JP5077329B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine provided with a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information on a display unit.

  Conventionally, a gaming machine provided with a variable display device is known. Identification information is displayed on the display unit of the variable display device, and the identification information that is variably displayed is fixedly stopped and displayed in a specific manner, thereby providing a state advantageous to the player. It is like that. Here, if only the identification information is displayed on the display unit and no display is made in the area other than the identification information, it will be unpleasant. For this reason, generally, a background image is displayed in an area other than the identification information.

  In such a gaming machine, it is the identification information rather than the background image that is directly related to the game. For this reason, conventionally, the identification information is generally displayed preferentially on the near side of the background image (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2000-254293 A

  By the way, in the above-described prior art, even if the background image is elaborate, if the identification information is displayed on the near side of the background image, it may be difficult to visually recognize the background image. Therefore, it is difficult to understand the meaning content of the background image, and there is a possibility that the interest is disturbed. In particular, while the identification information is variably displayed, the background image tends to be less visible.

The present invention was made in view of the above exemplified circumstances such as the purpose is to provide a possible gaming machine to achieve significant improvement of interest also in terms other than the display change of the identification information There is.

The gaming machine according to the present invention is
A launcher that launches a game ball;
A game area in which game balls launched by the launching device are guided; and
An operating port provided in the game area;
A background image is displayed on a display unit capable of displaying a display image composed of a plurality of layers , and a predetermined amount is set so as to overlap with the front side of the background image based on a game ball entering the operation port. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbol images in the variable display area ;
When a new game ball enters the working port during the variation display of the symbol image, the variation display is performed so that the variation display corresponding to that time is performed after the variation display performed at that time ends. Holding means for waiting for display,
A gaming machine that generates a special gaming state advantageous to a player when the symbol image is stopped and displayed in a specific manner ,
The variable display device includes:
Layer setting means for setting the plurality of layers;
Screen configuration information generating means for generating screen configuration information corresponding to the plurality of layers;
Range setting means for setting a display range to be displayed as each layer in the screen configuration information for each layer;
Image data storage means for storing various image data constituting the background image and the design image;
Image generation means for generating a display image based on the screen configuration information and the image data corresponding to the display range of each layer;
In the screen configuration information, the display range in the display unit that is a special display target constituting the background image and the variable display range in the display unit of the design image are non-superimposed or substantially non-superimposed. A setting position defining means for demarcating a setting position of the display range of the first layer including the special display object and a setting position of the display range of the second layer including the symbol image,
The special display target included in the background image can be visually recognized by being arranged and displayed at a position deviating from the variable display area, and the display mode of the special display target is cyclically arranged in a predetermined order in a plurality of display modes. Can be changed to
If the timing for changing the display mode of the special display object has arrived during the variation display of the symbol image, the variation display is prohibited until the variation display of the symbol image is completed. After completion, a prohibition means for allowing a change in the display mode of the special display object;
In the case where the variation display of the symbol image is special, the gist of the invention is that it includes a change permission unit that allows the display mode of the special display target to be changed even during the variation display.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to dramatically improve the interest in points other than the variable display of identification information.

It is a perspective view which shows the pachinko machine in one embodiment. It is a front view of the pachinko machine mainly showing a game board. It is a block diagram which shows electrical structures, such as a display control board. It is a block diagram which shows electrical structures, such as VDP. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of the symbol at the time of the jackpot state occurrence in a display part, (b) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of the symbol at the time of the reach state in a display part. It is a schematic diagram which shows the background image of the spring in a display part. It is a schematic diagram which shows the summer background image in a display part. It is a schematic diagram which shows the autumn background image in a display part. It is a schematic diagram which shows the winter background image in a display part. (A), (b) is a timing chart which shows an example of the relationship of the display time of each background image with respect to passage of time. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a some layer. It is a flowchart for demonstrating a display control process. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the display range of a background structure image, a pattern, etc. FIG. It is a flowchart figure for demonstrating a background image update process.

  Means effective for achieving the above object will be described below. In addition, the effect etc. are demonstrated as needed.

Means 1. A gaming machine that includes a variable display device that displays a background image on a display unit and is capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information,
A gaming machine characterized in that the background image includes at least a special display object whose display mode can be changed, and most or all of the special display object can be always or almost always visible.

  According to the means 1, the background image is displayed on the display unit of the variable display device, and a plurality of pieces of identification information are variably displayed. In such a gaming machine, the background image includes at least a special display target. Although the display mode of the special display object is changed, the player can always or almost always visually recognize most or all of the special display object. For this reason, even when the display mode is changed, the player is easily aware of the change, and the player who notices the change is interesting. Therefore, unlike the prior art in which the background image may be blocked by identification information or the like, the background image or the like can be greatly improved. Note that “always or almost always visible” means “always or almost always visible during a period during which at least the background image is displayed”, and it is a completely different image (for example, jackpot) The purpose is to exclude a period in which a jackpot image at the time or a special effect image such as super reach) is displayed (hereinafter, the same applies to each means).

Mean 2. A gaming machine comprising a variable display device capable of displaying a background image on a display unit and variably displaying a plurality of identification information so as to overlap the front side of the background image,
The background image is configured to include at least a special display object whose display mode can be changed, and by arranging and displaying most or all of the special display object at a position not hindered by the identification information, A gaming machine characterized by being almost visible at all times.

  According to the means 2, the background image is displayed on the display unit of the variable display device, and a plurality of pieces of identification information are variably displayed so as to overlap the front side. In such a gaming machine, the background image includes at least a special display target. Although the display mode of the special display object is changed, most or all of the special display object is arranged and displayed at a position that is not obstructed by the identification information. For this reason, the player can visually recognize the special display object at all times or almost always. For this reason, even when the display mode is changed, the player is easily aware of the change, and the player who notices the change is interesting. Therefore, unlike the prior art in which the background image may be blocked by identification information or the like, the background image or the like can be greatly improved.

Means 3. A gaming machine including a variable display device that displays a background image on a display unit and can display a plurality of identification information in a predetermined variable display area so as to overlap the front side of the background image.
The background image is configured to include at least a special display object whose display mode can be changed, and a large part or the whole of the special display object is arranged and displayed at a position deviating from the variable display area. A gaming machine characterized by being visible at all times or almost always.

  According to the means 3, the background image is displayed on the display unit of the variable display device, and a plurality of pieces of identification information are variably displayed in the predetermined variability display area so as to overlap the front side. In such a gaming machine, the background image includes at least a special display target. Although the display mode of the special display object is changed, the display is obstructed by the identification information because most or all of the special display object is arranged and displayed at a position deviating from the variable display area. It is hard to be done. Therefore, the player can visually recognize the special display object at all times or almost always. For this reason, even when the display mode is changed, the player is easily aware of the change, and the player who notices the change is interesting. Therefore, unlike the prior art in which the background image may be blocked by identification information or the like, the background image or the like can be greatly improved.

  Means 4. 4. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 3, wherein the display mode of the special display object is configured to be changed regularly or almost regularly.

  When the display mode of the special display object is changed regularly or almost regularly as in the means 4, the player predicts the display mode of the special display object to be changed next or estimates the timing. can do. In this sense, the emphasis of the production has been biased toward the change display of the identification information, and the background image can be more interested.

  Means 5. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 3, wherein the display mode of the special display target is changed irregularly.

  When the display mode of the special display target is changed irregularly as in the means 5, it is difficult for the player to predict or grasp the change timing. Therefore, when the change is actually made, the change is surprised, or when the change is made at the predicted timing, the joy is learned. In this sense, the emphasis of the production has been biased toward the change display of the identification information, and the background image can be more interested.

  Means 6. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 5, wherein at least the change of the display mode of the special display target is prohibited until the display of variation of the plurality of identification information is completed.

  According to the means 6, at least the change of the display mode of the special display target is prohibited until the variable display of the plurality of identification information is completed. Here, if the display object of the special display object is changed during the variation display of the identification information, the player will actually have no influence on the future production, There is a risk of misinterpretation that there will be some influence on the future performance (for example, a state of high expectation such as a reach state). On the other hand, according to this means, since the change of the display mode such as the special display object is allowed after the variation display of the identification information is completed, such misunderstanding can be prevented. In addition, in the case where some kind of presentation is performed with respect to the variable display of the identification information, it is only necessary to change the display mode such as the special display object after waiting for the presentation, so that the control is complicatedly involved. Can be wiped off. Instead of “prohibiting at least the change of the display mode of the special display object until the variable display of the plurality of identification information is completed”, “the variable display of the plurality of identification information is completed, It is possible to allow at least the change of the display mode of the special display object until the variable display is started "or" at least the special display during the variable display of the plurality of identification information " Even when the timing for changing the display mode of the target has arrived, the change may be prohibited until the variable display of the plurality of identification information is completed. As a condition for changing the display mode of the special display target, the display time of the special display target in a predetermined display mode has elapsed for a predetermined time. Besides Rukoto, (be variable display of for example identification information is complete) another condition may be "has been set.

  Mean 7 The means 6 is characterized in that, when the variable display of the plurality of identification information is special, at least the display mode of the special display target is allowed to be changed even during the variable display. The gaming machine described. Instead of “allowing at least change of the display mode of the special display object”, it may be configured to “perform at least change of the display mode of the special display object at a predetermined timing”.

  According to the means 7, in principle, at least the change of the display form of the special display object is prohibited until the variation display of the identification information is completed. If the variation display is special, the variation display is in progress. Even so, the change of the display mode of the special display target is allowed. In this case, the variable display is special, for example, there is no problem even if the display mode of the special display target is changed (more specifically, the development effect in the super reach production is performed). In this case, even if the display target of the special display target is changed, the problem of misunderstanding of the player is less likely to occur. Rather, the interest can be improved.

  Means 8. The game according to any one of means 1 to 7, characterized in that, when the variable display of the plurality of identification information is other than a special one, at least a change in the display mode of the special display object is prohibited. Machine.

  According to the means 8, substantially the same effect as the means 7 is exhibited.

  Means 9. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 8, wherein when the display mode of the special display target is changed, the display mode of the entire background image is also changed.

  According to the means 9, when the display mode of the special display target is changed, the display mode of the entire background image is also changed. For this reason, it is easy to give story property and persuasiveness to the change of the display mode, and it is also possible to eliminate the uncomfortable feeling. Furthermore, even when it is difficult to visually recognize the display mode of other background images other than the special display target, the change of the display mode of the other background image changed with the change of the display mode of the special display target is noticed. The player has fun and joy. As a result, the interest can be further improved.

  Means 10. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 9, wherein a plurality of types of display modes of the special display object are set and displayed in any one of them.

  According to the means 10, the display mode of the special display object is switched and displayed in any one of a plurality of ways. For this reason, compared with the case where a display mode is changed gradually, it becomes comparatively easy to notice the change of a display mode.

  Means 11. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 10, wherein the display mode of the special display target is set in a plurality of ways and is cyclically switched and displayed.

  According to the means 11, the display mode is sequentially switched periodically. Therefore, it is easy to predict the next display mode, and it is easy to give a story.

  Means 12. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 11, wherein the special display object has static characteristics.

  When the special display object has a static characteristic as in the means 12, even if the display mode is changed, the change is relatively plain and tends to be hardly noticed. In this respect, the above-mentioned effects are achieved (by being able to visually recognize the special display object at all times or almost always), so that even if it is a simple change, the player can easily notice the change, and in this sense, It is easy to further improve interest. Here, “having static characteristics” can be replaced with words such as “things that do not move” and “stationary objects”. Can be mentioned.

  Means 13. 12. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 11, wherein the special display object has mobility.

  When the special display object is movable like the means 13, if the display mode is changed, the change is likely to be relatively flashy, and the effect associated with the identification information and other display objects By performing display or the like, it is possible to have a greater thickness.

Means 14. In a display unit capable of displaying a display image composed of a plurality of layers, a game machine having a variable display device capable of displaying a background image and variably displaying a plurality of symbol images,
The variable display device includes layer setting means for setting the plurality of layers,
Screen configuration information generating means for generating screen configuration information corresponding to the plurality of layers;
Range setting means for setting a display range to be displayed as each layer in the screen configuration information for each layer;
Image data storage means for storing various image data constituting the background image and the design image;
Image generation means for generating a display image based on the screen configuration information and the image data corresponding to the display range of each layer;
In the screen configuration information, the display range in the display unit that is a special display target constituting the background image and the variable display range in the display unit of the design image are non-superimposed or substantially non-superimposed. A gaming machine comprising: a setting position of a display range of a layer including a special display target; and a setting position demarcating means for demarcating a setting position of a display range of the layer including the symbol image.

  According to the means 14, the player can always or almost always visually recognize most or all of the special display object constituting the background image without being blocked by the symbol image that is variably displayed on the display unit of the variable display device. Can do. For this reason, for example, even when the display mode of the background image (especially the special display target) is changed, the player is easily aware of the change, and the player who notices the change is interesting. Therefore, unlike the prior art in which the background image may be blocked by the design image or the like, the background image or the like can be improved dramatically. In addition, “the display range in the display unit of the special display target constituting the background image and the variable display range in the display unit of the design image are arranged in a non-overlapping arrangement or a substantially non-overlapping arrangement” Means that the display range in the display unit of the special display target constituting the background image does not overlap or substantially does not overlap with the variable display range in the display unit of the symbol image.

Means 15. The image data storage means stores a plurality of types of special display target image data corresponding to the special display target,
15. The gaming machine according to claim 14, wherein the screen configuration information generating means generates screen configuration information for switching or setting the plurality of types of special display target image data periodically or almost regularly.

  According to the means 15, the display mode of the special display object on the display unit is changed regularly or almost regularly. Therefore, the player can predict the display mode of the special display target to be changed next or estimate the timing. In this sense, the emphasis of the production has been biased toward the fluctuation display of the design image, and it is possible to make the background image more interesting. Further, instead of “switching the plurality of types of special display target image data periodically or almost regularly”, “to switch the plurality of types of special display target image data irregularly” With this configuration, it is difficult for the player to predict or grasp the timing of the change. Therefore, when the change is actually made, the change is surprised, or when the change is made at the predicted timing, the joy is learned.

  Means 16. 16. The gaming machine according to claim 15, wherein the screen configuration information generating unit generates screen configuration information in which the plurality of types of special display target image data are cyclically switched in a specific order.

  According to the means 16, the display mode is sequentially switched periodically. Therefore, it is easy to predict the next display mode, and it is easy to give a story.

Means 17. Fluctuation control means for outputting a change start instruction related to the change start of the symbol image and a change completion instruction related to change completion;
Based on the input of the change start instruction and the change completion instruction, a change state determination means for determining whether or not the symbol image is being changed and displayed,
When the determination result of the variation state determination means shows that the symbol image is in the variable display, the timing of switching the plural types of special display target image data is set to the completion of the variation of the symbol image The game machine according to claim 15 or 16, further comprising delay control means for controlling the screen configuration information generation means so as to delay the time until the game machine is delayed.

  According to the means 17, at least the change of the display mode of the special display target is delayed until the variable display of the plurality of symbol images is completed. Here, if the display object of the special display object is changed during the variable display of the symbol image, the player will actually have no influence on the future production, There is a risk of misinterpretation that there will be some influence on the future performance (for example, a state of high expectation such as a reach state). On the other hand, according to this means, since the change of the display mode of the special display object or the like is allowed after the variable display of the symbol image is completed, such misunderstanding can be prevented. In addition, in the case where some effects are performed with respect to the change display of the symbol image, it is only necessary to change the display mode of the special display object after waiting for the effects, so that the control is complicatedly involved. Can be wiped off.

Means 18. Variation pattern information storage means for storing a plurality of types of variation pattern information of the design image;
Fluctuation pattern information selection means for selecting predetermined fluctuation pattern information from the plurality of types of fluctuation pattern information based on establishment of a specific trigger condition;
When the variation pattern information selected by the variation pattern selection means is specific variation pattern information, even when the variation status determination means obtains a determination result that the symbol image is being displayed, 18. The gaming machine according to claim 17, further comprising switching permission control means for controlling the screen configuration information generation means so as to switch and set the plurality of types of special display target image data.

  According to the means 18, as a general rule, at least the change of the display mode of the special display object is prohibited until the variable display of the symbol image is completed, but if the variable display is special, the variable display Even in the middle, the display mode of the special display target is allowed to be changed. In this case, the variable display is special, for example, there is no problem even if the display mode of the special display target is changed (more specifically, the development effect in the super reach production is performed). In this case, even if the display target of the special display target is changed, the problem of misunderstanding of the player is less likely to occur. Rather, the interest can be improved.

  Means 19. In any one of means 1 to 18, the gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine. Among other things, the basic configuration of a pachinko gaming machine has an operation handle that is provided with an operation handle, fires a game ball in a predetermined game area according to the operation of the handle, and the game ball is arranged at a predetermined position in the game area. In other words, the identification information that is variably displayed on the variable display device is determined and stopped after a predetermined time as a necessary condition. In addition, a special gaming state can be generated when the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a specific manner, and when the special gaming state occurs, the variable winning device arranged at a predetermined position in the gaming area is opened in a predetermined manner. In other words, it is possible to win a game ball and be given a valuable value (including writing to a magnetic card as well as a premium ball) according to the number of winning balls.

  Means 20. In any one of means 1 to 18, the gaming machine is a revolving type gaming machine. Here, as the configuration of the spinning cylinder type game machine, “a discriminating information sequence consisting of a plurality of identification information (specifically, a reel and identification information is a symbol attached to the reel) is variably displayed (specifically Is provided with variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after the reel has been rotated), and the change of the identification information is started due to the operation of the start operation means (for example, the operation lever), and the stop operation means When the change of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of (for example, a stop button) or when a predetermined time elapses, the special gaming state advantageous to the player is obtained when the fixed identification information at the time of the stop is the specific identification information. A spinning-type game machine provided with special game state generating means to be generated. In the case of a rotating type gaming machine, the variable display means including the reel or the like may be regarded as a variable display device, or provided separately from the reel and corresponding to the identification information (pseudo). A display device that can display identification information (for example, a liquid crystal display device) may be regarded as a variable display device. In this case, the variable display device is installed in a main body box that defines a gaming machine main body.

  Means 21. In any one of means 1 to 18, the gaming machine is a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a slot machine are fused. In particular, the basic configuration of the merged gaming machine is “variable display of an identification information string (specifically, a reel and identification information is a symbol attached to the reel) consisting of a plurality of identification information”. The display is provided with variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after the rotation of the reel), and the change of the identification information is started due to the operation of the start operation means (for example, the operation lever). Special game advantageous to the player when the change of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of the means (for example, stop button) or after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the confirmed identification information at the time of the stop is the specific identification information A special game state generating means for generating a state, using a game ball as a game medium, and requiring a predetermined number of game balls to start the change of the identification information, and generating a special game state Saishi it becomes gaming machine "in which a is configured such that a number of game balls are paid out. In such a gaming machine, the variable display means including the reel or the like may be regarded as a variable display device, or provided separately from the reel and corresponding to the identification information (in pseudo correspondence). A display device (for example, a liquid crystal display device) capable of displaying identification information may be regarded as the variable display device here.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an embodiment in which a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a “pachinko machine”) is embodied as a gaming machine will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 1 includes an outer frame 2 and a front frame 3 provided at the front thereof. The front frame 3 is mounted so as to be openable and closable at one side of the outer frame 2. A glass door frame 4 is provided on the front side of the front frame 3 so as to be freely opened and closed, and an upper plate 5 for storing a game ball B (see FIG. 2) below the glass door frame 4 is Similarly, lower trays 6 for storing the game balls B are provided at positions below the tray 5.

  A handle 7 as an operating means is provided on the side of the lower plate 6 on the front side of the front frame 3, and the handle 7 is connected to a game ball launching device (not shown). A game board 8 (see FIG. 2) is detachably mounted on the rear side of the front frame 3 (in the back of the glass door frame 4 and inside the outer frame 2). A game ball B is fired toward the top of the board 8. The game ball launcher is controlled by a launch control board 140 (see FIG. 3).

  Further, a speaker 9 is embedded in the front frame 3 (side the upper plate 5) for sounding various sound effects as the game progresses and for notifying the player of the game state by voice. . The speaker 9 is controlled by a sound control board 130 (see FIG. 3).

  Now, as shown in FIG. 2, the game board 8 is provided with an inner rail 10a and an outer rail 10b, and the game ball B launched by the game ball launching device is along the inner rail 10a and the outer rail 10b. To the upper part of the game board 8.

  At the lower part of the game board 8, there are provided an operation port 11 and a prize winning port 12. The operating port 11 includes a passage for the game ball B, and a blade 13 is supported at the entrance of the passage so as to be opened and closed. A seesaw 14 is provided in the back of the big prize opening 12, a V zone 15 is provided on the right side thereof, and a winning path 16 is provided on the left side (the right and left may be reversed). That is, when the game ball B wins the big winning opening 12, the game ball B is distributed by the seesaw 14 so as to roll to either the V zone 15 or the winning path 16, and either the V zone 15 or the winning path 16 is allocated. It is the structure which is derived | led-out through.

  A shutter 17 that opens and closes the big prize opening 12 is provided in front of the big prize opening 12. The shutter 17 is actuated by a large winning opening solenoid 18 provided on the side of the large winning opening 12. Specifically, when the big prize opening solenoid 18 is in an excited state, the shutter 17 tilts substantially horizontally and the big prize opening 12 is opened. In addition, when the special winning opening solenoid 18 is in a non-excited state, the shutter 17 is in a substantially vertical state, and the special winning opening 12 is closed.

  Furthermore, a seesaw solenoid 19 is provided at one side of the special winning opening 12. Normally, the seesaw solenoid 19 is in a non-excited state, and the seesaw 14 in this state is inclined toward the V zone 15. That is, the inclination is such that the game ball B passes through the V zone 15. Further, when the seesaw solenoid 19 is energized, the seesaw 14 is inclined so that the game ball B passes through the winning path 16. In the present embodiment, when at least one game ball B passes through the V zone 15 in the open state of the shutter 17, the seesaw solenoid 19 is in an excited state, and when the shutter 17 is closed, The seesaw solenoid 19 is configured to be in a non-excited state.

  A special symbol display device 20 as a variable display device is incorporated in the central portion of the game board 8. The special symbol display device 20 includes a display unit 20a composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) having a diagonal length of about 7 inches (about 17 cm), and can display a plurality of symbol rows. . In the present embodiment, as these symbol strings, there are three symbol strings (identification information strings) including a left symbol string 21, a middle symbol string 22, and a right symbol string 23 (see FIG. 5A). However, the number of symbol strings other than the three symbol strings may be displayed.

  Furthermore, in the display unit 20a of the special symbol display device 20, the symbol variation display (scroll variation display in the present embodiment) of each symbol row 21 to 23 is performed based on the winning of the game ball B to the operation port 11. It is configured to be performed. In addition, when a new game ball B wins the operating port 11 during this variation display, the corresponding variation display is performed after the end of the variation display performed at that time. That is, the variable display is on standby (held). The maximum number of variable displays to be held is determined for each model of the pachinko machine, but in this embodiment, the maximum number of holds is set to four. However, the maximum number of times of holding is not limited to this.

  Above the display unit 20a, hold lamps 24a, 24b, 24c, and 24d made of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that indicate the number of hold times of the variable display of symbols as described above are incorporated. The number of the holding lamps 24a to 24d is the same as the maximum holding number described above (four in this case). The hold lamps 24a to 24d are turned on every time the variable display is held, and are turned off when the variable display corresponding to the hold is executed.

  A normal symbol display device 31 is provided on the upper part of the special symbol display device 20. The normal symbol display device 31 has four holding lamps 32 made of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a 7-segment display portion 33 made of LEDs which are normal symbol display portions. In addition, a pair of passing gates 34 are disposed on both the left and right sides of the special symbol display device 20, and the normal symbol display device 31 is activated when the game ball B passes through the passing gate 34. ing. The normal symbol display device 31 in the present embodiment variably displays numbers from “0” to “9” and causes the 7-segment display unit 33 to display segments. When the number stops at a predetermined value (“7” in the present embodiment), the blade 13 of the working port 11 is opened for a predetermined number of seconds. The normal symbol display device 31 can store up to four times the number of passes of the game ball B through the passage gate 34, and displays the number of holds on the hold lamp 32. Therefore, even when the game ball B passes through the passing gate 34 in a state where the four holding lamps 32 are lit, the game ball B is not counted. In addition, as long as the holding lamp 32 is lit, the normal symbol display device 31 operates as many times as the number of holdings even if the game ball B does not pass through the passing gate 34.

  Furthermore, other various production lamps and electrical decoration members (not shown) for enhancing the gaming effect are attached to a plurality of locations of the pachinko machine 1. The lighting state (light-off, lighting, blinking, etc.) of these effect lamps, illumination members, etc. (hereinafter simply referred to as “lamps”) can be appropriately changed according to the progress of the game. These lamps are controlled by a lamp control board 120 (see FIG. 3).

  Further, the game board 8 includes a through switch 40 for detecting the gaming state of the pachinko machine 1 that changes in accordance with the player's operation, an operating port switch 41, a V zone switch 42, a count switch 43, and the like. Installed. The through switch 40 detects the passing of the game ball B through the passing gate 34, and the operating port switch 41 detects the winning of the gaming ball B into the operating port 11, and the V zone switch 42. Is for detecting a winning in the V zone 15 of the game ball B in the big winning opening 12, and the count switch 43 is for detecting a winning in the big winning opening 12 of the game ball B.

  In the present embodiment, the solenoids 18, 19, the special symbol display device 20 (display unit 20a), the holding lamps 24a-24d, the speaker 9, the normal symbol display device, based on the detection results of the switches 40-43. A control device (main board) 50 is provided to drive and control 31 (holding lamp 32 and 7-segment display unit 33), blades 13 and the like.

  The main board 50 is used for main control, and includes a read only memory (ROM), a central processing unit (CPU), a random access memory (RAM), and the like. The ROM stores a predetermined control program and initial data in advance, and the CPU executes various arithmetic processes according to the ROM control program. The RAM temporarily stores the calculation results by the CPU in a symbol random number buffer, symbol random number area, stop symbol area, and the like. The main board 50 is mounted in a sealed state in a board box (not shown) on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  The RAM also includes a random number counter for determining occurrence of a jackpot state as a special gaming state described later. The random number counter is updated by one count every 2 ms, for example, within a predetermined range (for example, “0” to “299”) by random number update processing. In the present embodiment, when the game ball B wins the operating port 11 and is detected by the operating port switch 41 (except for the maximum number of times of holding), the value of the random number counter is a predetermined value, for example, In the case of “7”, a big hit state is generated.

  The CPU, ROM and RAM are connected to each other via a bus line. As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 3, the bus line is also connected to the interface 50a of the main board 50. The interface 50a is connected to the interface 61 of the display control board 110 and other devices via connectors and cables. It is connected. The interface 50a is connected to various sensors such as the operation port switch 41 via a connector and a cable. That is, the main board 50 receives a winning signal or the like from the operation port switch 41 or the like via the interface 50a, and also to the display control board 110 or other input / output devices (including other control boards) via the interface 50a. Various operation commands such as control data are output to control various actuators such as solenoids and control boards.

  Now, in the present embodiment, various display controls in the display unit 20a of the special symbol display device 20 are configured to be performed mainly on the display control substrate 110 of the special symbol display device 20, not the main substrate 50 that performs the main control. Has been. The display control board 110 is incorporated in the special symbol display device 20.

  Further, in the present embodiment, lighting and blinking control of various (production) lamps is mainly performed in the lamp control board 120, and control of sound emitted from the speaker 9 is mainly performed in the sound control board 130. Done. Further, the launch control of the game ball B in the game ball launching apparatus is also performed on the launch control board 140 instead of the main board 50.

  Here, an electrical configuration of the display control board 110 or the like that mainly performs display control in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. As shown in the figure, the display control board 110 has various game states (based on the interface 61 for sequentially receiving commands sent from the main board 50, the control program stored in the program ROM 62, and various information). CPU 63 for generating screen configuration information of a display image displayed in normal fluctuation, reach effect, jackpot notification, etc., work RAM 64 for temporarily storing processing results in CPU 63, and screen configuration information generated by CPU 63 And a VDP 67 that generates display images in various gaming states by taking out image data from the image data ROM 66 based on the screen configuration information stored in the video RAM 65 and writing the data in the screen configuration information. I have. The generated display image is output to the display unit (liquid crystal display) 20a.

  The interface 61 receives a command (command) transmitted from the main board 50. These commands are stored in the command buffer area 64 a provided in the work RAM 64 by the CPU 63.

  The CPU 63 operates according to a control program stored in the program ROM 62. Specifically, the command is monitored, a task corresponding to the command is generated, and stored in the work RAM 64. By executing the task, screen configuration information of a display image displayed in various game states (normal fluctuation, reach production, jackpot notification, etc.) is generated in the work RAM 64, and this screen configuration information is written in the video RAM 65. The screen configuration information is generated for each vertical operation signal (VSYNC) of the display unit (liquid crystal display) 20a.

  The work RAM 64 includes the command buffer area 64a for storing commands from the main board 50, a task buffer area 64b for storing generated tasks, and image configuration information (in normal fluctuation or reach state). A sprite chain area 64c is set in which various types of information are stored in order to collectively write a design image instruction, its arrangement position, display priority order, and the like into the video RAM 65.

  The video RAM 65 is a memory that stores the image configuration information and the display image data generated by the VDP 67. The video RAM 65 is provided with a first frame memory 65a and a second frame memory 65b that are storage areas for storing display image data for one screen displayed on the display unit 20a. Information and display image data generated by the VDP 67 can be stored alternately.

  The image data ROM 66 is a memory for storing various image data such as symbols and background images displayed on the display unit 20a. The image data includes various kinds of information necessary for generating, for example, a design, a background image, and the like that define a shape, size, pattern, color scheme, color tone, and the like.

  The VDP 67 is an image data processor that performs image generation processing of a display image. That is, the VDP 67 reads the image data stored in the image data ROM 66 based on the image configuration information stored in the video RAM 65, and writes the information included in the image data in the image configuration information, thereby displaying the display unit. A display image that can be displayed on 20a is generated. Then, the generated display image is output to the display unit 20a.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the VDP 67 has an interface 67a for receiving various commands and data sent from the CPU 63, and an image stored in the video RAM 65 based on the various commands and data sent from the interface 67a. An image generation unit 67b that reads configuration information and generates a display image based on the image configuration information, and a palette RAM 67c that stores color information of the display image.

  The image generation unit 67b that receives various commands and data from the interface 67a reads the image configuration information stored in the first frame memory 65a or the second frame memory 65b of the video RAM 65. Based on the image configuration information, image data is read from the image data ROM 66, and various information included in the image data is written into the image configuration information. At the same time, color information corresponding to the image data is acquired from the palette RAM 67c and written into the image configuration information. As a result, a display image with a color scheme based on the color information is generated.

  At the same time, the image generation unit 67b reads display image data stored in the first frame memory 65a or the second frame memory 65b that has not been written, and outputs the read image data to the display unit (liquid crystal display) 20a. At this time, the display image data is output as RGB signals, and the color tone (color, saturation, luminance, contrast, etc.) is controlled based on the RGB signals and displayed on the display unit (liquid crystal display) 20a. Further, new image configuration information is written in the first frame memory 65a or the second frame memory 65b in which display image data is output and no data is stored. Note that the display image generated by the image generation unit 67b is composed of a plurality of layers for patterns and background images, and these are superimposed and generated as a display image for one screen.

  The palette RAM 67c holds a plurality of types of color palettes in which a plurality of types of color information is set, and gives a color palette according to the color information included in the image data to the image generation unit 67b. Here, giving a color palette means giving the storage address of the color palette stored in the palette RAM 67c to the image generation unit 67b, for example. Note that the color information is determined by a blending ratio obtained by combining basic color information of primary colors such as red (R), green (G), and blue (B).

  Here, in the display unit 20a of the special symbol display device 20, the configuration of the display image displayed during the gaming state and the like will be specifically described, and the jackpot state, the reach state, the disengaged state, etc. based on the display mode. explain.

  As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the background image BG is displayed on the display unit 20 a of the special symbol display device 20, and the symbol columns 21 to 23 are displayed so as to be positioned in front of the background image BG. It is like that. Each of the symbol columns 21 to 23 includes a plurality of types and a plurality of symbols 70A to 70H and identification symbols 70I as identification information. Each of the symbols 70A to 70H, excluding the off symbol 70I, is composed of a combination of a picture of a kite and the numbers “1” to “8” (in the figure, the symbol 70A etc. Although not shown, for example, the symbol 70A is composed of a combination of a spear picture and a number “1” and a picture, and for example, the symbol 70B is a spear picture and a number “2”. It is composed of a combination of.) Of course, various patterns, only various characters, or a combination of numbers and characters and various patterns may be used as a pattern. These symbols 70 </ b> A to 70 </ b> H are arranged in ascending order for the left symbol row 21, and in descending order for the middle and right symbol rows 22 and 23 (the order is not particularly limited). These symbols 70A to 70H can be any of a jackpot symbol, a miss reach symbol, and a miss symbol as special game symbols (these will be described later).

  Further, the off symbol 70I is constituted by a “blade” mark, and is arranged between the symbols 70A to 70H. Furthermore, the off symbol 70I does not become a jackpot symbol as the name suggests, and can only be a off symbol.

  In each of the symbol rows 21 to 23, the symbols 70A to 70H and 70I to be displayed are displayed as if they move from the bottom to the top in a predetermined display area in principle. More specifically, the wrinkles are displayed as if they are rising. Further, in principle, the character GC is displayed on the side of the left symbol row 21. In each of the symbol columns 21 to 23, the arrangement order of the symbols 70A to 70I is changed at random and displayed in a variable manner, or the number of symbols 70A to 70I is increased or decreased as appropriate, or the same as one symbol column, for example, the left symbol column 21 A plurality of symbols such as symbols 70A may be displayed, or the variation display mode of symbols 70A to 70I, such as scroll variation display and replacement variation display, may be appropriately changed.

  As described above, the symbols 70A to 70I of the symbol rows 21 to 23 that are variably displayed are stopped and displayed (determined stop display) on the jackpot line of the display unit 20a after a predetermined time has elapsed. At this time, one of the jackpot symbols, the missed reach symbol, and the missed symbol is selected, and then stopped and displayed on the jackpot line. The stop symbol is a symbol that is determined and displayed when each symbol row 21 to 23 stops symbol variation. In the present embodiment, the symbol variation is stopped in the order of the left symbol row 21, the right symbol row 23, and the middle symbol row 22.

  Next, the jackpot state as a special gaming state advantageous to the player will be described. FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating a screen when a big hit state occurs in the display unit 20a. As shown in the figure, the jackpot symbol is a symbol for generating a jackpot state as a special gaming state advantageous to the player after passing the reach gaming state (reach state) from the normal gaming state. Specifically, when the fluctuation of all the symbol rows 21 to 23 is stopped, the displayed combinations of symbols 70A to 70H are predetermined jackpot combinations, that is, symbols 70A to 70H of the same type are jackpots. There may be a combination of the same symbols 70A to 70H when arranged along the line. The symbol constituting this combination is the “big hit symbol”.

  In the present embodiment, a big hit line is constituted by upper, middle, and lower horizontal lines and two diagonal lines (referred to as five lines). When the jackpot combination is established, the special electric accessory is activated (the jackpot 4 is opened), and it is possible to obtain a jackpot state that is advantageous to the player, that is, to obtain more prize balls. (For example, in FIG. 5A, symbols “7”, “7”, and “7” 70G are stopped and displayed in a diagonal line that rises to the right).

  In this embodiment, once a big hit state occurs, after the grand prize opening 12 is opened, (1) 10 game balls B win the big prize opening 12, and (2) about 29.5 seconds have elapsed. When either one of the conditions is satisfied, the special winning opening 12 is closed. The opening / closing cycle of the big prize opening 12 is repeated a maximum of a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times: 16 rounds) on condition that the game ball B wins the V zone 15.

  The reach state means a state immediately before the jackpot (of course, the jackpot state may not be reached). As shown in FIG. 5B, in the reach state in the present embodiment, the symbol variation of the right symbol row 23 stops on the same jackpot line with the same type of symbols as the stop symbol of the left symbol row 21. Is included. In the figure, the case where the left and right symbol rows 21 and 23 are stopped and displayed as a “seven” symbol 70G on the central jackpot line, and the middle symbol row 22 is still changing.

  In the above reach state, the symbol variation of the middle symbol row 22 will eventually stop at the same kind of symbols (big hit symbol) as the stop symbols of both the left and right symbol rows 21 and 23 and will be in a big hit state Also included are those that stop at different types of symbols (this is referred to as “outgoing reach design”) and do not become a big hit state (hereinafter referred to as “outgoing reach state”). Furthermore, after the symbol variation of the middle symbol row 22 is temporarily stopped (it is not necessary to stop), the entire symbol row (or a part of the symbol rows) is changed, and then the symbols 70A to 70A of all the symbol rows 21 to 23 are changed. The case where 70H stops (also referred to as re-variation reach or full rotation reach) is also included.

  In the reach state, as the reach pattern, various reach patterns are set in addition to “normal reach” in which the symbols 70A to 70H in the middle symbol row 22 are simply scrolled in the same manner as in the normal variation. Among these reach patterns, reach patterns other than “normal reach” are so-called “super reach”. When the operation of “super reach” is started, the expected value (expected value for jackpot) at which a big hit state occurs is higher than in the case of “normal reach”. Also, in “super reach”, the jackpot expectation value may differ depending on each reach pattern. Further, a reach pattern called “special reach” or “premium reach” having a higher jackpot expectation value than “super reach” may be prepared.

  In the present embodiment, as “super reach”, for example, the character GC swings around the character, and “Matoi Reach” in which the symbols 70A to 70I of the cocoon are switched to the symbols of the character, a villain character different from the character GC is displayed. “Villain reach” is set. In the present embodiment, after the reach state is once generated, after the effect display at the “normal reach” for a predetermined time is performed, the display mode is switched at a predetermined timing, and then each “super reach” is displayed. "Is now being performed. Of course, there may be a case where the production of “super reach” is suddenly performed.

  Next, the operation and effect of each control unit in the pachinko machine 1 configured as described above will be described.

  First, the control process when the main board 50 recognizes that the game ball B has won the operation port 11 based on the detection signal from the operation port switch 41 will be described.

  When the main board 50 detects that the game ball B has won the operation port 11, the main board 50 detects that the corresponding holding lamps 24a to 24d (for example, two holding lamps 24a and 24b until then). When the two hold lamps are turned on, the third hold lamp 24c) is turned on, and the value of the hold counter is incremented by "1". However, the case where all the holding lamps 24a to 24d are lit is excluded.

  The main board 50 stores the values of the counters such as the internal random number counter, the jackpot symbol counter, the miss reach symbol counter, the miss symbol counter, etc. in each random number area. Then, the corresponding holding lamps 24a to 24d are turned off at a predetermined timing, the value of the holding counter is decremented, and the symbol variation is executed based on the data stored in each area or the like.

  At this time, the main board 50 outputs (transmits) a command as a command to the lamp control board 120, the voice control board 130, and the like, in addition to the display control board 110 of the special symbol display device 20, in the case of the change. The command includes (1) time information indicating that the symbols 70A to 70I are fixedly displayed after a predetermined time from the start of variation, pattern information including variation patterns represented by each reach pattern, and (2) any symbol. Symbol information indicating whether to make a fixed display at 70A to 70I is included. Here, the symbol information includes jackpot symbols, missed reach symbols, missed symbols, which are determined based on the above-described internal random number counter, jackpot symbol counter, missed reach symbol counter, missed symbol counter, etc. It is.

  The command in the present embodiment has a 2-byte configuration, and is sequentially transmitted to the display control board 110 and the like sequentially. Of the command consisting of 2 bytes, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating what information will be transmitted from now on. The latter one byte is composed of content information such as a pattern code corresponding to specific instruction content.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the first command transmitted is pattern information. In this case, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that pattern information (indicating time information and a variation pattern) is to be transmitted, and the second byte is pattern code information such as “00” and “01”. It is comprised by. Here, the pattern code information such as “00”, “01”, and the like is time information that suggests the content such as “10 seconds” or “30 seconds” as the symbol variation time. It consists of information suggesting a fluctuation pattern such as executing a fluctuation pattern (or any one of fluctuation pattern groups).

  Subsequently, the symbol information is transmitted. That is, in the case where the symbols of the three symbol sequences 21 to 23 are determined in the order of left → right → middle as in the present embodiment, first, the symbol information that is the second command transmitted following the pattern information. The first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that the symbol information of the left symbol sequence 21 will be transmitted from now on, and the second byte is composed of pattern code information suggesting a symbol to be confirmed and displayed. In addition, as the symbol information that is the third command to be transmitted, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that the symbol information in the right symbol row 23 will be transmitted from now on, and the second byte is a symbol that is confirmed and displayed. It consists of suggested pattern code information. In addition, as the symbol information to be transmitted fourth, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that the symbol information of the middle symbol sequence 22 will be transmitted from now on, and the second byte is the symbol to be confirmed and displayed. It consists of pattern code information that suggests. In this way, three pieces of display information related to the confirmed symbol are transmitted continuously. In other words, when the symbol changes once, data having a 2-byte structure is transmitted byte by byte, so that a total of 8 (1 × 2 + 3 × 2) data transmissions are performed.

  In the above embodiment, symbol information corresponding to each of the left, right, and middle symbol columns 21 to 23 is transmitted. For example, when eight symbols need to be confirmed and displayed, Even if the number of symbols is changed as appropriate, such as 1 × 2 + 8 × 2 = 18 times of data transmission, it can be applied.

  In the present embodiment, commands (a group of commands) are output not only to the display control board 110 but also to the lamp control board 120 and the voice control board 130 in synchronization ( In the strict sense, they need not be at the same time). Of course, it is desirable that the command output at this time corresponds to the command output to the display control board 110 (in some cases, it may not correspond). On the other hand, the display control board 110 that has received a group of commands related to symbol variation (a group of data sent during one symbol variation) sequentially generates display images to be displayed on the display unit 20a of the special symbol display device 20. To do.

  Further, the display control board 110 starts design variation based on the command and performs various effects based on the variation pattern until the variation is stopped. As the production, for example, reach production is mainly cited.

  That is, based on the pattern information among the above commands, the CPU 63 of the display control board 110 selects and determines a predetermined pattern from the above-described variation patterns with reference to the table, and produces an effect based on the determined pattern. Is executed for the number of seconds of the time data set separately from the start of the change to the final display. Thereafter, the CPU on the main board 50 side outputs a confirmation command to the display control board 110 at a timing corresponding to the predetermined time based on the timer that the main board 50 has.

  On the other hand, the CPU 63 of the display control board 110 displays the symbols 70A to 70I according to the symbol information in a fixed stop display after a predetermined time from the temporary stop (when the fluctuation based on the time information is completed). At this time, as a result, the symbols 70A to 70I are confirmed and displayed in synchronization with the outputted confirmation command. Similarly, the CPUs of the lamp control board 120 and the sound control board 130 also confirm and stop the lamp effect and the sound effect at the timing.

  In the present embodiment, with respect to the variation pattern, effects other than the reach effect are also controlled after being included in the variation pattern information in the same manner as described above. The effects other than the reach effect include effects such as re-variation, reach notice, super reach notice, jackpot notice, “background switching” peculiar to the present embodiment, in addition to the above-described slip change. It should be noted that the “notice” only needs to be able to suggest that the predetermined gaming state is likely to occur depending on the performance, or that the generation affects the occurrence rate of the predetermined gaming state. Thus, there may be a case where the predetermined gaming state does not occur (suggestion). Thus, in the present embodiment, main control is governed by the main board 50, and display control and the like are governed by the display control board 110 and the like based on commands from the main board 50. As a result, the burden on the main board 50 is reduced.

  Next, features of the present embodiment will be described. As described above, the background image BG is displayed on the back side of the symbols 70A to 70I when the symbols 70A to 70I are not changing or during normal changes. As shown in FIG. 6 and the like, the background image BG includes a roof YN, a mountain MT, and the like as display objects, and a cherry tree CT as a special display object. In the present embodiment, the roof YN, the mountain MT, and the like overlap with the display areas (symbol visual recognition areas) of the symbols 70A to 70I (see FIG. 5A, etc.), so that it is difficult to visually recognize them at all times. On the other hand, most of the cherry tree CT is displayed at a position deviated from the symbol visual recognition area, so that the mode can be always recognized while the background image BG is displayed. ing.

  In the present embodiment, the background image BG is appropriately switched on the display control board 110 side based on a command output from the main board 50 to the display control board 110. That is, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, a background image BG that colors spring, summer, autumn, and winter is displayed. In particular, as shown in FIG. 6, when the spring background image BG is displayed, the cherry tree CT is displayed in a manner in which the flowers are in full bloom. Also, as shown in FIG. 7, when the summer background image BG is displayed, the cherry tree CT is displayed in a manner in which green leaves have grown. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, when the autumn background image BG is displayed, the cherry tree CT is displayed in a mode in which the color of the leaves is brown. Then, as shown in FIG. 9, when the winter background image BG is displayed, the cherry tree CT is displayed in a manner in which branches are exposed.

  Each aspect of the background image BG including the cherry tree CT is switched (changed) every predetermined time in principle. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 10A, basically, a predetermined time T1 is set as a time during which the spring background image BG is displayed, and thereafter, the display is switched to the summer background image BG. A predetermined time T2 is set as a time during which the summer background image BG is displayed, and thereafter, the summer background image BG is switched to the autumn background image BG. A predetermined time T3 is set as a time during which the autumn background image BG is displayed, and thereafter, the image is switched to the winter background image BG. Further, a predetermined time T4 is set as a time during which the winter background image BG is displayed, and thereafter, the display is switched to the spring background image BG.

  However, in the present embodiment, even when the predetermined times T1 to T4 have elapsed, it may not be immediately possible to switch to the next background image BG. For example, even when a predetermined time T1 that is a set time during which the spring background image BG is displayed has elapsed, when the symbols 70A to 70I are displayed in a variable manner, the variation display is displayed. Until completion, that is, until symbols 70A to 70I are confirmed and stopped, switching is prohibited and the spring background image BG is continuously displayed. As a result, for example, the time during which the spring background image BG is displayed may result in a time obtained by adding the fluctuation remaining time δt to the predetermined time T1 (the same applies to the summer, autumn, and winter background images BG). ).

  As described above in detail, according to the present embodiment, the cherry tree CT as a special display target is displayed on the background image BG, and the display mode of the background image BG including the cherry tree CT is changed. . Here, most of the cherry tree CT is displayed at a position deviating from the variable display area where the symbols 70A to 70I are displayed. For this reason, the display is not easily inhibited by the symbols 70A to 70I. Therefore, the player can visually recognize the cherry tree CT almost always, unlike the mountain MT, the roof YN, and the like that are other display targets. For this reason, when the display mode of the background image BG is switched in the order of spring, summer, autumn, winter, and so on, the player is likely to notice the change, and the player who has noticed the change has a kind of unique interest. To remember. Therefore, unlike the prior art in which the background image BG may be blocked by the design or the like, the background image BG or the like can be improved dramatically.

  In particular, since the display mode of the background image BG including the cherry tree CT is switched almost regularly, the player predicts the display mode (for example, season, landscape) to be changed next, or estimates the timing. Can do. In this sense, the emphasis of the production has been biased toward the change display of symbols and the like, and the background image BG can be more interested.

  Further, in the present embodiment, even when the switching timing of the background image BG arrives while the symbols 70A to 70I are being displayed in a varying manner, the switching is prohibited and the variation display is completed. Switching is performed. Here, if the display target of the background image BG is changed during the variable display of the symbols 70A to 70I, the player may have some influence on the future performance (for example, the reach state or the like). It may be misunderstood that it is in a state of high expectation. On the other hand, in this embodiment, since the display mode of the background image BG is allowed to be switched after the variable display of the symbols 70A to 70I is completed, such misunderstanding can be prevented. In addition, regarding the variable display of the symbols 70A to 70I, when any effect such as a reach effect or a reach notice effect is performed, the display mode of the background image BG may be switched after waiting for the effect. Can be solved, and the control contents can be simplified. As a result, the burden on the main board 50 and the display control board 110 can be reduced.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the display mode of the entire background image BG as well as the cherry tree CT can be switched in order to bring about changes in the four seasons, it is easy to give story and persuasiveness to the change of the display mode, and also a sense of incongruity. Can be wiped out. Furthermore, even if it is difficult to visually recognize the display mode of other display objects other than the cherry tree CT (for example, the mountain MT), the display modes of other display targets that are switched in accordance with the change of the display mode of the cherry tree CT. A player who notices a change (for example, a change in the color of the mountain MT or a change in the form of the clouds) is entertaining and joyful. As a result, the interest can be further improved.

  In addition, when the cherry tree CT that does not move (has static characteristics) as a special display object is adopted as in the present embodiment, the display mode changes relatively plainly, but the above-described action causes a game to be played. Persons are easily aware of the change, and in this sense, it is easy to further improve their interest.

  In addition, even when the switching timing of the background image BG arrives while the variable display of the symbols 70A to 70I is being performed, the switching is performed after the variable display is completed. The background image displayed on one display unit 20a is different for each pachinko machine 1. As a result, the player can compare the background image of the other pachinko machine 1 with that of his or her own pachinko machine, and thus can eliminate the monotonous feeling.

[Second Embodiment]
In the present embodiment, display control processing in the display control board 110 will be described in more detail. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. The CPU 63 constitutes layer setting means, screen configuration information generation means, range setting means, setting position demarcation means, fluctuation status determination means, delay control means, and switching permission control means in the present embodiment. The image data ROM 66 constitutes image data storage means in the present embodiment, and a plurality of types of special display target image data (spring, summer, autumn, winter) corresponding to a cherry tree CT as a special display target described later. Image data). The VDP 67 constitutes an image generation unit in the present embodiment.

  The display image displayed on the display unit 20a is divided into a plurality of layers according to the display priority order. In the present embodiment, layers L1, L2, L3, and L4 (see FIG. 11) are set. FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the layers L1 to L4. Various images are arranged on these layers L1 to L4, respectively, and the layers L1 to L4 are superimposed to be displayed as a one-screen display image. And the special symbol display apparatus 20 implement | achieves display modes, such as a symbol fluctuation | variation and a background change, by displaying a display image on the display part 20a sequentially for every vertical scanning signal (for example, every 1/60 second).

  Specifically, a background component image such as a roof YN or a mountain MT as a display target constituting the background image is arranged in the first layer L1 having the lowest priority. In the second layer L2 having the next lowest priority, a background constituent image such as a cherry tree CT as a special display target constituting the background image is arranged. A character image such as the character GC is arranged in the third layer L3 having the second highest priority. In the fourth layer L4 having the highest priority, symbol images such as symbols 70A to 70I are arranged. Then, by displaying the layers L1 to L4 in order from the lowest priority, a display image as shown in FIG. Here, the second layer L2 constitutes a layer including the special display object in the present embodiment, and the fourth layer L4 constitutes a layer including the symbol image in the present embodiment.

  Next, the display control process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, in step U1, task generation processing is performed. Specifically, the CPU 63 stores the task buffer area 64b and the sprite chain in the work RAM 64 according to a control program in the program ROM 62 according to a control command generated every predetermined time based on its own timer, a command received from the main board 50, or the like. Region 64c is set. Further, the CPU 63 generates a parent task corresponding to the control command or the like in the task buffer area 64b, and executes a plurality of processing programs for executing various individual processing programs in the program ROM 62 by executing the parent task. Create child tasks. The task buffer area 64b and the sprite chain area 64c can be set in advance.

  In addition, a determination process for determining whether or not a change start command (change start instruction) is input from the main board 50 is performed before the generation of each task. Based on the determination result, when a variation start command is input, a symbol task to be described later for variation display is generated. Here, the processing of the main board 50 that outputs a change start command or the like will be described by taking the main board 50 as an aggregate of function realizing means without being restricted by the actual configuration of the main board 50 itself. That is, the various functions described below are functions realized under the control of the CPU, and the control program is based on the storage contents of the ROM (or RAM in some cases), and the necessary data at that time is stored in the RAM. Although temporarily stored and held, those program requirements and the like can be made by those skilled in the art and will not be described individually. When the winning of the game ball B to the operation port 11 is detected and the specific trigger condition is satisfied, the main board 50 is selected from the plurality of types of variation pattern information stored by the function of the “variation pattern information storage unit”. With the function of “pattern information selection means”, a process of selecting predetermined fluctuation pattern information based on the values of various counters is performed. Subsequently, the main substrate 50 outputs a variation start command (variation start instruction) regarding the variation start of the symbols 70A to 70I together with the selected variation pattern information to the display control substrate 110 by the function of the “variation control means”. After that, the main board 50 outputs a confirmation command (change completion instruction) to the display control board 110 at a predetermined timing based on the timer of the main board 50 by the function of the “variation control means”.

  The task buffer area 64b is an area in which a child task for controlling the variation of each symbol image displayed on the display unit 20a and the background image is generated. For example, various addresses are set in the task buffer area 64b, and a parent task for performing a series of display controls is generated at a predetermined address among them. When the parent task is executed, for example, a background task for designating and arranging a background image BG (background image such as a cherry tree CT), a design task for changing the design image, and other images such as a character image are changed. A plurality of child tasks such as character tasks are generated at predetermined addresses. These child tasks are connected by a task chain, and are executed in the order connected by the task chain.

  Specifically, the parent task writes the start address of the processing program stored in the program ROM 62 in the child task. Furthermore, each child task is connected in a task chain in the order of execution. The task chain refers to associating a plurality of child tasks in a chain by writing the address of the next task to be executed at the end of the task to be executed. As a result, a plurality of programs stored in the program ROM 62 can be executed in a necessary order.

  Hereinafter, execution of child tasks (background tasks, symbol tasks, etc.) will be described. First, the CPU 63 reads the address in the program ROM 62 written in, for example, the first child task for the first execution in the task buffer 64b, and executes the first program stored in the address. The execution result (screen configuration information) resulting from the execution of the first program is written into the first child task in the task buffer area 64b. Further, when the same first child task is executed next, in order to execute a different second program, the start address of the first program in the first child task is rewritten to the start address of the second program. . As a result, when the first task is executed next, the second program is executed, and the screen configuration information is written in the first task. Then, the start address and end address of the child task are written in the sprite chain area 64c.

  The sprite chain region 64c is for determining the priority order of images displayed on the display unit 20a. The sprite chain area 64c is divided into a plurality of task address areas in order from the lowest priority displayed on the display unit 20a so as to correspond to the layers L1 to L4. For example, the symbol image that is changed by the symbol task based on the task address area of the fourth layer L4 has priority over the background configuration image (the roof YN, the mountain MT, etc.) based on the task address area of the first layer L1, that is, displayed. It is displayed on the front side of the part 20a. Also, the background composition image (such as cherry tree CT) of the background task based on the task address area of the second layer L2 is the background composition image (roof YN, mountain MT, etc.) of the background task based on the task address area of the first layer L1. Is displayed in front. In each task address area, the start address and end address of the background task for controlling the background composition image to be displayed in the priority order are written. As will be described later, the sprite chain area 64c is executed in order from the task address area having a lower priority in sprite transfer. That is, the screen configuration information in the child task written in the task address area with the lower priority is sent to the video RAM 65 in order. Then, the information executed for each child task is collectively sent to the video RAM 65, whereby screen configuration information for one screen to be displayed on the display unit 20a is generated in the video RAM 65. Various processes of each child task are performed for each vertical scanning signal in the display unit 20a.

  In step U2, background task execution processing is performed. Here, first, a timer value reading and background image update processing, which will be described later, are performed. Based on the result, the background task is executed (the child task described above is executed), whereby the program in the program ROM 62 is executed, and the background task image (such as a cherry tree CT) is included in the background task. Is stored together with the address in the image data ROM 66 in which the background component image is arranged with respect to the display unit 20a. Then, the start address and the end address of the background task in the task buffer area 64b are written in the task address area of the sprite chain area 64c corresponding to the priority order.

  Here, the reading of the timer value will be described. When the background task execution process is performed for the first time, a process for determining the set value of the timer value is performed. The predetermined time (see FIG. 10) for displaying various background images BG (spring background image BG, etc.) is determined by the size of the set value. That is, the timing at which the background image BG is switched is determined. A timer program for counting the time set here is stored in the program ROM 63. This timer program sequentially calculates timer values by subtracting a constant value from a set value to “0” or adding a constant value from “0” to a set value for each vertical scanning signal of the display unit 20a. is there. In this embodiment, the final value of the timer value is set as a set value, and the timer value is sequentially calculated by adding 1 from “0” to the set value for each vertical scanning signal. Once the timer value is set, only the timer value is read in subsequent background task execution processing.

  In step U3, a symbol task execution process is performed. In the symbol task, the address of the image data ROM 66 storing symbol images such as the symbols 70A to 70I and the screen configuration information of the arrangement position of the symbol image on the display unit 20a are written in the symbol task. Then, the head address and the final address of the symbol task in the task buffer area 64b are written in the task address area of the sprite chain area 64c corresponding to the priority order.

  In step U4, sprite transfer processing is performed. When the writing of the addresses of all tasks is completed, the CPU 63 displays various screens written from the first address to the last address written in each task address area in the order of low priority of the sprite chain area 64c. The configuration information is sequentially sent to the video RAM 65. The video RAM 65 sequentially stores the received screen configuration information. For example, when a plurality of images are generated on the same area plane, an image sent later is overwritten on an image sent earlier and stored as screen configuration information for one screen. .

  In step U5, an image generation process is performed. The VDP 67 calls the corresponding image data from the image data ROM 66 based on the screen configuration information for one screen stored in the video RAM 65, and generates an image to be displayed on the display unit 20a.

  In step U6, output processing is performed. The VDP 67 outputs the generated display image to the display unit 20a. Then, this display image is displayed on the display unit 20a.

  In the present embodiment, the display ranges of the layers L1 to L4 on the display unit 20a are set in the screen configuration information for each of the layers L1 to L4 by the function of the “range setting unit”. Then, as can be seen by comparing FIGS. 5 to 9 and FIG. 13, the display range D1 of the cherry tree CT on the display unit 20a and the variable display range D2 of the symbols 70A to 70I by the function of the “setting position delimiting means”. In the screen configuration information, the setting position of the display range of the second layer L2 and the setting position of the display range of the fourth layer L4 are defined in the screen configuration information. That is, most of the cherry tree CT is played by placing and displaying a large part of the cherry tree CT at a position substantially deviating from the fluctuation display range D2 of the symbols 70A to 70I (a position not substantially hindered by the symbols 70A to 70I). It is possible to visually recognize a person at all times or almost always. Further, in the present embodiment, in order to give a sense of perspective, the display range D1 of the cherry tree CT and the variable display range D2 of the symbols 70A to 70I are slightly non-overlapping, In order to make it easy for the player to visually recognize the entire tree CT, the tree CT may be arranged and displayed at a position deviating from the variable display range D2 of the symbols 70A to 70I (a position not obstructed by the symbols 70A to 70I). That is, the display range D1 of the cherry tree CT and the variable display range D2 of the symbols 70A to 70I may be arranged so as not to overlap.

  Next, the background image update process performed at the stage before the screen configuration information is generated in the background task execution process of step U2 will be described in more detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. By performing this background image update processing, the image data of the background constituent images (roof YN, cherry tree CT, etc.) constituting the background image BG are cyclically switched in a specific order periodically or almost regularly. Screen configuration information is generated.

  First, in step S1, processing for determining whether or not the switching timing of the background image BG has arrived by reading the timer value is performed. If the switching timing has not arrived, the background image update process is terminated.

  When the switching timing has arrived, the process proceeds to step S2, and a process of determining whether or not the symbols 70A to 70I are currently being displayed is performed by the function of the “variation status determination means”. More specifically, a process for determining whether or not the variation display is being performed is performed based on the input results of the variation start command and the confirmation command from the main board 50. If it is determined that there is no fluctuation, the process proceeds to step S3.

  On the other hand, if a determination result indicating that a change is occurring is made, the process proceeds to step S4, where the change pattern information sent together with the change start command is a change pattern such as a specific change pattern (for example, various “super-reach” change patterns, etc. ) A process for determining whether or not the information is information is performed. If the variation pattern is not a specific variation pattern, the process returns to step S2. In other words, when the timing for switching the background image BG has arrived, and when the symbols 70A to 70I are being displayed in a variable manner and the variation pattern is not a specific variation pattern, the steps S2 and S2 are performed until the variation display is completed. Step S3 is repeatedly performed, and the timing for switching the background image BG is delayed. On the other hand, when the variation pattern is a specific variation pattern, the process proceeds to step S3. That is, when the variation pattern is a specific variation pattern, the subsequent processing in step S3 is performed even when the variations of the symbols 70A to 70I are being displayed.

  In step S3, the background image BG switching setting process is executed, and the background image update process ends. Specifically, in this step S3, processing for setting screen configuration information for changing the background image BG is performed. Therefore, the background image BG is switched to ones representing spring, summer, autumn, and winter as shown in FIGS. For example, when a predetermined time T1 (see FIG. 10) is set as the time during which the spring background image BG is displayed, the summer background image is displayed after the elapse of the predetermined time T1 from the time of switching to the spring background image BG. It is switched to BG. Further, even when the predetermined time has elapsed, at that time, if the symbols 70A to 70I are displayed in a variable manner, the “delay control means” function allows the “screen configuration information generation means” to Screen configuration information for delaying the timing for switching the background image BG until the completion of the variable display of the symbols 70A to 70I is generated. Therefore, until the change display is completed, that is, until the symbols 70A to 70I are confirmed and stopped, the switching of the background image BG is delayed, and the background image BG displayed during the change display is continuously displayed. . As a result, for example, the time during which the spring background image BG is displayed may result in a time obtained by adding the fluctuation remaining time δt to the predetermined time T1 (see FIG. 10).

  As described above in detail, in the present embodiment, in addition to the same effects as those of the first embodiment, in principle, at least the display mode of the background image BG is displayed until the variable display of the symbols 70A to 70I is completed. However, when the change display is a specific change pattern, the timing of switching the background image BG is not delayed, and the display mode of the background image BG is displayed even during the change display. Changes are allowed. That is, the function of the “switching permission control means” of the CPU 63 is permitted to generate screen configuration information for switching the background image image data. As a result, the change in the background image BG changes the subsequent effects (in the present embodiment, a super reach state occurs), and further enhancement of interest for the player is achieved.

  In addition, it is not limited to the description content of the said embodiment, For example, you may implement as follows.

  (A) In the above embodiment, the display mode of the cherry tree CT is configured to be switched almost regularly, but may be configured to be changed irregularly. Thus, when it changes irregularly, it becomes difficult for a player to predict or grasp the timing of a change. Therefore, when the change is actually made, the change is surprised, or when the change is made at the predicted timing, the joy is learned. In this sense, the emphasis of the production has been biased toward the change display of symbols and the like, and the background image BG can be more interested.

  (B) In addition, the display mode of the cherry tree CT (special display target) may be changed in response to another display target, for example, the action display of the character GC in the above embodiment.

  (C) In the above-described embodiment, the cherry tree CT that does not move is adopted as the special display object, but a movable one may be adopted. In this way, when the special display target is movable, if the display mode is changed, the change is likely to be relatively flashy, and an effect display related to the pattern or other display target is performed. Thus, a further thickness can be provided.

  (D) Instead of based on a command from the main board 50, the display control board 110 itself may perform the display control. Further, the display control may be performed only with the main substrate 50.

  (E) It may not be a 5-line type as in the above embodiment. For example, a so-called two-line type (for example, one having upper and lower horizontal jackpot lines) or three-line type (for example, one having upper, middle and lower horizontal jackpot lines) may be used. Further, it may be of one line type (for example, one having one jackpot line).

  (F) As the special symbol display device 13, other than the liquid crystal display described above, a CRT, a dot matrix, an LED, an electroluminescence (EL), a fluorescent display tube, or the like may be used.

  (G) The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine of a type different from the above embodiment. For example, it may be implemented as a pachinko machine that is in a special gaming state under the condition that a game ball is awarded in a predetermined area after a jackpot symbol is displayed. In addition to pachinko machines, the present invention can also be implemented as various game machines such as alepatches, sparrow balls, slot machines, and game machines in which pachinko machines and slot machines are integrated. In the slot machine, for example, a symbol is changed by operating a control lever in a state where a symbol effective line is determined by inserting coins, and a symbol is stopped and confirmed by operating a stop button. Is. In this case, examples of the game media include coins and medals.

  In addition, as a specific example of a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a slot machine are integrated, a variable ball display unit is provided which includes a variable display means for confirming and displaying a symbol after a symbol string composed of a plurality of symbols is variably displayed. The thing which does not have is mentioned. In this case, after throwing a predetermined amount of game balls based on a predetermined operation (button operation), for example, the variation of the symbol is started due to an operation of an operation lever, for example, due to an operation of a stop button or a predetermined amount As time passes, the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped, and the jackpot state that is advantageous to the player is generated on the condition that the confirmed symbol at the time of stoppage is a so-called jackpot symbol. A large amount of game balls are paid out.

  (H) In the above embodiment, the three symbol rows 21, 22, and 23 of the left, middle, and right are employed as the symbol rows. However, the symbol rows may be constituted by two or less, or four or more symbol rows. . Also, the stop order is not limited to that of the above embodiment.

  (I) In the above embodiment, the cherry tree CT is arranged and displayed at a position substantially deviating from the variable display areas of the symbols 70A to 70I. However, the position may be completely deviated, and the special display object is mainly used. If it is displayed sufficiently to be recognized, there may be a portion that slightly overlaps the variable display area of the symbols 70A to 70I. Of course, the special display object may completely deviate from the variable display area and the entire special display object may be displayed.

  (J) The background image BG and the display mode of the special display target may be embodied in a type that can be gradually changed continuously.

  (K) Although not specifically mentioned in the above-described embodiment, a change may be given to subsequent effects (for example, a reach state or a super reach state always occurs) triggered by switching of the background image. In other words, it may be that “the display of a high degree of expectation for the player is performed when the special display target is switched”.

  (L) In the above embodiment, the display mode of the background image is switched. However, only the display mode of the special display target may be changed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine, 8 ... Game board, 11 ... Operation opening, 12 ... Extra prize opening, 20 ... Special symbol display device as a variable display device, 20a ... Display part, 21 ... Left symbol row, 22 ... Middle symbol row, 23 ... Right symbol row, 50 ... Main board, 63 ... CPU of display control board, 70A-70I ... Symbol as identification information, 110 ... Display control board, B ... Game ball, CT ... Cherry tree as a special display object, BG ... background image, L1 to L4 ... layer, D1 ... display range of cherry tree, D2 ... variable display range of symbols.

Claims (1)

A launcher that launches a game ball;
A game area in which game balls launched by the launching device are guided; and
An operating port provided in the game area;
A background image is displayed on a display unit capable of displaying a display image composed of a plurality of layers , and a predetermined amount is set so as to overlap with the front side of the background image based on a game ball entering the operation port. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbol images in the variable display area ;
When a new game ball enters the working port during the variation display of the symbol image, the variation display is performed so that the variation display corresponding to that time is performed after the variation display performed at that time ends. Holding means for waiting for display,
A gaming machine that generates a special gaming state advantageous to a player when the symbol image is stopped and displayed in a specific manner ,
The variable display device includes:
Layer setting means for setting the plurality of layers;
Screen configuration information generating means for generating screen configuration information corresponding to the plurality of layers;
Range setting means for setting a display range to be displayed as each layer in the screen configuration information for each layer;
Image data storage means for storing various image data constituting the background image and the design image;
Image generation means for generating a display image based on the screen configuration information and the image data corresponding to the display range of each layer;
In the screen configuration information, the display range in the display unit that is a special display target constituting the background image and the variable display range in the display unit of the design image are non-superimposed or substantially non-superimposed. A setting position defining means for demarcating a setting position of the display range of the first layer including the special display object and a setting position of the display range of the second layer including the symbol image,
The special display target included in the background image can be visually recognized by being arranged and displayed at a position deviating from the variable display area, and the display mode of the special display target is cyclically arranged in a predetermined order in a plurality of display modes. Can be changed to
If the timing for changing the display mode of the special display object has arrived during the variation display of the symbol image, the variation display is prohibited until the variation display of the symbol image is completed. After completion, a prohibition means for allowing a change in the display mode of the special display object;
A game machine comprising a change permission means for allowing a change in the display mode of the special display object even when the variation display of the symbol image is special. .

Images