends. The player's willingness to play may be reduced, which may cause the player to quit the game.

  In addition, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, since the number of times of short-time control is displayed, there is a possibility that the interest of the player in the game may be reduced as the number of times of short-time control decreases.

  Therefore, the present invention prevents the player from easily grasping the determined gaming state, can improve the player's interest in the gaming state, and prevents the player from recognizing the current gaming state. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of maintaining a player's willingness to play.

The gaming machine according to the present invention includes variable display means (for example, a special symbol display 8 and a variable display device 9) that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can be identified. After a predetermined variable display execution condition (for example, winning a game ball to the start winning opening 14) is established, a variable display start condition (for example, final stop of special symbol and end of jackpot game) The variable display of the identification information is started based on the establishment, and the specific game state (for example, the jackpot game) advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result (for example, the jackpot symbol) State), and when the specific transition condition is satisfied (for example, it is determined that the probability change state is determined by lottery), the display result of the variable display of the identification information is set as the specific display result. A game machine that shifts the probability to a specific advantageous state (for example, a probability variation state), which is a state improved compared to before the specific transition condition is established, and provided in advance, such as effect data (for example, a variable display device) 9 and a plurality of types of electrical components including variable display means (e.g., variable display device 9, speaker 27, light emitters such as lamps, etc.). ) Using the effect execution means for executing the game effect (for example, the portion executing step S705 in the CPU 101 for effect control), and the specific advantageous state control means for shifting to the specific advantageous state when the specific transition condition is satisfied ( For example, a portion for executing steps S91 to S92 in the CPU 56) and a predetermined period after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Storage means that can hold the contents (for example, RAM 55 that is backed up by power supply) and specific data that causes the storage means to store specific data (for example, probability change flag) when the specific advantageous state control means shifts to the specific advantageous state The setting means (for example, the part that executes step S92 in the game control means) and the condition that the predetermined restoration condition is satisfied when the power is restored (for example, N in step S7, Y in step S8, and step S9) Y) is provided with a recovery means (for example, a part for executing steps S151 to S155 in the game control means) for executing a recovery process for recovering the game state based on the stored contents of the storage means, A common game effect is executed when it is in the advantageous state and when it is not in the specific advantageous state (for example, effect control means) However, based on the effect control command received from the game control means, a common effect is executed in the probable state and a state other than the probable state using sound, display, illuminant, etc.), during execution of the common game effect A specific advantageous state notification means (for example, an effect control means) for notifying that a specific advantageous state exists when specific data is set in the storage means when the power is restored after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. the probability variation recovery notification image shown in FIG. 7 (B) further comprises a portion) to execute the process of displaying the variable display device 9, a specific advantageous state informing means, when a predetermined period has passed since the start of the broadcast in The notification is terminated.

In the present invention, a common performance effect is executed regardless of whether or not the state in which the game control is executed is a specific advantageous state, so that it is possible to prevent the player from grasping the game state, and the game with respect to the game state The player's interest can be improved, and the player's willingness to play can be maintained. In addition, when power is restored after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped during execution of a common game effect, when it is restored to a specific advantageous state, the fact is notified for a predetermined period. Therefore, it is possible to determine from the outside that the specific advantageous state is present, and it is possible to prevent an act of starting business from the specific advantageous state.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example in a game control board (main board | substrate). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows an advantageous state alerting | reporting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the advantageous state recovery notification image displayed on a variable display apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a power-off process. It is a flowchart which shows a power-off process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern (variation time) of a special design and a decoration design. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern setting process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot end process in the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control process process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the stop symbol of a special symbol, and a game state. It is a flowchart which shows the advantageous condition alerting | reporting process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the big hit end process in 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number in 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol used in 3rd Embodiment, and a decoration symbol. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the advantageous condition alerting | reporting process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal process (step S300) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal process (step S300) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop process (step S304) in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the big hit end process performed when the big hit game in 3rd Embodiment is complete | finished. It is explanatory drawing which shows a mode that the game state in 3rd Embodiment changes, and an example of the alerting | reporting state to the effect of a probability change state or a time-short state. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of the state which a game state changes, and the alerting | reporting state of being a probability change state or a time-short state.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, an overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine (bullet ball gaming machine) which is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame is a front frame (not shown) that is installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (a game board 6 described later). ).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the game balls according to the player's operation. Is provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  Near the center of the game area 7 variably displayed and displayed a plurality of types of decorative patterns for presentation that can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition (for example, the hitting of the hit ball at the start winning opening 14). A variable display device (decorative symbol display device) 9 for deriving and displaying the result is provided. In this embodiment, the variable display device 9 is composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD), and the identification information is displayed and controlled in three display areas of left, middle, and right. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result means that the symbol is stopped and displayed (except for the stop before the so-called re-variation).

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the variable display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display a larger number of numbers such as 0 to 99 in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol.

  The variable display device 9 performs variable display of a decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (production) during the variable symbol display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8. The variable display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

  At the bottom of the variable display device 9, there are four special symbol hold memory indicators 18 for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). Is provided. In other words, up to four of the starting memory numbers are displayed in the winning order. The special symbol storage memory display 18 increases the number of LEDs in the lit state by 1 each time there is a start winning in the start winning opening 14. Then, each time the special symbol display 8 starts variable display, the special symbol hold storage indicator 18 decreases the number of LEDs in the lit state by 1 (that is, turns off one LED). In this example, the special symbol hold storage display 18 shifts the lighting state every time variable display is started on the special symbol display 8. In this example, the upper limit number (up to 4) is provided for the starting memory number by winning to the start winning opening 14, but the upper limit number may be four or more.

  Below the variable display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 having a start winning opening 14 is provided. The winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 14a. A variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes is provided below the start winning opening 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16.

  An open / close plate 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The opening / closing plate 20 is a means for opening and closing a large winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus). Of the winning balls guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6, the winning ball entering one (V winning area: special area) is detected by the V count switch 22, and the winning ball from the opening / closing board 20 is counted. 23. On the back of the game board 6, a solenoid 21A for switching the route in the special winning opening is also provided.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (a symbol can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). For example, if the right lamp is lit when the variable display ends, it is a win. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls entered into the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol holding storage display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39. The winning holes 29, 30, 33, and 39 for the game balls are awarded to the winning port switches 29a and 30a, respectively. , 33a, 39a. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. In addition, one winning opening switch for detecting a game ball won in each of a plurality of winning openings (ordinary winning openings) 29, 30, 33, 39 is provided, and the winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 is won. The game ball may also be detected by the winning opening switch. Around the left and right of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 blinking and displayed during the game, and at the bottom there is an outlet 26 for absorbing the game balls that have not won. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  In this example, a prize ball LED 51 that is lit while paying out a prize ball is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball break LED 52 that is lit when the refill ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the top frame lamp 28a. It has been. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with lamps and LEDs as light emitters in various places. Further, a prepaid card unit (also referred to as a “card unit”) that enables lending a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown).

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. When the game ball enters the start winning port 14 and is detected by the start port switch 14a, the special symbol starts variable display (variation) on the variable display device 9 if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If the variable display of the symbol cannot be started, the number of reserved memories is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display device 8 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of special symbols at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins. When a game ball wins the V winning area while the opening / closing plate 20 is opened and is detected by the V count switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  When a predetermined transition condition is established, the big hit game (a big hit where a probability change state occurs, the big hit game state continues for a short period of time (for example, the number of times of opening of the big prize opening is two times), and the big prize opening is opened for a short time. The probability of the next big hit becomes high after the end of the game. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player whose game state is a probable change state. For example, when the combination of the special symbol and the decorative symbol at the time of the stop is a predetermined jackpot symbol (probability variation symbol), the transition condition to the probability variation state is satisfied, and the gaming state transitions to the probability variation state. In addition, for example, if it is decided to make a probable change by lottery using random numbers regardless of the combination of special symbols and decorative symbols at the time of stop, the transition condition to the probabilistic state is established, and the gaming state shifts to the probable state To do. In addition, for example, when the display of the variable display device 9 (for example, display using a character) is in a predetermined display mode (such as when the character wins a battle), the transition condition to the probability change state is established, and the game state is reliably changed. Transition to the state.

  In addition, when the condition for shifting to the short-time state is satisfied, the gaming state shifts to the short-time state after the big hit game ends. For example, when the combination of the special symbol and the decorative symbol at the time of stoppage is a predetermined jackpot symbol (short time symbol), the transition condition to the short time state is satisfied, and the gaming state shifts to the short time state. Also, for example, if it is decided to shorten the time by lottery using random numbers regardless of the combination of special symbols and decorative symbols at the time of stop, the transition condition to the short time state is satisfied, and the gaming state shifts to the short time state To do. Furthermore, when both the transition condition to the probability change state and the transition condition to the time reduction state are satisfied, the jackpot game is first preferentially controlled to the probability change state, and then the time reduction is achieved by the satisfaction of the predetermined condition. Controlled by the state. In this embodiment, the game control means only performs a process of determining whether or not the condition for shifting to the probability change state is satisfied, and the game state is shifted to the probability change state when the condition for shifting to the probability change state is satisfied. Only control to be performed is performed.

  In this embodiment, in the probability variation state as the specific advantageous state of the advantageous state (specific game state) which is a gaming state advantageous for the player, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is extended in the open time, the number of times of opening, and the normal symbol The variation time in the display 10 is not shortened (that is, the advantage / disadvantage regarding the variable winning ball device 15 is the same as in the normal state only when the probability of hitting the special symbol or the decorative symbol is increased), and the normal symbol It is assumed that the probability that the stop symbol on the display 10 becomes a winning symbol is not increased. Further, in this embodiment, regardless of the control state whether the state is the probability variation state or the normal state, a common background image is used, and all the electrical components (for example, the variable display device 9, the speaker, etc.) have a common rendering mode. 27, a light emitter such as a lamp) is controlled. Note that controlling a predetermined background image, a variation pattern of the variable display device 9, a light emitting body such as a speaker 27, a lamp, and the like is referred to as "performing a game effect". Further, in this embodiment, “game effect” includes control in the case of performing a notice effect using a character image or the like.

  FIG. 2 shows a board provided on the gaming machine (specifically, installed on the back side of the gaming machine) in the gaming control board (main board) 31 on which the gaming control microcomputer 560 and the like are mounted. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a circuit structure. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, a lamp driver board 35, an audio output board 70, a relay board 77, and an effect control board 80 that are mounted on the gaming machine. The main board 31 includes a game control microcomputer 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 32a, a start port switch 14a, a V winning switch 22, a count switch 23, winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a and an input driver circuit 58 for supplying a signal from the clear switch 921 to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 16 for opening / closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid 21 for driving the opening / closing plate 20 to open / close the big winning opening, and the large winning opening And an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 21A for switching the path according to a command from the basic circuit 53. The clear switch 921 is mounted on a power supply board 910 installed in, for example, a gaming machine.

  The gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the V winning switch 22, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a may be what are called sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means is not limited as long as it is a game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball.

  The basic circuit 53 performs a control operation in accordance with a ROM 54 that stores a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 that is used as a work memory (variation data storage means that stores variation data), and a program. A game control microcomputer 560 including a CPU 56 and an I / O port unit 57 are included. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to include at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal. Further, the I / O port unit 57 may be incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560. Since the game control microcomputer 560 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, the game control microcomputer 560 will be executed (or processed) in the following. That is, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31. The game control means is realized by the game control microcomputer 560, but is mainly realized by the CPU 56 that executes control according to the program in the game control microcomputer.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a nonvolatile storage means that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power source. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the power supply of the backup power supply is disabled). In particular, at least data (special symbol process flag, etc.) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. Note that the data according to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power supply is restored after a power failure or the like. . However, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The display control of the variable display device 9 that receives and variably displays the decorative design is performed.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 as game control means variably displays a special symbol 8 for variably displaying a special symbol, and a normal symbol variable indicator 10 for variably displaying a normal symbol for displaying a normal symbol. And display control of the normal symbol hold memory display 41 and the special symbol hold memory display 18 for displaying the number of reserved memories.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 has an effect control microcomputer 100 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM. The RAM may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control microcomputer 100 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and a strobe signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77. In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control microcomputer 100 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the variable display device (decorative symbol display device) 9 using the LCD based on the effect control command.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a signal direction regulating means.

  Signal direction restriction allows the signal input from the main board 31 to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (no signal passes in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). A unidirectional circuit as a means is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal.

  Further, the effect control microcomputer 100 outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the input / output port 105. In addition, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the input / output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input / output driver 351. The lamp driver 352 amplifies the signal for driving the lamp and applies to each lamp provided on the frame side such as the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, the prize ball lamp 51, the ball-out lamp 52, and the like. Supply. Further, it is supplied to a decorative lamp 25 provided on the frame side. Each lamp may be an LED or other types of light emitters.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input / output driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a decorative symbol variation period).

  The signal for driving the lamp and the sound number data are transmitted bidirectionally between the effect control microcomputer 100, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 (a response signal is transmitted from the signal receiving side to the transmitting side). Communication).

  The effect control microcomputer 100 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM stores character image data frequently used among images displayed on the variable display device 9, specifically, a person, a character, a figure, a symbol, or the like (including decorative designs) in advance. Is. The effect control microcomputer 100 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 performs display control based on data input from the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. 4 and 5 are flowcharts showing main processing executed by game control means (CPU 56 and peripheral circuits such as ROM and RAM) in the main board 31. FIG. When the gaming machine is turned on and the input level of the reset terminal to which a reset signal is input becomes high, the CPU 56 performs a security check process that is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid. After execution, the main processing after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, the built-in device register is initialized (step S4). Further, after initialization (step S5) of CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits), the RAM is set in an accessible state (step S6). The interrupt mode 2 is an address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the game control microcomputer 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device. Is a mode indicating an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch 921 input via the input port only once (step S7). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes a normal initialization process (steps S10 to S14).

  If the clear switch 921 is not in the on state, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. In this example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, it means that there is no backup (OFF state).

  After confirming that there is a backup, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example) (step S9). In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 restores the game state restoration process (steps S151 to S155) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the display control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. )I do. Specifically, the head address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S151), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S152). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S151 and S152, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The portion that should not be initialized is, for example, a portion in which data (such as a special symbol process flag, a probable change time short flag, a probable change flag, a short time flag) indicating a gaming state before power supply is stopped is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the instantaneous stop flag is set (step S152a). The instantaneous stop flag is a flag indicating that the power supply to the gaming machine is started again (a momentary stop state) before the predetermined period has elapsed since the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. . In this embodiment, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed before the predetermined period has elapsed since the power supply stopped (that is, the instantaneous power failure state) In the case of power recovery from), the instantaneous stop flag is set.

  When the instantaneous power failure flag is not set (that is, when power is not recovered from the instantaneous power failure state), the CPU 56 sets the head address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S153), Control is performed so that a control command (recovery command) indicating that power supply has been restored is transmitted to the sub-board (the payout control board 37 and the effect control board 80) according to the contents (step S154). And after performing an advantageous state alerting | reporting process (step S155), it transfers to step S15.

  When the instantaneous stop flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the instantaneous stop flag (step S152b), and proceeds to step S15. That is, the CPU 56 determines that the power supply is restored from the instantaneous power failure state, and directly proceeds to step S15 without executing the advantageous state notification process for notifying the advantageous state.

  If it is determined that the instantaneous power failure flag is set (the power is restored from the instantaneous power failure state), the instantaneous power failure flag is reset and the process proceeds to step S15, so that the gaming machine is in a state other than the instantaneous power failure state. When the power supply is restored, the content of the instantaneous stop flag can be prevented from being reflected erroneously, and it can be appropriately notified whether or not it is in an advantageous state.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. For example, if the count value data of the counter for generating the big hit determination random number is left as it is, the big hit determination random number is generated even if the initialization process is executed by unauthorized means. Therefore, it is difficult to aim at the timing at which the count value of the counter matches the jackpot determination value. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12). By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol determination buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, a winning ball flag, a ball break flag, An initial value is set in a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state, such as a payout stop flag.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the start address of the initialization command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S13), and transmits an initialization command for initializing the sub board according to the contents to the sub board. Processing is executed (step S14). Examples of the initialization command include a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 9.

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the CPU 56 so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18). The CPU 56 disables the interrupt when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed (step S16), and interrupts when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished. The permission state is set (step S19). Note that the display random number is a random number for determining the symbol displayed on the special symbol display 8, and the display random number update processing is to update the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. It is processing. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). A game control process described later (a process in which a game control microcomputer controls itself a game device such as a variable display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15, a ball payout device 97 provided in the game machine, or In a process of transmitting a command signal for causing another microcomputer to control, also referred to as a gaming machine control process), when the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

  Note that when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set even when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are performed by the timer interrupt process described later. This is to avoid conflict with the processing in the timer interrupt processing. That is, if a timer interrupt is generated during the processing of steps S17 and S18 and the count value of the counter for generating the display random number and the initial value random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, The continuity of values may be impaired. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt disabled state is set during the processes of steps S17 and S18.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the advantageous state notification process. The advantageous state notification process is a process for notifying the player when the game state is restored when the power to the gaming machine is turned on and when the game state is restored to the probability change state.

  In the advantageous state notification process, first, if the probability variation flag stored in the RAM 55 is on (step S155d), the CPU 56 sets the head address of the probability variation notification command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer ( In step S155e), a process of transmitting an effect control command (probability change notification specifying command) for specifying the probability change notification according to the content to the effect control board 80 is executed (step S155f). When receiving the probability change notification designation command, the effect control CPU 101 executes processing for notifying the player that the probability change state is restored using sound, display, light emitter, or the like. In addition, when the probability change notification designation command is transmitted, the CPU 56 sets a probability change notification flag indicating that the recovery to the probability change state is being performed (step S155j).

  Note that the CPU 56 may repeatedly transmit the probability variation notification designation command to the effect control board 80 every predetermined period after transmitting the probability variation notification designation command. In this case, for example, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the probability variation notification flag is set, and while the probability variation notification flag is set, repeatedly controls the probability variation notification designation command for each variation of the special symbol or the decorative symbol. Transmit to the substrate 80. Further, the probability change notification designation command may be repeatedly transmitted every time the special symbol or the decorative symbol is changed a predetermined number of times instead of every change. With such a configuration, since the notification instruction indicating that the probability variation state has been restored is repeatedly performed, it is possible to prevent an act of unjustly deleting the notification.

  Instead of setting a probability change notification flag on the game control means side, when a probability change notification designation command is received, a probability change notification flag is set on the production control means side to manage that the probability change state is being notified. Also good. Then, while the probability change notification flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 may continue to notify the player that the state has been restored to the probability change state using sound, display, light emitter, or the like. In addition to setting the probability change notification flag on the production control means side and managing the notification state, the game control means side may set a flag indicating that the probability change state is being notified to manage the notification state. In this case, the CPU 56 retransmits the probability change notification designation command after a predetermined period of time has elapsed (for example, after a special symbol or a decorative symbol fluctuates a predetermined number of times), and backs up notification state management by the effect control means. Good. Further, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped while the probability change notification flag is set, the CPU 101 for effect control executes data protection processing, and the set probability change notification flag is set to the effect control micro flag. You may make it memorize | store in the backup area of RAM which a computer contains. Then, the CPU 101 for effect control may continue the notification based on the backed-up probability change notification flag when the power supply to the gaming machine is restored.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an advantageous state restoration notification image displayed on the variable display device 9. The image shown in FIG. 7 (A) is an example of a probability change time recovery notification image for notifying the player that the gaming state is restored to the probability change time short state among the advantageous state recovery notification images. The image shown in FIG. 7B is an example of a probability change recovery notification image for notifying the player that the gaming state is restored to the probability change state among the advantageous state recovery notification images. The image shown in FIG. 7C is an example of the time recovery notification image for notifying the player that the gaming state is restored to the time reduction state among the advantageous state recovery notification images.

  As mentioned above, when the gaming machine is turned on from a state that is not in a momentary power interruption state, if it is restored to the advantageous state, it is configured so that the player or the like recognizes that fact, For example, it is possible to prevent an act of a game store from turning off the power when in an advantageous state and starting a game from the advantageous state when the store is opened. In addition, when the power supply is resumed from the momentary power failure state, when it is restored to the advantageous state, the player is not notified that it is in the advantageous state. It is possible to prevent an illegal act of checking whether or not there is. In this embodiment, only the control for shifting the gaming state to the probability variation state is performed when the transition condition to the probability variation state is satisfied, and therefore the probability variation restoration notification image shown in FIG. 7B is used in step S155f. Notification is performed. In this embodiment, the notification that the advantageous state has been restored continues, for example, until the first big hit occurs after the power supply to the gaming machine is restored, and a part of the display screen of the variable display device 9 is displayed. (For example, at the edge of the screen).

  In addition, for example, if the notification that the advantageous state is restored is performed using a lamp that can be controlled by the game control means, the notification that the advantageous state is restored is not made only by removing the connector of the lamp. Can be made. In this embodiment, the game control means transmits an effect control command to the effect control means, and the effect control means informs the variable display device 9 that the advantageous state restoration notification image is displayed, thereby notifying that the advantageous state is restored. Therefore, it is possible to reliably notify that the state is restored to the advantageous state when the power is turned on. In other words, if the connector of the variable display device 9 is removed with the intention of not reporting that the advantageous state is restored, the variable display of the variable display device 9 cannot be variably displayed and the game cannot be performed. . Therefore, it is possible to prevent an action such as disconnecting a connector intended not to notify that the advantageous state is restored, and it is possible to reliably inform that the advantageous state is restored. The effect control means may cause the variable display device 9 to display the advantageous state recovery notification image, and the game control means may notify that the advantageous state is recovered using a lamp. In this case, for example, when the advantageous control notification process is executed, the game control means transmits a certain change notification designation command to the effect control means and executes effect control such as turning on the lamp. In addition, when the game control means starts production control such as turning on the lamp, for example, the game control means sets a probability change notification flag indicating that the probability change state has been restored, and is informing the probability change state. Manage. Then, the game control means continues the notification using a lamp or the like until the probability variation notification flag is reset.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the game control process. When the timer interruption occurs, the CPU 56 executes the game control process of steps S20 to S33 shown in FIG. In the game control process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal has been output (whether the power-off signal has been turned on) (step S20). The power-off signal is output when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area.

  In the power-off detection process, instead of recognizing the power-off by detecting the power-off signal, the pulse waveform of the pulse obtained by rectifying the AC voltage as the power supply voltage by half-wave rectification is monitored. When the height is lower than a predetermined height, it may be recognized that a power interruption has occurred. In this case, for example, if it is determined that the height of the pulse waveform is lower than the predetermined height continuously for a predetermined time, it may be determined that a power interruption has occurred. In this case, for example, the voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board continuously monitors the height of the pulse waveform for a predetermined time and detects the highest voltage value during the predetermined time. Then, when it is detected that the maximum value of the detected voltage has decreased to a predetermined value, it is determined that the power is cut off, and execution of the power-off process is started by the gaming means.

  Next, detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switch 24a are input via the switch circuit 58, and the state determination thereof is performed (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (step S22). The CPU 56 further performs processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (steps S23 and S24).

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit judgment)
(2) Random 2: For special symbol losing symbol determination (3) Random 3: For determining a special symbol that generates a big hit (for big hit symbol determination)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to reach when no big hit is generated (for reach determination)
(6) Random 6: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine initial value of random 1 (for determining random 1 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Determine initial value of random 6 (for determining random 6 initial value)
(9) Random 9: Determines whether or not to end the probability change (for determining the probability change end). That is, the random 9 takes a value in the range of 0 to 49 and is used as a random number for determining whether or not to end the probability variation state. In the probability change state, the game control means ends the probability change state, for example, when the random 9 matches one predetermined value. Therefore, the probability variation state ends (probability variation puncture) with a probability of 1/50. In this embodiment, even if the random 9 does not match one predetermined value, the game control means terminates the probability variation state when the probability variation continuation number determined using the random 11 is reached. .
(10) Random 10: Decide whether or not to change the probability (for determining the probability change). That is, the random 10 takes a value in the range of 0 to 16, and is used as a random number for determining whether or not to shift the gaming state to the probability changing state. For example, when the random number 10 matches a predetermined value, the game control means shifts the game state to the probability change state.
(11) Random 11: Determines the probability variation continuation count (the number of special symbol fluctuations in the probability variation state) (for the probability variation count determination). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the probability variation continuation number is determined as 100 times, 200 times, 500 times, or 1000 times according to the value of random 9. Further, in this embodiment, it is possible to perform only the probability variation end determination using the probability variation continuation number determined using the random 11 without performing the probability variation end determination by the lottery using the random 9. In this case, the game control means ends the probability variation state when the determined probability variation continuation count is reached.

  Instead of realizing each random number as a separate random number, a plurality of the random numbers shown in FIG. 11 may be realized using a common random number. For example, random 1 and random 10 may be realized using a common random number, and the game control means may perform a big hit determination and a probability variation determination using a common random number. Further, for example, random 1 and random 3 may be realized using a common random number, and the game control means may perform a big hit determination and a big hit symbol determination using a common random number. By doing so, the number of random numbers can be reduced, and the control burden on the game control means can be reduced.

  Further, in this embodiment, the game control means determines a special symbol to be displayed on the special symbol display 8 using random 3 when a big hit occurs, regardless of whether or not the game is in a probable variation state. Therefore, the game control means determines the special symbols to be displayed on the special symbol display 8 at the same selection ratio regardless of whether or not the game is in the probability changing state. The game control means may use a random number that is different between the probability variation state and the normal state, and determine the special symbol at a different selection ratio between the probability variation state and the normal state.

  In the probability variation state, the probability that the result of the variation of the special symbol or the decorative symbol (the final stop symbol, also simply referred to as the stop symbol) becomes a big hit symbol is higher than that in the state that is not the probability variation state (low probability state). Hereinafter, this may be expressed as “a hit / displacement is determined with high probability in the probability variation state”. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the probability of a big hit symbol is increased 10 times in the probability variation state.

  In this embodiment, for example, the game control means determines whether or not the result of the variation of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is a jackpot symbol, using a predetermined determination table. In this case, the determination table includes a normal table used in a state other than the probability variation state and a special table used at the time of probability variation. Further, the special table includes a determination value in which the probability of determining a jackpot symbol is 10 times higher than that of the normal table. In this embodiment, the game control means uses the special table to determine hit / miss, and the probability of a big hit symbol in the probability variation state is increased tenfold.

  In step S22 in the game control process shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 56 generates (1) big hit determination random number, (3) big hit symbol determination random number, and (6) regular symbol determination random number. Counter is incremented (added by 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, the random numbers etc. regarding a normal symbol other than the random numbers of said (1)-(9) may be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S25). In the special symbol process control, corresponding processing is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S26). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting an effect control command related to the decorative design in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and sending the effect control command (decorative design command control process: step S27). For example, when the transmission process of the effect control command is executed in the special symbol process process or the like, specifically, a predetermined value is set in the area for setting the effect control command in the RAM 55. In the decorative symbol command control process, the CPU 56 actually transmits the effect control command according to the set value set in the area of the RAM 55.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information and start information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29). In this case, the CPU 56 outputs an information output signal that does not include information related to the control state (including information regarding whether or not the state is a certain change state, whether or not the time is short, and whether or not the normal state). , Control to output to the outside of the gaming machine.

  In addition, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the prize opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a (step S30). Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to detection of winning based on any one of the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. The payout control CPU mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.

  And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in a pending | holding memory | storage number (step S31). In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed (step S32). As the test signal, probability variation information regarding whether or not the state is a probability variation state, time reduction information regarding whether or not the state is a short time state, and the like are output. In this embodiment, since only the control for shifting the gaming state to the probability state is performed and the transition to the short time state is not performed, only the probability variation information is output as a test signal in the test terminal processing in step S32.

  The test signal is received by a computer for test signal analysis. This computer for analyzing test signals attaches output means for acquiring test signals externally (an output member such as a test terminal board, a terminal for outputting test signals, or a connector connected to a connector) to the gaming machine, and outputs it. It is connected to the gaming machine through the means. As described above, since the information related to the control state can be output as the test information that cannot be extracted unless the output means is attached, the act of illegally extracting the test information from the outside can be prevented. Therefore, it can be prevented that the gaming state is recognized as the specific advantageous state by the illegally extracted test information.

  The lid portion of the board box is fixed to the box body with a one-way screw and other screws (not shown) screwed into one mounting hole in each of the mounting portions. A one-way screw is a screw that can only turn in the tightening direction. Therefore, once tightened, the screw cannot be removed. When attaching the output means by removing the lid of the board box from the box body, it is necessary to cut the attachment portion of the one-way screw in the attachment portion. Therefore, it is possible to know whether there is a possibility that an unauthorized board or connector has been attached by the presence or absence of a cutting trace of the attachment part, and to know whether an attempt was made to attach an output means illegally and whether or not it was going to be taken out from the outside. Can be. The box body may be fixed using the one-way screw before the game machine is shipped, or when the game store is installed.

  Further, the CPU 56 issues a drive command to the solenoid circuit 59 when a predetermined condition is established (step S33). The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16 and 21 in accordance with a drive command to open or close the variable winning ball device 15 or the opening / closing plate 20 or to switch the game ball passage in the special winning opening. Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34).

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  In this embodiment, there are twelve patterns “0” to “11” in the middle left and right, respectively, and the decorative symbols are displayed in order from “0” on the decorative symbol display device (variable display device) 9. The change of the decorative design is realized by changing. Note that the display of the display symbol may change discontinuously during the change of the decorative symbol. Further, when the final stop symbols (determined symbols) of the decorative symbols are aligned to the middle left and right, it is a big hit, and when the left and right are aligned, reach is reached.

  9 and 10 are flowcharts showing an example of the power-off process in step S20. In the power-off process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not a power-off confirmation signal is output (whether it is in an on state) (step S450). If not on, the value of the backup monitoring timer formed in the RAM 55 is cleared to 0 (step S451). If it is on, the value of the backup monitoring timer formed in the RAM 55 is incremented by 1 (step S452). If the value of the backup monitoring timer matches the determination value (for example, 2) (step S453), the power supply stop processing after step S454, that is, the preparation processing for power supply stop is executed. That is, the state shifts from the state in which the progress of the game is controlled to the state in which the power supply stop process (the power-off control process) for saving the game state is executed. In this embodiment, when the voltage value of the power supplied to the gaming machine drops to a predetermined value, the power-off confirmation signal is sent to the gaming machine by, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power board. The voltage value of the electric power at which the highest voltage (for example, 30 V) is used among the voltages used in is monitored, and is output when the voltage value drops to a predetermined value (for example, 22 V).

  By using the backup monitoring timer and the determination value, when the power-off confirmation signal is kept on for a time corresponding to the determination value, the power supply stop process is started. That is, even if the power-off confirmation signal is turned on for a moment due to noise or the like, the power supply stop process is not erroneously started. Whether or not the processing result of the power supply stop process is saved is confirmed by, for example, the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. Further, the value of the backup monitoring timer formed in the RAM 55 is stored by the backup power source for a predetermined period even when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Therefore, in step S8 in the main process, it may be confirmed that the processing result of the power supply stop process is saved by the backup monitoring timer value being the same value as the determination value.

  In the power supply stop process, the CPU 56 creates parity data (steps S454 to S463). That is, first, the clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area (step S454), and the checksum calculation start address corresponding to the start address of the RAM area where the contents should be stored even when the power supply is stopped is set in the pointer. (Step S455). Further, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the final address of the RAM area where the contents are to be stored even when the power supply is stopped is set (step S456).

  Next, an exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated (step S457). The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area (step S458), the pointer value is incremented by 1 (step S459), and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1 (step S460). Then, the processes in steps S457 to S460 are repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0 (step S461).

  When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area (step S462). Then, the inverted data is stored in the checksum data area (step S463). This data becomes parity data to be checked when the power is turned on. Next, an access prohibition value is set in the RAM access register (step S471). Thereafter, the built-in RAM 55 cannot be accessed.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the port clear setting table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S472). In the port clear setting table, the number of processes (the number of output ports to be cleared) is set to the head address, and then the output port address and output value data (clear data: the value of the off state of each bit of the output port) However, the output ports for the number of processes are sequentially set.

  The CPU 56 loads data at the address pointed to by the pointer (that is, the number of processes) (step S473). Further, the value of the pointer is incremented by 1 (step S474), and the data of the address pointed to by the pointer (that is, the address of the output port) is loaded (step S475). Further, the value of the pointer is incremented by 1 (step S476), and the data of the address pointed to by the pointer (that is, output value data) is loaded (step S477). Then, the output value data is output to the output port (step S478). Thereafter, the number of processes is reduced by 1 (step S479). If the number of processes is not 0 (N in step S480), the process returns to step S474. If the number of processes is 0 (Y in step S480), that is, if all output ports to be cleared are cleared, the timer interrupt is stopped (step S481).

  When the timer interrupt is stopped, the CPU 56 repeatedly checks whether or not the power-off confirmation signal is output (whether or not it is in the on state) (step S482), and waits for the power-off state to be entered. to go into. In this case, the CPU 56 repeatedly checks whether or not a power-off confirmation signal is output until the gaming machine is turned off. It should be noted that if VCC falls below a predetermined voltage value (for example, a value at which the microcomputer can operate normally) without restarting the power supply to the gaming machine during execution of the loop processing, the gaming control microcomputer A system reset signal (operation stop signal) is input from the power supply board 910 to the reset terminal 560. When the system reset signal is input, the game control microcomputer 560 stops processing.

  Before the power is turned off (that is, before the system reset signal is input to the reset terminal of the gaming control microcomputer 560), the power-off confirmation signal is not in the on state (that is, the voltage value becomes a predetermined value or more, When it is confirmed that the power-off signal is no longer output), the CPU 56 determines whether or not the probability change notification flag is set (that is, whether or not notification by the advantageous state notification processing is currently being continued) ( Step S483). If it is determined that the probability change notification flag is not set (notification by the advantageous state notification process is not performed), the CPU 56 sets an instantaneous stop flag (step S485). That is, the CPU 56 determines that the power supply to the gaming machine is restarted before the predetermined period elapses after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and sets the instantaneous power stop flag. In this case, since access to the RAM 55 has already been prohibited in step S471, the CPU 56 resets the access prohibition value set in the RAM access register to return the RAM 55 to an accessible state ( Step S484). When the instantaneous stop flag is set (step S485), the CPU 56 sets an access prohibition value in the RAM access register again, and prohibits access to the RAM 55 (step S486). Further, the CPU 56 sets the return address as the start address of the main process (step S487), and starts executing the main process. If it is determined in step S483 that the probability change notification flag is set (notification by the advantageous state notification process is currently continued), the CPU 56 proceeds to step S487 as it is.

  When the power supply is stopped by the above process, the power supply stop process in steps S454 to S481 is executed, and data indicating that the power supply stop process has been executed (specified value with backup and checksum) Is stored in the backup RAM, the RAM access is disabled, the output port is cleared, and the timer interrupt for executing the game control process is disabled.

  Further, even if the power supply is stopped, if the power supply is resumed before the predetermined period elapses, the instantaneous power interruption flag is set and the main process is re-executed. If it is determined that the power supply is restored from the momentary power failure state, the power failure recovery flag must be set to restore the power supply from a normal power outage (power restoration other than power restoration from the power failure state). After the notification by the state notification process is started, it is possible to intentionally create an instantaneous stop state and turn off the notification. In this embodiment, even if the power supply is recovered from the instantaneous power failure state, the instantaneous power failure flag is not set when the probability change notification flag is set. Even when the stoppage occurs, it is possible to continue to notify that the state is in a probable variation state. For this reason, it is possible to prevent an act of intentionally creating a momentary power stop state and turning off the notification after the power is restored and the notification by the advantageous state notification process is started.

  In this embodiment, the entire area of the RAM 55 is backed up by a backup power source (the contents of the RAM 55 are stored for a predetermined period even when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped). In this example, the checksum based on the contents of the RAM 55 when the power-off confirmation signal is output is stored in the backup area of the RAM 55 together with the value of the backup monitoring timer by the processing of steps S452 to S480. After the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped (including the case of a momentary power failure), when the power supply is restored within a predetermined period, the game control means is stored in the RAM 55 by the processing of steps S151 to S154 described above. Data (including data indicating a game state that is a control state by the game control means immediately before the power supply is stopped (eg, process flag state, big hit flag state, probability variation flag state, output port output state, etc.) ), The gaming state can be returned to the state immediately before the power supply is stopped. If the power supply stop period exceeds the predetermined period, the value of the backup monitoring timer and the checksum should be different from the regular values. In this case, the initialization process of steps S10 to S14 is executed. The

  As described above, the power supply stop processing (preparation processing for power supply stop) ensures that the data for returning the gaming state to the state immediately before the power supply is stopped is the fluctuation data storage means (in this example) Stored in a part of the RAM 55). Therefore, even if the power is cut off due to a power failure or the like, if the power is restored within a predetermined period, the gaming state can be returned to the state immediately before the power supply is stopped.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol and the decorative symbol used in this embodiment. EXT shown in FIG. 12 is second byte data of an effect control command (2-byte configuration) corresponding to each variation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 12, variation patterns # 1 to # 4 are used in both the normal state and the probability variation state. That is, in both the normal state and the probability variation state, the variation pattern is selected using the same variation pattern table. Therefore, in this embodiment, the selection ratio of the variation time used in the normal state and the probability variation state is the same. Further, in this embodiment, the display mode (for example, the character type and display timing, the display method of the background in the variable display device other than the character, and the character) is also changed in the normal state and the probability change state. It is the same, and the selection ratio of the display mode is also the same.

  Further, data indicating each of the variation patterns # 1 to # 4 is stored in the ROM 54 as a normal variation pattern table in association with the values that can be taken by the random number 4. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 determines one variation pattern by referring to the variation pattern table according to the extracted random 4 value.

  As described above, since the variation pattern is selected using the same variation pattern table in the normal state and the probability variation state, whether or not the player is in the certain variation state is determined by the variation time and the variation pattern selection ratio. Can be prevented. Further, since it is not necessary to prepare separate variation pattern tables for the normal state and the probability variation state, the capacity of data that the ROM 54 should store as the variation pattern table can be reduced.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the special symbol process executed by the CPU 56. The special symbol process shown in FIG. 13 is a specific process of step S25 in the flowchart of FIG. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs a variable shortening timer subtraction process (step S310) to detect that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6. If the switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning that causes the game ball to win the start winning opening 14 is generated (step S311), the start opening switch passing process (step S312) is performed, and then according to the internal state. Any one of steps S300 to S308 is performed. The variation shortening timer is a timer for setting the variation time when the variation time of the special symbol is shortened. In the start switch passing process, it is checked whether the starting winning memory number (holding memory number) has reached the maximum value of 4, and if the holding memory number has not reached 4, the holding memory number is increased by 1 to determine the big hit Each random number (random 1 to random 5 and random 9) such as a random number for use is extracted, and stored in a storage area (special symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the reserved storage number. Note that extracting a random number means reading a count value from a counter for generating a random number and setting the read count value as a random value.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Waits until the variable symbol variable display can be started. When the special symbol variable display can be started, the number of reserved memories is confirmed. If the number of reserved memories is not 0, it is determined whether or not to make a big hit. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): A stop symbol after variable display of the special symbol is determined. At this time, information for instructing the type of the final stop symbol is transmitted to the effect control board 80 as an effect control command. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S302. In this embodiment, all kinds of symbols (for example, all symbols from “1” to “9”) may be determined as special symbols to be displayed on the special symbol display device 8.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S302): A variation pattern (variable display mode) of variable display of special symbols is determined according to a random 4 value. At this time, information for instructing the variation mode (variation pattern) of the final stop symbol is transmitted to the effect control board 80 as an effect control command. Also, a variation time timer corresponding to the variation pattern is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S303. The effect control means may arbitrarily select and display a symbol regardless of the type of the final stop symbol indicated in the effect control command received in step S302. That is, the effect control means applies the variable display device 9 from all types of decorative symbols regardless of whether the final stop symbol indicated in the received effect control command is a probability variable symbol or a symbol other than a probability variable symbol. Select the symbol to be displayed. Therefore, even if any type of decorative design is displayed on the variable display device 9, the gaming state may be in a probable state. In addition, even if any type of decorative symbol is displayed on the variable display device 9, the gaming state may be in a state other than the probability changing state.

  Special symbol variation process (step S303): When a predetermined time (the time indicated by the variation time timer in step S302) elapses, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S304.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): Control is performed so that all symbols displayed on the variable display device 9 are stopped. Specifically, it sets to the state where the production control command which shows special symbol stop is transmitted. If it is a big hit, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

  Big winning opening opening process (step S305): Control for opening the big winning opening is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening. Also, the process timer sets the execution time of the big prize opening opening process and sets the big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S306.

  Processing for opening a special prize opening (step S306): A process for sending a production control command for displaying a big prize round to the production control board 80, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition for the special prize opening, and the like are performed. When the closing condition for the last big prize opening is satisfied, the internal state is updated to shift to step S307.

  Specific area valid time process (step S307): The presence / absence of passing through the V winning switch 22 is monitored, and a process of confirming that the big hit gaming state continuation condition is satisfied is performed. If the condition for continuing the big hit gaming state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state is updated to shift to step S305. In addition, when the big hit gaming state continuation condition is not satisfied within a predetermined effective time, or when all rounds are finished, the internal state is updated to shift to step S308.

  Big hit end processing (step S308): Control for causing the effect control means to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 is in a state where the variation of the special symbol can be started (for example, when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300) (step S51), the start winning memory is stored. The value of the number (holding storage number) is confirmed (step S52). Specifically, the count value of the start winning storage counter is confirmed. The case where the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is a case where the symbol is not changed in the special symbol display 8 and the game is not a big hit game.

  If the reserved memory number is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S54), and the value of the reserved memory number is set. 1 is reduced (the value of the start winning storage counter is reduced by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S55). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes. That is, in this example, every time the variable display start condition is satisfied, the CPU 56 executes a process of shifting the contents of each storage area.

  Further, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to end the probability change (steps S551 to S553). Specifically, when the probability variation flag is set (step S551), the random number for probability variation end (random 9) is read from the storage area (step S552), and the value of the read random 9 is the probability variation end value. (Step S553), if they match, the probability variation flag is reset and the probability variation state is terminated (step S554). When the probability variation state is ended, the CPU 56 changes the determination table used for determining whether or not the result of the variation of the special symbol or the decoration symbol is a jackpot symbol from the special table used in the probability variation state to the normal table. change. Therefore, when the probability variation state ends based on the value of random 9, the lottery based on the low probability state is executed in the jackpot determination in step S57.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S56), and executes the jackpot determination module (step S57). When it is determined to be a big hit (step S58), the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag (step S59). The jackpot determination module is a program that determines that a jackpot is determined when the jackpot determination random number matches a predetermined jackpot determination value. When the CPU 56 is in a probable variation state, for example, by determining whether or not to make a big hit using a special table, the CPU 56 decides to make a big hit with a 10 times higher probability than the normal state. If it is determined in steps S551 to S553 that the probability change is to be terminated, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to make a big hit using the normal table.

  Further, when the CPU 56 decides to make a big hit, it performs a probability change determination process for determining whether or not to make a probability change (steps S59a to 59d). The CPU 56 reads the probability variation determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S59a), and executes the probability variation determination module (step S59b). If it is decided to change the probability (step S59c), the CPU 56 sets the probability change decision flag (step S59d). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S60). The probability change determination flag is a flag indicating that it is determined to shift the gaming state to the probability change state. The probability variation determination module is a program that determines to be probability variation when the probability variation determination random number matches a predetermined probability variation determination value.

  As described above, when it is determined that the game is a big hit, it is determined whether or not the probability change is made using a random number for probability change determination, so that the game state is controlled to shift to the probability change state regardless of the type of the big hit symbol. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the jackpot symbol from being determined whether or not to shift to the probability variation state, and it is possible to prevent the player from reducing the game motivation.

  Moreover, since it is determined by lottery whether or not the probability change is to be ended, it is possible to prevent the player from guessing whether or not the probability change state has ended from the number of times the probability change state has been continued. Therefore, regardless of the number of times the probability variation state continues, the player can be expected that the probability variation state may still continue, and the anxiety that the probability variation state may have already ended. A feeling can be felt and a player's game interest can be improved.

  In addition, since the determination result of whether or not to end the probability change state is immediately reflected in the jackpot determination, it is possible to shorten the time from the determination of whether or not to end the probability change state to the determination of the jackpot determination. The time for saving the result of the end determination of the probability variation state can be shortened. Therefore, by shortening the time for storing the determination result, it is possible to make it difficult to alter the content of the result of the end determination of the probability variation state.

  In addition, when it is determined that the game is a big hit, it may be determined to shift to the probability variation state unconditionally. In this case, when the CPU 56 determines that it is a big hit and sets the big hit flag, it does not perform the processing of steps S59a to S59c, but sets the probability change decision flag as it is.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 first reads the variation pattern determination random number from the random number storage buffer, and determines the variation pattern of the special symbol using the variation pattern table based on the read variation pattern determination random number value. (Step S204). Specifically, the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random value is determined as the variation pattern of the special symbol executed by the special symbol display device 8. In this embodiment, the variation pattern of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is determined using the common variation pattern table shown in FIG. 12 in the probability variation state and the normal state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) designating a variation pattern according to the determined variation pattern (variation time) (step S205).

  Then, the CPU 56 sets the variation time in the special symbol process timer (step S206). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S303 (step S207).

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) executed when the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting an effect control command indicating the special symbol stop (step S71).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit is set (step S72). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag (step S74) and clears the probability variation counter (step S74a). The probability variation counter is a counter in which the number of times (variable displayable number) indicating how many times the special symbol is changed will end the probability variation state is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not a probability change notification flag indicating that the recovery to the probability change state is being performed is set (step S74b). If the probability change notification flag is not set, the CPU 56 proceeds to step S89 as it is. If the probability change notification flag is set, the CPU 56 executes a process of transmitting a normal display designation effect control command (normal display designation command) to the effect control means (effect control board 80) (step S74c). When receiving the normal display designation command, the effect control CPU 101 stops the effect using the sound, display, light emitter, etc., and ends the notification that the state has been restored to the certain change state. When the normal display designation command is transmitted, the CPU 56 resets the probability change notification flag indicating that the recovery to the probability change state is being performed (step S74d), and proceeds to step S89. By resetting the probability change notification flag when a normal display designation command is sent, after the power supply to the gaming machine is restored, it is notified that the probability change state is present until the first big hit, but not after the first big hit. You can

  In the advantageous state notification process, when the probability change notification flag is set on the effect control means side instead of setting the probability change notification flag on the game control means side, when the normal display designation command is received in step S74c, The control CPU 101 may reset the probability change notification flag.

  If the big hit flag is not set in step S72, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set (step S77). If set, the value of the probability variation counter is decremented by 1 (step S78). When the value of the probability variation counter reaches 0, the probability variation flag is reset and the probability variation state is terminated (steps S79 and S80). If it is confirmed in step S77 that the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 proceeds to step S89.

  In step S89, if the special symbol change stop symbol is a big hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

  As described above, if the probability change notification flag is set in the case of a big hit, since the normal display designation command is transmitted to the effect control means, after performing notification that the probability change state has been restored in the advantageous state notification processing, It can be controlled to continue the notification until the first big hit. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from recognizing the gaming state after the first big hit, and to maintain the player's willingness to play. Also, if the notification that the probability change state has been restored is turned off, the gaming state becomes unrecognizable, so the notification cannot be turned off while the probability change state is recognizable, and the game store is opened. Sometimes it is prevented that the state is illegally shifted to the probability change state.

  In this embodiment, the case has been described where the game control means ends the notification to the effect control means by transmitting a normal display designation command based on the fact that the probability change notification flag is set. The control means may detect the occurrence of the big hit and end the notification. In this case, for example, when the effect control means receives an effect control command in the jackpot gaming state from the game control means, it determines that a jackpot has occurred, and ends the notification that the probability variation state has been restored.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a big hit end process executed when the big hit game is ended. In the big hit ending process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation determination flag is set (step S91). When the probability variation determination flag is set, the CPU 56 sets the probability variation flag (step S92), and further sets a predetermined value in the probability variation counter (step S93). In this embodiment, 100, 200, 500, or 1000 is set in the probability variation counter according to random 11 (extracted at the time of start winning or variation start and stored in the RAM 55). Note that the CPU 56 does not always determine the predetermined number of times of probability variation, but may determine to control the probability variation to continue indefinitely until the probability variation puncture is established according to the random 11. In addition, in order to notify the effect control means of the end of the big hit gaming state, a process of transmitting an effect control command for specifying the big hit end display (a big hit end display designation command) is performed (step S94). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is set to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S96).

  If the probability change determination flag is not set, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting an effect control command designating a big hit end display in order to notify the effect control means of the end of the big hit gaming state (step S95). . Then, control goes to a step S96. In step S94 and step S95, when the effect control means receives the jackpot end display command, the effect control means executes effect processing for displaying the end of the jackpot in the same effect mode. That is, the effect control means executes a common game effect based on the common effect data regardless of whether or not the state in which the game control is performed when performing the game effect is a probability change state. The effect control means may select one effect data from a plurality of effect data at a predetermined selection ratio (for example, by lottery using a random number) and perform a game effect using the selected effect data. Good. In this case, the effect control means selects the effect data at the same selection ratio regardless of whether or not it is in the probability variation state, and a game effect (for example, an effect that displays the end of jackpot or a notice effect that uses a character image, etc.) I do.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control CPU 101. In the main process, first, an initialization process is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, initializing a timer for determining the start interval of effect control, and the like (step S701). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 shifts to a loop process for checking the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In this embodiment, the timer interrupt takes every 33 ms. That is, the effect control process is started every 33 ms. In this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific effect control process is executed in the main process, but the effect control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis execution process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state is selected and executed from among the processes corresponding to the control state. And the process which updates a notice random number counter is performed (step S706). Thereafter, the process returns to the process of checking the timer interrupt flag in step S702. The game control means outputs a capture signal for instructing the capture of the command together with the effect control command, and the capture signal is input to the interrupt terminal of the effect control CPU 101. The effect control CPU 101 The effect control command is received by the embedded process.

  Here, the process data set for each variation pattern will be described. The process data is composed of data obtained by collecting a plurality of combinations of process timer set values and presentation control execution data. The effect control execution data includes display control execution data and lamp control execution data. In the display control execution data, data indicating the display state of the variable display device 9 during the symbol variation period is set. The lamp control execution data is set to data indicating the lamp / LED display state during the symbol variation period. When the timing for switching the display state (for example, the timing when a new character appears on the variable display device 9 or the timing when the lamp / LED is switched from the lit state to the unlit state) arrives during the symbol variation period, the effect control means The display state of the variable display device 9 and the lamp / LED is controlled according to the next effect control execution data in the process data. In the process timer set value, a time corresponding to the switching timing is set.

  The process data is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. The process data is prepared for each of the symbol variation patterns. In this embodiment, since the variation pattern is determined using the same variation pattern table in the normal state and the probability variation state, the capacity of the process data stored in the ROM in the effect control board 80 can also be reduced.

  Thus, the effect control means controls the effect means based on the program and process data stored in the ROM, and controls a plurality of effect means (in this embodiment, the variable display device 9 and the lamp / LED). The related program is stored in the ROM mounted on the effect control board 80. And ROM which stores those programs can be comprised as one ROM.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, any one of steps S800 to S806 is performed according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not an effect control command (variation pattern command) capable of specifying the fluctuation time is received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (variation pattern reception flag) indicating that a variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is set when it is confirmed by command analysis processing that a variation pattern designation effect control command has been received (step S623).

  Prior notice selection process (step S801): For example, whether or not to perform a notice effect using a character image (an effect for informing in advance that a decorative symbol stop symbol becomes a jackpot symbol or reach occurs) Determine the type of notice effect to be performed.

  All symbol variation start processing (step S802): Control is performed so that variation of the left middle right symbol of the decorative symbol is started.

  Symbol variation processing (step S803): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern, and monitors the end of the variation time. In addition, stop control of the left and right symbols is performed.

  All symbol stop waiting setting process (step S804): When an effect control command (decoration symbol stop effect control command) for instructing stop of all symbols is received at the end of the variation time, the symbol variation is stopped and the stop symbol ( Control to display the fixed symbol). The effect control means, based on the effect control command for instructing the type of the final stop symbol received from the game control means, sets the same decorative symbol selection table when a big hit occurs, regardless of whether or not it is in a probable state. The decorative design to be displayed on the variable display device 9 is determined at the same selection ratio. Further, the effect control means may determine the decorative symbols with different selection ratios in the probability variation state and the normal state using different selection tables. Even when the decorative symbols are determined using different selection tables, all types of symbols (for example, all symbols from “1” to “9”) are displayed on the variable display device 9. There is a possibility of being determined as a symbol. Further, the effect control means displays on the variable display device 9 when executing the all symbol variation start processing (step S802) or the symbol variation in-progress processing (step S803), not the all symbol stop waiting setting processing (step S804). You may perform the process which determines beforehand the decoration design to make.

  Big hit display process (step S805): After the end of the fluctuation time, the control of the probability variable big hit display or the normal big hit display is performed. In this embodiment, a common game effect is executed based on the common effect data regardless of whether it is a probable big hit or a normal big hit.

  Process during jackpot game (step S806): Control during jackpot game is performed. For example, when an effect control command for display before opening the big winning opening or display when opening the big winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  As described above, in this embodiment, since the notification effect of whether the state is the probability variation state or the normal state is not performed at all except when the power is turned on, the number of continuations of the specific advantageous state (for example, the probability variation state) It becomes difficult for the player to grasp the situation, and the player's interest in the specific advantageous state can be improved, and the player can no longer recognize whether or not the current gaming state is the specific advantageous state. Thus, the player's willingness to play can be maintained.

  In addition, in this embodiment, when it is restored to the probability change state when the power is turned on, it is configured to notify that fact, so it can be determined from the outside that the probability change state, the game store, It is possible to prevent an act of starting a business from a certain change state (especially immediately after opening). On the other hand, if there is no notification of whether or not the game is in the probability change state or the normal state, for example, the game is started in the probability change state (particularly immediately after opening the store), and the game store may be disadvantaged. In this embodiment, when the probability is restored to the state when the power is turned on, the fact is notified so that it is possible to prevent the game store from being disadvantaged.

  In addition, if the fact is always notified when the probability change state is restored when the power is turned on, the instantaneous stop state may be intentionally generated during the game, so that the probability change state or the normal state may be recognized. There is. In this embodiment, when power is turned on, it is determined whether or not the power is restored from the instantaneous power failure state. When it is determined that the power is restored from the instantaneous power failure state, when the probability change state is restored, the fact is notified. Since the instantaneous power failure state is intentionally generated, it can be prevented that the probability variation state is recognized.

  In addition, you may make it complete | finish, for example, when the predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds, 1 minute, 10 minutes) passes, when the power recovery is restored to the probability variation state. In addition, for example, the notification may be performed until the first variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is executed after the power is turned on. In this embodiment, the notification is made until the first big hit occurs after the power is turned on. Therefore, after the predetermined period elapses, and after the power is turned on, the special symbols and decorative symbols are displayed first. If the notification is made until the game is executed, the player may not be able to recognize the gaming state after the variable symbol display effect of special symbols and decorative symbols starts or after the first big hit. It is possible to maintain the player's willingness to play. In addition, if you perform an action to turn off the notice that it is in an advantageous state (for example, an action to turn off the notice by executing a variable display of a special symbol or a decorative design or generating a big hit at a game store) Disappears but the gaming state after the notification is turned off changes randomly, so that the gaming state cannot be recognized. Therefore, the notification cannot be turned off in a state where it can be recognized that the advantageous state is maintained, and it is possible to prevent the state from being illegally shifted to the advantageous state when the amusement store is opened.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the power is turned on, the state is notified when the state is restored to the certain change state. However, the state may be notified when the state is the normal state.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the probability change state is restored when the power is turned on, the fact is notified, but the control state of the game is maintained for a predetermined period (for example, game) while the power is supplied. (The period from the closing time of the store to the opening time, 3 hours, 6 hours, 9 hours, etc.) If it is stopped, it may be notified when it is in a probable change state. For example, the demonstration control screen or the game control device continuously displays the demonstration screen during a period when the game control state is stopped (a period during which the variable display of special symbols or decoration symbols is not executed, a period during which no start prize is generated). When the predetermined period elapses, for example, it is confirmed whether or not the state is a certain variation state, and if it is the certain variation state, a notification is made that the certain variation has occurred (for example, as shown in FIG. 7B). Processing for displaying an image may be performed. If configured in this way, even if an act of maintaining a specific advantageous state without turning off the power from the closing time of the amusement store to the opening of the next day is performed, it is shifted to the specific advantageous state. Since it is possible to notify that the game is in a state, it is possible to prevent an illegal act such as maintaining a specific game state without turning off the power of the gaming machine.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, only the control for shifting the gaming state to the probability changing state is performed when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied. However, in addition to the probability changing state, the control for shifting the gaming state to the short-time state is performed. It may be. Hereinafter, a second embodiment will be described in which a gaming state is shifted to a probable change state or a short-time state when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied.

  In the present embodiment, detailed description of the parts having the same configuration and processing as those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and parts different from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

  In the special symbol variation time shortening (short time) state, the variation time (variable display period) of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is shortened compared to the case of the normal state. The short-time state continues until a predetermined number of special symbol changes or until a big hit occurs. In this embodiment, the predetermined number of times is 100, but the predetermined number of times may be selected from a plurality of types by lottery. In the short-time state, since the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, the frequency of the special symbol variation is increased (in other words, the digestion of the reserved memory is accelerated), and as a result, the big hit game is performed. The possibility increases. In this embodiment, the high probability state is a probability variation state, and the low probability state includes a short time state and a normal state.

  In this embodiment, in the probability changing state and the short time state, the opening time and the number of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are not extended, and the fluctuation time in the normal symbol display 10 is not shortened, and the stop in the normal symbol display 10 is stopped. It is assumed that the probability that a symbol becomes a winning symbol is not increased. Moreover, in this embodiment, regardless of the control state such as the probability variation state, the time reduction state, or the normal state, a common background image is used, and each electric component (for example, the variable display device 9, The speaker 27 and a light emitter such as a lamp are controlled. In the time-saving state, one or both of the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning device 15 are increased as compared with the probability changing state and the normal state, or the fluctuation time in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. You may make it do. In this case, for example, a value to be set as an initial value of the time reduction counter may be randomly determined using a random number, and a variation pattern may be selected using a common variation pattern table for the probability variation and the time variation. . By doing so, even if the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable prize-winning device 15 are increased in the short time state, it is possible to prevent the player from easily recognizing whether the player is in the probability changing state or the short time state.

  FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the decorative symbol stop symbol used in this embodiment and the gaming state to be controlled. In the example shown in FIG. 20, when the left, middle, and right symbols of the decorative symbols are aligned with 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, or 11, the gaming state (control state of the gaming machine) is in a probabilistic state or a shortened state after the big hit game is finished. Migrate to Hereinafter, the symbol 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, or 11 which is a symbol for shifting the gaming state to the probability changing state or the time saving state is also referred to as a probability changing / time saving symbol.

  When the left, middle, and right symbols of the decorative symbols are aligned in a probabilistic / short-time pattern, whether the game state is shifted to the control state of the probable state or the short-time state is determined by the determination result using the random 10 by the game control means. . In other words, the game control means shifts the gaming state to the probability changing state when the random 10 matches a predetermined value. Further, the game control means shifts the gaming state to the time-saving state when the random 10 does not match the predetermined value. The game control means can determine, for example, whether or not the left middle and right symbols of the decorative symbols are aligned with the probability variation / short time symbols based on the special symbol determined using the random 3 at the time of the big hit.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an advantageous state notification process in the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, only whether or not the probability variation flag is on is confirmed. However, in this embodiment, when the probability variation flag is not on, the CPU 56 stores the time reduction flag stored in the RAM 55. It is confirmed whether or not is on (step S155g). If the time reduction flag is on (step S155g), the start address of the time transmission notification command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S155h), and an effect control command (time reduction) that designates time reduction notification according to the contents of the pointer is set. A process of transmitting the notification designation command) to the effect control board 80 is executed (step S155i). When receiving the time-notification notification designation command, the effect control CPU 101 executes processing for notifying the player that the time-recovery state is restored using sound, display, light emitter, and the like. The other processes of the advantageous state notification process are the same as the processes in the first embodiment.

  Similarly to the first embodiment, the CPU 56 may set a probability change notification flag indicating that a notification indicating that the state has been recovered to the probability change state is being transmitted when the probability change notification designation command is transmitted. Further, the CPU 56 may set a time reduction notification flag indicating that it is informing that the time reduction state has been restored when the time reduction notification designation command is transmitted.

  In this embodiment, when the probability change notification designation command is received, the effect control CPU 101 performs notification using the probability change recovery notification image shown in FIG. In addition, when receiving the time reduction notification designation command, the effect control CPU 101 performs notification using the time reduction recovery notification image shown in FIG.

  Next, the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the probability variation determination process is performed after determining the big hit and setting the big hit flag. However, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 performs the special symbol normal process. Then, the probability variation determination process for determining whether or not to be probability variation is not performed (see steps S59a to S59d in FIG. 14). In this embodiment, the CPU 56 performs the probability variation determination process in the jackpot end process. The other processes of the special symbol normal process are the same as the processes in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop process (step S304) in the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, only the probability variation flag and the probability variation counter are controlled in the special symbol stop process. However, as shown in FIG. 23, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 uses the probability variation flag and the probability variation counter. In addition, the hour / hour flag and hour / hour count counter are controlled.

  In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting an effect control command indicating the special symbol stop (step S71). Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the stop symbol is a big hit symbol (step S72). If it is a big hit symbol, the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag are reset (steps S74 and S75). In addition, the CPU 56 clears the probability variation counter and the time reduction counter (steps S75a and S75b), and proceeds to step S89.

  When the processing of step S75b is executed, if the probability change notification flag is set in the advantageous state notification processing, the CPU 56 performs the normal display designation effect control command (normal display) as in the first embodiment. The process of transmitting the specified command) to the effect control means (effect control board 80) is executed, and the probability change notification flag indicating that the recovery to the probability change state is being notified is reset, and then the process proceeds to step S89. It is also possible (see steps S74b to S74d in FIG. 16). Furthermore, when the time reduction notification flag is set, the CPU 56 executes a process of transmitting a normal display designation command to the effect control means, and resets the time reduction notification flag indicating that it is informing that the time reduction state has been restored. Then, you may transfer to step S89.

  If the stop symbol is not a big hit symbol, it is confirmed whether or not a probability variation flag indicating that the probability variation state is set (step S77). If set, the value of the probability variation counter is decremented by 1 (step S78). When the value of the probability variation counter reaches 0, the probability variation flag is reset and the probability variation state is terminated (steps S79 and S80).

  If it is confirmed in step S77 that the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S84). If it is set, the value of the time reduction counter is decremented by 1 (step S85). When the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0 (step S86), the time reduction flag is reset to end the time reduction state (step S87), and the process proceeds to step S89. The time reduction counter is a counter in which the number of times (variable displayable number) indicating how many times the special symbol is changed will end the time reduction state is set.

  In step S89, if the special symbol change stop symbol is a big hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process in the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, the probability variation determination process for determining whether or not the probability change is performed in the special symbol normal process is performed. As shown in FIG. 23, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 performs the jackpot termination process. Probability determination processing is performed.

  In the jackpot ending process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the special symbol stop symbol (which is a jackpot symbol) causing the jackpot game is a certain change / short time symbol (step S91a). When it is a probability variation / short time symbol, the CPU 56 performs a probability variation determination process for determining whether or not to assume probability variation (steps S91b to 91d). The CPU 56 reads the probability variation determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S91b), and executes the probability variation determination module (step S91c). If it is decided to change the probability (step S91d), the CPU 56 sets a probability change flag (step S92). Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined value in the probability variation counter (step S93). Then, control goes to a step S94. In this embodiment, 100, 200, 500, or 1000 is set in the probability variation counter according to random 11 (extracted at the time of start winning or variation start and stored in the RAM 55). Note that the CPU 56 does not always determine the predetermined number of times of probability variation, but may determine to control the probability variation to continue indefinitely until the probability variation puncture is established according to the random 11.

  If it is not determined to be a probable change, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag (step S91e), and further sets a predetermined value in the time reduction counter (step 91f). Then, control goes to a step S94. In this embodiment, 100 is set in the time reduction counter.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting an effect control command for designating a jackpot end display (a jackpot end display designation command) to notify the effect control means of the end of the jackpot gaming state (step S94). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is set to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S96).

  If the decorative symbol stop symbol is not a probabilistic / short-time symbol, a process of transmitting an effect control command designating a jackpot end display is performed in order to notify the end of the jackpot gaming state (step S95). Then, control goes to a step S96.

  In step S94 and step S95, the production control means executes production processing in the same production mode when receiving the jackpot end display command. That is, in this embodiment, the end of the big hit gaming state is notified in the same effect manner in the normal state, the probability variation state, and the short time state. The effect control means notifies the end of the big hit gaming state in the same effect manner in the probability variation state and the normal state, and in the short time state, the end of the big hit gaming state in the effect manner different from the probability variation state and the normal state. You may make it alert | report (including alerting | reporting of the number of time reductions). If the probabilistic state and the normal state are notified in the same production mode, the player can determine whether or not the gaming state is the probable state even if the time is short or the number of time reductions is notified. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player's gaming interest from declining even if the time is over.

  As described above, in this embodiment, since there is no notification effect as to whether it is in a probabilistic state, in a short-time state, or in a normal state except when the power is turned on, a specific advantageous state (for example, It becomes difficult for the player to grasp the number of times the probability variation state) continues, and it is possible to improve the player's interest in the specific advantageous state, and whether the current gaming state is the specific advantageous state or not As a result, the player's willingness to play can be maintained.

  In this embodiment, when the power is turned on, when it is restored to the probability change state or the short time state, the fact is notified so that it is possible to determine from the outside that the state is the probability change state or the short time state. In addition, it is possible to prevent an amusement store from starting business (especially immediately after opening) from a promising state or a short time state. Conversely, if there is no notification of whether it is in a probable change state, a short-time state, or a normal state, for example, the game is started in the probabilistic state (especially immediately after opening the store), and the game store receives a disadvantage. There is a risk that. In this embodiment, when the power supply is turned on and the state is restored to the probable change state or the short time state, the fact that the game store is informed can be prevented.

  In addition, when the power is turned on, it is always notified when it is restored to the probable state or the short time state, and it is recognized whether it is in the probable state, the short time state, or the normal state by intentionally generating an instantaneous stop state during the game There is a risk of being. In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the power is restored from the instantaneous power failure state when the power is turned on, and when it is determined that the power is restored from the instantaneous power failure state, Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of the instantaneous power interruption state from being recognized as to whether the state is the probability variation state or the time reduction state.

  In this embodiment, when the power is turned on, when the power is restored to the certain change state or the short time state, the fact is notified. However, when it is in the normal state, the fact may be notified. .

  Further, in this embodiment, when the power is turned on, when it is restored to the certain change state or the short time state, the fact is notified, but the control state of the game is kept for a predetermined period while the power is supplied. (For example, the period from the closing time of the amusement store to the opening time, 3 hours, 6 hours, 9 hours, etc.) When it is stopped, if it is in a probable change state or a short time state, it may be notified that Good. For example, the demonstration control screen or the game control device continuously displays the demonstration screen during a period when the game control state is stopped (a period during which the variable display of special symbols or decoration symbols is not executed, a period during which no start prize is generated). When the predetermined period elapses, for example, it is confirmed whether or not the state is a certain variation state, and if it is the certain variation state, a notification is made that the certain variation has occurred (for example, as shown in FIG. 7B). Processing for displaying an image may be performed. If configured in this way, even if an act of maintaining a specific advantageous state without turning off the power from the closing time of the amusement store to the opening of the next day is performed, it is shifted to the specific advantageous state. Since it is possible to notify that the game is in a state, it is possible to prevent an illegal act such as maintaining a specific game state without turning off the power of the gaming machine.

  Although not specifically mentioned in this embodiment, the notification when the power is restored to the certain change state or the short time state when the power is turned on is, for example, when a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds, 1 minute, 10 minutes) has elapsed. It is sufficient to end the process. In addition, for example, the notification may be performed until the first time when the special symbol or decorative symbol variable display is executed after the power is turned on, or the notification is performed until the first big hit occurs after the power is turned on. Also good. With this configuration, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, after a variable symbol display effect for special symbols or decorative symbols has started, or after the first big hit, the player cannot recognize the gaming state. And the player's willingness to play can be maintained. In addition, if configured as described above, an act of erasing the notification that the player is in an advantageous state (for example, by performing a variable display of a special symbol or a decorative symbol at a game store or generating a big hit, the notification is performed. If the action is turned off, the notification disappears but the gaming state cannot be recognized. Therefore, the notification cannot be turned off while the advantageous state is recognized, and it is illegal when the game store is opened. It can be prevented that the state is shifted to the advantageous state.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern may be selected using the same variation pattern table in the probability variation state and the time-short state. For example, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is selected using the same variation pattern table in both the probability variation state and the short time state. Accordingly, in this case, the special symbol and the decorative symbol are variably displayed using the same variation pattern (for example, the same variation time) in both the probability variation state and the short time state. Further, in this case, in both the probability variation state and the short-time state, the display mode in which the decorative symbol is changing (for example, the type and display timing of the character, how to display the background on the variable display device other than the symbol and the character) Are the same.

  By adopting the above configuration, since the variation pattern is selected using the same variation pattern table in both the probability variation state and the short time state, it can be recognized that the player is at least in the short time state. It is possible to prevent the player from discriminating whether or not the player is in a certain variation state based on the selection ratio of the variation pattern. Further, it is possible to reduce the amount of data that the ROM 54 should store as the normal time variation pattern table.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, a common background image is used in any control state of the probability variation state, the time reduction state, or the normal state, and each electric component is controlled in a common rendering mode. However, if the production is performed in a common manner in the probability variation state and the time reduction state, the control part in the probability variation state and the time reduction state uses a background image different from the normal state and uses different backgrounds for each electrical component. Control may be performed. Hereinafter, the third embodiment performs the production in a manner common to the probability variation state and the short time state, and controls each electrical component in a different representation manner using a background image different from the normal state in the control state in the probability variation state and the short time state. Will be described.

  In the present embodiment, detailed description of the parts having the same configuration and processing as those in the first embodiment or the second embodiment is omitted, and the first embodiment or the second embodiment is mainly omitted. Differences from the embodiment will be described.

  In this embodiment, when the transition condition to the probability change state is satisfied, the game state shifts to the probability change state after the big hit game is finished. In addition, when the condition for shifting to the short-time state is satisfied, the gaming state shifts to the short-time state after the big hit game ends. Furthermore, when both the transition condition to the probability change state and the transition condition to the time reduction state are satisfied, the jackpot game is first preferentially controlled to the probability change state, and then the time reduction is achieved by the satisfaction of the predetermined condition. Controlled by the state. A state in which both the transition condition to the probability change state and the transition condition to the time reduction state are satisfied and the gaming state is preferentially controlled to the probability change state is also referred to as a probability change time short state.

  In this embodiment, in the probability changing state and the short time state, the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 and the number of times of opening are not increased, and the fluctuation time in the normal symbol display 10 is not shortened. It is assumed that the probability that the stop symbol becomes a winning symbol is not increased. Further, in this embodiment, in the control state of the probability variation state and the short time state, a background image different from the normal state is used, and light emission of each electrical component (for example, the variable display device 9, the speaker 27, the lamp, etc.) is performed in different rendering modes Body). However, in the probability variation state and the short time state, a common background image is used, and each electric component is controlled in a common rendering mode.

  In the same manner in the probability variation state and the short time state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased as compared to the normal state, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are determined. One or both of them may be increased compared to the normal state and may be more advantageous for the player. In addition, the variable display period (also referred to as fluctuation time) in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened compared to the normal state in the same manner in the probability variation state and the short time state, so that it becomes more advantageous for the player. It may be.

FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers in the third embodiment. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit judgment)
(2) Random 2: For special symbol losing symbol determination (3) Random 3: For determining a special symbol that generates a big hit (for big hit symbol determination)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to reach when no big hit is generated (for reach determination)
(6) Random 6: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine initial value of random 1 (for determining random 1 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Determine initial value of random 6 (for determining random 6 initial value)
(9) Random 9: Determines whether or not to end the probability change (for determining the probability change end). That is, the random 9 takes a value in the range of 0 to 49 and is used as a random number for determining whether or not to end the probability variation state. In the probability change state, the game control means ends the probability change state, for example, when the random 9 matches one predetermined value. Therefore, the probability variation state ends (probability variation puncture) with a probability of 1/50.
(10) Random 10: Decide whether or not to change the probability (for determining the probability change). That is, the random 10 takes a value in the range of 0 to 16, and is used as a random number for determining whether or not to shift the gaming state to the probability changing state. For example, when the random number 10 matches a predetermined value, the game control means shifts the game state to the probability change state.
(11) Random 11: Decide whether or not to set the time reduction (for time reduction determination). That is, the random 11 takes a value in the range of 0 to 16, and is used as a random number for deciding whether or not to shift to the short time state of the gaming state. For example, when the random 11 matches a predetermined value, the game control means shifts the gaming state to the time-saving state.

  FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern (variation time) of special symbols and decorative symbols used in the third embodiment. EXT shown in FIG. 25 is data of the second byte of the effect control command (2-byte configuration) corresponding to each variation pattern.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 25, variation patterns # 1 to # 4 are used in both the time-short state and the probability variation state. That is, the variation pattern is selected using the same variation pattern table in both the time-short state and the probability variation state. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 25, variation patterns # 5 to # 8 are used in the normal state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the variation time used in the time reduction state and the probability variation state is the same. Further, in this embodiment, the display mode (for example, the type and display timing of the character, the way of displaying the background in the variable display device other than the character) in the decorative pattern is changed in the short-time state and the probability changing state. The same.

  In this embodiment, after the condition for shifting to the time reduction state is established, the time reduction state ends when the special symbol changes by a predetermined number of times of time reduction (for example, 100 times). Therefore, after the transition to the probability variation state, if the probability variation state continues even if the special symbol fluctuates the same number of times as the short-time duration, the player can recognize that the player is in the probability variation state from the variation pattern selection ratio. There is a risk that. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the probability variation state continues even after the special symbol has fluctuated the same number of times as the duration of time reduction, the game control means varies the variation pattern to be used even in the probability variation state. Switching from pattern # 1 to # 4 to variation pattern # 5 to # 8. In this case, for example, the game control means checks whether or not the value of the time-count counter is 0 (that is, the special symbol has changed by the number of times of the time-short duration), and if the value of the time-count counter is 0, Even in the probability variation state, the variation pattern is selected using variation patterns # 5 to # 8. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the player from being aware that the special symbol is in the probabilistic state even if the probabilistic state continues even if the special symbol fluctuates the same number of times as the time reduction duration.

  In addition, data indicating each of the variation patterns # 1 to # 8 is stored in the ROM 54 as a variation pattern table in association with the values that can be taken by the random number 4. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 determines one variation pattern by referring to the variation pattern table according to the extracted random 4 value.

  As described above, since the variation pattern is selected using the same variation pattern table in the short-time state and the probability variation state, whether or not the player is in the certain variation state is determined by the variation time and the variation pattern selection ratio. Can be prevented. In addition, since it is not necessary to prepare separate variation pattern tables for the time reduction state and the probability variation state, the capacity of data that the ROM 54 should store as the variation pattern table can be reduced.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an advantageous state notification process according to the third embodiment. In the first embodiment or the second embodiment, only whether or not the probability variation flag or the time reduction flag is turned on is checked. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 is further stored in the RAM 55. It is confirmed whether or not the certain change time reduction flag is on. Note that the probability change time-short flag satisfies both the transition condition to the probability change state and the transition condition to the time-short state, and preferentially controls the gaming state to the probability change state (that is, the probability change time-short state). It is a flag indicating the effect.

  Instead of using the probability change time reduction flag, the probability change time reduction state may be controlled using the probability change flag and the time reduction flag. In this case, the CPU 56 checks whether or not both the probability change flag and the time reduction flag stored in the RAM 55 are on. If both the probability change flag and the time reduction flag are on, the gaming state is in the probability change time reduction state. Judge that there is. Further, in this case, the CPU 56 determines the gaming state by checking whether or not the probability variation flag and the hourly flag are on, and determines the variation pattern and the opening extension of the big prize opening according to the determined gaming state. it can.

  In the advantageous state notification process, first, if the probability change time short flag stored in the RAM 55 is on (step S155a), the CPU 56 sets the start address of the probability change time notification command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer. (Step S155b), an effect control command (probability change time notification designation command) for designating the probability change time notification according to the content is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (Step S155c). Upon receiving the probability change time notification designation command, the effect control CPU 101 executes a process for notifying the player that the probability change time reduction state is restored using sound, display, light emitter, or the like.

  If the probability change time short flag is not on, the CPU 56 pointers the head address of the probability change notification command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 if the probability change flag stored in the RAM 55 is on (step S155d). Is set (step S155e), and an effect control command (probability change notification designation command) for specifying the probability change notification according to the content is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S155f). When receiving the probability change notification designation command, the effect control CPU 101 executes processing for notifying the player that the probability change state is restored using sound, display, light emitter, or the like.

  Further, when the probability change time flag and the probability change flag are not on, if the time reduction flag stored in the RAM 55 is on (step S155g), the CPU 56 starts the head of the time notification information transmission table stored in the ROM 54. An address is set in the pointer (step S155h), and a process of transmitting an effect control command (time-shortage notification designation command) for designating time-shortening notification according to the contents to the effect control board 80 is executed (step S155i). When receiving the time-notification notification designation command, the effect control CPU 101 executes processing for notifying the player that the time-recovery state is restored using sound, display, light emitter, and the like.

  Similarly to the first embodiment, the CPU 56 may set a probability change notification flag indicating that a notification indicating that the state has been recovered to the probability change state is being transmitted when the probability change notification designation command is transmitted. Further, as in the second embodiment, the CPU 56 may set a time reduction notification flag indicating that a notification indicating that the time reduction state has been restored is being transmitted when a time reduction notification designation command is transmitted. Further, the CPU 56 may set a probability change time short notice flag indicating that the probability change time short state is being notified when the probability change time short notice designation command is transmitted. Note that the CPU 56 resets the probability change time notification flag when, for example, the time reduction state ends while the probability change time notification flag is set. Then, the CPU 56 may transmit a probability change notification designation command and reset the probability change notification flag.

  In this embodiment, when the probability change time-short notification designation command is received, the effect control CPU 101 performs notification using the probability change time-short recovery notification image shown in FIG. When the probability change notification designation command is received, the effect control CPU 101 performs notification using the probability change recovery notification image shown in FIG. In addition, when receiving the time reduction notification designation command, the effect control CPU 101 performs notification using the time reduction recovery notification image shown in FIG.

  27 and 28 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the probability variation determination process is performed after determining the big hit and setting the big hit flag. However, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 sets the big hit. After determining and setting the big hit flag, probability variation determination processing (see steps S59a to S59d in FIG. 28) is performed, and further time reduction determination processing (see steps S59e to S59h in FIG. 28) is performed.

  In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 is in a state where the variation of the special symbol can be started (for example, when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300) (step S51), the start winning memory is stored. The value of the number (holding storage number) is confirmed (step S52). Specifically, the count value of the start winning storage counter is confirmed. The case where the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is a case where the symbol is not changed in the variable display device 9 and is not in the big hit game. On the other hand, if it is not possible to start fluctuation in step S51, or if the number of reserved memories is 0 in step S52, the CPU 56 ends the special symbol normal process as it is.

  If the reserved memory number is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S54), and the value of the reserved memory number is set. 1 is reduced (the value of the start winning storage counter is reduced by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S55). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes. That is, in this example, every time the variable display start condition is satisfied, the CPU 56 executes a process of shifting the contents of each storage area.

  Further, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to end the probability change (steps S551 to S553). Specifically, when the probability variation flag is set (including the case where the probability variation time-short flag is set) (step S551), the probability variation end random number (random 9) is read from the storage area (step S552). Then, it is determined whether or not the read random 9 value matches the probability variation end value (step S553). If they match, the probability variation flag and the probability variation time short flag are reset to terminate the probability variation state (step S554). , S555). Therefore, when the probability variation state ends based on the value of random 9, the lottery based on the low probability state is executed in the jackpot determination in step S57. If the probability variation flag is not set in step S551, the CPU 56 proceeds to step S56 as it is and performs a big hit determination process.

  In this embodiment, when the gaming state is controlled to the probability variation state, only the probability variation flag is set. Therefore, in steps S554 and S55, the CPU 56 resets only the probability variation flag and performs probability variation. The state will be terminated. Further, when the gaming state is controlled to the probability change time short state, since both the probability change flag and the probability change time short flag are set, in steps S554 and S55, the CPU 56 determines both the probability change flag and the probability change time short flag. Will be reset.

  When the probability variation flag and the probability variation time short flag are reset, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the time variation counter is 0 (step S556). When the value of the time-count counter is 0, the CPU 56 executes a process of transmitting a normal display designation effect control command (normal display designation command) to the effect control means (effect control board 80) (step S558), the process proceeds to step S56. When receiving the normal display designation command, the effect control CPU 101 stops the effect using the sound, the display, the light emitter, etc., and ends the notification that it is in the probability change state or the time-short state (including the probability change time-short state).

  If the value of the time reduction counter is not 0, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag, shifts the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S557), and proceeds to step S56. That is, in the probability change time short state, the probability change end condition is satisfied, but the number of time reduction continuations remains, so the CPU 56 shifts the gaming state from the probability change state to the time reduction state. If the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state and only the probability changing flag is reset in step S554 and step S55, the process proceeds to step S558 as it is, and the CPU 56 uses the normal display designation command as the effect control means. Processing to transmit is executed.

  In step S553, when it is determined that the probability variation end is not to be ended (that is, when the read random 9 value does not match the probability variation end value), the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the probability variation time-short flag is set ( Step S553a). When the probability change time / short flag is set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the time / short time counter is 0 (step S553b). If the value of the time reduction counter is 0, the CPU 56 executes processing for transmitting a normal display designation command to the effect control means (step S553c), and proceeds to step S56. When receiving the normal display designation command, the effect control CPU 101 ends the notification that it is in the probability change state or the short time state (including the short time state). In step S553b, if the time reduction counter is 0, the CPU 56 resets the probability change time short flag (that is, sets only the probability change flag), and changes the gaming state from the probability change time short state to the probability change state. Migrate to On the other hand, if the probability change time / short flag is not set in step S553a, or if the time / count counter is not 0 in step S553b, the CPU 56 proceeds directly to step S56.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S56), and executes the jackpot determination module (step S57). When it is determined to be a big hit (step S58), the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag (step S59). If it is not determined to be a big hit in step S58, the CPU 56 proceeds to step S60 as it is.

  Further, when the CPU 56 decides to make a big hit, it performs a probability change determination process for determining whether or not to make a probability change (steps S59a to 59d). The CPU 56 reads the probability variation determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S59a), and executes the probability variation determination module (step S59b). If it is decided to change the probability (step S59c), the CPU 56 sets the probability change decision flag (step S59d).

  In addition, the CPU 56 performs time reduction determination processing for determining whether or not to make time reduction (steps S59e to 59h). The CPU 56 reads the short time determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S59e), and executes the short time determination module (step S59f). If it is decided to set the time reduction (step S59g), the CPU 56 sets a time reduction determination flag (step S59h). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S60). The time reduction determination flag is a flag indicating that it is determined to establish the condition for shifting to the time reduction state. The time reduction determination module is a program for determining that the condition for shifting to the time reduction state is satisfied when the time reduction determination random number matches a predetermined time reduction determination value.

  As described above, when it is determined to be a big hit, it is determined whether or not to make a probable change and a short time using a random number for probability variation determination and a random number for time reduction determination, so the gaming state is a probability variation state regardless of the type of jackpot symbol Control can be made so as to shift to the time-short state or the probability-change time-short state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent whether or not to shift to the probable change state, the short time state, or the probable change short time state depending on the big hit symbol, and it is possible to prevent the player from reducing the game motivation.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing special symbol stop processing (step S304) in the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 29, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 controls the probability variation time / short flag in addition to the probability variation flag, the time / short flag, the probability variation counter, and the time / count counter. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting an effect control command indicating the special symbol stop (step S71).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit is set (step S72). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability change time-short flag, the probability change flag, and the time-short flag (steps S73, S74, S75), and clears the time reduction number counter (step S75b). Further, in order to notify the effect control board 80 that the normal state has been reached, a process of transmitting an effect control command for normal display designation is performed (step S76). Then, control goes to a step S89.

  If the big hit flag is not set in step S72, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set (step S77). If it is set, the CPU 56 prioritizes after the probability change time-short state (the transition condition to the probability change state and the time-short state is satisfied at the same time (in this example, it is determined that the probability change and the time reduction are made simultaneously by lottery using a random number)). It is confirmed whether or not the probability variation time-short flag indicating that the state is controlled to the certain variation state is set (step S77A). If it is set, the value of the time reduction counter is decremented by 1 (step S78), and the process proceeds to step S89. However, if it is already 0, no subtraction is performed. When the probability change time / short flag is set, the gaming state is actually a probability change state, but the time / count counter is also decremented by one. If it is determined in step S77A that the probability change time reduction flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S89.

  If it is confirmed in step S77 that the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S84). If it is set, the value of the time reduction counter is decremented by 1 (step S85). When the value of the time reduction counter reaches 0 (step S86), the time reduction flag is reset to end the time reduction state (step S87), and the effect control board 80 is notified that it has returned to the normal state. In order to do this, a process of transmitting a normal display designation effect control command is performed (step S88).

  In step S89, when it is determined to be a big hit, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a jackpot end process executed when the jackpot game in the third embodiment is finished. In the big hit end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation determination flag is set (step S91b). When the probability variation determination flag is set, the CPU 56 further checks whether or not the time reduction determination flag is set (step S92b). If the time reduction determination flag is set, the probability change flag and the probability change time reduction flag are set (step S93b), and a predetermined value is set in the time reduction counter (step S94b). In this embodiment, 100 is set as a predetermined value in the time reduction counter. If the time reduction determination flag is not set in step S92b, the CPU 56 sets the probability variation flag (step S97b), and proceeds to step S95b.

  When the probability variation determination flag is not set in step S91b, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction determination flag is set (step S98b). If the time reduction determination flag is set, the CPU 56 sets the time reduction flag (step S99b), sets a predetermined value in the time reduction counter (step S100b), and proceeds to step S95b. In this embodiment, 100 is set as a predetermined value in the time reduction counter.

  Further, the CPU 56 notifies the effect control means of the end of the big hit gaming state and the transition to the special gaming state (probability change state, time reduction state or probability change time short state). Processing for transmitting (a specific jackpot end display command) is performed (step S95b). When receiving the specific jackpot end display command, the effect control CPU 101 performs an effect using a sound, a display, a light emitter, and the like, and notifies that it is in a certain change state or a short time state (including a short time state). That is, in any state of the probability variation state, the time reduction state, or the probability variation time reduction state, the common background image is used, and all the electrical components are controlled in a common rendering mode, thereby being in the probability variation state or the time reduction state. Informed. However, in this case, the effect control CPU 101 notifies that it is in a certain change state or a short time state in an effect mode different from the normal state. Then, the CPU 56 sets the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S96b).

  When the time reduction determination flag is not set in step S98b (that is, when neither the probability change state, the time reduction state, nor the probability change time short state), the CPU 56 ends the non-specific big hit game to notify the end of the big hit gaming state. A process for transmitting a display-designated effect control command (non-specific big hit end display command) is performed (step S101b), and the process proceeds to step S96b. When receiving the non-specific jackpot end display command, the effect control CPU 101 performs an effect using sound, display, light emitter, etc., and notifies the end of the jackpot gaming state. In this case, the effect control CPU 101 notifies the end of the big hit gaming state in an effect mode different from step S95b.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when it is determined in the jackpot end process that the probability variation state or the time-short state is determined, the probability variation state and the time-short state are informed in the common effect mode of the probability variation state or the time-short state. To do. Therefore, it can be recognized that at least the state has changed to the probability change state or the time reduction state, but the player cannot specify the state of the probability change state or the time reduction state. Therefore, the player is prevented from recognizing whether or not the current gaming state is a probabilistic state, and the player's willingness to play can be maintained.

  If the gaming state is controlled to the probability variation state and the probability variation end condition has not been satisfied even if the probability variation end condition exceeds the number of time reduction continuations (the maximum number of times to continue the time reduction), the normal state and If the notification is continued in different production modes, the player will be recognized as being in a probable state. In this embodiment, in the special symbol normal process and the special symbol stop process, when the hourly number counter is 0 (when the number of hourly durations has been reached), a normal display designation command is transmitted to the effect control means. The notification to the effect that the time is short (including the time when the probability change is short) is terminated. Therefore, even if the probability variation state continues beyond the number of short-time continuations, it can be prevented that the player recognizes that the probability variation state is present.

  FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a state in which the gaming state changes in the third embodiment and an informing state indicating that the game state is a probability variation state or a time-short state. In FIG. 31, the transition condition to the probability change state and the transition condition to the time reduction state are simultaneously established, and the probability change state is preferentially controlled when the jackpot gaming state ends, and the time reduction state is further controlled after the probability change ends. An example is shown. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 31, the probability variation puncture based on the random number 9 occurs before the variation of the special symbol of the number of time reduction continuations (100 times) ends, and the probability variation state ends and shifts to the time reduction state. In addition, the initial value of the time reduction counter is 100, but since it is stepped from the time when it is controlled to the probability change state, after changing to the time reduction state, the number of changes of the special symbol that has changed while the probability change state continues When the change of the special symbol for the remaining number of times subtracted from the initial value 100 of the counter is completed, the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0 and the time reduction flag is reset (the time reduction state is ended).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 31, when the transition condition to the probability changing state and the transition condition to the time-saving state are satisfied at the same time and the jackpot gaming state is ended, the notification that the state is the probability changing state or the time-shortening state is started. That is, the control of each electrical component is performed using a background image different from the normal state and in an effect mode different from the normal state. Then, when the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0 and the time reduction state is ended, the notification of the probability changing state or the time reduction state is ended.

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the state in which the game state changes and the notification state indicating that the game state is in the probability change state or the short time state. In FIG. 32, the transition condition to the probability variation state and the transition condition to the short-time state are established at the same time, and when the big hit gaming state is finished, the probability variation state is controlled, and even if 100 special symbol variations are completed. In this example, the probability variation state does not end, that is, the probability variation puncture based on the random number 9 has not occurred. Although the initial value of the time reduction counter is 100, it is incremented from the time when it is controlled to the probability change state. Therefore, when the fluctuation of 100 times is completed, the value becomes 0, and the probability change time reduction flag is reset. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 32, even if a big hit occurs in the probability change time-short symbol, the time-short state is not substantially started, and the probability change state further continues.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 31, when the transition condition to the probability changing state and the transition condition to the time-saving state are satisfied at the same time and the jackpot gaming state is ended, the notification that the state is the probability changing state or the time-shortening state is started. However, when the fluctuation of 100 times is completed, the probability variation state continues, but the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, so that the notification that the probability variation state or the time reduction state is reached is terminated.

  As shown in FIG. 31 and FIG. 32, when the time reduction counter reaches 0, it is controlled to end the notification of the probability change state or the time reduction state (including the probability change time short state). Even if the probability variation state continues, the player can be prevented from being recognized that the probability variation state is present.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the notification effect is performed in the common effect mode when the special symbol is in the state of probability change or the time-short state until the special symbol fluctuates by the predetermined number of time-short durations. For example, it is difficult for the player to grasp the number of times of continuation of the probability variation state), the player's interest in the specific advantageous state can be improved, and whether or not the current gaming state is the specific advantageous state Since the player is not recognized, the player's willingness to play can be maintained.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the information output to the outside of the gaming machine as the information output signal includes information related to the control state (whether it is in a probable change state, whether it is in a short time state, in a normal state) Including information on whether or not there is). That is, information related to the control state is prevented from being grasped by a hall computer or the like installed in the amusement store. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the information related to the specific advantageous state from being grasped outside the gaming machine, and it is possible to prevent illegal acts such as illegally creating the specific advantageous state based on the information related to the specific advantageous state. That is, for example, it is possible to prevent an act of illegally creating a specific advantageous state before opening a store at an amusement store.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, information relating to the control state (including information relating to whether or not the state is a probability variation state, whether or not the time is short, and whether the state is a normal state) can be output as a test signal. It has a simple structure. The test signal is received by a computer for test signal analysis. The test signal analyzing computer is attached to a gaming machine with a test terminal board for obtaining a test signal externally, and is connected to the gaming machine via the test terminal board. In this way, information relating to the control state can be output as test information that cannot be taken out unless an output means (output member such as a test terminal board, a test signal output terminal or a connector connected to the connector) is attached. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an act of illegally extracting test information from the outside. Therefore, it can be prevented that the gaming state is recognized as the specific advantageous state by the illegally extracted test information.

  Further, in each of the embodiments described above, one effect control means controls the display means such as the variable display device 9, the lamp / LED, and the sound generation means, but the effect control means includes a plurality of microcomputers each including a microcomputer. It may be realized by a control means. For example, display control means for controlling display means such as the variable display device 9, light emitter control means for controlling lamps / LEDs, and sound control means for controlling sound generation means may be provided separately. The display state of the variable display device 9 may be controlled by game control means mounted on the main board 31.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to each of the embodiments described above has a predetermined game value when a special symbol or a decorative symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display device 9 based on a start winning combination is a combination of a predetermined symbol. It is a pachinko machine that can be granted to players, and it is a card reader (CR: Pachinko) pachinko machine that lends a ball using a prepaid card, but a CR pachinko machine that lends a ball using a prepaid card It is applicable not only to gaming machines but also to pachinko gaming machines that lend balls with cash. Furthermore, pachinko machines that allow players to be given a predetermined gaming value when there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric game that is released based on the start prize, and stop of symbols that are variably displayed based on the start prize The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continues when a predetermined electric prize is released when a symbol becomes a combination of predetermined symbols. Furthermore, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and the present invention can also be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

  In addition, in each embodiment mentioned above, the characteristic structure of the gaming machine as shown below is also shown.

  Voltage value determination means for determining whether or not the power supplied to the gaming machine has decreased to a predetermined voltage value for determining the presence or absence of power reduction (for example, the voltage mounted on the power supply board in step S20) The drop monitoring circuit monitors the voltage value of the electric power at which the highest voltage (for example, 30V) among the voltages used in the gaming machine is used, and detects whether the voltage has dropped to a predetermined value (for example, 22V). And a power supply monitoring means (for example, a power-off signal) that outputs a voltage drop detection signal (for example, a power-off signal) when the voltage value determination means determines that the power supplied to the gaming machine has decreased to a predetermined voltage value. A voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board) and a game state storage means for executing processing for storing data indicating the current gaming state in the storage means based on the voltage drop detection signal output by the power supply monitor means ( For example, after the processing of the steps S454 to S480 in the game control unit) and the game state storage unit execute the process of storing the data indicating the current game state, the power supply monitoring unit outputs the power-down detection signal. The output of the power-down detection signal is continued by the power-down detection signal monitoring means (for example, the part that executes step S482 in the game control means) that monitors whether or not the power-down detection signal continues. While the determination is being made, it is determined that the power supplied to the gaming machine has decreased to a predetermined voltage value for determining whether or not to stop the operation of the gaming machine (for example, VCC has decreased to +5 V). Reset signal output means for outputting a reset signal (for example, a system reset signal) for stopping the operation of the gaming machine (for example, game control) A power supply board 910) that outputs a system reset signal to the reset terminal of the microcomputer 560, and the momentary power loss data setting means determines that the output of the power drop signal is stopped by the power drop detection signal monitoring means. A gaming machine, wherein instantaneous power failure data indicating that power is restored from the instantaneous power failure state is set. With the above configuration, when the voltage value drop of the power supplied to the gaming machine is detected, the processing for saving the data indicating the current gaming state is executed. When the supply is resumed, it is possible to reliably restore the gaming state before the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. In addition, when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed before the operation of the gaming machine is stopped, it is determined that the instantaneous power interruption state is set and instantaneous power interruption data is set. When the power is restored from the state, it can be surely not notified that the specific advantageous state is present. Therefore, it is possible to surely prevent an undesirable action such as intentionally generating a momentary power failure state and recognizing whether or not it is a specific advantageous state.

  In the above embodiment, the following gaming machines are also disclosed.

(1) After executing the determination as to whether or not the power supply to the gaming machine is the power recovery from the instantaneous power failure state by the instantaneous power failure recovery determination unit, the instantaneous power failure data release unit (for example, cancels the instantaneous power loss data setting) , A game machine comprising a part for executing step S152b in the game control means.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the setting contents of the instantaneous power failure data from being reflected in the subsequent processing by mistake, and appropriately notify whether or not the specific advantageous state is present.

(2) Display result determination means for determining whether or not a specific display result is to be obtained before a display result is derived and displayed when a variable display start condition of identification information is satisfied (predetermined display result) For example, the game control means includes a part for executing steps S56 to S59), and the predetermined determination table includes a special table used in the specific advantageous state and a normal table used in other than the specific advantageous state. The condition determining means determines whether or not an end condition for the specific advantageous state is satisfied after the start condition for variable display of the identification information is satisfied and before the display result determining means determines whether or not to obtain a specific display result. Is determined by lottery (for example, the portion of steps S552 and S553 in the game control means), and the display result determining means is in a specific advantageous state by the end condition determining means. The display result of the variable display of the identification information when it is determined that the termination condition is satisfied is determined using the normal table (for example, when the game control unit determines to end the probability change in step S553, step S57). The game machine is configured to use a normal table to determine whether a special symbol or a decorative symbol is a winning symbol.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from guessing whether or not the specific advantageous state has ended from the number of times the specific advantageous state has been continued. Therefore, regardless of the number of times the specific advantageous state is continued, the player can feel that the specific advantageous state may still continue, and the specific advantageous state may have already ended. It is possible to feel anxiety that there is no such thing, and to improve the player's gaming interest. In addition, immediately after determining that the termination condition for the specific advantageous state is not satisfied or after the specific advantageous state is terminated, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the identification information is set as the specific display result. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the time from the determination of the success / failure condition of the specific advantageous state to the determination of whether or not the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result. It is possible to shorten the time for storing the determination result of the success / failure of the end condition of the specific advantageous state. Therefore, the content of the determination result of success / failure of the end condition of the specific advantageous state can be made difficult to be falsified by shortening the time for storing the determination result of success / failure of the end condition of the specific advantageous state.

(3) Display result determination means for determining whether or not to use a specific display result before deriving and displaying the display result when the variable information display start condition is established, using a predetermined determination table The predetermined determination table includes a special table used in a specific advantageous state and a normal table used in a state other than the specific advantageous state, and the display result determining unit displays a display result of variable display of identification information as a specific display. Specific transition condition determination means for determining whether or not the specific transition condition is satisfied under the condition that the result is determined to be a result (for example, that the random number for determining the big hit matches a predetermined jackpot determination value) (For example, the part that executes steps S59a to S59d in the game control unit) and the display result determining unit sets the display result of the variable display of the identification information as the specific display result. The display result derivation display means (for example, the effect control means in step S804) causes the variable display means to display the common specific display result when it is determined that it is not determined as the specific display result. Based on the effect control command received from the game control means, regardless of whether or not it is in the probability variation state, a part for determining and displaying a decorative symbol to be displayed on the variable display device 9 using the same decorative symbol selection table) A gaming machine equipped with.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the display result of the variable display from being recognized as to whether or not it is in the specific advantageous state, and it is possible to prevent the player's gaming interest from declining. . In addition, regardless of the variable display of the identification information, the player can feel the expectation that a specific advantageous state may occur, and the anxiety that the specific advantageous state may not occur. It is possible to improve the player's gaming interest.

(4) The effect execution means obtains a plurality of types of variable display data (for example, variation patterns) that can specify a variable display time from the start of variable display of the identification information in the variable display means until the display result is derived and displayed. Variable display data storage means (for example, ROM 54 storing data indicating each of the variation patterns # 1 to # 4) and variable display data storage means for storing a variable display data table (for example, a variation pattern table). The variable display data selection means for selecting the variable display data from the plurality of variable display data included in the variable display data table (for example, referring to the variation pattern table according to the value of random 4, the variation pattern is selected). A game control means for determining) when the variable display data selection means is in a specific advantageous state when performing a game effect. In the case not the specific advantageous conditions, to select the variable display data by using the common variable display data table (e.g., partial executes step S204 in the game control means) game machine that is configured to.
According to such a configuration, the variable display time of the variable display of the identification information and the selection ratio of the display mode can be kept unchanged between the case of the specific advantageous state and the case of not being the specific advantageous state. Therefore, it can be prevented that the player recognizes whether or not the player is in the specific advantageous state based on the variable display time of the variable display of the identification information and the selection ratio of the display mode. In addition, it is not necessary to separately prepare variable display data tables used for selecting variable display data for the case of the specific advantageous state and the case of not the specific advantageous state, so that the data capacity to be stored can be reduced.

(5) The starting specific advantageous state notifying unit continues the predetermined notification until the transition to the first specific gaming state is started after starting the notification that the specific advantageous state is reached (for example, step S74b in the game control unit) , S74c).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from recognizing the gaming state after shifting to the specific gaming state, and to maintain the player's willingness to play. Also, if the notification by the specific advantageous state recovery notification means is turned off, the gaming state becomes unrecognizable, so the notification by the specific advantageous state recovery notification means is deleted in a state where it can be recognized that the specific advantageous state is maintained. It is possible to prevent the player from entering the specific advantageous state illegally when the amusement store is opened.

(6) Time shortening state control for shifting to a time shortening state (for example, a time shortening state) in which the variable display period of the variable display of the identification information is shortened compared to the normal state due to establishment of a predetermined transition condition. Advantageous state priority control means (for example, game control means) that shifts to a specific advantageous state when both the means (for example, the part for executing step S99b in the game control means) and the predetermined transition condition and the specific transition condition are established. However, after executing step S93b and setting the probability variation flag, a portion for determining the big hit in a state where the probability of making a big hit in steps S57 and S58 is increased), and when the advantageous state priority control means shifts to the specific advantageous state The variable displayable number of times (for example, set in the short-time number counter), which is the number of variable display times of the identification information that can be executed in the time reduction state. The number of times that the variable display possible number is updated each time the variable display of the identification information is executed, and the number setting means (for example, the part that executes steps S94b and S100b in the game control means). Updating means (for example, a part for executing steps S78A and S85 in the game control means), and the time reduction state control means is variable when the end condition determination means determines that the end condition of the specific advantageous state is satisfied. The display is shifted to the time reduction state under the condition that the displayable number is the executable number indicating that the variable display of the identification information can be executed in the time reduction state (for example, the value of the time reduction counter is not 0). A gaming machine that is configured as follows.
According to such a configuration, it becomes difficult for the player to grasp the point in time when the specific advantageous state ends, and the player cannot easily grasp the transition point to the time shortening state and the number of times the time shortening state is continued. Can be.

(7) Test information creation means (for example, a part for executing step S32 in the CPU 56) for creating game information indicating the game state according to the execution state of the game control as test information is provided, and is created by the test information creation means. Test information (for example, a test signal) includes information related to a specific advantageous state (for example, information on whether or not the state is a probable variation state), and the test information created by the test information creating means is a predetermined output. By attaching a member (for example, a test terminal board, a test signal output terminal or a connector connected to a connector), it can be output via an output member (for example, output to a test signal processing computer) A gaming machine that is configured to
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an act of illegally extracting test information from the outside. Therefore, it can be prevented that the gaming state is recognized as the specific advantageous state by the illegally extracted test information.

  The present invention includes variable display means capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of the identification information. After a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, the variable display start condition is satisfied. Start variable display of identification information, and when the display result of variable display of multiple types of identification information becomes a specific display result, shift to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player, and identify by establishing a specific transition condition In a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that shifts to a specific advantageous state that is a state in which the probability that the display result of variable display of information is a specific display result is improved as compared to the normal state, It can be applied to improve the player's interest and maintain the player's willingness to play.

1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol variable display 9 Variable display device (decorative symbol display device)
14 starting prize opening 15 variable winning ball apparatus 21, 21A solenoid 23 count switch 31 main board 80 production control board 100 production control microcomputer 560 game control microcomputer

Claims (1)

Provided with variable display means capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them, and after the predetermined variable display execution condition is established, the identification information can be changed based on the establishment of the variable display start condition Start displaying,
When the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result, a transition is made to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player,
A game that shifts to a specific advantageous state in which the probability that the display result of variable display of identification information is the specific display result is improved compared to before the specific transition condition is satisfied due to the establishment of the specific transition condition Machine,
Effect execution means for executing a game effect using a plurality of types of electric parts including the variable display means based on the effect data prepared in advance;
A specific advantageous state control means for shifting to the specific advantageous state when the specific transition condition is satisfied;
Storage means capable of holding stored contents for a predetermined period after power supply to the gaming machine is stopped;
Specific data setting means for storing specific data in the storage means when the specific advantageous state control means shifts to the specific advantageous state;
A recovery means for executing a recovery process for recovering the gaming state based on the storage content of the storage means on condition that a predetermined recovery condition is satisfied when the power is restored ;
The effect execution means executes a common game effect when the specific advantageous state and when not the specific advantageous state,
When power is restored after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped during execution of the common game effect, a notification is made that the specific advantageous state is established when specific data is set in the storage means further comprising a particular advantageous state informing means,
Before SL particular advantageous state informing means, a game machine, characterized in that to terminate the notification when the predetermined time period from the start of the broadcast has elapsed.

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