JP5139676B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that displays a symbol on a symbol display device, displays a special prize state after the symbol is stopped in a predetermined manner, and displays the number of symbol fluctuations in which the short-time operation state continues. about the suitable gaming machines to reduce the number of development processes of software.

  As a conventional pachinko machine, for example, when a game ball is won at the start winning opening, the symbol display device starts displaying the symbols in a variable manner and whether or not the special prize state (bonus) is caused is determined. If it is determined that the special prize state is to be generated in the jackpot lottery, the symbols are stopped in a specific combination after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the special prize state is generated after the symbols are stopped. When the special prize state occurs, the opening / closing of the grand prize opening is controlled with a predetermined opening / closing pattern, and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of prize balls are paid out for each prize winning to the big prize opening.

  As a pachinko machine, there is known a pachinko machine with a so-called time-shortening function that shortens the fluctuation time of a symbol. A pachinko machine with a time reduction function, for example, when the symbol of the symbol display device is a big hit with an odd number of eyes, the high probability state (probability variation state) and the time reduction function are higher than the normal probability When a gaming state consisting of a short-time operating state occurs and the symbol on the symbol display device is a big hit with an even number of eyes, the low probability state where the probability of a big hit is normal and the short-time non-operating state when the time-saving function does not operate A gaming state consisting of

Conventionally, for example, a pachinko machine described in Patent Document 1 is known as a pachinko machine with a time-saving function.
The pachinko machine described in Patent Document 1 provides an effect control device that is independent from the main control device when notifying the number of symbol fluctuations (hereinafter referred to as the remaining number of times) in which the short-time operation state continues. The main control device is provided with frequency information output means for outputting the frequency information for shortening the symbol variation time set for the operation at the start of the short-time operation state once. The effect control device is provided with a remaining number notifying unit that allows the symbol display device or the like to notify the remaining number of times regarding the short-time operation state at an arbitrary time and content by only receiving the number of times information from the number information output unit.
JP 2005-131246 A

By the way, in a pachinko machine with a time-shortening function, a high probability state ends on the condition that the high probability state does not end depending on the number of symbol fluctuations, and a model called a loop type, and the number of symbol fluctuations reaches a predetermined upper limit. There is a model called the frequency cut type.
When a low-probability state and a short-time operation state occur after completion of the special prize state, the loop-type pachinko machine displays the remaining number of times that the short-time operation state continues at that time.

On the other hand, the pachinko machine of the number cut type ends the high probability state on the condition that the number of times the pattern has reached the upper limit, and when the short-time operation state continues after the end of the high probability state, Displays the remaining number of times the short operating state continues.
Therefore, since the conditions and timing for displaying the remaining number of times differ between the loop-type pachinko machine and the cut-off type pachinko machine, a program for displaying the remaining number of times is developed separately even for the same game content. However, there was a problem that one of the programs had to be changed drastically, increasing the number of software development steps.

Therefore, the present invention has been made paying attention to such an unsolved problem of the conventional technology, and aims to provide a gaming machine suitable for reducing the number of software development steps. .

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to claim 1 of the present invention includes a lottery means for performing a lottery to determine whether or not a special prize state is to be triggered by a winning at a start winning opening, and a symbol display means. A symbol change means for variably displaying a symbol, and when the lottery means determines that the special prize state is to be generated, the special prize state is generated after the symbol is stopped in a predetermined manner, After the end, either one of a predetermined low probability state and a high probability state where the winning probability of the lottery by the lottery means is higher than the low probability state, and a time shortening function that shortens the variation time of the symbol than the predetermined A gaming machine that causes a short-time operation state, an effect control device that controls a game effect, and when the low-probability state and the short-time operation state occur after completion of the special prize state, A first mode for transmitting a first time-shortening control command including the number of times of change of the symbol in which the state continues and a first state control command indicating the start of the state to the effect control device; and When the probability state and the short-time operation state occur, a second short-time control command including the number of variations of the symbol in which the short-time operation state continues is transmitted to the effect control device, and the number of variations of the symbol is a predetermined upper limit. The high probability state is terminated on condition that the value has been reached, and when the short-time operation state continues after the high probability state ends, a second state control command indicating the start of the state is sent to the effect control device. with one, and a main controller for controlling the game state or a second mode for transmitting the performance control unit, upon receiving the second time-shortening control command, display settings A first flag setting means for setting a flag to a first state; and a second flag setting means for setting the display setting flag to a second state when the first state control command or the second state control command is received. And when the display setting flag is not in the first state, the remaining time information on a period during which the time-short operation state continues during the time-short operation state based on the first time-short control command or the second time-short control command. While displaying on the symbol display means, when the display setting flag is in the first state, there is a remaining time short information display means that does not display the remaining time short information on the symbol display means .

  In such a configuration, when there is a winning at the start winning opening, a lottery means whether or not to cause a special prize state is performed by the lottery means, and the symbol changing means by the symbol display means. Is displayed fluctuating. If it is determined that the special prize state is to be generated as a result of the lottery, the symbol is stopped in a predetermined manner, and then the special prize state is generated. When the special prize state ends, one of the low probability state and the high probability state and the short-time operation state occur.

In the case of a gaming machine that is controlled by the main control device in the first mode, it operates as follows.
In the main control device, when the low probability state and the short-time operation state occur after the end of the special prize state, the first short-time control command and the first state control command are transmitted to the effect control device.
In the production control device, when the first state control command is received, the display setting flag is set to the second state by the second flag setting means. When the display setting flag is in the second state, the remaining time information is displayed on the symbol display means by the remaining time information display device during the time operation mode based on the received first time control command. Since the first short time control command includes the number of symbol fluctuations in which the short time operation state continues, for example, the remaining number of times that the short time operation state continues can be displayed as the remaining short time information.

In the case of a gaming machine that is controlled by the main control device in the second mode, it operates as follows.
In the main control device, when the high probability state and the short time operation state occur after the end of the special prize state, the second short time control command is transmitted to the effect control device.
In the production control device, when the second time reduction control command is received, the display setting flag is set to the first state by the first flag setting means. Thereby, the remaining time information is not displayed by the remaining time information display means.

In the main control device, when the high probability state ends on the condition that the number of symbol fluctuations reaches a predetermined upper limit value, and the short-time operation state continues after the high probability state ends, the second state control command is It is transmitted to the production control device.
In the effect control device, when the second state control command is received, the display setting flag is set to the second state by the second flag setting means. When the display setting flag is in the second state, the remaining time information is displayed by the remaining time information display means on the symbol display means during the time operation state based on the received second time time control command. Since the second short time control command includes the number of symbol fluctuations in which the short time operation state continues, for example, the remaining number of times in which the short time operation state continues can be displayed as the remaining short time information.

Here, the remaining short time information includes, for example, information regarding the remaining number of times that the short-time operation state continues, the time during which the short-time operation state continues, the time point at which the short-time operation state ends, and other periods during which the short-time operation state continues.
In addition, the main control device may perform control only in the first mode, may perform control only in the second mode, or may operate in the first mode or the second mode by an internal switch or the like. May be selected and control may be performed in the selected mode.

The start winning opening refers to a hole or gate provided on the game board surface for winning or passing a game ball, for example, a winning opening or an operating gate. Accordingly, winning includes not only winning but also passing.
Further, the special prize state means an advantageous state in which a predetermined game value can be given to the player, and includes, for example, an opening operation of a special prize opening.

Further, the high probability state may be generated after the end of the special prize state, may be generated without leaving an interval from the end time of the special prize state, or may be generated after a predetermined time has elapsed from the end time of the special prize state. Good. The same applies to the low-probability state and the short-time operation state.
Furthermore, the gaming machine according to claim 2 according to the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the production control device receives a variation pattern command or a symbol stop command from the main control device, the display is performed. There is provided a count value updating means for updating the count value that is the basis of the remaining time information regardless of the content of the setting flag.

With such a configuration, when the production control device receives the variation pattern command or the symbol stop command from the main control device, the count value update means counts the basis of the remaining time information regardless of the content of the display setting flag. value Ru is updated.

The gaming machine according to claim 3 according to the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the command for initializing the storage state of the storage device in the main controller is received, the display is performed. The setting flag was returned to the initial state.

As described above, according to the engagement Ru Yu TECHNICAL machine to the invention, the game machine main control unit performs control in the first mode, and a main control unit in the second mode is either of the gaming machine for controlling even, it is possible to utilize the effect control device in common, as compared with the prior art, is an effect that it is possible to reduce the development man-hours obtained.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. 1 to 20 are diagrams showing an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention.
This embodiment is a pachinko machine in which a game machine according to the present invention displays a plurality of symbols in a variable manner on the effect symbol display device 104 as shown in FIG. 1, and is applied to both the loop type and the number cut type. It is a thing.

First, the configuration of the game board surface 102 in the pachinko machine will be described.
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a front portion of a game board surface 102 in a pachinko machine, particularly a portion necessary for explanation.
In FIG. 1, an effect symbol display device 104 that displays the effect symbols independently in three regions is provided at substantially the center of the game board surface 102. The effect symbol display device 104 is, for example, a variable display device such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, a 7-segment LED, a dot matrix display device, a drum variably displayed by the rotation of a motor, and the like. An effect design composed of symbols and the like is variably displayed. In the present embodiment, the effect symbol display device 104 is a variable display device that can display an image such as a background and a plurality of symbols as a moving image, and can display various effect symbols on the effect symbol display device 104.

A special symbol operation memory indicator lamp 116 is provided above the effect symbol display device 104. The special symbol operation memory indicator lamp 116 holds the information of each game ball won in the start winning slot 111 or the ordinary electric accessory 112 during the change of the special symbol or the like for each game ball in the RAM of the main controller. Lights in conjunction with storing in the area, and notifies the number of times that the symbol can be continuously changed.
Above the special symbol operation memory indicator lamp 116, a winning prize opening 121 is provided for allowing a game ball to be always awarded.

A left shoulder winning port 122 and a right shoulder winning port 123 are provided on the left and right sides of the effect symbol display device 104 so that game balls can always be won, respectively, and the game balls are below the winning ports 122 and 123, respectively. Left sleeve winning opening 124 and right sleeve winning opening 125 are provided.
Below the effect symbol display device 104 is provided a start winning opening 111 that allows a game ball to be always won. When the game ball wins, the start winning port 111 detects the winning of the game ball based on a detection signal of a start winning port switch 131 (not shown) inside the pachinko machine, and the effect symbol display device 104 and the special symbol display device 106 change. Give an opportunity to start displaying. The variation display of the special symbol and the effect symbol is stopped after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and a lottery result notification and effect are performed.

  On the right side of the start winning opening 111, a special symbol display device 106 is provided that displays the special symbols in two regions while independently varying them. The special symbol display device 106 is, for example, a variable display device such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT display, a 7-segment LED, a dot matrix display device, and the like, and variably displays a special symbol composed of a plurality of numbers, symbols, and the like. In the present embodiment, the special symbol display device 106 is a two-digit 7-segment LED. Here, a gaming state in which the stop symbols of the special symbol display device 106 are generated in a specific combination is referred to as a “special prize state” (big hit or small hit), and the “special prize” means that a lot of gaming states are given to the player. The point which transfers to the advantageous state which gives predetermined | prescribed game value, such as paying out a prize ball. Further, the special symbol corresponds to the effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 104.

On the right side of the special symbol display device 106, there is provided a gaming state display device 109 for notifying the state of the pachinko machine such as during big hit or small hit (during special prize state) or during symbol variation time shortening control (so-called short time). Yes. The gaming state display device 109 is a display device made up of LEDs, for example, and notifies the gaming state by lighting or flashing.
A normal symbol operation memory indicator lamp 117 is provided below the start winning opening 111. The normal symbol operation memory indicator lamp 117 stores the information of each game ball that has passed through the operation gates 113 and 114 during the variation of the normal symbol in a holding area for each game ball in the RAM of the main controller. It lights in conjunction and notifies the number of times that the normal symbol can be changed continuously.

Below the normal symbol operation memory indicator lamp 117, a normal symbol display device 108 is provided for displaying the normal symbol consisting of a one-digit number from “0” to “9” while varying it. The normal symbol display device 108 is, for example, a 7 segment LED.
Actuating gates 113 and 114 are provided on both the left and right sides of the normal symbol display device 108 so that the game ball can always pass therethrough. When the game ball passes, the operation gates 113 and 114 detect the passage of the game ball by the detection signal of the internal operation gate switch, and give an opportunity to start the variable display of the normal symbol display device 108.

  Below the normal symbol display device 108, when the symbols displayed in the three areas of the production symbol display device 104 become a big hit symbol under normal conditions, the game is opened in a predetermined pattern. A grand prize opening 115 is provided to allow a ball to be awarded. When the special symbol display device 106 has a specific combination of stop symbols (that is, when it becomes a special prize), the special prize opening 115 is opened / closed on the entire surface of the special prize opening 115 in the subsequent special prize state. The member performs opening and closing operations. During the occurrence of the special prize state, the opening / closing member opens almost horizontally and accepts a large number of game balls. When a game ball wins, the big prize opening 115 counts the number of game balls won by a detection signal of a big prize opening switch 132 (not shown) inside the pachinko machine, and pays out the prize ball when winning. The opening of the special winning opening 115 is continued until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses or a predetermined number of gaming balls (for example, ten predetermined winning prize winning numbers, for example) are won. One opening of the big prize opening 115 is called a round. The round continues from 1R → 2R →... And continues until the maximum round.

  Each of the left and right sides of the grand prize winning hole 115 is provided with a left falling prize winning hole 126 and a right falling prize winning hole 127 that allow a game ball to be always awarded. When the number displayed on the normal symbol display device 108 is in a specific state in a state, a normal electric accessory 112 is provided that is open in a predetermined pattern and allows a game ball to be won. When the game ball wins, the ordinary electric accessory 112 detects the game ball winning by the detection signal of the winning port switch inside the pachinko machine, and gives an opportunity to start the variable display of the special symbol display device 106.

An out port 110 for collecting game balls that have not won any of the above winning ports or the like is provided below the ordinary electric accessory 112 and below the game board surface 102.
Hereinafter, a gaming state in which the winning probability of the jackpot lottery becomes a specified value after the end of the jackpot is referred to as a `` low probability state '', and a gaming state in which the winning probability of the jackpot lottery is higher than the low probability state after the jackpot ends is `` It is called “probability fluctuation state”. In addition, the function of shortening the variation time of the special symbol and the production symbol, and the probability that the lottery of the normal symbol that is drawn as the operation gates 113 and 114 pass are higher than the normal lottery probability (for example, 10 times higher). ) And the game state in which two functions (hereinafter referred to as “short-time function”) of extending the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 112 in comparison with the normal opening time (which increases the opening time) are activated. A game state in which the time-shortening function is not activated is called a “time-short operation state”.

Next, the configuration of the game control device 200 in the pachinko machine will be described.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the game control device 200.
As shown in FIG. 2, the game control device 200 is mainly composed of a main control device 210 (main control unit), an effect control device 150 (effect control unit), and a symbol control device 152 (effect design display control unit). Consists of two control units. In order to prevent fraud, etc., each control unit is usually mounted on a separate board and can be directly or indirectly connected to transmit data to each other or in one direction.

The main controller 210 transmits a control command and controls the entire game in accordance with a random number generated internally based on detection of a game ball by winning at the start winning opening 111, and also displays a special symbol display device 106. Control directly.
The effect control device 150 transmits a control command (third control command) for controlling the symbol control device 152 in accordance with a control command (first control command) transmitted from the main control device 210.

The symbol control device 152 controls the effect symbol display device 104 in accordance with a control command (third control command) transmitted from the effect control device 150.
The main controller 210 includes a CPU 220, a ROM 230, a RAM 240, an input port 250 and an output port 255.
The output port 255 includes a special symbol display output port for outputting to the special symbol display device 106, a normal symbol display output port for outputting to the normal symbol display device 108, and a special symbol operation memory indicator lamp 116. Special symbol operation memory indicator light port for performing output, normal symbol operation memory indicator light port for performing output to the normal symbol operation memory indicator light 117, and command output for the effect control device performing output to the effect control device 150 A prize ball payout that outputs to a prize ball payout control device 156 that performs payout control of a prize ball to a prize ball payout device and a port (sends a first control command such as a symbol designation command or a variation pattern command). A command output port, a large winning opening solenoid output port for outputting to the large winning opening solenoid 158 that opens and closes the large winning opening 115, and the game state display device 109. A gaming state display output port for output, consisting of the external information output ports 256 Metropolitan for outputting to an external hall computer. The symbol designating command (first control command) is a control command for designating the stop symbol combination mode (short time, probability variation 1, probability variation 2, probability variation 3, small hit) of the effect symbol, and the variation pattern command ( The first control command) is a control command for designating the screen variation mode and effect time such as reach, disengagement, special award, etc. displayed on the effect symbol display device 104.

Although not shown, the external information output port 256 includes at least a first signal generation unit that is a first signal generation unit and a second signal generation unit that is a second signal generation unit.
The first signal generator generates a signal that is output during the state so that a state such as the jackpot information signal can be identified. The output time varies depending on the state and the like. When the jackpot (probability variation jackpot) that causes the probability variation state to occur without notifying that the probability variation state occurs is determined, the first signal generation unit can identify the jackpot that can be identified as the probability variation jackpot Since no signal is output (a jackpot signal output prohibition setting), the probability variation state can be set to the non-notification state. Specifically, the jackpot signal indicating that the jackpot is being output is output, but the probability changing signal indicating that the probability change occurring after the jackpot is ended is not output (notification prohibition means). Yes.

For example, the second signal generation unit detects a change in a state such as a symbol determination number information signal and generates a signal. Further, since the output time informs the detection, it is output for a preset period (specifically, for every 248 [ms] every detection, and at the same interval so that the output signals do not continue. Output).
The main controller 210 receives detection signals from the start winning port switch 131, the big winning port switch 132, and other various winning port switches 133 via the input port 250 and processes them.

  The main controller 210 is connected to the special symbol display device 106, the special symbol operation memory indicator lamp 116, the normal symbol display device 108, the normal symbol operation memory indicator lamp 117, the big prize opening solenoid 158, and the external information output via the output port 255. And the game state display device 109 are controlled. Here, “control” means, for example, that the main control device 210 sends a control signal related to display driving directly from the output port 255 to the special symbol display device 106 (static output or dynamic output). This is a process of changing a special symbol, and includes, for example, direct transmission of a signal (command) from the CPU 220 without judgment by another CPU, or control without time delay (time lag) due to interruption or the like.

The main control device 210 transmits an effect control command (a first control command such as a symbol designation command or a variation pattern command) to the effect control device 150 to control the effect control device 150 by command transmission.
The ROM 230 stores a program for controlling the pachinko machine executed by the main controller 210. The ROM 230 further stores values of various parameters for controlling the pachinko machine including a symbol designation command for controlling the effect control device 150 and a variation pattern command.

The RAM 240 temporarily stores input / output data for the main control device 210, data for arithmetic processing, various counters including a random number counter related to games, and a holding memory for storing information on each holding ball. .
In the RAM 240, the control command scheduled to be output is stored in a predetermined area. When the power is turned off, the contents of the RAM 240 are restored to the state before the power is turned off, and the control command scheduled to be output from the RAM 240 is output. The game state is restored to the state before the power was turned off.

  The main controller 210 is connected to a power supply circuit 212 for supplying power. When the power supply circuit 212 detects that the voltage of the power supply line supplied to the entire main controller 210 (that is, each IC or the like provided in the main controller 210) is equal to or lower than a predetermined voltage value, A power-off detection signal indicating that the power has been cut off is output to the CPU 220. When power-off is detected, the power supply line supplied to the entire main controller 210 is switched to a power supply line (power supply line connected to the backup power supply) directly connected to the CPU 220 when the power supply is cut off (restore information storage means) . A capacitor provided in the power supply circuit 212 may be used as the backup power supply.

Thereby, since power is supplied to the RAM 240 from the power supply line directly connected to the CPU 220, information can be held. In place of the RAM 240 and the backup power supply, a rewritable nonvolatile storage element such as a flash ROM can be used.
The power supply circuit 212 is for supplying a power supply voltage to the main control device 210, the effect control device 150, the symbol control device 152, and the like. The power supply circuit 212 includes a power switch (non-power switch) for driving the power supply circuit 212. The RAM clear switch (not shown) for clearing the RAM data of the main controller 210, that is, initializing the RAM 240, is connected. In addition, when connected to the main control device 210, the production control device 150, the symbol control device 152, etc., and the power switch is turned on, a predetermined power supply voltage is supplied to each device, indicating the operation state of the RAM clear switch. A RAM clear signal is transmitted from the power supply circuit 212 to the main controller 210.

  When the power of the pachinko machine is turned off, that is, when the power switch is turned off, the power supply voltage for the RAM 240 is supplied from the power supply circuit 212 to the main controller 210 in order to retain the data stored in the RAM 240. Is supplied. The power supply circuit 212 includes a power supply unit that supplies a power supply voltage to the main control device 210, the effect control device 150, the symbol control device 152, and the like, and the main control device 210 is connected to the RAM 240 when the power supply of the power supply unit is cut off. A backup power supply unit for supplying power supply voltage is provided. That is, in the normal time, the effect control device 150 and the symbol control device 152 that are supplied with the power supply voltage do not have a backup power supply, so when the power is turned off, the supply of the power supply voltage is switched to the RAM 240 of the main control device 210. Power supply voltage supply is stopped. For this reason, stored calculation results and read information are lost.

  When the RAM clear switch is turned on when the power is turned on, the operation signal is transmitted from the power circuit 212 to the main controller 210, detected by the CPU 220, and the data stored in the RAM 240 is cleared and initialized. However, the RAM data can be cleared only when the power is turned on. When the power is turned on and the pachinko machine is operating normally, for example, the player operates the launch handle. When a game is being played, the operation of the RAM clear switch is not accepted.

The effect control device 150 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input port, and an output port, like the main control device 210. A control command (first control command such as a symbol designating command) transmitted from the main control device 210 is received, a liquid crystal display control command (third control command) is generated according to the control command, and the symbol control device 152 Send to.
The effect control device 150 further includes a sequencer 160 that has at least two channels and outputs a synthesized sound of each channel from the speaker 155, an audio control unit 162 that performs audio control for outputting audio from the speaker 155 by the sequencer 160, A lamp control unit 164 that performs lamp control to turn on the lamp 153. The voice control unit 162 and the lamp control unit 164 are controlled by command communication using internal commands in the effect control device 150. However, it can also be realized by direct control regardless of command communication.

In this way, the effect control device 150 is useful for reducing the processing load of the main control device 210 by specially performing control related to effects such as liquid crystal display, lamp lighting, and sound effect generation.
The symbol control device 152 receives the liquid crystal display control command (third control command) transmitted from the effect control device 150, and fluctuates / stops the effect symbol of the effect symbol display device 104 according to the liquid crystal display control command, or It has a function of receiving a notice designation command selected and transmitted by the effect control device 150 and displaying the notice.

Next, the mode of the stop symbol of the special symbol and the effect symbol will be described.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an aspect of a special symbol stop symbol.
In the pachinko machine, as shown in FIG. 3, the types of jackpots or jackpots are “short-time jackpot”, “probable one big jackpot (first probability fluctuation state)”, “probability two big jackpots (second probability fluctuation state) ) ”,“ Probability 3 big hits (third probability fluctuation state) ”and“ Small wins ”are defined. Each type is identified by hit type numbers “0” to “4”.

  When the time and bonus is hit, the special symbol display device 106 is controlled to stop the time symbol, and the effect symbol display device 104 is controlled to stop the effect symbol with the time symbol. For example, in the effect symbol display device 104, the time-short symbol is a combination of even numbers such as “222”, “444”, and “666”. Further, the maximum number of times the big winning opening 115 is opened at the time of the big hit, that is, the maximum number of continuations of the round is fifteen times, and the control is performed so that the short-time operation state and the probability state become the low probability state after the big hit.

  When the probable variation 1 big hit is reached, the special symbol display device 106 is controlled to stop the probable variation 1 symbol and the effect symbol display device 104 is controlled to stop the effect symbol with the probable variation 1 symbol. For example, in the effect symbol display device 104, the probability variation 1 symbol is a combination of odd numbers such as “111”, “333”, and “555”. Further, the maximum number of continuations of the round is 15 times, and it is notified that the probability variation state is reached at the time of jackpot, and the control is performed so that the short-time operation state is established after the jackpot and the probability state becomes the probability variation state.

  When the probable variation 2 big hit is reached, the special symbol display device 106 is controlled to stop the probable variation 1 symbol, and the effect symbol display device 104 is controlled to stop the effect symbol with the probable variation 2 symbol. Further, the maximum number of continuations of the round is two times, and it is controlled not to notify that the probability variation state is in the case of jackpot, but to be in the short-time operation state after the jackpot and to be in the probability variation state.

  When the probability variation 3 big hit, the special symbol display device 106 is controlled to stop the probability variation 1 symbol and the effect symbol display device 104 is controlled to stop the effect symbol with the probability variation 3 symbol. In addition, when the maximum number of continuations of the round is 2, the probability variation state is not notified at the time of the big hit, and the short-time non-actuated state at the time of the big hit (at the time when the symbol fluctuation pattern for notifying the occurrence of the big hit is started) Is controlled in such a way that the short-time non-actuated state and the probability state become the probability fluctuation state after the jackpot, and when the jackpot is in the short-time operating state at the time of the big hit (when the symbol variation pattern for notifying the occurrence of the big hit is started) Then, after the big hit, control is performed so that the short-time operation state is continued (short-time continuous control) and the probability state becomes a probability fluctuation state.

  Probability 2 jackpots and Probability 3 jackpots are similar to other jackpot closing times between rounds, but the round period (opening time) is shorter than the regular jackpot. Since the maximum number of continuations of the game is only two, the player can be given a surprise as if the player suddenly shifted to the probability variation state without making a big hit. In addition, it is easy for game shops to make a balance between the probability of winning and operation. In addition, the opening time of the winning prize opening 115 is about several ms, which is extremely shorter than the time-saving hit and the probability variation 1 hit.

  When the small hit is reached, the special symbol display device 106 is controlled to stop the small hit symbol and the effect symbol display device 104 is controlled to stop the effect symbol at the small hit symbol. The probabilistic 3 symbol and the small winning symbol are composed of a combination of one or a plurality of specific symbols in the effect symbol display device 104, and cannot be distinguished from each other. Further, the maximum number of continuations of the round is one, and control is performed so that the operation / non-operation of the short-time function and the probability state do not change after the small hit. In addition, by making the opening time and the number of times of the winning prize opening 115 in the probability variation 2 big hit, probability variation 3 big winning and small winning the same, and also controlling the production to the same content, it is difficult to distinguish the big winning and the small winning It is also possible to create new game effects.

Next, the structure and content of the control command output from main controller 210 to effect controller 150 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of the control command.
As shown in FIG. 4, the control command is an identifier for identifying the classification of the control command, a mode (MODE) that is 1-byte digital data, and 1 byte indicating the content (function) of the control command to be executed. It consists of an event (EVENT) which is long digital data.

FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing the input / output timing of the control command.
As shown in FIG. 5, the main controller 210 outputs mode (MODE) data triggered by the first rise of the strobe signal (DUSTB) generated by itself when the command changes, and then the strobe signal (DUSTB). Event (EVENT) data is output in response to the second rising edge. Correspondingly, in the effect control device 150, the CPU generates an interrupt according to the input of the strobe signal (DUSTB), and the control command is stored in the RAM of the effect control device 150 by the interrupt process.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the contents of the control command output from the main control device 210 to the effect control device 150.
As shown in FIG. 6, the control command includes a symbol designating command for designating any one of an off-stage effect symbol, a time-short symbol, a probability variation 1 symbol, a probability variation 2 symbol, a probability variation 3 symbol, and a small hit symbol. The symbol designation command is output at the start of special symbol variation. Then, as a result of determination based on a random number used in the jackpot lottery (hereinafter referred to as a hit-decision random number) for determining whether or not to generate a jackpot, in the case of a loss, designation of a loss effect design is determined, and in the case of a jackpot, Any one of time-short symbol designation, probability variation 1 symbol designation, probability variation 2 symbol designation, and probability variation 3 symbol designation is determined. The symbol designation does not directly designate the symbol to be displayed, but designates a symbol aspect corresponding to the selected hit type, and instead of the symbol designation command, hits information on the selected hit type. It may be transmitted to the effect control device 150 as a type designation command. Also, in the meaning of double check, if both the symbol designation command and the hit type designation command are transmitted, the symbol information can be surely confirmed.

  The control command further includes a variation pattern command for designating one of n (n = 1 to 104) types of variation patterns. The variation pattern corresponds to the gaming state. For example, the variation pattern 5 corresponds to a gaming state that is lost after displaying the normal reach. When such a gaming state is determined by the main controller 210, a variation pattern command for designating the variation pattern 5 is Is output. The variation pattern command is output when the variation of the special symbol is started together with the symbol designation command.

The control command further includes a symbol stop command for designating the stop of the effect symbol. The symbol stop command is output when the effect symbol is stopped.
The control command further includes a state designation command for designating the RAM clear, the end and start of the probability variation state, and the end and start of the short-time operation state. These state designation commands are output when the power is turned on, at the end and start of the probability variation state, and at the end and start of the short-time operation state, respectively. Of the state designation commands, the probability variation end designation command, the probability variation start designation command, and the short time function start designation command are dedicated to the loop type pachinko machine, and the short time function start Z designation command and the probability variation start Z designation The command is a command dedicated to the pachinko machine of the number cut type. The probability variation start T designation command is output when the probability variation 2 big hits and the probability variation 3 big hits occur in the jackpot type.

  The control command further includes a time reduction state for designating notification of the number of time reductions m1 (m1 = 0 to 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100) in a loop type pachinko machine. Notification m1 designation command (first short-time state notification information) and the number of time reductions m2 (m2 = 1 to 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100) There is a short-time state notification m2 designation command (second short-time state notification information) for specifying the notification. The short time state notification designation command is output at the end of the big hit or at the end of the big hit. That is, it is for designating the number of times information at the end of jackpot or the like, and is output only once.

Next, the data structure of the ROM 230 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of the variation pattern determination table 440.
As shown in FIG. 7, the ROM 230 stores a variation pattern determination table 440 used to determine a variation pattern.
The variation pattern determination table 440 is provided in accordance with the lottery results of the big hit, the small hit, and the out of lottery. For the variation pattern determination table 440 corresponding to the big hit and the small win, the current gaming state (short-time operating state or short-time non-operating state), the big hit or the small hit type, the number of winning game balls (the number of reserved game balls) A plurality of "0" to "3" and a random number used for reach lottery (hereinafter referred to as reach determination random number) are provided. A plurality of variation pattern determination tables 440 corresponding to the loss are provided corresponding to the current gaming state, the number of winning game balls and the reach determination random number.

  For example, 211 records are registered in the variation pattern determination table 440. Each record includes a field for registering a variation pattern number indicating a variation pattern. A random number that can take any value in the numerical value range of “0” to “210” (hereinafter referred to as a variation pattern determination random number) is acquired, and the variation pattern number is read from the record of the rank of the acquired random value and read. The variation pattern specified by the variation pattern number is determined. For example, when the random value is “30”, the fluctuation pattern number is acquired from the 30th record. In the example of FIG. 7, since “18” is read from the variation pattern determination table 440, the variation pattern 18 is determined.

Next, game control processing executed by the main controller 210 will be described.
The CPU 220 is composed of a microprocessing unit or the like, operates based on a game control program that can execute one cycle with a predetermined operation clock (for example, 4 [ms]), and is stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 230. Is started, and the game control process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 is executed.

First, the game control process will be described.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the game control process.
When the game control process is executed by the CPU 220, the process first proceeds to step S100 as shown in FIG.
In step S100, an initialization process of the CPU 220 is executed, the process proceeds to step S102, and an interrupt permission instruction for executing the interrupt process of FIG. Accordingly, the interrupt process of FIG. 9 is executed in parallel with the game control process at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 [ms]).

Next, the process proceeds to step S104, and random number update processing for updating production control random numbers (for example, reach determination random number, variation pattern determination random number, random number for determining the type of symbol to be displayed, notice effect random number) related to the production And the process proceeds to step S106.
In step S106, it is determined whether or not the interrupt process of FIG. 9 has been executed a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) since the game control process was executed, and when it is determined that the interrupt process has been executed a predetermined number of times (Yes ) Shifts to step S108, executes jackpot determination processing for determining a jackpot determination and determining a symbol variation pattern, and shifts to step S110.

The process proceeds to step S110, and an electric accessory control process for opening the special winning opening 115 in a predetermined pattern is executed, and the process proceeds to step S112 to control the prize ball payout control device 156 to perform a payout operation. A prize-ball payout management process for storing the command in a predetermined area of the RAM 240 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S114.
In step S114, an external information output process for outputting an external information signal related to game control to the hall computer via the external information output port 256 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S116, a gaming machine inspection signal output process for outputting a gaming machine inspection signal necessary for the inspection of the pachinko machine is executed. In step S116, a gaming machine inspection signal is output, but when installed in a gaming store, the pachinko machine does not include a control unit that receives the gaming machine inspection signal. This is because it is a signal required at the time of inspection in an inspection organization. In some cases, the process of step S116 can be omitted.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S118, and a port output process for outputting the control command stored in the RAM 240 to the effect control device 150 via the effect control device command output port is executed. First, a strobe signal is output to the effect control device 150, and a control command including a mode and an event is output. As a result, a control command (first control command) is output to the effect control device 150. Further, the control information from the main control device 210 is also output as it is to the special symbol display device 106, the special prize opening solenoid 158, the game state display device 109, and the like.

Next, the process proceeds to step S120, where it is determined whether or not a power-off detection signal is input from the power supply circuit 212. When it is determined that the power-off detection signal is input (Yes), the process proceeds to step S122.
In step S122, return information necessary for restoring the contents of the RAM 240 is generated, the generated return information is stored in the RAM 240, and backup processing for switching the CPU 220 to the power saving mode is executed. The backup process includes a process for setting a backup flag and a process for performing a checksum.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S120 that the power-off detection signal is not input (No), and in step S106, it is determined that the interrupt process has not been executed a predetermined number of times after the game control process has been executed (No). In any case, the process proceeds to step S104.
Next, interrupt processing will be described.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the interrupt process.

When the interrupt process is executed by the CPU 220, as shown in FIG. 9, first, the process proceeds to step S150.
In step S150, a random number update process for updating a random number for controlling a ball that is directly related to the determination of the ball or the like (for example, a hit determination random number, a big hit type determination random number, or a stop symbol determination random number) is executed. Further, the effect control random number updated in step S104 is also updated.

Next, the process proceeds to step S152, where a winning switch input process for inputting a detection signal from the start winning opening switch 131 and checking a winning is executed, and a series of processes are terminated and the original process is restored.
Next, the random number update process in step S150 will be described.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the random number update process.

When the random number update process is executed in the CPU 220, as shown in FIG. 10, first, the process proceeds to step S172.
In step S172, the winning random number is updated, and the process proceeds to step S174, where it is determined whether or not the winning random number has reached a predetermined upper limit value (eg, 398), and it is determined that the predetermined upper limit value has been reached. If yes (Yes), the process proceeds to step S176, the initial value update random number for the hit determination random number for updating the initial value of the hit determination random number is set as the hit determination random number, the series of processing is terminated, and the original Return to processing.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S174 that the winning random number does not reach the predetermined upper limit value (No), the series of processes is terminated and the original process is restored.
Thus, since the initial value changes every time the winning random number makes a round, the winning random number cannot be easily predicted.
Although illustration is omitted, the process of updating the jackpot type determination random number, the stop symbol determination random number and other random numbers for controlling the play is similarly performed in this random number update process.

Next, the winning switch input process in step S152 will be described.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a winning switch input process.
When the winning switch input process is executed in step S152, the process first proceeds to step S200 as shown in FIG.
In step S200, an input port reading process for reading the detection signal from the start winning port switch 131 from a predetermined port of the input port 250 corresponding to the start winning port switch 131 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S202. Based on the processing result, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the start winning a prize opening switch 131. When it is determined that the detection signal is input (Yes), the process proceeds to step S204.

In step S204, it is determined whether or not the number of winning game balls to the start winning opening 111 is “4” or more. When it is determined that the number of winning game balls is less than “4” (No), step S206 is performed. Then, “1” is added to the number of winning game balls, and the process proceeds to step S208.
In step S208, the winning determination random number, the jackpot type determining random number and the stop symbol determining random number are acquired from the corresponding random number counter, and the process proceeds to step S210, and the acquired random number values are stored in the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls. Each is stored in the area, a series of processing is terminated, and the original processing is restored. In step S210, for example, when the number of winning game balls is “1”, each acquired random number value is stored in the first area of the RAM 240 for storing random number values. Similarly, when the number of winning game balls is “2”, each acquired random number value is stored in the second area for storing random number values.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S204 that the number of winning game balls is “4” or more (Yes), or when it is determined in step S202 that a detection signal is not input from the start winning port switch 131 (No). Also, the series of processing is terminated and the original processing is restored.
Next, the jackpot determination process in step S108 will be described. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted about the determination process of the normal symbol display apparatus 108. FIG.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the jackpot determination process.
The jackpot determination process sets a single jackpot value in a predetermined numerical range (for example, “0” to “398”) in order to cause a special prize state with a predetermined probability (for example, 1/399), and starts a winning prize. A process for obtaining a winning random number from a random number counter at a winning timing when a game ball wins in the mouth 111 and causing a special prize state when the acquired random number value matches the jackpot value, and is executed in step S108. Then, as shown in FIG. 12, first, the process proceeds to step S300.

In step S300, the effect symbol display device 104 determines whether or not the effect symbol is fluctuating. When it is determined that the effect symbol is not fluctuating (No), the process proceeds to step S302, where the number of winning game balls is “ It is determined whether or not it is 1 ”or more, and when it is determined that the number of winning game balls is“ 1 ”or more (Yes), the process proceeds to step S306.
In step S306, a winning random number is read from a predetermined area of the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls, and the process proceeds to step S308 to determine whether or not the read random number value matches the jackpot value. When it is determined that it has been made (Yes), the process proceeds to step S310.

  In step S310, a jackpot type determination process for determining a jackpot type is executed. In the jackpot type determination process, a jackpot type determination table in which a plurality of hit type numbers are registered is set, the jackpot type determination random number is read from a predetermined area of the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls, and the order of the read random number values The jackpot type is determined by reading the hit type number from the hit type determination table. As a result, the types of time bonus, probability variation 1 jackpot, probability variation 2 jackpot, and probability variation 3 jackpot are determined.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S312, and a hit stop symbol determination process for determining a combination pattern of a special symbol and an effect symbol to be stopped at the big hit or the small hit is executed. In the hit stop symbol determination process, for example, a stop symbol determination table in which a plurality of stop symbol numbers indicating combinations of stop symbols of effect symbols is registered is set in the ROM 230 for each hit type number, and determined in steps S310 and S328. Alternatively, the stop symbol determination table corresponding to the set hit type number is read. Then, the stop symbol determination random number is read from a predetermined area of the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls, the stop symbol number of the order of the read random number is read from the stop symbol determination table, and the symbol designation command is based on the read stop symbol number (First control command) is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. Thereby, in the port output process of step S118, the symbol designation command is transmitted to the effect control device 150 via the output port 255.

  The combination of the stop symbols of the special symbol is determined by the same process as that for the production symbol based on a special symbol determination table in which a plurality of numerical values on the left side of the specific symbol and a numerical value on the right side of the special symbol are associated with each other. However, the special symbol is determined prior to determining the effect symbol. That is, after determining the special symbol, the effect symbol is determined corresponding to this. Therefore, the combination of stop symbols is determined based on the same stop symbol determination random number value. For special symbols, command information for designating a combination of stop symbols of special symbols is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. Thereby, in the port output process of step S118, the command information is directly transmitted to the special symbol display device 106 via the output port 255.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S314, and a hit hour variation pattern determination process for determining a variation pattern of the effect symbol to be displayed in a variable manner at the time of big hit or small hit is executed. In the hit variation pattern determination process, the reach determination random number is acquired from the random number counter, and corresponds to the current gaming state, the hit type number determined or set in steps S310 and S328, the number of winning game balls, and the acquired reach determination random number The variation pattern determination table 440 to be read is read out. Then, the variation pattern determination random number is acquired from the random number counter, the variation pattern number of the order of the acquired random number value is read from the variation pattern determination table 440, and the variation pattern command corresponding to the read variation pattern number is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. To do. Thereby, in the port output process of step S118, the variation pattern command (first control command) is transmitted to the effect control device 150 via the output port 255.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S316, and in the case of a big win or a small win, the number of times and the opening time of the big winning opening 115 are set. Specifically, referring to FIG. 3, when the win type number is “0” or “1”, the maximum round continuation number is set to the number of opening times, and the opening time of the grand prize opening 115 is set to about 30 seconds. Set. When the win type numbers are “2” to “4”, the maximum round continuation count is set to the number of open times, and the open time of the special winning opening 115 is set to about 0.5 seconds. In addition, regardless of the big hit, the small hit, and the loss, the variation time of the production symbol is set. The variation time of the effect symbol is determined based on the variation pattern number determined in steps S314 and S326.

Next, the process proceeds to step S318, and a symbol variation start process is executed in which a control command for starting variation of the effect symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240 in the effect symbol display device 104, and the process proceeds to step S320 to receive a prize. “1” is subtracted from the number of game balls, a series of processing is terminated, and the original processing is restored.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S308 that the read random number value does not match the jackpot value (No), the process proceeds to step S322, and the random value read in step S306 matches the preset jackpot value. If it is determined whether or not they match (No), the process proceeds to step S324. In steps S308 and S322, determination of big hit and determination of small hit are performed with one random number. For example, when the value of the winning random number is “7”, it is determined as a big hit, and when it is “11”, it is determined as a small hit. As a result, the data capacity can be reduced and the random number update process can be simplified as compared with the case where separate random numbers are provided.

  In step S324, a stoppage stop time symbol determination process for determining a combination of effect symbols to be stopped at the time of disconnection is executed. The off-time stop symbol determination process is configured in the same manner as in step S312. By this determination, it is not a command for designating only a result indicating that the winning lottery result is out of place, rather than designating a specific combination of outlier production symbols displayed on the production symbol display device 104. An effect symbol designation command is output to the symbol control device 152 via the effect control device 150. When the offending effect design designation command is input, the symbol control device 152 determines a combination of effect symbols to be out of play, and displays the contents on the effect symbol display device 104.

Next, the process proceeds to step S326, and a variation pattern determination process at the time of detachment is performed to determine a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed at the time of the separation. The deviation variation pattern determination process is configured in the same manner as in step S314. However, the variation pattern determination table 440 reads the one corresponding to the current game state, the number of winning game balls and the reach determination random number.
When the process of step S326 ends, the process proceeds to step S316.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S322 that the read random number value matches the small hit value (Yes), the process proceeds to step S328, and the hit type number is set to “4” indicating the small hit value. The process proceeds to step S312. That is, at the time of determining the small hit, the hit type number “4”, which is a fixed value set in advance, is set without reading the big hit type determining random number stored in the predetermined area of the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls. .

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S302 that the number of winning game balls is “0” (No) and in step S300, when it is determined that the effect symbol is changing in the effect symbol display device 104 (Yes). In either case, the process proceeds to step S330.
In step S330, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the change of the effect symbol. When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes), the process proceeds to step S332 and a symbol stop command is issued. The symbol stop process stored in the predetermined area of the RAM 240 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S334.

The processes of steps S334 and S336 are executed only in the pachinko machine of the number cut type.
In step S334, it is determined whether or not the probability variation state has ended because the number of changes in the production symbol has reached a predetermined upper limit value. When it is determined that the probability variation state has ended (Yes), the process proceeds to step S336. Transition. It should be noted that the upper limit value that is the number of changes in the production symbol that the probability variation state continues is determined by, for example, a preset number of variations corresponding to the special symbol, or a falling lottery that shifts from the high probability state to the low probability state. It can also be determined by lottery such as performing.

In step S336, state notification processing for notifying the effect control device 150 that the state has changed is executed. In the status notification process, the time saving function start Z designation command is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. As a result, in the port output process of step S118, a time-shortening function start Z designation command is transmitted to the effect control device 150 via the output port 255.
When the process of step S336 ends, the series of processes ends and the original process is restored.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S334 that the probability variation state does not end (No), the series of processing ends and the original processing is restored.
Next, the electric accessory control process in step S110 will be described.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the electric accessory control process.
When the electric accessory control process is executed in step S110, the process first proceeds to step S400 as shown in FIG.

  In step S400, it is determined whether or not the jackpot or the jackpot is being determined (specifically, the gaming state identification information set by the jackpot or the jackpot determination (here, the jackpot determination information: cleared when the jackpot status ends) If it is determined that the game is a big win or a small win (Yes), the process proceeds to step S406 to determine whether or not the game is in a round (specifically, it is set in the RAM 240 and changes depending on the game situation). Game state identification information to be played (in this case, the information during round opening) is determined), and when it is determined that the game is in a round (Yes), the process proceeds to step S408 to control the opening / closing of the big prize opening 115. The mouth opening / closing control process is executed, a series of processes are terminated, and the original process is restored.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S406 that it is not in the round (No), the process proceeds to step S410, and it is determined whether or not one round is completed (specifically, it is set in the RAM 240 and changes depending on the game situation). When the game state identification information (in this case, the information during round closure) is determined) and it is determined that one round is completed (Yes), the process proceeds to step S412. In step S410, for example, it is determined whether or not a condition that either a predetermined number of game balls have won in the big prize opening 115 or a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has passed since the start of the round is satisfied. When it is determined that any of the conditions is satisfied, it is determined that one round has been completed.

In step S412, the number of rounds is added, and the process proceeds to step S414, where it is determined whether the number of rounds exceeds a predetermined value (for example, 15 times), and when it is determined that the number of rounds exceeds a predetermined value (Yes ) Proceeds to step S416.
In step S416, a hit effect end process for notifying the effect control device 150 of the end of the big hit or the small hit based on the hit type number determined or set in steps S310 and S328 is executed. In the winning effect end process, an effect end command corresponding to the winning type number is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. In the case of a loop-type pachinko machine, when a probability variation state and a short-time operation state occur after the end of the jackpot, a short-time state notification m1 designation command (m1 = 0: non-times designation) and a probability variation start designation command are stored in the RAM 240. When the low probability state and the short-time operation state occur after the big hit, the short-time number m1 (m1 ≠ 0) is determined by lottery or the like, and the short-time state notification m1 corresponding to the short-time number m1 is designated. The command and the short time function start designation command are stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. In the case of the pachinko machine of the number cut type, the number of time reductions m2 is determined by lottery, setting values, etc., and the time reduction state notification m2 designation command and the probability variation start Z designation command corresponding to the time reduction number m2 are stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. To do. Thereby, in the port output process of step S118, in the case of a loop type pachinko machine, the production end command, the short time state notification m1 designation command, and the probability variation start designation command or the short time function start designation command are changed to the number cut type pachinko machine. In this case, an effect end command, a short time state notification m2 designation command, and a probability variation start Z designation command are transmitted to the effect control device 150 via the output port 255.

When the process of step S416 ends, the series of processes ends and the original process is restored.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S414 that the number of rounds does not exceed the predetermined value (No), when it is determined in step S410 that one round is not completed (No), and in step S400, a big hit or small When it is determined that it is not a hit (No), the series of processing is terminated and the original processing is restored. Here, the game state identification information that changes depending on the game situation clears the information that has been set by the change of the game situation.

Next, processing executed by the effect control device 150 will be described.
The CPU of the effect control device 150 activates a control program stored in a predetermined area of the ROM, and executes the effect control process shown in the flowchart of FIG.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the effect control process.
When the effect control process is executed by the CPU of the effect control device 150, first, the process proceeds to step S500 as shown in FIG.

In step S500, a short time state notification designation command is received. In step S502, based on the received short time state notification designation command, the short time number m1 or m2 designated by the command is set in the short time number counter, and the process proceeds to step S504. To do.
In step S504, it is determined whether or not the received short-time state notification designation command is a short-time state notification m2 designation command. If it is determined that it is a short-time state notification m2 designation command (Yes), the process proceeds to step S506. Then, the remaining number non-display flag indicating whether or not to display the remaining number is set, and the process proceeds to step S508.

  In step S508, it is determined whether or not a state designation command has been received. If it is determined that a state designation command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S510, where the received state designation command is a predetermined number of fluctuations. It is determined whether or not the command is a probability variation start Z designation command for designating that a probability variation state is to be entered. When it is determined that the command is not a probability variation start Z designation command (No), the process proceeds to step S512, and the remaining The number non-display flag is reset, and the process proceeds to step S514.

  In step S514, it is determined whether or not a variation pattern command and a symbol designation command have been received. If it is determined that a variation pattern command and a symbol designation command have been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S516, where When the value of the time reduction counter is determined not to be “0” (No), the process proceeds to step S518.

  In step S518, the value of the time reduction counter is set to a predetermined time reduction notification number (for example, 1 to 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100), and when it is determined that the predetermined number of short-time notifications is reached (Yes), the process proceeds to step S520 to determine whether the remaining number non-display flag is set. If it is determined that the remaining number non-display flag is not set (No), the process proceeds to step S522.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the contents of the control command output from the effect control device 150 to the symbol control device 152.
In step S522, as shown in FIG. 15, a remaining number designation command corresponding to the value of the time reduction number counter is transmitted to the symbol control device 152. For example, when the value of the time reduction counter is “10”, the remaining number designation command (930AH) is transmitted. In the symbol control device 152, the remaining number is determined based on the received remaining number designation command, and the determined remaining number is displayed on the effect symbol display device 104.

Next, the process proceeds to step S524, where the value of the time reduction counter is decremented by “1”, the process proceeds to step S526, a process of receiving a symbol stop command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S508.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S520 that the remaining number non-display flag is set (Yes) and in step S518, it is determined that the value of the time reduction counter is not the predetermined time reduction notification number (No). Also, the process proceeds to step S524.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S516 that the value of the time reduction counter is “0” (Yes), the series of processes is terminated and the process returns to the original process.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S514 that the variation pattern command and the symbol designation command are not received (No), the process proceeds to step S508.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S508 that the state designation command is not received (No), the process proceeds to step S514.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S504 that the short time state notification designation command is not the short time state notification m2 designation command (No), the process proceeds to step S508.
Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.
First, when the power is turned on to the pachinko machine, the main control device 210 executes a game control process and enters a game-ready state. A player can play a game by loading the rented game ball into a pachinko machine and operating the launch handle to launch the game ball onto the game board surface 102.

  In a game-ready state, when a game ball launched on the game board surface 102 wins the start winning opening 111, a detection signal is output by the starting winning opening switch 131. In main controller 210, when a detection signal is input from start winning port switch 131, a winning random number is acquired at almost the same timing. At this time, if it is determined that the acquired random number value matches the jackpot value, it is a jackpot.

  When the jackpot is reached, through steps S310 to S314, the jackpot type, the combination of the special symbol and the stop symbol of the effect symbol, and the variation pattern at the jackpot are determined. Then, the effect symbols are variably displayed in a predetermined variation pattern, and after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, the determined combination is stopped. After the production symbol is stopped, any one of a time bonus, a probability variation 1 big hit, a probability variation 2 big hit, and a probability variation 3 big hit occurs.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the acquired random number value does not match the jackpot value but matches the jackpot value, it is a jackpot.
When a small hit is made, a combination of a special symbol and a stop symbol of the effect symbol and a variation pattern at the time of the small hit are determined through steps S328, S312, and S314. Then, the effect symbols are variably displayed in a predetermined variation pattern, and after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, the determined combination is stopped. After the production symbol stops, a small hit occurs.

During the big hit or the small hit, the big winning opening 115 is controlled to be opened with a predetermined opening / closing pattern, and when a game ball wins the big winning opening 115, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out per winning.
Next, the operation of the loop type pachinko machine will be described.
First, the case where the probability variation state and the short-time operation state occur after the end of the big hit or the small hit will be described.

FIG. 16 is a time chart showing an operation in the case where the probability variation state and the short-time operation state occur after the end of the big hit or the small hit in the loop type pachinko machine.
In the main control device 210, when the big hit or the small win ends, as shown in FIG. 16, a time-short state notification 0 designation command and a probability variation start designation command are transmitted to the effect control device 150 through step S416.

When the production control device 150 receives the time reduction state notification 0 designation command, the time reduction number counter is set through step S502. At this time, the time reduction count m1 is “0”, that is, since the number of times is not specified, the value of the time reduction count counter is also “0”. Therefore, since the probability fluctuation state is present even during the short-time operation state, the remaining number is not displayed.
Next, a case where the low probability state and the short-time operation state occur after the end of the big hit or the small hit will be described.

FIG. 17 is a time chart showing an operation when a low-probability state and a short-time operation state occur after the end of the big hit or the small hit in the loop type pachinko machine.
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a state change of the remaining number non-display flag in response to the state designation command.
In the main controller 210, when the big hit or the small hit ends, as shown in FIG. 17, the time reduction number m1 (m1 ≠ 0) is determined through step S416, and the time reduction state notification m1 designation command corresponding to the time reduction number m1. Then, a time-shortening function start designation command is transmitted to the effect control device 150.

  When the production control device 150 receives the time reduction state notification m1 designation command, the time reduction number m1 is set in the time reduction number counter through step S502. When the time-shortening function start designation command is received, the remaining number non-display flag is reset through step S512 as shown in FIG. The remaining number non-display flag is also reset when a RAM clear designation command, a probability variation end designation command, a probability variation start designation command, a short time function end designation command, and a probability variation start T designation command are received.

Then, when the effect symbol repeatedly fluctuates and the value of the time reduction counter reaches the predetermined time reduction notification number, the remaining number non-display flag is reset, so that the remaining number designation command is sent to the symbol control device 152 through step S522. Sent.
In the symbol control device 152, the remaining number of times is displayed on the effect symbol display device 104 based on the received remaining number designation command.

In the loop type pachinko machine, the remaining number non-display flag is not set in step S506, so the remaining number continues from the end of the big hit or the small hit until the low probability state and the short-time operation state end. Displayed.
Next, the operation of the number cut type pachinko machine will be described.
FIG. 19 is a time chart showing an operation when the probability variation state and the short-time operation state occur after the end of the big hit or the small hit in the pachinko machine of the number cut type.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a state change of the remaining number non-display flag in response to the short time state notification designation command.
In the main control device 210, when the big hit or the small win ends, as shown in FIG. 19, the time reduction number m2 is determined through step S416, and the time reduction state notification m2 designation command and probability variation start Z corresponding to the time reduction number m2 are determined. A designation command is transmitted to the effect control device 150.

  When the production control device 150 receives the time reduction state notification m2 designation command, the time reduction number m2 is set in the time reduction number counter through steps S502 and S504, and the remaining number non-display flag is set as shown in FIG. . Therefore, the remaining number of times is not displayed. As shown in FIG. 18, the remaining number non-display flag is not reset even when the probability variation start Z designation command is received.

In main controller 210, when the probability variation state ends because the number of changes in the effect symbol has reached a predetermined upper limit value, a short time function start Z designation command is transmitted to effect control device 150 through step S336.
When the effect control device 150 receives the time reduction function start Z designation command, the remaining number non-display flag is reset through step S512 as shown in FIG.

Then, when the effect symbol repeatedly fluctuates and the value of the time reduction counter reaches the predetermined time reduction notification number, the remaining number non-display flag is reset, so that the remaining number designation command is sent to the symbol control device 152 through step S522. Sent.
In the symbol control device 152, the remaining number of times is displayed on the effect symbol display device 104 based on the received remaining number designation command.

In the pachinko machine of the number cut type, the remaining number non-display flag remains set until the probability variation state ends, so the remaining number of times until the probability variation state ends after the end of the big hit or small hit Is not displayed, and the remaining number of times is continuously displayed from the end of the probability variation state to the end of the short-time operation state.
In this way, in the present embodiment, when the production control device 150 receives the time reduction state notification m2 designation command, the remaining number non-display flag is set, and the time reduction function start designation command or the time reduction function start Z designation command is set. Is received, the remaining number non-display flag is reset, and when the remaining number non-display flag is not set, the remaining number non-display flag is set during the short-time operation state based on the time-short state notification m1 designation command or the time-short state notification m2 designation command. Display the number of times.

Thereby, since it is possible to use the production control device 150 in common without changing the program or the like in any of the loop type pachinko machine and the number cut type pachinko machine, Software development man-hours can be reduced.
In the above embodiment, the effect symbol display device 104 corresponds to the symbol display means described in claim 1, steps S306 and S308 correspond to the lottery means described in claim 1, and step S318 corresponds to claim 1. corresponding to the symbol variation means, step S504, S506 corresponds to the first flag setting means of claim 1 symbol placement. Further, step S508, S512 corresponds to the second flag setting means of claim 1 Symbol placement, step S502, S520, S522 corresponds to the remaining time reduction information display means according to claim 1 Symbol placement, remaining number hidden The flag corresponds to the display setting flag described in claim 1.

  In the above embodiment, the time-short state notification m1 designation command corresponds to the first time-shortening control command according to claim 1, and the time-shortening state notification m2 designation command corresponds to the second time-shortening control command according to claim 1. The time saving function start designation command corresponds to the first state control command described in claim 1. The short-time function start Z designation command corresponds to the second state control command according to claim 1, the remaining number corresponds to the remaining short-time information according to claim 1, and the probability variation state corresponds to claim 1. Corresponding to the high probability state, the control mode of the loop type pachinko machine corresponds to the first mode of claim 1.

Moreover, in the said embodiment, the control mode of the count cut type pachinko machine respond | corresponds to the 2nd mode of Claim 1. FIG.
In the above embodiment, the remaining number non-display flag is set / reset based on the control command. When the remaining number non-display flag is not set, the remaining number is displayed. The remaining number display flag is provided in place of the remaining number non-display flag, and the remaining number display flag is reset / set based on the control command. When the remaining number display flag is not reset, the remaining number is displayed. It can also be configured to. In this case, it is reset in step S506 and set in step S512.

Moreover, in the said embodiment, although it provided with the small hit as a special prize state, it is not restricted to this, You may not provide a small hit.
In the above embodiment, the low probability state and the short time non-actuated state are not generated after the big hit or the small hit, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the low probability state after the big hit or the small hit is ended. It can also be configured to cause a short time non-actuated state.

In the above embodiment, the production control device 150 is configured not to update the count value of the remaining number depending on the symbol stop command. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the variation pattern command or the symbol stop command is received. The count value of the remaining number can be updated regardless of the content of the remaining number non-display flag.
Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the production | presentation control apparatus 150 and the symbol control apparatus 152 were mounted and comprised on a separate board | substrate, not only this but these can also be mounted and comprised on the same board | substrate.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the game control program stored in advance in the ROM 230 is executed in the execution of the game control process shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 8 to 13 has been described. Instead, the program may be read from the storage medium storing the program showing these procedures into the RAM 240 and executed. The same applies to the effect control process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  Here, the storage medium is a semiconductor storage medium such as RAM or ROM, a magnetic storage type storage medium such as FD or HD, an optical reading type storage medium such as CD, CDV, LD, or DVD, or a magnetic storage type such as MO. / Optical reading type storage media, including any storage media that can be read by a computer regardless of electronic, magnetic, optical, or other reading methods.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to a gaming machine that is a pachinko machine has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other gaming machines such as an amusement game machine or the like without departing from the gist of the present invention. It is also applicable to.

It is the figure which showed typically the front part of the game board surface 102 in a pachinko machine, especially the part required for description. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a game control device 200. FIG. It is a figure which shows the aspect of the stop symbol of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows the data structure of a control command. It is a timing chart which shows the input / output timing of a control command. It is a diagram showing the contents of a control command output from the main control device 210 to the effect control device 150. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the fluctuation pattern determination table 440. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a game control process. It is a flowchart which shows an interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a random number update process. It is a flowchart which shows a winning switch input process. It is a flowchart which shows a jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an electric accessory control process. It is a flowchart which shows production control processing. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the contents of a control command output from the effect control device 150 to the symbol control device 152. It is a time chart which shows operation | movement in a loop type pachinko machine when a probability fluctuation state and a short-time operation state occur after the end of big hit or small hit. It is a time chart which shows operation | movement in a loop type pachinko machine when a low probability state and a short-time operation state occur after the end of a big hit or a small hit. It is a figure which shows the state change of the remaining number non-display flag with respect to a state designation | designated command. It is a time chart which shows operation | movement when a probability fluctuation state and a short-time operation state occur after the end of a big hit or a small hit in a pachinko machine of the number cut type. It is a figure which shows the state change of the remaining number non-display flag with respect to a time-short state notification designation | designated command.

Explanation of symbols

104 effect symbol display device 106 special symbol display device 108 normal symbol display device 109 gaming state display device 112 normal electric accessory 113, 114 actuating gate 111 start winning port 115 large winning port 131 start winning port switch 150 effect control device 152 symbol control Device 153 Lamp 155 Speaker 200 Game control device 210 Main control device 212 Power supply circuit 220 CPU
230 ROM
240 RAM
250 Input port 255 Output port 440 Fluctuation pattern determination table

Claims (3)

A lottery means for performing a lottery to determine whether or not a special prize state is to be generated in response to a winning at a start winning opening, and a symbol changing means for variably displaying a symbol by a symbol display means, wherein the lottery means generates the special prize state. When it is determined that the symbol is to be stopped in a predetermined manner, the special prize state is generated, and after the special prize state is finished, the winning probability of the lottery by the lottery means is a predetermined low probability state and the low probability. A gaming machine that causes a short operation state to activate any one of a high probability state higher than the state, and a time short function that activates a time variation function of a symbol variation time shorter than a predetermined time,
An effect control device for effect control of a game, and when the low probability state and the short time operation state occur after completion of the special prize state, the first short time control including the number of variations of the symbol that the short time operation state continues A first mode in which a command and a first state control command indicating the start of the state are transmitted to the effect control device; and when the high probability state and the short-time operation state occur after completion of the special prize state, A second short time control command including the number of symbol fluctuations in which the operating state continues is transmitted to the effect control device, and the high probability state is terminated on condition that the symbol fluctuation number has reached a predetermined upper limit value. When the short-time operation state continues after the end of the high probability state, the second mode control command for transmitting the second state control command indicating the start of the state to the effect control device Comprising one main controller for controlling the game state or displacement, a,
When the production control device receives the second time reduction control command, the production control device receives first flag setting means for setting a display setting flag to the first state, and the first state control command or the second state control command. A second flag setting means for setting the display setting flag to the second state; and when the display setting flag is not in the first state, based on the first short time control command or the second short time control command. When the display setting flag is in the first state, the remaining time information is displayed on the symbol display means on the symbol display means during the time-short operation state. gaming machine and having an a remaining time reduction information display means that is not displayed on the display means. In claim 1,
When the production control device receives the variation pattern command or the symbol stop command from the main control device, the count value update means updates the count value that is the basis of the remaining time short information regardless of the content of the display setting flag. A gaming machine characterized by comprising: Oite to claim 1,
A gaming machine , wherein a display setting flag is returned to an initial state when a command for initializing a storage state of a storage device in the main control unit is received .

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