JP5143418B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention includes a variable display device that can perform a predetermined game using a game ball, variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them, and derives and displays a display result. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when specific display results based on a plurality of types of identification information are derived and displayed.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, which is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result in the variable display device. Some are configured to be controllable to a specific gaming state.

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

  In such a gaming machine, when a condition for starting variable display of symbols as identification information is satisfied, variable display of identification information for a predetermined time (referred to as variable time or variable display time) is performed in the variable display device.

  In the variable display device, the symbol other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) continues for a predetermined time and matches the specific display result before the variable time elapses. Before the final result is displayed, such as when it is stopped, swinging, enlarged or reduced or deformed, or when multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched. An effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  When the variable time has elapsed, the fact that the display result of the variable display device that displays the symbol becomes a combination of specific display modes (specific display result) that is determined in advance is called “big hit”. When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is ended. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round.

  In general, a plurality of variation times are determined, and one of the variation times is selected when variable display of a symbol is started.

  Multiple variation patterns for one variation time (variation mode (variable display mode): variation direction and speed of symbol during variable display, pause time of symbol during variable display, symbol size during variable display, variable There is a gaming machine that realizes a combination of a background symbol being displayed and a character type to be displayed (for example, see Patent Document 1). In addition, there is a gaming machine that realizes a plurality of types of variation patterns for one variation time by varying the re-variation period for one variation time (see, for example, Patent Document 2). Further, a gaming machine that substantially realizes a plurality of types of variation patterns for one variation time by varying the type of announcement effect (an effect that reminds the player of the occurrence of a big hit) for one variation time (For example, refer to Patent Document 3).

JP 2000-334116 A (paragraphs 0087, 0088, FIG. 22) JP 2001-112955 A (paragraphs 0076-0081, FIGS. 13 to 16) JP 2002-126217 A (paragraphs 0025 and 0026, FIG. 5)

  However, in the gaming machines described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, whether or not the game control means for controlling the progress of the game executes a reach effect on the display control means for controlling the display of the variable display device. A change pattern command including information (command for specifying change time) is transmitted. The display control means performs control to execute the reach effect according to the received variation pattern command. Some variation patterns have the same variation time as the variation pattern with the reach effect but do not have the reach effect. However, when the display control unit receives a command for specifying the variation pattern with the reach effect, the reach effect is always performed. Execute.

  In such a gaming machine, the types of variation pattern commands increase when control is performed so that reach may be performed or not performed for each of a large number of variation times. As a result, the burden on the game control means for determining which variation pattern command to select is increased. For example, when the game control means is realized by a game control microcomputer, the capacity of the game control program increases.

  Further, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 3, it is possible to execute a plurality of types of notice effects for one variable time, but it is fixed which one of a plurality of types of notice effects is selected. is there. That is, any notice effect is executed based on a predetermined selection ratio. Therefore, it is not possible to perform control such that a specific notice effect is easily generated according to the game progress status at that time.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the interest of the game by flexibly changing the degree of occurrence of the reach effect and the notice effect without increasing the burden of the game control means.

The gaming machine according to the present invention can play a predetermined game using a game ball, and variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can identify each of them, and display the display result. A variable display device (for example, a special symbol display device 8 or a variable display device 9) that is derived and displayed, and when a specific display result (for example, a jackpot symbol) based on a plurality of types of identification information is derived and displayed on the variable display device A game machine that shifts to a specific game state (for example, a big hit game state) that is advantageous to the player, a game control means for controlling the progress of the game (for example, a game control microcomputer 560), and the game control means Display control means (for example, the production control microcomputer 100) for controlling the variable display device based on the command (for example, the production control command), The technique control means is variable with advance determination means (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S62 in the game control microcomputer 560) for determining whether or not to shift to the specific gaming state before derivation and display of the display result. Variable display time determining means for determining the variable display time of the identification information in the display device (for example, the part for executing the process of step S101 in the game control microcomputer 560), and the variable display time determining means is determined in advance. Other identification information that is derived and displayed at the time when the identification information that is derived and displayed last is not derived and displayed on the variable display device within the variable display time when it is determined not to shift to the specific gaming state by the means (e.g., scan with but to determine whether to permit to include reach embodiments consistent with the specific display result In the process of-up S101, to determine the variation pattern with variation pattern table shown in FIG. 9 (B). That is, the variation pattern # 10 that allows to include rie Ji embodiment, selecting # 11) Determining whether or not to include a notice effect for notifying the possibility that the specific display result is derived and displayed, and the game control means is based on the determination by the prior determination means and the variable display time determination means. Te, a variable display time of the identification information in the variable display device, and whether or not a particular display result display result of the identification information in the variable display device, or permits the inclusion of rie Chi embodiments within the variable display time not whether the variable display command sending means for sending to the display control means capable of specifying command the door whether permits the inclusion of announcement attraction (e.g., a microcomputer 5 for game control 60, the display control means executes variable display of the identification information in the variable display device in response to the reception of the command, including the portion for executing the processes of steps S103, S111, S113, S115, S117, and S118. Variable display executing means (for example, a part for executing the effect control process in the effect control microcomputer 100. In particular, a portion for executing the processes of steps S800, S801, S802, and S803), a notice effect determining means for determining whether or not to execute a notice effect during variable display of the identification information, and display of the identification information by a command Variable display mode selection means for selecting any one of a plurality of variable display modes as the variable display mode in the variable display time specified by the command when it is specified that the result is not a specific display result ( For example, the production control microcomputer 100 includes steps S823, S827, S829, S831, S832, S843, S847, S849, S851, and S852. when it is allowed including reach embodiments, the variable display mode reach aspects Whether to include reach aspect determined by lottery using the random number or not included in the variable display manner (e.g., using a second variation pattern determination table shown in the first variation pattern determination table and Figure 37 shown in FIG. 36 According to the occurrence frequency of the reach mode in the variable display of the identification information executed before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target (for example, the ratio of “with reach” in the past 20 fluctuations) , change the selection ratio of reach aspects (e.g., selected using the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 36), announcement attraction determining means, when it is allowed to contain informational display by a command variable It is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed using a random number used by the display mode selection means, and a predetermined number of times of identification information executed before the variable display to be determined for the notice effect. Depending on the frequency of occurrence of announcement attraction in the variable display, and changing the rate at which decides to perform a prediction effect.

Another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention is capable of performing a predetermined game using a game ball, and variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can identify each of them. A variable display device (for example, a special symbol display 8 or a variable display device 9) for deriving and displaying a display result is provided, and a specific display result (for example, a jackpot symbol) based on a plurality of types of identification information is derived and displayed on the variable display device. And a game control means (for example, a game control microcomputer 560) for controlling the progress of the game, and a game control for shifting to a specific game state (for example, a big hit game state) advantageous to the player. An effect device that controls an effect device (for example, a speaker 27 or a light emitter) provided in the gaming machine based on a first command (for example, an effect control command) transmitted by the means. Display control means for controlling the variable display device (for example, a display / control command), for example, based on the control means (for example, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b) and the second command (for example, display control command) transmitted by the rendering device control means. Display control microcomputer 100a), and the game control means determines whether or not to shift to the specific game state before derivation display of the display result (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the step A portion for executing the processing of S62) and variable display time determining means for determining a variable display time of the identification information in the variable display device (for example, a portion for executing the processing of step S101 in the game control microcomputer 560). The variable display time determining means includes the pre-determining means to shift to the specific gaming state. When it is decided not to do so, other identification information that is derived and displayed when the identification information that is finally derived and displayed is not derived and displayed on the variable display device within the variable display time matches the specific display result. and it determines whether to permit to include reach embodiments (e.g., in the processing in step S101, determines a variation pattern with variation pattern table shown in FIG. 9 (B). that is, rie Ji aspects ), And whether or not it is permitted to include a notice effect for notifying the possibility that the specific display result is derived and displayed is determined. The means includes, as the first command , the variable display time of the identification information in the variable display device based on the determination by the pre-decision means and the variable display time determination means, and the variable display device. A command that can specify whether or not the display result of the identification information is a specific display result, whether or not to include the reach mode within the variable display time, and whether or not to include the notice effect The display control means includes variable display command transmission means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S103, S111, S113, S115, S117, and S118 in the game control microcomputer 560). Second command transmission means for transmitting the second command to the display control means based on the first command received from the game control means (for example, the part for executing the process of step S967 in the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b) The display control means includes a variable table in response to receiving the second command. The apparatus includes variable display executing means for executing variable display of identification information (for example, a portion for executing display control process processing corresponding to the effect control process processing in the display control microcomputer 100a), and effects device control means or display The control means has a plurality of variable display modes in the variable display time specified by the first command when the display result of the identification information is specified not to be the specific display result by the first command transmitted by the game control means. The variable display mode selection means for selecting any one of the variable display modes (for example, in the display control microcomputer 100a, in the display control process, steps S823, S827, S829, S831, S832, S843, S847). , S849, S851, S852 During a portion) that performs the corresponding process, variable display of the identification information, and a prediction effect determining means for determining whether to execute the announcement attraction, the variable display mode selection means, the transmission is a game control means When the first command is permitted to include the reach mode, whether the reach mode is included in the variable display mode or whether the reach mode is not included in the variable display mode is determined by random lottery (for example, 36), the frequency of occurrence of the reach mode in the variable display of the identification information executed before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target (for example, the past 20 times). depending on the ratio) of "Yes reach" in the change, change the selection ratio of reach aspects (e.g., selected using the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 36), notice Starring The determining means determines whether or not to execute the notice effect using a random number used by the variable display mode selection means when execution of the notice effect is permitted by the command, and the variable for which the notice effect is determined is determined. The ratio determined to execute the notice effect is changed according to the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect in the variable display of the identification information executed a predetermined number of times before the display .

  The variable display mode selection means, when the reach mode has not occurred in all of the variable display of the identification information of a predetermined number of times (for example, 7 times) executed before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target, The reach mode may be selected (for example, selected using the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 50A).

  The game control means includes reach type determination means for determining the type of reach mode (for example, the part for executing the processing of step S101 in the game control microcomputer 560), and the variable display command transmission means is reach type determination means. When the type of reach mode is determined, a command that can specify the determination result is transmitted (for example, the process of step S103 is executed. That is, the variation that specifies the variation pattern identified by the variation pattern number shown in FIG. 8) Display control means), the display control means indicates the degree of difference in identification information from stop identification information (for example, left symbol or right symbol) derived and displayed during execution of variable display including reach mode A first difference determination table (for example, the first table shown in FIG. 38) in which the difference (for example, symbol difference) and the selection ratio of the difference are set. And a difference indicating the degree of difference between the identification information from the stop identification information and a selection ratio of the difference are set. When compared with the first difference determination table, the difference is smaller (for example, the design difference is ± 1). The second difference determination table (for example, the second table shown in FIG. 38) in which a low selection ratio is set and the identification information (for example, the middle symbol) derived and displayed at the end are stopped other than the identification information. Stop identification information determination means (for example, a part that executes the processing of steps S869 and S871 in the production control microcomputer 100) determined by a difference from the identification information, and the stop identification information determination means is a reach mode by a command When the type is specified as the first reach mode (for example, super reach), the difference is selected from the first difference determination table according to the selection ratio, and is selected. The identification information corresponding to the selected difference is used as the identification information that is derived and displayed last, and when the type of reach mode is specified by the command as the second reach mode (for example, long-time normal reach), the second difference determination table The difference may be selected according to the selection ratio, and the identification information corresponding to the selected difference may be used as the identification information derived and displayed last.

Random number in the first aspect of the present invention, the display control unit, when the contain Reach aspects is permitted by command, or not included or reach embodiments include the reach embodiments the variable display form in the variable display mode which is configured to determine a lottery using a flexibly change the degree of occurrence of reach effect without increasing the burden on the game control means, it is possible to improve the interest of the game. Further, the variable display mode selection means may change the selection ratio of the reach mode in accordance with the frequency of occurrence of the reach mode in the variable display of the identification information executed before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target. Because it is configured, it is possible to avoid a situation where a reach mode does not occur for a long period of time, and it is specified as a display result of variable display even though a reach mode frequently occurs It is possible to avoid the situation where the display result does not appear, and the player can be prevented from leaving the gaming machine. The notice effect determining means determines whether or not to execute the notice effect using a random number used by the variable display mode selecting means when the command allows the notice effect to be included, and determines the notice effect. According to the occurrence frequency of the notice effect in the variable display of the identification information for a predetermined number of times executed before the variable display of the target, it is configured to change the ratio determined to execute the notice effect, The interest level of the game can be improved by flexibly changing the degree of occurrence of the notice effect without increasing the burden on the game control means. In addition, it is possible to avoid the situation where the notice effect is not executed for a long period of time, and the specific display result appears as the display result of the variable display even though the notice effect is frequently generated. It is possible to avoid a situation where there is no situation, and the player can be prevented from leaving the gaming machine.

In the second aspect of the present invention, effect device control means or display control means, when the can by the first command comprising a reach embodiments are allowed, the variable display mode or reach embodiments include the reach embodiments the variable display mode Whether or not to be included in the game is determined by lottery using random numbers, so that the degree of reach production can be flexibly changed without increasing the burden on the game control means, and the interest of the game can be improved Can do. Further, the variable display mode selection means may change the selection ratio of the reach mode in accordance with the frequency of occurrence of the reach mode in the variable display of the identification information executed before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target. Because it is configured, it is possible to avoid a situation where a reach mode does not occur for a long period of time, and it is specified as a display result of variable display even though a reach mode frequently occurs It is possible to avoid the situation where the display result does not appear, and the player can be prevented from leaving the gaming machine. The notice effect determining means determines whether or not to execute the notice effect using a random number used by the variable display mode selecting means when the command allows the notice effect to be included, and determines the notice effect. According to the occurrence frequency of the notice effect in the variable display of the identification information for a predetermined number of times executed before the variable display of the target, it is configured to change the ratio determined to execute the notice effect, The interest level of the game can be improved by flexibly changing the degree of occurrence of the notice effect without increasing the burden on the game control means. In addition, it is possible to avoid the situation where the notice effect is not executed for a long period of time, and the specific display result appears as the display result of the variable display even though the notice effect is frequently generated. It is possible to avoid a situation where there is no situation, and the player can be prevented from leaving the gaming machine.

In the invention according to claim 3 , when the variable display mode selection means has not reached the reach mode in all of the variable display of the identification information performed a predetermined number of times before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target In addition, since the reach mode is selected, it is possible to avoid the situation where the reach variable display mode does not occur over a long period of time, and the reach mode is frequently generated. Nevertheless, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the specific display result does not appear as the display result of the variable display, and the player can be prevented from leaving the gaming machine.

In the invention according to claim 5 , the display control means includes a first difference determination table in which a difference indicating a difference between the identification information from the stop identification information and a selection ratio of the difference are set, and the stop identification information. A difference indicating the difference between the identification information and a selection ratio of the difference are set, and when compared with the first difference determination table, a second difference determination table in which a low selection ratio is set for a small difference is obtained. The stop identification information determining means selects the difference from the first difference determination table according to the selection ratio when the command specifies that the type of the reach variable display mode is the first reach variable display mode, and sets the selected difference to the selected difference. The corresponding identification information is used as identification information derived and displayed last, and when the type of the reach variable display mode is specified as the second reach variable display mode by the command, the second difference determination Since the difference is selected according to the selection ratio from the table, and the identification information corresponding to the selected difference is used as the identification information derived and displayed last, the specific reach mode (first reach variable display mode) is When the variable display including is performed, the identification information derived and displayed at the end and the other stop identification information are compared with when the variable display including the other reach mode (second reach variable display mode) is performed. The ratio of proximity can be increased, and the player's sense of expectation for a specific reach mode can be improved.

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

Embodiment 1 FIG.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front.

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

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

  Near the center of the game area 7, there is provided a variable display device (image display device) 9 including a plurality of variable display portions each variably displaying a decorative pattern for performance. The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The variable display device 9 performs variable display of a decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (production) during the variable symbol display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8. The variable display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

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

  At the bottom of the variable display device 9, four displays for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14, that is, the number of reserved memories (also referred to as start memory or start winning memory). A special symbol storage display 18 is provided. Every time there is an effective start prize, the display color of one display is changed. Each time the variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the display color of one display is restored. In the display area of the variable display device 9, a special symbol reserved storage display area including four display areas for displaying the number of reserved memories may be provided. Further, in this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is 4, but the upper limit value may be a larger value. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  A first start winning opening 13 is provided below the variable display device 9, and a variable winning ball apparatus 15 that forms a second start winning opening 14 is provided below the first start winning opening 13. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16, and when the variable winning ball device 15 is opened, it is easy to win a game ball to the second start winning port 14. The game balls won in the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 are guided to the back of the game board 6, and the game balls won in the first start winning opening 13 are detected by the first start opening switch 13a. The game ball won in the second start winning opening 14 is detected by the second start opening switch 14a.

  Below the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 has an opening / closing plate, and the large winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus) is opened by controlling the opening / closing plate to be opened. The winning ball that has won the special variable winning ball device 20 is detected by the count switch 23.

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

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39. The winning holes 29, 30, 33, and 39 for the game balls are awarded to the winning port switches 29a and 30a, respectively. , 33a, 39a. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The first start winning opening 13, the second starting winning opening 14, and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. In addition, the game balls won in the respective winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 may be detected by one switch.

  Around the left and right of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 blinking and displayed during the game, and at the bottom there is an outlet 26 for absorbing the game balls that have not won. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. If the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a or the second start opening switch 14a, it is special if it can start variable display of symbols. The special symbol starts variable display (variation) on the symbol display 8, and the decorative symbol starts variable display (variation) on the variable display device 9. If it is not in a state where the variable display of symbols can be started, the start winning memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and the variable display of the decorative symbol on the variable display device 9 are stopped when a certain time has passed. If the special symbol (stop symbol) at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is released until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of gaming balls wins.

  When the game ball wins the gate 32, the normal symbol display unit 10 is in a state where the normal symbol is variably displayed. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined time. Further, in the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. Further, in the short time state (the game state in which the variable symbol display time for special symbols is shortened), the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 may be increased.

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

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to a game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached.

  The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  Also, an input driver circuit for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a and 39a to the game control microcomputer 560. 58 is also mounted on the main board 31. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a special symbol display 8 that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, a special symbol hold memory display 18, and a normal symbol hold memory display 41. Perform display control.

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

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

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board via the lamp driver board 35, and the ceiling frame provided on the frame side. Display control of the lamp 28 a, left frame lamp 28 b, right frame lamp 28 c, prize ball lamp 51, and out-of-ball lamp 52 is performed, and sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the audio output board 70.

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

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

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the variable display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. The VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the variable display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the variable display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including decorative designs), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

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

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input driver 351. The lamp driver 352 amplifies a signal for driving the lamp and supplies the amplified signal to each lamp provided on the frame side such as the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c. Further, it is supplied to a decorative lamp 25 provided on the frame side.

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

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

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

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 performs data check of the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 recovers the game state restoration process (steps S41 to S43) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in step S41 and step S42, the saved contents remain as they are in the portion of the work area that should not be initialized. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) to 0, but is initialized to an arbitrary value or a predetermined value. You may make it do. Alternatively, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, for example, an initial value is set to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state, such as a special symbol process flag or a normal symbol process flag.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the sub-board (step S13). For example, when the initialization control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the variable display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R. The random number circuit 503 generates a random number using a predetermined clock signal. In this embodiment, the random number circuit 503 outputs any numerical value from 0 to 65535 to the CPU 56 when the numerical value is read from the CPU 56.

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a register of the CTC built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the variation pattern, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is an initial value of a count value such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win a normal symbol (ordinary random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). It is a random number for determining. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as a variable display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In the process of transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, or a game machine control process), the count value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is one round (the random number for determination per normal symbol is taken). When the value is incremented by the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible values), an initial value is set in the counter.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, These state determinations are performed (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating a random number for determination such as a random number for determining a jackpot symbol used for game control (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide a special symbol's off symbol (stop symbol) (for determining off symbol)
(2) Random 2: Determines the special symbol stop symbol when generating a big hit (for big hit symbol determination)
(3) Random 3: Determine the variation pattern (variation time) of special symbols (for variation pattern determination)
(4) Random 4: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5: Random 4 initial value is determined (for determining random 4 initial value)

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot symbol determination random number (2) and the random number for determination per regular symbol (4). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may make it use random numbers other than the random number of said (1)-(5). In this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a random number generated by the hardware (random number circuit 503) built in the game control microcomputer 560. The big hit determination random number is used as the big hit determination random number. Software random numbers generated based on the program may be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, the corresponding symbol is executed in accordance with a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special prize opening in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a. Execute (Step S30). Specifically, the payout control is performed in accordance with winning detection based on any one of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of winning balls is output to a payout control microcomputer mounted on the substrate 37. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S31: output process).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S32). For example, if the change speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set when the start flag set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56, for example, every 0.2 seconds passes. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 performs variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with a random R that is a count value of the random number circuit 503 is set. The jackpot determination determination table includes a normal jackpot determination table (see FIG. 7A) used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table (FIG. 7B) used in a probability change state. See). The numerical values described in the left column of FIGS. 7A and 7B are jackpot determination values. When the value of the random R matches any one of the jackpot determination values, the CPU 56 determines that the jackpot is to be made. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the jackpot determination random number value. If the jackpot determination random number value matches the jackpot determination value shown in FIG. It is decided to make a big hit (usually big hit, probability variation big hit or sudden probability variation big hit) or small hit for the symbol.

  The probability variation jackpot is a jackpot that shifts the gaming state after the jackpot game to a probability variation state in which there is a high probability of being determined to be a jackpot compared to the normal state. Usually, the big hit is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to a state that is not a probable change state. Note that the number of rounds in the case of a probable big hit and the normal big hit is larger than that in the case of a small hit and a sudden probable big hit, for example, 15 rounds.

  The 2R (2 rounds) big hit (small hit) is a big hit in which the number of times the big winning opening is opened in the big hit gaming state is allowed up to two times. Note that when the small hit game ends, the gaming state does not shift to the probable change state. Suddenly probable jackpot is a jackpot where the number of times the big prize opening is allowed is 2 in the big hit gaming state, but the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely short, and the gaming state after the big hit game is shifted to the probable state It ’s a big hit. That is, in this embodiment, the number of rounds is the same between the sudden probability big hit and the small hit.

  In addition, in the big hit game of sudden probability change big hit, the number of rounds is smaller than that in the case of normal big hit and probability variable big hit, and the allowance opening allowance time of each round (for example, 29 seconds in the case of normal big hit and probability variable big hit) On the other hand, 0.5 seconds) is shorter than the case of the normal big hit and the probability variation big hit, but only the number of rounds may be reduced, or only the allowance opening allowance time may be shortened.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a decorative pattern variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 8, “EXT” indicates EXT data of the second byte in the effect control command having a two-byte structure. “Variation time” indicates the variation time of the special symbol (variable display period of identification information).

  The “long-time normal reach” of the variation pattern number # 2 is a variation pattern in which a variation according to a variation mode involving a reach mode is performed. That is, the variation pattern includes a reach mode of “long-time normal reach”. The “synchronous variation” of variation pattern number # 3 is a variation pattern in which variation is performed according to a variation mode with a reach mode having a period in which the right and right symbols are in a synchronized state. The “short-time normal reach” of the variation pattern number # 4 is a variation pattern in which a variation according to a variation mode involving a reach mode is performed. That is, the variation pattern includes a reach mode of “short-time normal reach”. The “short time normal reach” is a variation pattern in which the variation time is shorter than the “long time normal reach”. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the variation time of “long-time normal reach” is 20 seconds, and the variation time of “short-time normal reach” is 8 seconds.

  The “super reach” of the variation pattern number # 1 is a variation pattern in which variation is performed by a variation mode including a reach mode of “super reach”, and has a reach mode different from “long time normal reach” and “short time normal reach”. This is a variation pattern. A different reach mode means that a different mode of change mode (speed, direction of rotation, etc.), a character image, or the like appears in the variable display device 9 in the reach change time (a period in which the reach effect is performed). The background design is different. For example, in “long-time normal reach”, the reach mode is realized by only one type of change mode, whereas in “super reach”, a reach mode including a plurality of change modes with different speeds and directions of change is realized. The

  The “total rotation variation” of the variation pattern number # 5 is a variation pattern in which variation is performed according to a variation mode having a period in which the left middle right symbols are lined up in the same pattern and vary at a high speed all at once. The “occlusion variation” of variation pattern number # 6 is a variation pattern in which a variation is performed according to a variation mode in which a left middle right symbol is hidden by a character or the like during the variation period.

  The variation patterns of variation pattern numbers # 1 to # 6 are variation patterns used when the display result of variable display (derived symbol combination) is a jackpot symbol. In addition, the fluctuation pattern number # 5 “total rotation fluctuation” does not include the reach mode, and the left, middle and right final stop symbols are derived and displayed following the high speed fluctuation. Derivation is that the symbol is stopped, and derivation display is that the stopped symbol is displayed. Also, the “occlusion variation” of variation pattern number # 6 does not include the reach mode, and when the character etc. that shields the left middle right symbol disappears from the display screen of the variable display device 9, the final stop symbol of the left middle right is immediately displayed. Derived and displayed. In addition, the variation pattern of variation pattern number # 5 is a variation pattern in which variation is performed according to a variation mode accompanied by a notice effect due to variation in a state in which all symbols are aligned in the same period during the variation period. The variation pattern of # 6 is a variation pattern in which variation is performed according to a variation mode accompanied by a notice effect by displaying an image that shields the left middle right symbol of the decorative symbol during the variation period.

  The “super reach” of the variation pattern number # 7 is a variation pattern in which the variation by the variation mode including the reach mode of “super reach” is performed, similarly to the “super reach” of the variation pattern number # 1. However, the variation pattern of variation pattern number # 7 is a variation pattern used when the display result of variable display is not a big hit symbol. The variation patterns of variation pattern numbers # 1 and # 7 have a variation mode with a notice effect and a variation mode that does not include a notice effect, and which variation mode is used for the variation control microcomputer 100 Determined by. Further, in the variation mode accompanied by the notice effect, as an example of the notice effect, a part of the total rotation variation as shown in FIG. 13 (the example shown in FIGS. 13D and 13E) and the example shown in FIG. Part of the shielding variation (such as the mode shown in FIGS. 14C, 14D, and 14E3) may be incorporated.

  The “long-time normal reach” of the variation pattern number # 8 is a variation pattern in which variation is performed according to the variation mode with the reach mode, and has the same mode as the variation pattern mode of the variation pattern number # 2. However, the variation pattern of variation pattern number # 8 is a variation pattern used when the display result of variable display is not a big hit symbol. Note that the variation patterns of variation pattern numbers # 2 and # 8 have a variation mode involving a notice effect and a variation mode not including a notice effect, and which variation mode is used for the variation control microcomputer 100 Determined by. Further, in the variation mode accompanied by the notice effect, as an example of the notice effect, a part of the total rotation variation as shown in FIG. 13 (the example shown in FIGS. 13D and 13E) and the example shown in FIG. Part of the shielding variation (such as the mode shown in FIGS. 14C, 14D, and 14E3) may be incorporated.

  The variation pattern of variation pattern number # 9 is a variation pattern used when the display result of variable display is not a jackpot symbol, and does not include a reach mode.

  The variation pattern of variation pattern number # 10 varies depending on either a variation mode having a period in which the left and right symbols are aligned (a total rotation variation) or a variation mode not including a reach mode. Pattern. Which variation mode is selected is determined by the production control microcomputer 100. The variation pattern of variation pattern number # 11 is a variation pattern in which variation is performed according to either the variation mode similar to “short-time normal reach” of variation pattern number # 4 or the variation mode not including the reach mode. Which variation mode is selected is determined by the production control microcomputer 100.

  Note that the variation time differs between “no reach” (variation mode not including the reach mode) of the variation pattern number # 10 and “no reach” in the variation pattern number # 11.

  Like the variation pattern of variation pattern number # 5, the variation pattern of variation pattern number # 12 has a variation mode (full rotation variation) having a period in which the left, middle, and right symbols simultaneously vary at high speed during the variation period, and reach. It is a variation pattern in which a variation is performed by any one of a variation mode that does not include a mode (no notice effect). Which variation mode is selected is determined by the production control microcomputer 100. The total rotation variation is a variation mode accompanied by a notice effect by displaying an image that shields the left middle right symbol of the decorative symbol. Like the variation pattern of variation pattern number # 6, the variation pattern of variation pattern number # 13 includes a variation mode (shielding variation) in which the left middle right symbol is hidden by a character or the like during the variation period, and a reach mode. It is a variation pattern in which a variation is performed in any of a non-variable manner (no notice effect). Which variation mode is selected is determined by the production control microcomputer 100.

  The variation pattern # 14 “abrupt probability big hit variation” is a variation pattern in which a variation according to a variation mode involving a reach mode is performed.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the variation pattern selected only in the case of a deviation, the variation pattern selected only in the case of big hit (normal big hit and probability variation big hit), and the case of sudden probability variation big hit There are fluctuation patterns that are selected only for. Some variation patterns that are selected only in the case of a deviation are used both when the reach mode is included and when the reach mode is not included (variation patterns # 10 and # 11). Some variation patterns that are selected only in the case of a deviation are also used when there is a notice effect and also when there is no notice effect (variation patterns # 12, # 13). In this embodiment, when it is determined to be a small hit, it is assumed that the variation pattern used when it is determined to be a big hit (usually a big hit and a probable big hit) is the same. May be different from the variation pattern used when it is determined to be a big hit.

  The first table, the second table, and the third table in the difference determination table shown in FIG. 8 will be described later. Moreover, the fluctuation | variation aspect shown in FIG. 8 is mentioned later.

  In this embodiment, when a big hit occurs and the big hit game is finished, the game state is in a short time state until the execution of 100 special symbol changes (variable display) is completed. In addition, when variable display of a special symbol is started when variable display is finished, when it is decided to change to a probable change state when the special symbol variable display is started, the game state is changed into a probable change state when the big hit game is ended. Migrated. If the gaming state at that time is a probability variation state, the probability variation state is continued.

  After the transition to the probability changing state, the state of the probability changing state is short and the state is short until the execution of the variation (variable display) of 100 special symbols is completed. In addition, in the non-probability change state after the big hit game is over, the game state is changed to the normal state (the game state that is not the probability change state and not the short-time state) when the execution of 100 special symbol changes (variable display) is completed. Transition.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a ratio of selecting each variation pattern. FIG. 9A shows a variation pattern table showing a ratio of selecting each variation pattern at the time of big hit or small hit. FIG. 9B shows a variation pattern table showing the ratio of each variation pattern being selected at the time of loss. The variation pattern table is formed in the ROM 54. “Formed in ROM” means an area in the ROM.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9A, the ratio of selecting the variation pattern number # 1 (super reach) at the time of big hit or small hit is 20%, and the variation pattern number # 2 (long-time normal reach) is selected. The rate is 10%, the rate at which variation pattern number # 3 (synchronous variation) is selected is 10%, the rate at which variation pattern number # 4 (short-time normal reach) is selected is 10%, and the variation pattern The ratio at which number # 5 (total rotation fluctuation) is selected is 25%, and the ratio at which fluctuation pattern number # 6 (shielding fluctuation) is selected is 25%.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9B, at the time of losing, the rate at which the variation pattern number # 7 (super reach) is selected is 5%, and the rate at which the variation pattern number # 8 (long-time normal reach) is selected is 25%. %, The variation pattern number # 9 (no reach) is selected at 30%, the variation pattern number # 10 (synchronized variation) is selected at 10%, and the variation pattern number # 11 ( The ratio at which “no reach or short time normal reach” is selected is 10%, the ratio at which variation pattern number # 12 (total rotation variation) is selected is 10%, and variation pattern number # 13 (shielding variation) is selected. The ratio of being 10%.

  The selection ratio is determined by assigning the number of determination values to be compared with the random number for determining the variation pattern. For example, when the selection ratio is 20%, 20% (30 in this example) determination values of values that can be taken by the random number for determining the variation pattern (150 in this example, 0 to 149) are allocated. . That is, although the selection ratio is shown in FIG. 9, actually, data indicating the variation pattern to be selected and the determination value are set in association with each other in the variation pattern table. Each determination value is the same value (any one of 0 to 149 in this example) as any value that can be taken by the random number for determining the variation pattern. The CPU 56 selects a variation pattern according to the determination value that matches the extracted variation pattern determination random number.

  Next, an example of a display effect in the variable display device 9 will be described. 10-15 is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a display effect. 10 to 15, each rectangle indicates a display screen of the variable display device 9 or an area where variable display is performed on the display screen of the variable display device 9. Moreover, in each figure, with the passage of time, the production mode changes from top to bottom.

  FIGS. 10A to 10F are explanatory diagrams for explaining the display effect of “super reach”. In “super reach”, during variable display, a character for notifying that it is super reach (reach that is very likely to be a big hit) is displayed on the variable display device 9 (see FIG. 10E). . After that, when it is determined to be a big hit, all the left middle right symbols are stopped and displayed (see FIG. 10 (f1)). When it is determined to be out of place, the middle symbol does not coincide with the left and right symbols, and a stop display is made (see FIG. 10 (f2)).

  11A to 11E are explanatory diagrams for explaining display effects of “long-time normal reach” and “short-time normal reach”. In “long-time normal reach” and “short-time normal reach”, after the matched left and right symbols are derived and displayed, only the middle symbol fluctuates (see FIG. 11D), and then the middle symbol is stopped and displayed (FIG. 11 ( e1) and (e2)). If it is determined to be a big hit, the left, middle, and right symbols are stopped and displayed (see FIG. 11 (e1)). When it is determined to be out of place, the middle symbol is displayed in a stopped state that does not match the left and right symbols (see FIG. 11 (e2)).

  12 (a) to 12 (e1), (e2), and (e3) are for explaining a display effect (display effect such as “synchronized fluctuation”) corresponding to the fluctuation pattern # 3 or # 10 shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing. However, the fluctuation pattern # 10 is used when it is determined to be a synchronous fluctuation (synchronous fluctuation reach) using a first fluctuation pattern determination table described later. As shown in FIG. 12, after the middle right symbol has changed synchronously (see FIG. 12 (d)), when the jackpot or reach is not reached, the left middle right symbol or middle symbol immediately aligned is the left or right symbol. The middle left and right symbols that do not match are stopped and displayed (see FIGS. 12 (e1) and 12 (e2)). In the case of a deviation with reach (included in the variation pattern # 10), only the middle symbol is changed after the matching left and right symbols are derived and displayed (see FIG. 12 (e3)), and then the middle symbol is changed. The middle left and right symbols that do not match the left and right symbols may be stopped and displayed (not shown).

  FIGS. 13 (a) to (e1), (e2), and (e3) are for explaining a display effect corresponding to the fluctuation pattern # 5 or # 12 shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing. However, the variation pattern # 12 is applied when it is determined to be a full rotation variation using a first variation pattern determination table described later. As shown in FIG. 13, after the character image 9a is displayed (see FIG. 13 (c)), after the left middle right symbols fluctuate all at once (see FIG. 13 (d)), In the case of non-reach, the left, middle, and right symbols that are immediately aligned, or the left, middle, and right symbols in a state where the middle symbols do not match the left and right symbols are stopped and displayed (see FIGS. 13 (e1) and (e2)). ). In addition, when using the fluctuation pattern of outliers with reach, etc., only the middle symbol fluctuates after the matching left and right symbols are derived and displayed (see FIG. 13 (e3)), and then the middle symbol matches the left and right symbols. You may make it the left middle right symbol of the state which does not carry out stop display (not shown). As described above, “total rotation fluctuation” is a fluctuation mode accompanied by a notice effect.

  FIGS. 14A to 14E are explanatory diagrams for explaining a display effect (display effect of “shielding fluctuation”) corresponding to the fluctuation pattern # 6 or # 13 shown in FIG. However, the variation pattern # 13 is applied when it is determined to be a shielding variation using a first variation pattern determination table described later. As shown in FIG. 14, after the left middle right symbol fluctuates all at once (see FIG. 14B), or immediately after the start of variation, the character that shields the left middle right symbol is displayed on the variable display device 9 (FIG. 14). 14 (c), (d)), and then, if it is a big hit or no reach, the left / right / right symbols that are immediately aligned, or the left / right / right symbols in the state where the middle symbols do not match the left and right symbols The display is stopped (see FIGS. 14 (e1) and (e2)). Furthermore, after the matched left and right symbols are derived and displayed, only the middle symbol fluctuates (see FIG. 14 (e3)), and the left middle right symbol in a state where the middle symbol does not match the left and right symbols is stopped and displayed. (Not shown), there may be a period in which the left, middle and right symbols all change before the left and right middle symbols are stopped and displayed (see FIG. 14 (e4)). As described above, “shielding fluctuation” is a fluctuation mode accompanied by a notice effect.

  FIGS. 15A to 15E are explanatory diagrams for explaining display effects of a variation pattern that does not include the reach mode (corresponding to variation pattern # 9 shown in FIG. 8). As shown in FIG. 15, the matched left and right symbols are not stopped and displayed (see FIG. 15 (d)). Also, as shown in FIG. 8, as a variation mode in the case of “no reach” in the variation patterns # 10 and # 11 (when it is determined “no reach” using the first variation pattern determination table described later). Used. Further, in this embodiment, it is also used as a variation mode in the case of “no notice” in the variation patterns # 12 and # 13 (when it is determined “no notice” using the second variation pattern determination table described later). It is done. In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, even if a part of the variation mode shown in FIG. 12, 13 or 14 is incorporated in the variation patterns # 1, # 2, # 4, # 7, # 8, and # 11. Good. In the description of FIG. 8, for example, “may be referred to as FIG. 12 e 3, FIG. 13 e 3, FIG. 14 e 3, and e 4” described in the column of the fluctuation pattern # 1 means that FIG. 12 (a) →. ) May be incorporated, or a variation aspect proceeding as shown in FIG. 13 (a) →... → (e3) may be incorporated, or a fluctuation proceeding as FIG. 14 (a) →... → (e3). That is, a mode may be incorporated, and a variation mode that proceeds as shown in FIG. 12 (a) →... → (e4) may be incorporated.

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a signal line of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 16, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 using eight signal lines of the effect control signals D0 to D7. Further, between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80, a signal line of the effect control INT signal for transmitting the capture signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired.

  In this embodiment, the presentation control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Therefore, when viewed from the effect control microcomputer 100, the effect control INT signal corresponds to a signal that triggers the capture of effect control command data.

  The effect control command is sent only once so that the effect control microcomputer 100 can recognize it. In this example, “recognizable” means that the level of the effect control INT signal changes, and that it is sent only once so as to be recognizable means that, for example, each of the first and second bytes of the effect control command data Accordingly, the production control INT signal is output in a pulse shape (rectangular wave shape) only once. The effect control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 18, commands 8001 (H) to 800E (H) are effect control commands (variation) for designating a variation pattern of decorative symbols that are variably displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to variable display of special symbols. Pattern command). The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the variation start. Therefore, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives any of the commands 8001 (H) to 800E (H), the variable display device 9 controls the variable display device 9 to start variable display of decorative symbols. In this embodiment, the variable display of the special symbol and the variable display of the decorative symbol are synchronized (the variable display start time and the variable display end time are the same), so the decorative pattern variation pattern (variation time) Determining also means determining the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol.

  The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of the big hit game. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H). Therefore, the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are referred to as display result specifying commands.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbols is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbols and derives and displays the display result. The derived display is to finally stop and display the symbol.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  The commands A001 to A004 (H) are effect control commands for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). The jackpot start designation commands include jackpot start 1 designation to jackpot start designation 4 designation commands depending on the type of jackpot. The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  Command A301 (H) displays a jackpot end screen, that is, specifies the end of the jackpot game, and also specifies an effect control command (special jackpot end 1 designation command: ending) that specifies that the game is a non-probable big hit (usually a big hit) 1 designation command). Command A302 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that it is a probable big hit (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command). is there.

  Note that an effect control command having a system different from the effect control command shown in FIG. 18 may be used, or in addition to the effect control command shown in FIG. 18, other instructions from the game control means are transmitted. An effect control command may be used.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the variable display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 18, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

  19 and 20 are flowcharts showing an example of a program of special symbol process (step S26) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 detects that the game ball has won the first start port switch 13a or the second start port 14 for detecting that the game ball has won the first start game port 13. If the second start port switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning is generated, start port switch passing processing is executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed.

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is ready to start the variable display of the special symbol, it checks the number of reserved memories (the number of start winning memories). The reserved memory number can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. If the number of reserved memories is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to step S301.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. The stop symbol after the variable display of the special symbol is determined. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result specifying command transmission process (step S302): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result specifying command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is stepped. Update to a value corresponding to S304 (4 in this example).

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the special symbol display 8 is stopped and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. When the big hit flag and the small hit flag are not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the variable display device 9 to stop the decorative symbols when it receives the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control for causing the production control microcomputer 100 to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is performed. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Small hit release pre-processing (step S308): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for small hits, control is performed to open the big prize opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S309 (9 in this example). It should be noted that although the pre-opening process for small hits is executed for each round, the pre-opening process for small hits is also a process for starting a small hit game when starting the first round.

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. A control for transmitting an effect control command for a round display during the small hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S308 (8 in this example). When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S310 (in this example, 10 (decimal number)).

  Small hit end process (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the reserved storage number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step S211). If the number of reserved memories is 4, the process is terminated.

  If the number of reserved memories is not 4, the value of the reserved memory number counter indicating the number of reserved memories is incremented by 1 (step S212). Further, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (counter value for generating a big hit symbol determination random number, etc.) and random R (big hit determination random number), and uses them as an extracted random number value of the reserved memory number counter. A process of storing in the storage area in the storage buffer corresponding to the value is executed (step S213). In step 113, the CPU 56 extracts random values 1 to 3 (see FIG. 6) as software random numbers, and reads the count value of the random number circuit 503 to extract random R. In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is secured. Further, a counter for generating a jackpot symbol determination random number and the like and a reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  Then, the display of the special symbol hold memory display 18 is changed to a display showing the value of the hold memory number counter (step S214).

  22 and 23 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks the value of the number of reserved storage (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the number of reserved memories is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S52). Then, the value of the reserved memory number is decreased by 1 (the count value of the reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S53). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. To store. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes.

  Then, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area (step S61), and executes a jackpot determination module (step S62). The big hit judgment module compares the big hit judgment value (see Fig. 7) determined in advance with the random number for big hit judgment, and if they match, the big hit (normal big hit, probability variation big hit or sudden probability variation big hit) or small hit This is a program for executing the process to be determined.

  Note that, when the gaming state is in the probability variation state, the CPU 56 uses the jackpot determination value in the table in which the jackpot determination value as shown in FIG. 7B is set, and the gaming state is in the normal state (non-probability variation state). Is, the jackpot determination value in the table in which the jackpot determination value as shown in FIG. 7A is set is used. When it is decided to make a normal big hit (step S63), a big hit flag is set (step S71), and the process proceeds to step S75. It should be noted that deciding whether or not to make a big hit (usually big hit, probability change big hit or sudden probability change big hit) means deciding whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but the stop symbol in the special symbol display 8 It is also to decide whether or not to be a big hit symbol.

  When it is determined that the probability variation big hit is made, the CPU 56 sets the big hit flag and the probability variation big hit flag (steps S72, S73, S74). Then, the big hit symbol determination random number is read from the random number buffer area (step S75), and the big hit symbol (for example, one of the odd symbols) as the stop symbol is determined based on the big hit symbol determination random number (step S76). . In this embodiment, the stop symbol is determined without distinguishing the probability variation big hit and the normal big hit. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S70.

  If it is determined to be a small hit, a small hit flag is set (steps S77 and S78). If it is determined that the sudden probability change big hit is determined, the big hit flag and the sudden probability change big hit flag are set (steps S79, S80, S81). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the special symbol stop symbol when it is determined to be a small hit and the sudden probability variation big hit is a specific symbol determined in advance.

  When it is determined that the big hit or the small hit is not made, the CPU 56 reads out the design determining random number from the random number buffer area (step S64), and determines the stop design based on the out of design determining random number (step S65). . In this case, an off symbol (for example, any of even symbols) is determined.

  Further, when the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set (step S66), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (step S67). When the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, a time reduction end flag is set in order to shift the gaming state to the non-time reduction state when the variable display ends (steps S68 and S69). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S90). When the probability variation big hit flag or the sudden probability variation big hit flag is set, the gaming state is shifted to the probability changing state when the big hit game is finished.

  In this embodiment, whether or not to make a big hit and the type of jackpot are determined based on the big hit determination random number (see FIG. 7), but the big hit is determined based on the big hit determination random number. When a predetermined jackpot symbol (predetermined probability variation jackpot symbol or sudden probability variation jackpot symbol) is determined based on the random number for determining the jackpot symbol when it is determined to be a jackpot You may make it control to a probability change state.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 reads the variation pattern determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S100). Then, the variation pattern is determined based on the variation pattern determination random number (step S101). Note that determining the variation pattern also means determining the variation time.

  If it is determined to be off, “Super Reach”, “Long-time Normal Reach”, “No Reach”, “Synchronous Fluctuation (Without Reach or With Reach)”, “Short-Time Normal Reach”, “Full Rotation” Either “variation (no reach or with reach)” or “shielding change (no reach or with reach)” is selected (see FIG. 9B).

  If it is determined to be a big hit, select "Super Reach", "Long-time Normal Reach", "Synchronized Fluctuation", "Short-Time Normal Reach", "Full-Rotation Fluctuation" or "Shielding Fluctuation" (See FIG. 9A). In addition, when it is determined that the sudden sudden change is a big hit, “surprise big hit reach” is selected.

  In order to facilitate the selection as described above, the CPU 56 selects a variation pattern table (see FIG. 9) according to the gaming state and the determination result as to whether or not to win the game, and in the selected variation pattern table, Then, the variation pattern corresponding to the numerical value matching the value of the variation pattern determining random number is selected. In the fluctuation pattern table, a big hit or small hit fluctuation pattern table in which data as shown in FIG. 9A is set, and data as shown in FIG. 9B are set. There is a fluctuation pattern table at the time of loss. When it is determined to be a big hit or a small hit, the CPU 56 uses a big hit or a small hit hour variation pattern table. Use a table.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a variation pattern command (see FIG. 18) corresponding to the variation pattern selected in step S101 to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S103). Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command is used as a pointer. set. And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S28).

  Moreover, the variation of the special symbol is started (step S104). For example, a start flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S32 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time (see FIG. 8) corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S105). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result specifying command transmission process (step S302) (step S106).

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the display result specifying command transmission process (step S302). In the display result specifying command transmission process, the CPU 56 performs any one of the display control 1 designation to the display result 5 designation according to the determined big hit type (including the small hit) (see FIG. 18). Control to send. Specifically, when the probability variation jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 4 designation command (steps S110 and S111). When the sudden probability big hit flag is set, control for transmitting a display result 5 designation command is performed (steps S112 and S113). When the small hit flag is set, control for transmitting a display result 3 designation command is performed (steps S114 and S115). When none of the probability variation big hit flag, sudden probability variation big hit flag, and small hit flag is set, and when the big hit flag is set (usually a big hit), a control for transmitting a display result 2 designation command (Steps S116 and S117). When the big hit flag is not set (in the case of losing), control for transmitting the display result 1 designation command is performed (steps S116 and S118). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S119).

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S121), and when the variable time timer times out (step S122), the value of the special symbol process flag corresponds to the special symbol stop process (step S304). The updated value is updated (step S123). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 sets an end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S32 to end the variation of the special symbol, and performs control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol on the special symbol display unit 8. (Step S131). Moreover, control which transmits the symbol determination designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S137 (step S133).

  When the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a jackpot start designation command (step S135). Specifically, when the probability variation jackpot flag is set, a jackpot start 3 designation command is transmitted. When the probability variation jackpot flag is suddenly set, a jackpot start 4 designation command is transmitted. Sends a jackpot start 1 designation command.

  Further, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (time for notifying the occurrence of the big hit in the variable display device 9, for example) is set in the big hit display time timer (step S136). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S149).

  In step S137, it is confirmed whether or not the small hit flag is set. If the small hit flag is set, a big hit start 2 designation command is transmitted (step S138), and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit release pre-processing (step S308) (step S308). S139). If the small hit flag is not set, the short time end flag is reset when the short time end flag is set (steps S141 and S142), and the short time flag indicating that the gaming state is the short time state is reset. (Step S143). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S144).

  The time reduction end flag is set in step S69 in the special symbol normal process. In addition, the gaming state shifts to a non-time saving state by resetting the time saving flag. At this stage, if the gaming state is a probability variation state, the gaming state becomes a probability variation state of a non-short-time state. On the other hand, if it is in the non-probable change state, it shifts to a normal state (a state that is not in the probabilistic change state and is not in the time-short state).

  In the big winning opening opening pre-processing, when the big hit display time timer is set, the CPU 56 controls to open the big winning opening when the big hit display time timer times out, and sets the big winning opening opening time timer. Set a value corresponding to the opening time (for example, 29 seconds for normal big hits and probable big hits, and 0.5 seconds for sudden big odds), and the special symbol process flag value is processed while the big prize opening is open The value is updated to a value corresponding to (Step S306). The case where the big hit display time timer is set is the case before the start of the first round. When the interval timer (timer for determining the interval time between rounds) is set, when the interval timer times out, control is performed to open the big prize opening and the opening time ( For example, a value corresponding to 29 seconds is set for a normal big hit and a probable big hit, and a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is set for a sudden probable big hit, and the value of the special symbol process flag is set to a process for opening a big winning opening (step S306). ) To a value corresponding to.

  In the process during opening of the big prize opening, the CPU 56 does not finish the final round when the big prize opening time timer times out or the number of winning balls to the big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10). In this case, control for closing the special winning opening is performed, a value corresponding to the interval time is set in the interval timer, and the value of the special symbol process flag is set to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening (step S305). Update. When the final round is completed, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S307).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S150). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S154. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S151), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S152). Here, if the probability variation jackpot flag or the sudden probability variation bonus flag is set, a jackpot end 2 designation command is transmitted, and if the probability variation jackpot flag or the sudden probability variation bonus flag is not set, the jackpot end 1 designation is specified. Send a command. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the jackpot end display is performed on the variable display device 9 (the jackpot end display time) is set in the jackpot end display timer (step S153), and the processing is ended.

  In step S154, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S155). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the time reduction flag is set to shift the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S156), and 100 is set in the time reduction counter (step S157).

  Then, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation big hit flag or the sudden probability variation big flag is set (step S158). If the probability variation big hit flag or the sudden probability variation big flag is set, the set flag (the probability variation big hit flag or the sudden probability variation big flag) is reset (step S159). The probability variation flag is set and the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state (step S161). If the gaming state at that time is a probability variation state, the probability variation flag has already been set. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S162).

  In the pre-opening process for small hits in step S308, the same process as the pre-opening process for the big prize opening (step S305) is performed. However, instead of updating the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit opening process. Further, in the small hit opening process in step S309, the same process as the big prize opening opening process (step S306) is performed. However, if it is not the final round, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit release pre-processing (step S308), and if it is the final round (second round), the value of the special symbol process flag Is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit end process (step S310).

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the small hit end process (step S310) in the special symbol process. In the small hit end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit end display timer is set (step S170). If the small hit end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S174. If the small hitting end display timer is not set, the small hitting flag is reset (step S171), and control for transmitting a big hit end 1 designation command is performed (step S172). Then, the small hit end display timer sets a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the small hit end display is performed on the variable display device 9 (small hit end display time) in the small hit end display timer ( Step S173), the process is terminated.

  In step S174, 1 is subtracted from the value of the small hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the small hit end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the small hit end display time has elapsed (step S175). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S176).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). .

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and executes a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. In addition, the counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol of a decorative symbol or a random number for determining whether or not to select a variation pattern including a reach mode) is updated. A random number update process is executed (step S706). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 18) the effect control command stored in the buffer area is.

  32 and 33 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a display result specifying command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 stores the display result specifying command in a display result specifying command storage area formed in the RAM (step S618). . Then, a display result specifying command reception flag is set (step S619).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S622).

  If the received effect control command is one of the jackpot start 1-4 designation commands (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets the jackpot start 1-4 designation command reception flag (step S624).

  If the received presentation control command is a power-on designation command (initialization designation command) (step S631), the presentation control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the variable display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632A). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols. Also, an initial notification flag is set (step S632B), and a value corresponding to the initial notification period value is set in the period timer (step S632C). The initial notification period is a period in which initialization notification is performed in response to reception of the initialization designation command. The effect control CPU 101 ends the initialization notification when the initial notification period elapses.

  Further, if the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S633), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (a screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S634).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start 1 designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag (step S642). If the received effect control command is a jackpot start 2 designation command (step S643), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag (step S644).

  If the received effect control command is another command, effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S645). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 34 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the last 20 changes state storage area. In the last 20 changes state storage area, whether the change mode including the reach mode was used in the past 20 changes (the latest 20 changes that have already been executed at the present time) (whether there was a reach), This is an area secured in the RAM in which data indicating whether the variation mode not including the reach mode is used (whether the reach mode is not used) is set. It should be noted that all the contents of the storage state storage area immediately before 20 times are initialized to “no reach” data in the initialization process (step S701). In addition, when the effect control CPU 101 performs the variation (variable display) of the decorative symbol, the “reach” or “reach” is displayed at the portion pointed to by the pointer (formed in the RAM) in the variation state storage area 20 times immediately before. "None" data is set, and the pointer value is incremented by one. Further, the pointer value is initialized to “1” in the initialization process (step S701). However, the effect control CPU 101 increases the pointer value by 1, and when the pointer value becomes “21”, “1”. Return to.

  FIG. 34 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the storage area for the previous 20 executions of the notice execution state. The immediately preceding 20-time notice execution state storage area is data indicating whether the notice effect has been executed or the notice effect has not been executed in the past 20 changes (20 changes that have been executed most recently at the present time). Is an area secured in the set RAM. It should be noted that all the contents of the immediately preceding 20 execution state storage state are initialized to “no notice” data in the initialization process (step S701). In addition, when the CPU 101 for effect control performs the change (variable display) of the decorative pattern, the “pre-notification” or “ “No notice” data is set, and the pointer value is incremented by one. Further, the pointer value is initialized to “1” in the initialization process (step S701). However, the effect control CPU 101 increases the pointer value by 1, and when the pointer value becomes “21”, “1”. Return to.

  FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the effect control means in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 35, random numbers include a random number for determining a variation pattern, a random number for determining a left stop symbol, a random number for determining a right stop symbol, and a random number for determining a middle stop symbol. Whether or not the variation pattern determination random number selects a variation mode including a reach mode when a variation pattern command (a variation pattern command indicating variation patterns # 10 and # 11) that allows the reach mode to be included is received. Used to determine. In this embodiment, the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern is executed when the fluctuation pattern command (fluctuation pattern command indicating the fluctuation patterns # 12 and # 13) that allows the announcement to be accompanied is received. It is also used to determine whether or not to do.

  FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing a first variation pattern determination table used by the effect control means. The first variation pattern determination table is formed in the ROM, and when a variation pattern command (see FIG. 8) indicating variation pattern # 10 or variation pattern # 11 is received, a variation mode (with reach) including a reach mode is selected. Used to determine whether or not to do. In the first variation pattern determination table, a determination value to be compared with a variation pattern determination random number and data indicating reach or not reach are set in association with each other.

  In FIG. 36, “synchronous fluctuation (with reach) / short time normal reach” means that when a fluctuation pattern command indicating fluctuation pattern # 10 is received, “synchronous fluctuation (with reach)” is selected, and the fluctuation pattern When a variation pattern command indicating # 11 is received, this means that “short time normal reach” is selected. “No reach” means that the non-reach mode shown in FIG. 15 is selected.

  The fluctuation mode of “synchronous fluctuation” (synchronous fluctuation reach) is such that the display state of the variable display device 9 is such that the middle symbol does not match the left and right symbols from the reach state as shown in FIG. The variation pattern is such that the left middle right symbol is stopped and displayed (see FIG. 12 (e2)).

  Further, the first variation pattern determination table includes a plurality of tables corresponding to the game situation. In the example shown in FIG. 36, a table (see FIG. 36A) used when there is no reach once in the last 20 changes, and there is one or two reach in the last 20 changes. There is a table (see FIG. 36 (B)) used when there is a table and a table (see FIG. 36 (C)) used when there is a reach three times or more after the last 20 fluctuations. The table shown in FIG. 36B is also used in 20 fluctuations after power-on and 20 fluctuations after a big hit occurs.

  Hereinafter, the table shown in FIG. 36A is referred to as a first variation pattern determination table (A), the table illustrated in FIG. 36B is referred to as a first variation pattern determination table (B), and FIG. The table shown is referred to as a first variation pattern determination table (C).

  FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram showing a second variation pattern determination table, a third variation pattern determination table, and a fourth variation pattern determination table used by the effect control means. The second variation pattern determination table is formed in the ROM, and when the variation pattern command (see FIG. 8) indicating the variation pattern # 12 or the variation pattern # 13 is received, the variation mode including the reach mode (with reach) is selected. This is used to determine whether or not to select and whether or not to select a variation mode with a notice effect. In the second variation pattern determination table, the determination value compared with the random number for determining the variation pattern is associated with data indicating that there is a notice effect (with notice) or no notice effect (without notice). Is set.

  In the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 37, when a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 12 is received, “with notice” means that the variation mode of “total rotation variation” is selected. “No notice” means that the non-reach mode shown in FIG. 15 is selected. When the fluctuation pattern command indicating the fluctuation pattern # 13 is received, “with notice” means that the fluctuation mode of “shielding fluctuation” is selected, and “without notice” means that there is no reach shown in FIG. Meaning that there is no prior notice).

  Further, the second variation pattern determination table includes a plurality of tables corresponding to game situations. In the example shown in FIG. 37, a table (see FIG. 37A) used when there is no previous notice for the last 20 changes, and one or two notices for the last 20 changes. There are a table (see FIG. 37 (B)) used in the case of being present, and a table (see FIG. 37 (C)) used in the case where there are three or more notices in the last 20 changes. The table shown in FIG. 37B is also used in 20 fluctuations after power-on and 20 fluctuations after a big hit occurs.

  The variation mode of “total rotation variation” is shown in FIG. 13 (e 3) from the display state in which the display state of the variable display device 9 varies at a high speed all at the same time as shown in FIG. 13 (d). After such matching left and right symbols are derived and displayed, the display mode changes so that only the middle symbol changes.

  The variation mode of “occlusion variation” is that the display state of the variable display device 9 is changed from a display state in which a character that shields the left middle right symbol as shown in FIGS. 14C and 14D is displayed. This is a variation mode in which the middle left and right symbols in a state where the middle symbol as shown in e2) does not coincide with the left and right symbols are stopped and displayed.

  Hereinafter, the second variation pattern determination table illustrated in FIG. 37A is referred to as a second variation pattern determination table (A), and the second variation pattern determination table illustrated in FIG. 37B is referred to as a second variation pattern determination table (B). The second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 37C is referred to as a second variation pattern determination table (C).

  The third variation pattern determination table is a table used to determine whether or not to give a notice effect when a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 1, # 2, # 4 or # 14 is received. The fourth variation pattern determination table is a table used to determine whether or not to perform a notice effect when a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 7 or # 8 is received.

  FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram of a stop symbol determination table. The stop symbol determination table is formed in the ROM, and includes a left stop symbol determination table, a right stop symbol determination table, a middle stop symbol determination table, and a special medium stop symbol determination table.

  The left stop symbol determination table shown in FIG. 38A is used to determine the stop symbol of the left symbol in the decorative symbol, and is set in association with the symbol and the determination value. FIG. 38A shows the number of determination values, but in actuality, the determination value itself to be compared with the value of the left stop symbol determination random number is set. The effect control CPU 101 determines the symbol corresponding to the determination value that matches the value of the left stop symbol determination random number as the stop symbol of the left symbol.

  The right stop symbol determination table shown in FIG. 38B is used to determine the stop symbol of the right symbol in the decorative symbol, and is set in association with the symbol and the determination value. FIG. 38B shows the number of determination values, but in actuality, the determination value itself to be compared with the value of the random number for determining the right stop symbol is set. The effect control CPU 101 determines the symbol corresponding to the determination value that matches the value of the random number for determining the right stop symbol as the stop symbol of the right symbol.

  The middle stop symbol determination table shown in FIG. 38C is used to determine the stop symbol of the middle symbol in the decoration symbol, and is set in association with the symbol and the determination value. FIG. 38C shows the number of determination values, but in actuality, the determination value itself to be compared with the value of the random number for determining the middle stop symbol is set. The effect control CPU 101 determines the symbol corresponding to the determination value that matches the middle stop symbol determination random number as the middle symbol stop symbol.

  The special medium stop symbol determination table shown in FIG. 38 (D) includes a first table, a second table, and a third table as difference determination tables. The special middle stop symbol determination table is used to determine the stop symbol of the middle symbol when the variation of the decorative symbol based on the variation pattern including the reach mode is performed when the display result of the variable display is changed to the symbol. It is done. In the special medium stop symbol determination table, a difference between the stop symbol of the left symbol and a determination value are set in association with each other. FIG. 38D shows the number of determination values, but actually, the determination value itself to be compared with the value of the random number for determining the middle stop symbol is set. The effect control CPU 101 determines the symbol corresponding to the difference corresponding to the determination value that matches the middle stop symbol determination random number as the middle symbol stop symbol.

  In this embodiment, there are nine types of decorative patterns on the left, middle and right, 1 to 9, respectively. Then, in the variable display device 9, the change in the design is realized by changing the display design as 1 → 2 →... → 9 → 1 →. “Difference” means a symbol difference. For example, a difference of 1 when the stop symbol of the left symbol is “1” indicates that the stop symbol of the middle symbol is “2”. The difference 8 when the stop symbol of the left symbol is “1” indicates that the stop symbol of the middle symbol is “9”. A difference of 1 when the stop symbol of the left symbol is “5” indicates that the stop symbol of the middle symbol is “6”. In addition, the difference 8 when the stop symbol of the left symbol is “5” indicates that the stop symbol of the middle symbol is “4” (5 + 8−9).

  The first table is used when a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 7 (super reach where the display result is out of date: see FIG. 8) is received. The second table is used when a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 8 (long-time reach when the display result is out of date: see FIG. 8) is received. The third table is used when a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 10 or variation pattern # 11 is received.

  That is, the game control means decides that the display result is out of reach but is reached, and always shows a change pattern (change pattern # 7 or change pattern # in this example) indicating that the change is based on the change pattern including the reach mode. When the variation pattern command indicating 8) is transmitted, the variation pattern (in this example, variation pattern # 7: see FIG. 9) having a relatively high probability that the display result will be a big hit symbol is the first table (difference 1 or the difference 8 is easily selected (that is, the symbol difference is likely to be ± 1), and the variation pattern (in this example, the variation pattern # 8) is relatively less likely to be a big hit symbol. Is used, the second table (difference 1 or difference 8 is difficult to select. That is, the symbol difference is difficult to be ± 1) is used, and the reach mode is used. For the variation patterns (variation patterns # 10 and # 11) indicating that the variation is based on the variation pattern that allows the first table, the third table (the degree of the symbol difference becomes ± 1 is the same as when the first table is used and the second table). The middle of the table is used).

  Note that the fluctuation pattern # 7 (super reach) is difficult to select when using the deviation fluctuation pattern table, and the fluctuation pattern # 1 (super reach) is less likely to be selected when using the big hit or small hit fluctuation pattern table. Therefore, the variation mode by the variation pattern # 7, that is, the variation mode including the super reach reach mode is a variation pattern in which the display result is relatively likely to be a big hit symbol.

  The third table may also be used for the variation patterns # 12 and # 13. Further, for a variation pattern in which the display result is relatively unlikely to be a big hit symbol (for example, lower than the variation pattern # 7), the third table may be used instead of the second table.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S806 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the variation pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801).

  Decoration symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the ornament symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol changing process (step S802).

  Decoration symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Decoration symbol variation stop process (step S803): Based on the reception of the effect control command (design determination designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, the variation of the ornament symbol is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Take control. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display processing (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the variable display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805).

  Big hit game processing (step S805): Control during big hit game is performed. For example, when a command for opening a special prize opening or a designation command after opening a special prize opening is received, display control of the number of rounds in the variable display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (step S806).

  Big hit end processing (step S806): In the variable display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  41 to 44 are flowcharts showing the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 receives a variation pattern command (a variation pattern command indicating variation patterns # 10 and # 11) that is allowed to include a reach mode, and includes a reach pattern. Determine whether to use. Also, a stop symbol of the left middle right decorative symbol is determined.

  In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S821). Further, a random number for determining a variation pattern is extracted (step S822). Specifically, the count value of the counter for generating the variation pattern determining random number is set as the value of the variation pattern determining random number.

  When the variation pattern command is a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 10 or variation pattern # 11, it is confirmed whether or not “after big hit or initial flag” is set (steps S823 and S824). The big hit or the initial flag is initialized to the set state by the initialization process (step S701). It is also set when the big hit game ends.

  After the big hit or when the initial flag is set, the value of “after the big hit or initial counter” is checked (step S825). After the big hit or the initial counter is incremented by 1 when the fluctuation pattern including the reach mode is performed after the big hit or when the initial flag is set.

  If the count value of the initial counter is less than 20 after the big hit, that is, the number of fluctuations of the decorative pattern including the reach mode after power-on is less than 20 or the number of variations of the decorative pattern including the reach mode after the big hit occurs When it is less than 20 times, the process proceeds to step S827 (step S825). After the big hit or when the count value of the initial counter reaches 20, after the big hit or the initial flag is reset (step S826).

  After the big hit or in the state where the initial flag is not set, it is checked whether or not the past 20 changes include a change due to a change pattern including a reach mode (step S828). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the “reach” data is included in the last 20 fluctuation state storage area (see FIG. 34). If the “reach” data is not included, the process proceeds to step S829. If one or two pieces of data with “reach” are included, the process proceeds to step S831 (step S830). If three or more data “with reach” are included, the process proceeds to step S832.

  In step S827 and step S831, the variation pattern to be actually used is determined based on the first variation pattern determination table (B) and the variation pattern determination random number shown in FIG. In step S829, the actual variation pattern to be used is determined based on the first variation pattern determination table (A) and the variation pattern determination random number shown in FIG. In step S832, a variation pattern to be actually used is determined based on the first variation pattern determination table (C) and the variation pattern determination random number shown in FIG. Then, control goes to a step S843.

  In step S843, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command is a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 12 or variation pattern # 13. If the variation pattern command is neither variation pattern # 12 nor variation pattern # 13, the process proceeds to step S853. If the variation pattern command is a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 12 or variation pattern # 13, it is confirmed whether or not “after big hit or initial flag” is set (step S844). After the big hit or when the initial flag is set, the value of “after the big hit or initial counter” is checked (step S845).

  If the count value of the initial counter is less than 20 after the big hit, that is, the number of fluctuations of the decorative pattern including the reach mode after power-on is less than 20 or the number of variations of the decorative pattern including the reach mode after the big hit occurs When it is less than 20 times, the process proceeds to step S847 (step S845). After the big hit or when the count value of the initial counter reaches 20, after the big hit or the initial flag is reset (step S846).

  In the state after the big hit or the initial flag is not set, it is confirmed whether or not the notice effect has been executed in the past 20 changes (step S848). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the “preliminary notice” data is included in the immediately preceding 20 execution execution state storage area (see FIG. 34). If the “notified” data is not included, the process proceeds to step S849. If one or two “notice” data is included, the process proceeds to step S851 (step S850). If three or more “notice” data is included, the process proceeds to step S852.

  In steps S847 and S851, it is determined whether or not to execute the notice effect based on the second variation pattern determination table (B) and the variation pattern determination random number shown in FIG. In step S849, it is determined based on the second variation pattern determination table (A) and the variation pattern determination random number shown in FIG. In step S852, it is determined whether or not to execute the notice effect based on the second variation pattern determination table (C) and the variation pattern determination random number shown in FIG. Then, control goes to a step S861. When it is determined not to execute the notice effect, it is determined that the variation of the decorative symbol is performed according to the variation pattern of the deviation variation (see FIG. 15). Further, when it is determined to execute the notice effect, it is determined that the variation of the decorative symbol is performed according to the variation pattern of the total rotation variation (see FIG. 13) or the concealment variation (see FIG. 14).

  In this embodiment, the processes of steps S843, S847, S849, S851, and S852 correspond to the process of determining whether to execute the notice effect.

  Further, in this embodiment, the selection ratio of whether or not to give a notice effect is determined according to the ratio of “with notice” in the past 20 fluctuations. You may make it determine according to the ratio of "with reach" in a fluctuation | variation. In that case, one of the tables in the second variation pattern determination table (notification effect determination table) is selected according to the data of the variation state storage area 20 times immediately before, and whether to notify or not is determined using the selected table. To do.

  When a variation pattern command allowing the inclusion of the reach mode is received by the control as described above, if the variation including the reach mode is not executed so far in the past variation, the variation pattern including the reach mode is performed. The variation based on this is easily executed (see FIGS. 36 and 37). Further, immediately after the big hit (in this example, a period in which 20 fluctuations are executed), the fluctuation based on the fluctuation pattern including the reach mode is difficult to be executed (see FIGS. 36 and 37). By such control, it is possible to reduce the possibility of occurrence of a situation in which there is no fluctuation based on a fluctuation pattern including a reach mode over a long period of time. In addition, it is possible to avoid as much as possible a situation in which a variation pattern including a reach mode appears in a concentrated manner (that is, frequently). That is, when the variation pattern including the reach mode frequently appears, control is performed so that the reach mode is not selected. As a result, it is possible to avoid a situation in which no big hit occurs despite the frequent reach.

  Further, in the past fluctuation, when the notice effect is not executed so much, the notice effect is easily executed (see FIG. 37). Also, immediately after the big hit (in this example, a period in which 20 fluctuations are executed), the notice effect is difficult to be executed (see FIG. 37).

  In step S853, if the variation pattern command is a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 1, # 2 or # 14 (a variation pattern allowing a big hit and allowing a notice effect), the third variation pattern is displayed. It is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed based on the determination table and the random number for determining the variation pattern. Further, when the variation pattern command is a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 7 or # 8 (a variation pattern that is a deviation and allows a notice effect), the fourth variation pattern determination table and the variation pattern It is determined whether or not to execute the notice effect based on the value of the random number for determination (step S854).

  In step S861, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a left stop symbol determining random number, a right stop symbol determining random number, and a middle stop symbol determining random number. Specifically, the count value of the counter for generating the left stop symbol determining random number is set as the left stop symbol determining random number. Further, the count value of the counter for generating the right stop symbol determining random number is set as the value of the right stop symbol determining random number. Then, the count value of the counter for generating the middle stop symbol determining random number is set as the value of the middle stop symbol determining random number.

  In the case of big hit or small hit, the stop symbol of the left middle right symbol (the same symbol for left middle right) is determined using the random number for determining the middle stop symbol and the middle stop symbol determination table shown in FIG. (Steps S862, S863). Further, after the big hit or the initial flag is set, the big hit or the initial counter is initialized to 0 (step S864). Then, control goes to a step S882. Whether or not to win is determined by, for example, data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (received display result specifying command). In addition, in the process of step S864, the contents of the change state storage area 20 times immediately before may be initialized (all data are set to “no reach” data).

  When the big hit and the small hit are not made (in the case of losing), it is determined whether or not to reach (step S865). That is, it is confirmed whether or not to change the decorative symbol based on the variation pattern including the reach mode. The effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to reach basically based on the data (received variation pattern command) stored in the variation pattern command storage area, but steps S827, S829, S831, and S832. , Steps S847, S849, S851, and S852 are performed, the determination is based on the determination results of these processes.

  When not reaching, the CPU 101 for effect control determines the left stop symbol determination random number, the right stop symbol determination random number, the middle stop symbol determination random number, the left stop symbol determination table, the right stop symbol determination table shown in FIG. Using the middle stop symbol determination table, the stop symbol of the left middle right symbol is determined (step S866). When the determined stop symbols of the left and right symbols match, for example, the right symbol is shifted by one symbol.

  In the case of reaching, the stop symbol of the left and right symbols (the same symbol on both the left and right) is determined using the left stop symbol determining random number and the left stop symbol determining table shown in FIG. 38 (step S867). When the reach mode is super reach (step S868), the stop symbol of the middle symbol is determined using the middle stop symbol determination random number and the first table shown in FIG. 38 (step S869). Then, control goes to a step S876A. If the reach mode is normal reach for a long time (step S870), the middle symbol stop symbol is determined using the medium stop symbol determination random number and the second table shown in FIG. 38 (step S871). Then, control goes to a step S876A.

  When the reach mode is synchronous fluctuation with reach or short time normal reach (step S872), the stop symbol of the middle symbol is determined using the random number for determining the middle stop symbol and the third table shown in FIG. (Step S873). Then, control goes to a step S876A. Note that the “short-time normal reach” to be determined in step S872 is the short-time normal reach determined in the processing of steps S827, S829, S831, and S832 using the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. That is, the short time normal reach determined when the variation pattern command indicating the variation pattern # 11 (see FIG. 8) is received.

  When the reach mode is super reach, synchronous fluctuation with long-time normal reach and short-time normal reach, the middle symbol stop symbol is determined using the medium stop symbol determination random number and the middle symbol determination table shown in FIG. Is determined (step S874). Then, control goes to a step S876A. When the stop symbol of the middle symbol determined in the process of step S874 matches the stop symbol of the left and right symbols, for example, the stop symbol of the middle symbol is shifted by one symbol. In addition, since the stop symbol of the middle symbol determined in the processes of steps S869, S871, and S873 is determined as a difference (symbol difference) from the left symbol (the right symbol is the same because it reaches), it matches the stop symbol. There is nothing.

  In step S876A, data indicating the presence / absence of reach (“with reach” or “without reach”) is stored in the area pointed to by the pointer in the last 20 fluctuation state storage areas. Further, data indicating the presence / absence of the notice effect (“with notice” or “without notice”) is stored in the area pointed to by the pointer in the previous 20 notice execution state storage area. Then, after the big hit or when the initial flag is set, the value of the big counter after the big hit or the initial counter is incremented by 1 (steps S877 and S878), and the process proceeds to step S882.

  In step S882, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern. Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S883).

  FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the variable display device 9 in accordance with the data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative symbols. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the variable display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the decorative pattern in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  The process table shown in FIG. 43 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern. Furthermore, even if the variation pattern is the same, different process tables are prepared depending on whether the notice effect is executed or not. That is, in this embodiment, the notice effect is realized by the effect control CPU 101 controlling the effect device according to the data set in the process table.

  Then, the production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the variable display device 9 as the production component, the production component) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). The control of the various lamps and the speaker 27 as an effect part is executed (step S884). For example, in order to display an image corresponding to the variation pattern on the variable display device 9, a command is output to the VDP 109. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S885), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation process (step S802). (Step S896).

  FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S901) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (step S902). When the process timer times out (step S903), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S904). Further, the control of the effect device is executed in accordance with the contents of the process data i (i is any one of 2 to n) (however, the sound number data i is excluded) (step S905).

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S906), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S908). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S907), the process proceeds to step S908. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, the variation of the decorative symbol can be terminated when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol has ended).

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S911). If the confirmed command reception flag is set, the confirmed command reception flag is reset. Then, control is performed to derive and display the determined stop symbol (step S913). Then, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is determined to be a big hit (step S914). Whether or not it is determined to be a big hit is confirmed by, for example, a display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area. In this embodiment, it can be confirmed whether or not it is determined to be a big hit based on the determined stop symbol.

  When it is determined to be a big hit or a small hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S915).

  When it is determined not to make a big hit or a small hit, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the time-short state flag is set (step S916). The short time state flag is set when the gaming state is the short time state (see step S947 described later). If the time-short state flag is set, the value of the time-short fluctuation count counter is incremented by 1 (step S917).

  Then, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the value of the time-varying variation number counter is 100 (step S918). If the value of the hourly fluctuation count counter is 100, the hourly state flag is reset (step S919). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S920).

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 ends the decoration symbol variation (variable display) on the condition that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received (see steps S911 and S913). However, if the variation time timer based on the received variation pattern command times out, the variation of the decorative symbol may be controlled to end without receiving the symbol determination designation command. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 may not transmit the symbol confirmation designation command for designating the end of variable display.

  FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot start 1-4 designation command reception flag indicating that any of the jackpot start 1-4 designation commands has been received is set (step S931). If any one of the big hit start 1 to 4 designation command reception flags is set, control is performed to display a game start screen corresponding to the set flag on the variable display device 9 (step S932). Further, the set flag (any one of the big hit start 1-4 designation command reception flags) is reset (step S933). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805) (step S934).

  In step S932, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display a screen for informing the start of the small hit game on the variable display device 9 when the big hit start 2 designation command is received. Further, when the big hit start 4 designation command is received, the variable display device 9 is controlled to display a screen for informing the sudden start of the probable big hit game. When the jackpot start 1 designation command or the jackpot start 3 designation command is received, a screen for informing the start of the jackpot game (a screen for informing the start of the jackpot game and a notice of the start of the sudden probability change jackpot game) The display is controlled on the variable display device 9.

  FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing the big hit end process (step S806) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end effect timer is set (step S940). When the big hit end effect timer is set, the process proceeds to step S945. If the jackpot end effect timer is not set, a jackpot end designation command reception flag (a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag) indicating that the jackpot termination designation command has been received is set. It is confirmed whether or not there is (step S941). When the big hit end designation command reception flag is set, the big hit end designation command reception flag is reset (step S942), and the variable display device 9 is controlled to display a big hit end screen (step S943). Specifically, an instruction to display the big hit end screen is given to the VDP 109.

  In this embodiment, even if the type of jackpot is different, the same jackpot end screen is displayed on the variable display device 9. For example, the big hit end display and the small hit end display are the same. However, the big hit end display (including the small hit end display) may be divided according to the type of the big hit.

  In step S945, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end effect timer. Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end effect timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end effect time has elapsed (step S946). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the time reduction state flag is set (step S947), and 0 is set in the time reduction number counter (step S948). If the jackpot end 1 designation command has been received, the probability variation state flag is reset (steps S949 and S951). When the jackpot end 1 designation command has not been received (when the jackpot end 2 designation command has been received), the probability variation state flag is set (steps S949 and S950). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S952).

  Note that the probability change state flag and the time reduction state flag are used, for example, when the effect control CPU 101 notifies the probability change state and the time reduction state by a background or a decorative light emitter (lamp / LED) in the variable display device 9.

  In this embodiment, when it is specified by the effect control command that the symbol display result is not the specific display result, the specific effect control command (in the above example, the change pattern indicating the change patterns # 10 and # 11) is used. Since the variation mode including the reach mode is selected as the variation mode in the variation time specified by the command), the reach mode effect is executed when the variation pattern having the same variation time is used. There are cases where the game is not executed and cases where the game is not executed. In addition, since the effect control means selects the variation mode including the reach mode, it is not necessary to increase the burden on the game control unit when performing such control.

  In addition, when the effect control means receives a specific effect control command (in the above example, the change pattern command indicating the change pattern # 12 or # 13), whether or not to execute the notice effect during the change of the symbol. And decide whether to execute the notice effect according to the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect in the change executed before the change of the subject of the notice effect, so it does not increase the burden of the game control means It is possible to improve the interest of the game by flexibly changing the degree of occurrence of the notice effect. In addition, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the notice effect is not executed over a long period of time. In addition, when the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect is high, by controlling so that the notice effect is not easily selected, it is possible to avoid a situation where the big hit does not occur despite the frequent notice effects.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means decides to always execute the notice effect when the change pattern command indicating the change pattern # 5 or # 6 in which the display result is a big hit symbol is received.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a situation based on a fluctuation pattern including a reach mode will not occur over a long period of time and a variation pattern including a reach mode appears in a concentrated manner. In order to avoid the situation as much as possible, it was determined whether or not the reach mode was included in the past predetermined times (20 times in the first embodiment).

  In this embodiment, when a variation pattern command (a variation pattern command indicating variation patterns # 10 and # 11) that allows the inclusion of a reach mode is received, the reach mode is continuously performed a plurality of times immediately before that point. When the change including is not executed, the selection ratio of the change mode based on the change pattern including the reach mode is increased. In addition, as the number of times is increased, the selection ratio of the variation mode based on the variation pattern including the reach mode is further increased. Further, when a variation pattern command (variation pattern command indicating variation patterns # 12 and # 13) that permits execution of the notice effect is received, the notice effect is not executed continuously a plurality of times immediately before that point. In addition, the selection ratio of the notice effect is increased. Note that when a variation pattern command (a variation pattern allowing a big hit and allowing a notice effect) is received, the pattern # 1, # 2 or # 14 is received as in the case of the first embodiment. Then, based on the third variation pattern determination table (see FIG. 37) and the value of the variation pattern determination random number, it is determined whether or not to execute the notice effect. Further, when the variation pattern command is received as a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 7 or # 8 (a variation pattern allowing a notice effect when the variation pattern command is out of sync with the case of the first embodiment). Similarly, it is determined whether to execute the notice effect based on the fourth variation pattern determination table (see FIG. 37) and the value of the variation pattern determination random number.

  FIG. 50 (A) is an explanatory view showing a first variation pattern determination table used by the effect control means in the second embodiment. The first variation pattern determination table is formed in the ROM, and when a variation pattern command (see FIG. 8) indicating variation pattern # 10 or variation pattern # 11 is received, a variation mode (with reach) including a reach mode is selected. Used to determine whether or not to do. In the first variation pattern determination table, a determination value to be compared with a variation pattern determination random number and data indicating reach or not reach are set in association with each other.

  In FIG. 50A, “synchronous fluctuation (with reach) / short time normal reach” means that “synchronous fluctuation (with reach)” is selected when a fluctuation pattern command indicating fluctuation pattern # 10 is received. When a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 11 is received, this means that “short time normal reach” is selected. “No reach” means that the non-reach mode shown in FIG. 15 is selected.

  The fluctuation mode of “synchronous fluctuation” (synchronous fluctuation reach) is such that the display state of the variable display device 9 is such that the middle symbol does not match the left and right symbols from the reach state as shown in FIG. The variation pattern is such that the left middle right symbol is stopped and displayed (see FIG. 12 (e2)).

  Further, the first variation pattern determination table includes a plurality of tables corresponding to the game situation. In the example shown in FIG. 50 (A), the table (1) used in 20 fluctuations after power-on and in the 20 fluctuations after the big hit has occurred, and there is a reach within the past 5 times (reach) Table (2) used when there was a change including a mode), table (3) used when there was no reach for the past 5 consecutive times, and continuous for the past 6 times The table (4) used when there is no reach and the table (5) used when the reach has not been reached seven times in the past are included.

  Hereinafter, the table shown in FIGS. 50A and 50A is referred to as a first variation pattern determination table (1), and the table shown in FIGS. 50A and 50B is referred to as a first variation pattern determination table (2). The table shown in FIGS. 50A and 50 is called a first variation pattern determination table (3), and the table shown in FIGS. 50A and 50 is called a first variation pattern determination table (4). (A) The table shown in (5) is referred to as a first variation pattern determination table (5).

  As shown in FIG. 50 (A), the greater the number of consecutive times when there is no continuous reach, the higher the selection ratio of the variation mode based on the variation pattern including the reach mode.

  FIG. 50B is an explanatory diagram showing a second variation pattern determination table used by the effect control means. The second variation pattern determination table is formed in the ROM, and determines whether to execute the notice effect when the variation pattern command (see FIG. 8) indicating the variation pattern # 12 or the variation pattern # 13 is received. Used for. The second variation pattern determination table includes a determination value to be compared with the random number for determining the variation pattern and data indicating that the notice effect is executed (with notice) or data indicating that the notice effect is not executed (without notice). And are set in association with each other.

  In FIG. 50B, “with notice” means that when a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 12 is received, a variation mode of “total rotation variation” is selected. Variation pattern # 13 This means that the variation mode of “occlusion variation” is selected when the variation pattern command indicating “” is received. “No notice” means that the mode of no reach (no notice) shown in FIG. 15 is selected.

  Further, the second variation pattern determination table includes a plurality of tables corresponding to game situations. In the example shown in FIG. 50 (B), the table (1) used in the 20 fluctuations after the power is turned on and in the 20 fluctuations after the big hit occurs, and the notice effect is executed within the past 5 times. Table (2) used in the case of being performed, table (3) used in the case where the announcement effect has not been executed continuously for the past five times, and the notification effect has not been executed in the past six times The table (4) used in this case and the table (5) used when the notice effect has not been executed seven times in the past are included.

  Hereinafter, the table shown in FIGS. 50B and 1A is referred to as a second fluctuation pattern determination table (1), and the table shown in FIGS. 50B and 50B is referred to as a second fluctuation pattern determination table (2). The table shown in FIGS. 50B and 3 is called a second variation pattern determination table (3), and the table shown in FIGS. 50B and 4 is called a second variation pattern determination table (4). (B) The table shown in (5) is referred to as a second variation pattern determination table (5).

  The variation mode of “total rotation variation” is shown in FIG. 13 (e 2) from the display state in which the display state of the variable display device 9 varies at a high speed all at once as shown in FIG. 13 (d). Such a variation mode is such that the left middle right symbol in a state where the middle symbol does not coincide with the left and right symbols is stopped and displayed.

  The variation mode of “occlusion variation” is that the display state of the variable display device 9 is changed from a display state in which a character that shields the left middle right symbol as shown in FIGS. 14C and 14D is displayed. This is a variation mode in which the middle left and right symbols in a state where the middle symbol as shown in e2) does not coincide with the left and right symbols are stopped and displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 50 (B), the selection ratio of the notice effect increases as the number of consecutive times when the notice effect is not continuously executed is increased.

  51 and 52 are flowcharts showing a part of the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) executed by the effect control CPU 101 in this embodiment. The configuration and operation of the game control means are the same as those in the first embodiment. In addition, the configuration and operation of the effect control means are the same as those in the first embodiment, except that the process shown in FIGS. 51 and 52 is executed in the decorative symbol variation start process.

  In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 performs steps S827A and S829A in place of the steps S827 to S832 shown in FIG. Further, in place of the processing in steps 847 to S852 shown in FIG. 42, the processing in steps S847A and S849A is performed. The other processes are the same as the processes in the decorative symbol variation start process in the first embodiment shown in FIGS.

  In this embodiment, the CPU 101 for effect control has the number of fluctuations of the decorative pattern including the reach after the power-on or when the count value of the initial counter is less than 20, that is, after the power is turned on, or the jackpot has occurred. When the number of variations of the decorative design including the subsequent reach mode is less than 20 (step S825), the first variation pattern determination table (1) and the random number for variation pattern determination shown in FIGS. Based on the above, a variation pattern to be actually used is determined (step S827A).

  In addition, after the big hit or when the initial flag is not set, one of the first variation pattern determination tables (2) to (5) is selected according to the past variation history (reach history), and the selected first Based on the one variation pattern determination table and the variation pattern determination random number, the variation pattern to be actually used is determined (step S829A).

  Note that the past reach history specifically indicates whether or not there has been a reach in fluctuations within the past five times, and if there has been no reach within the past five times, Although it is a history indicating whether or not there is, the effect control CPU 101 can confirm the reach history based on the data stored in the last 20 variation state storage area (see FIG. 34). That is, since the data that can determine the past reach history is set in the area that has been traced back from the area pointed to by the pointer in the last 20 fluctuation state storage areas, the reach history can be confirmed based on these data. For example, if there is data indicating “with reach” in an area five points back from the area pointed to by the pointer, it is understood that there has been reach within the past five times. Further, if there is no data indicating “reach” from the area pointed to by the pointer to the area that goes back seven, it can be seen that there has been no reach for the past seven consecutive times.

  When a variation pattern command that allows the inclusion of the reach mode is received by the processing of the effect control CPU 101 as described above, the variation including the reach mode is not executed continuously a plurality of times immediately before that point. In addition, the selection ratio of the variation mode based on the variation pattern including the reach mode can be increased as the selection ratio of the variation mode based on the variation pattern including the reach mode is increased and the number of times of the plurality of times is increased. As a result, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a situation based on a fluctuation pattern including a reach mode will not occur over a long period of time and to cause a situation in which a fluctuation pattern including a reach mode appears in a concentrated manner. It can be avoided. As a result, it is possible to avoid a situation in which no big hit occurs despite the frequent reach.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 has a reach mode after the big hit or when the count value of the initial counter is less than 20, that is, after the power is turned on, the decorative pattern including the reach mode is less than 20 times or the big hit occurs. In the case where the number of variations of the decorative pattern including the number is less than 20 (step S845), based on the second variation pattern determination table (1) and the variation pattern determination random number shown in FIGS. Then, it is determined whether or not to execute the notice effect (step S847A).

  In addition, after the big hit or in the state where the initial flag is not set, any one of the second variation pattern determination tables (2) to (5) is selected in accordance with the past execution history of the announcement effect (notice execution history), Based on the selected second variation pattern determination table and variation pattern determination random number, it is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed (step S849A).

  Note that the advance notice execution history specifically refers to whether or not the notice effect has been executed in the last five fluctuations, and if the notice effect has not been executed within the past five times, The effect control CPU 101 confirms the reach history based on the data stored in the immediately preceding notice execution state storage area (see FIG. 34). it can. That is, since the data that can determine the notice execution history is set in the area that has gone back from the area pointed to by the pointer in the previous 20 notice execution state storage area, the notice execution history can be confirmed based on the data. For example, if there is data indicating “with notice” in an area five points back from the area pointed to by the pointer, it can be understood that the notice effect has been executed within the past five times. Further, if there is no data indicating “with notice” from the area pointed to by the pointer to the area that goes back seven, it can be seen that the notice effect has not been executed seven times in the past.

  When the effect control means receives a specific effect control command (in the above example, the change pattern command indicating the change pattern # 12 or # 13), it determines whether to execute the notice effect during the change of the symbol. Then, since it is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed according to the number of continuous occurrences of the notice effect in the change executed before the change to be determined for the notice effect (see FIG. 50B). It is possible to improve the interest of the game by flexibly changing the degree of occurrence of the notice effect without increasing the burden on the game control means. In addition, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the notice effect is not executed over a long period of time. In addition, when the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect is high, by controlling so that the notice effect is not easily selected, it is possible to avoid a situation where the big hit does not occur despite the frequent notice effects.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
FIG. 53 (A) is an explanatory view showing a first variation pattern determination table used by the effect control means in the third embodiment. The first variation pattern determination table is formed in the ROM, and when a variation pattern command (see FIG. 8) indicating variation pattern # 10 or variation pattern # 11 is received, a variation mode (with reach) including a reach mode is selected. Used to determine whether or not to do. The first variation pattern determination table corresponds to a determination value to be compared with a variation pattern determination random number and data indicating reach or not reach according to a count value of a predetermined counter (reach determination counter described later). Attached and set. The predetermined counter is formed in the RAM. In FIG. 53A, the reach selection ratio is shown. Actually, however, the number of determination values corresponding to the reach selection ratio is set in the first variation pattern determination table. The first variation pattern determination table includes a table that is used after a big hit or when the initial flag is set, and a table that is used after a big hit or when the initial flag is not set.

  FIG. 53 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing a second variation pattern determination table used by the effect control means in the third embodiment. The second variation pattern determination table is formed in the ROM, and determines whether to execute the notice effect when the variation pattern command (see FIG. 8) indicating the variation pattern # 12 or the variation pattern # 13 is received. Used for. In the second variation pattern determination table, a determination value to be compared with a random number for variation pattern determination according to a count value of a predetermined counter (reach determination counter described later), and data (notice Yes) or data indicating that the notice effect is not to be executed (no notice) is set in association with each other. In FIG. 53B, the notice effect selection ratio is shown, but in practice, the number of determination values corresponding to the notice effect selection ratio itself is set in the second variation pattern determination table. Yes. The second variation pattern determination table includes a table that is used after the big hit or when the initial flag is set, and a table that is used after the big hit or when the initial flag is not set.

  54 to 56 are flowcharts showing a part of the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) executed by the effect control CPU 101 in this embodiment. The configuration and operation of the game control means are the same as those in the first embodiment. In addition, the configuration and operation of the effect control means are the same as those in the first embodiment, except that the process shown in FIGS. 54 to 56 is executed in the decorative symbol variation start process.

  In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 performs the processes of steps S827B, S827C, S829B, and S829C instead of the processes of steps S827 to S832 shown in FIG. Further, instead of the processing in steps 847 to S852 shown in FIG. 42, the processing in steps S847B, S847C, S849B, and S849C is performed. Further, the processes of steps S865C, S865D, and S865E are performed between the process of step S865 and the process of step S867 shown in FIG. 43, and the process of step S866C is performed after the process of step S866. The other processes are the same as the processes in the decorative symbol variation start process in the first embodiment shown in FIGS.

  In this embodiment, the CPU 101 for effect control has the number of fluctuations of the decorative pattern including the reach after the power-on or when the count value of the initial counter is less than 20, that is, after the power is turned on, or the jackpot has occurred. When the number of variations of the decorative pattern including the subsequent reach mode is less than 20 (step S825), the count value of the reach determination counter is read (step S827B), and the first variation pattern shown in FIG. Based on the table corresponding to the read count value in the determination table (in this case, “after big hit or initial flag set”) and the random number for determining the variation pattern, the variation pattern to be actually used is determined ( Step S827C).

  Also, after the big hit or when the initial flag is not set, the count value of the reach determination counter is read (step S829B), and corresponds to the read count value in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. Based on the table (in this case, the side that is not “after big hit or initial flag set”) and the random number for determining the variation pattern, the variation pattern to be actually used is determined (step S829C).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 has a reach mode after the big hit or when the count value of the initial counter is less than 20, that is, after the power is turned on, the decorative pattern including the reach mode is less than 20 times or the big hit occurs. When the number of variations of the decorative pattern including “<” is less than 20 (step S845), the count value of the notice determination counter is read (step S847B), and is read in the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed based on the table corresponding to the counted value (in this case, “after big hit or initial flag set”) and the random number for determining the variation pattern (step S847C). ).

  In addition, after the big hit or when the initial flag is not set, the count value of the notice determination counter is read (step S849B) and corresponds to the read count value in the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. Based on the table (in this case, the side that is not “after big hit or initial flag set”) and the random number for determining the variation pattern, it is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed (step S849C).

  Further, when it is determined to reach (step S865), the count value of the reach determination counter is incremented by 1 (step S865C), and when the count value becomes 4, it is set to 3 (steps S865D and S865E). Further, when it is determined that the reach is not performed (step S865), the left middle right symbol (the left and right symbols are not aligned) is determined (step S866), and the count value of the reach determination counter is set to 0 (step S866). Step S866C). Further, when it is determined to execute the notice effect (step S891), the count value of the notice determination counter is incremented by 1 (step S892), and when the count value becomes 4, it is set to 3 (steps S893 and S894). .

  Through the processing as described above, the processing in the column indicated as “processing” in FIG. 53 is executed. When the variation pattern including the reach mode is not selected, the count value of the reach determination counter becomes 0, and the reach selection ratio shown in FIG. 53 is high when the count value of the reach determination counter is 0. A variation pattern including a reach aspect in proportion is selected. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a situation in which no variation based on the variation pattern including the reach mode is made over a long period of time will occur. Further, as the count value increases, the variation pattern including the reach mode is less likely to be selected. The count value increases when a variation pattern including a reach mode is selected. Therefore, it can be avoided as much as possible that the fluctuation pattern including the reach mode appears in a concentrated manner (that is, frequently). As a result, it is possible to avoid a situation in which no big hit occurs despite the frequent reach.

  In addition, it is possible to improve the fun of the game by flexibly changing the degree of occurrence of the notice effect without increasing the burden on the game control means. In addition, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the notice effect is not executed over a long period of time. In addition, when the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect is high, by controlling so that the notice effect is not easily selected, it is possible to avoid a situation where the big hit does not occur despite the frequent notice effects.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
FIG. 58 shows a fourth embodiment in which a sound / lamp control board 80b and a display control board 80a are provided instead of the production control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70 shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the example of a structure. As shown in FIG. 58, the sound / lamp control board 80b is mounted with a sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b including a sound / lamp control CPU 101b and a RAM. In the sound / lamp control board 80b, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b operates according to a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and is input via the relay board 77. In response to the strobe signal (effect control INT signal) from, an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103.

  The sound / lamp control microcomputer 100 b outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver 352 via the output port 107. The lamp driver 352 amplifies a signal for driving the lamp and supplies the amplified signal to each lamp such as the top frame lamp 28 a, the left frame lamp 28 b, the right frame lamp 28 c, and the decoration lamp 25.

  In addition, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b outputs sound number data to the speech synthesis IC 703. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data.

  The sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b transfers the received effect control command to the display control board 80a via the output port 104, generates a command based on the received effect control command, and generates the generated command. The data is transmitted to the display control board 80a via the output port 104.

  As shown in FIG. 58, a display control microcomputer 100a including a display control CPU 101a and a RAM (not shown) is mounted on the display control board 80a. In the display control board 80a, the display control microcomputer 100a operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown) and receives a command from the sound / lamp control board 80b via the input port 108. To do. Then, the display control microcomputer 100a causes the VDP 109 to perform display control of the variable display device 9 using the LCD based on the received command. The control of the display control microcomputer 100a related to the display control of the variable display device 9 is the same as the control of the effect control microcomputer 100 in the first to third embodiments.

  The command transmitted from the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b to the display control microcomputer 100a is the same as the effect control command (see FIG. 18) in the first to third embodiments. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b transfers the command received from the game control microcomputer 560 as it is to the display control microcomputer 100a, thereby producing the effect control commands in the first to third embodiments (see FIG. 18). ) Can be given to the display control microcomputer 100a.

  FIG. 59 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b according to the fourth embodiment. When power supply to the gaming machine is started and the reset signal becomes high level, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b starts main processing. In the main process, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b first performs an initialization process for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval, and the like. This is performed (step S961). Thereafter, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S962). When a timer interrupt that occurs regularly (for example, every 2 ms) occurs, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. When the timer interrupt flag is set, in the main process, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b clears the flag (step S963) and executes the following sound / lamp control process.

  In the sound / lamp control process, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b first analyzes the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 (first command analysis process: step S964). The sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b performs effect control by the same processing as the command analysis processing (command analysis processing shown in FIGS. 32 and 33 executed by the effect control microcomputer 100) in the first embodiment. Parse the command.

  Next, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b performs a sound / lamp control process (step S965). The sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b executes processing (however, only the portion related to the control of the speaker 27 and each lamp and LED) in accordance with the processing similar to the effect control processing (see FIG. 39) in the first embodiment. To do.

  Further, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b executes a process of updating a random number counter used in the sound / lamp control process (step S966).

  Further, a second command transmission process is executed for outputting the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 as a display control command (second command) to the display control microcomputer 100a (step S967). Then, control goes to a step S962.

  FIG. 60 is a flowchart illustrating main processing executed by the display control microcomputer 100a according to the fourth embodiment. When power supply to the gaming machine is started and the reset signal becomes high level, the display control microcomputer 100a starts main processing. In the main process, the display control microcomputer 100a first performs an initialization process for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, initializing a timer for determining the start interval of the production control, and the like ( Step S971). Thereafter, the display control microcomputer 100a shifts to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S972). When a timer interrupt that occurs periodically occurs, the display control microcomputer 100a sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. When the timer interrupt flag is set, in the main process, the display control microcomputer 100a clears the flag (step S973) and executes the following display control process.

  In the display control process, the display control microcomputer 100a analyzes the display control command received from the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b (second command analysis process: step S974). The display control microcomputer 100a, for example, outputs the display control command by a process similar to the command analysis process (the command analysis process shown in FIGS. 32 and 33 executed by the effect control microcomputer 100) in the first embodiment. To analyze.

  Next, the display control microcomputer 100a performs display control process processing (step S975). The display control microcomputer 100a executes processing (however, only the portion related to control of the variable display device 9) in accordance with the same processing as the effect control process (see FIG. 39) in the first embodiment. Accordingly, the display control microcomputer 100a executes the same control as the variable display control executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 in the first to third embodiments.

  Further, the display control microcomputer 100a executes a process of updating a random number counter used in the display control process (step S976). Then, control goes to a step S972.

  In the fourth embodiment, the effect control command from the game control means is received by the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b as the first effect control means, and the display control microcomputer as the second effect control means. 100a controls the variable display device 9 by receiving a display control command having the same content as the effect control command from the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b. The control method of the variable display device 9 is the same as the control of the effect control microcomputer 100 in the first to third embodiments. Further, the control method of the speaker 27 and the light emitter (lamp or LED) of the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b is the same as the control of the effect control microcomputer 100 in the first to third embodiments.

  Therefore, as in the case of the first to third embodiments, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a situation based on the fluctuation pattern including the reach mode will not occur over a long period of time and to reduce the reach mode. It is possible to avoid as much as possible the situation in which the variation pattern to be included becomes concentrated (that is, frequently). In addition, in the past variation, when the variation including the reach mode is not performed so much, the variation based on the variation pattern including the reach mode accompanied with the notice effect is easily performed. That is, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the notice effect is not executed over a long period of time. In addition, when the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect is high, by controlling so that the notice effect is not easily selected, it is possible to avoid a situation where the big hit does not occur despite the frequent notice effects.

  In the fourth embodiment, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b directly outputs the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 to the display control microcomputer 100a as a display control command. However, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b may output a display control command created independently.

  In the fourth embodiment, when the display control microcomputer 100a receives a display control command (display control command indicating the variation patterns # 10 and # 11) that allows the reach mode to be included, the reach is performed. Whether to execute the variation including the aspect or the variation not including the reach aspect is selected. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b performs the selection and displays a display control command indicating the selection result. You may make it transmit to the microcomputer 100a for display control. In that case, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b uses the first variation pattern determination table (see FIGS. 36, 50A, and 53A) and the second variation pattern determination table (FIG. 37, FIG. 50 (B), see FIG. 53 (B)) and a random number value, the process of selecting the reach mode executed by the production control microcomputer 100 in the first to third embodiments (step S823). Steps S827, S829, S831, S832, S843, S847, S849, S851, and S852 are executed. In the fourth embodiment, the display control microcomputer 100a executes the notice effect according to the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect in the change executed before the change of the symbol for which the notice effect is determined. However, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b may make the determination and transmit a display control command indicating the determination result to the display control microcomputer 100a. In this case, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 100b uses the second variation pattern determination table and the random number value to notify the presentation control microcomputer 100 in the first to third embodiments. Processing to determine whether or not to perform (processing of steps S843, S847, S849, S851, and S852) is executed.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine of each of the above embodiments can be given a predetermined game value to a player mainly when the special symbol that is variably displayed on the variable display unit based on the start winning prize becomes a predetermined symbol. A pachinko machine that can be given a predetermined gaming value to a player when there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric game that is released based on a start prize, or a start prize Even if it is a pachinko game machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize for a predetermined electric accessory that is released when the stop symbol of the symbol that is variably displayed becomes a predetermined symbol combination, the variable display device In the case where it is provided, the present invention can be applied. Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine that inserts game medals and sets a bet number and plays a game, or a game machine that inserts game balls instead of game medals and sets a bet number and plays a game.

  The present invention is preferably applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine provided with a variable display device having a plurality of variable display units capable of variably displaying identification information.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a big hit determination value. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a fluctuation pattern table. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the fluctuation | variation aspect containing the reach aspect of a super reach. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the fluctuation | variation aspect containing the reach | attainment aspect of long time normal reach and short time normal reach. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the fluctuation | variation aspect of a synchronous fluctuation | variation. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the fluctuation | variation aspect of total rotation fluctuation | variation. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the fluctuation | variation aspect of shielding fluctuation | variation. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the fluctuation | variation aspect without reach. FIG. 38E illustrates an effect control command signal line. It is a timing diagram showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result specific command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a small hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a structure of 20 immediately before fluctuation state storage area | region and 20 immediately prior notice execution state storage area. It is explanatory drawing which shows the range of each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the 1st fluctuation pattern determination table in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the 2nd variation pattern determination table in a 1st embodiment, the 3rd variation pattern determination table, and the 4th variation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a stop symbol determination table. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the 1st fluctuation pattern determination table and the 2nd fluctuation pattern determination table in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the decoration design change start process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the decoration design change start process in 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the 1st fluctuation pattern determination table and the 2nd fluctuation pattern determination table in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the decoration design change start process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the decoration design change start process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the decoration design change start process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the decoration design change start process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of 4th Embodiment provided with the sound / lamp control board and the display control board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for sound / lamp control performs. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for display control performs.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Variable display device 13 1st start winning opening 14 2nd starting winning opening 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
560 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP

Claims (5)

It is possible to perform a predetermined game using a game ball, and includes a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other and derives and displays a display result, and the variable display device includes a plurality of types A gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when a specific display result based on the identification information is derived and displayed,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Display control means for controlling the variable display device based on a command transmitted by the game control means,
The game control means includes
Prior determination means for determining whether to shift to the specific gaming state before derivation display of the display result;
Variable display time determining means for determining a variable display time of identification information in the variable display device,
The variable display time determining means derives the identification information derived and displayed last in the variable display time within the variable display time when the prior determination means determines not to shift to the specific gaming state. and it determines whether to allow the other identification information derived displayed when that is not displayed includes reach embodiments consistent with the specific display results, the possibility that the specific display result is derived displayed Decide whether or not to include a notice effect for notification,
The game control means specifies the variable display time of the identification information on the variable display device and the display result of the identification information on the variable display device based on the determination of the prior determination means and the variable display time determination means. and whether or not to display the results, and whether to allow it to include the SL reach embodiments within the variable display time, the display control means capable of specifying command the door whether permits the inclusion of the announcement attraction Variable display command transmission means for transmitting to
The display control means includes
Variable display execution means for executing variable display of identification information in the variable display device in response to receiving the command;
During the variable display of the identification information, the notice effect determining means for determining whether to execute the notice effect,
When it is specified that the display result of the identification information is not a specific display result by the command, the variable display mode of any of a plurality of variable display modes is used as the variable display mode in the variable display time specified by the command. Variable display mode selection means to select,
Wherein the variable display mode selecting means, when to include the reach aspect was tolerated by the command, a random number or not included in the variable display mode the reach embodiments or to include the reach embodiments the variable display mode Using a lottery, and changing the selection ratio of the reach mode according to the occurrence frequency of the reach mode in the variable display of the identification information executed before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target ,
The notice effect determining means determines whether or not to execute the notice effect using the random number used by the variable display mode selecting means when the command is allowed to include the notice effect. According to the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect in the variable display of the identification information for a predetermined number of times executed before the variable display of the decision target of the notice effect, the ratio to be determined to execute the notice effect is changed. A featured gaming machine. It is possible to perform a predetermined game using a game ball, and includes a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other and derives and displays a display result, and the variable display device includes a plurality of types A gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when a specific display result based on the identification information is derived and displayed,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Effect device control means for controlling the effect device provided in the gaming machine based on the first command transmitted by the game control means;
Display control means for controlling the variable display device based on a second command transmitted by the effect device control means;
The game control means includes
Prior determination means for determining whether to shift to the specific gaming state before derivation display of the display result;
Variable display time determining means for determining a variable display time of identification information in the variable display device,
The variable display time determining means derives the identification information derived and displayed last in the variable display time within the variable display time when the prior determination means determines not to shift to the specific gaming state. along with other identification information derived displayed when that is not displayed to determine whether to permit the reach manner consistent with the specific display results, for notifying the possibility that the specific display result is derived displayed Decide whether to allow the inclusion of
The game control means uses the variable display time of the identification information in the variable display device and the identification in the variable display device as the first command based on the determination of the prior determination means and the variable display time determination means. and whether a particular display result display result information, and whether to allow it to include the SL reach embodiments within the variable display time, which can specify DOO whether permits the inclusion of the announcement attraction Variable display command transmission means for transmitting a command to the display control means,
The effect device control means includes:
Second command transmission means for transmitting a second command to the display control means based on the first command received from the game control means;
The display control means includes
Variable display executing means for executing variable display of identification information in the variable display device in response to receiving the second command;
The effect device control means or the display control means is:
When it is specified by the first command transmitted by the game control means that the display result of the identification information is not a specific display result, a plurality of variable display modes in the variable display time specified by the first command Variable display mode selection means for selecting any one of the variable display modes ;
A notice effect determining means for determining whether or not to execute the notice effect during variable display of the identification information ;
The variable display mode selection unit includes the reach mode in the variable display mode or variably displays the reach mode when the reach mode is allowed to be included by the first command transmitted by the game control unit. Whether or not to be included in the mode is determined by lottery using a random number, and the reach is determined according to the frequency of occurrence of the reach mode in the variable display of the identification information executed before the variable display of the selection target of the variable display mode Change the selection ratio of the aspect ,
The notice effect determining means determines whether or not to execute the notice effect using the random number used by the variable display mode selecting means when the command is allowed to include the notice effect. According to the frequency of occurrence of the notice effect in the variable display of the identification information for a predetermined number of times executed before the variable display of the decision target of the notice effect, the ratio to be determined to execute the notice effect is changed. A featured gaming machine. The variable display mode selection means selects the reach mode when the reach mode has not occurred in all of the variable display of the identification information performed a predetermined number of times before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or claim 2. Data for specifying the frequency of occurrence of the reach mode in the variable display of the identification information executed before the variable display of the variable display mode selection target and the variable display of the target for determining the notice effect A variable state storage area for storing data for specifying the occurrence frequency of the notice effect in the variable display of the identification information for a predetermined time;
Data initialization means for initializing data in the variable state storage area based on being controlled to a specific gaming state
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . The game control means includes reach type determining means for determining the type of reach mode,
The variable display command transmission means transmits a command that can specify the determination result when the reach type determination means determines the type of reach mode.
The display control means
A first difference determination table in which a difference indicating a difference in identification information from stop identification information derived and displayed during execution of variable display including a reach mode and a selection ratio of the difference are set;
A difference indicating the degree of difference in identification information from the stop identification information and a selection ratio of the difference are set, and a lower selection ratio is set for a small difference compared to the first difference determination table. A second difference determination table;
The identification information finally derived and displayed includes stop identification information determining means for determining the difference from the stop identification information other than the identification information,
The stop identification information determination means selects a difference according to a selection ratio from the first difference determination table when the command specifies that the type of reach mode is the first reach mode, and identifies according to the selected difference The information is the identification information that is derived and displayed at the end, and when the type of reach mode is specified as the second reach mode by the command, the difference is selected from the second difference determination table according to the selection ratio and selected. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the identification information corresponding to the difference is the identification information derived and displayed last.

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