JP5156105B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that pays out a prize ball based on detection that a game ball has won a prize device.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine using a game ball, a plurality of winning devices such as a normal winning port and a grand winning port are provided in a gaming area formed on the gaming board, and each winning device is The number of prize balls (number of game balls) that a player can win when winning a game ball is set in advance, and when the game ball wins each winning device, the prize set from the main control board to the payout control board Sends a command corresponding to the number of balls, counts with a payout counter provided according to the number of prize balls to be paid out, holds the number of payouts for each number of prize balls, and prize balls with the payout device based on the held count value Is known to pay out.

JP 2001-239031 A

  However, since the system related to payout of prize balls in a gaming machine is designed in consideration of model changes, etc., in conventional gaming machines, one can be used so that the number of prize balls can be changed according to the model change. The payout counters for all values from the payout counter to a predetermined number (for example, 15) payout counters had to be set in advance. For this reason, in the conventional gaming machine, among the set payout counters, only the payout counters required according to the model are used, and the remaining payout counters are not used.

  In this way, in conventional gaming machines, there are almost no models that use all preset payout counters, but payout counters that are not used must also be set and payouts that are not used. There is a problem that the storage area becomes large due to the counter.

  In addition, if the payout counter for each model is set for each model, there is a problem that the program must be changed for each model of the gaming machine.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and sets a payout counter for all values from one payout counter to a predetermined number (for example, 15) payout counters, and the number of prize balls It is possible to reduce the storage area that is not used for prize ball payout and set up an extra storage area rather than setting a payout counter according to the number of prize balls. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of reducing the burden of program change such as setting of a storage area related to payout even when the game is changed.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a game control means for controlling a game, a payout control means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls, and a game ball flowing down in a game area formed on the game board can be won. A plurality of winning devices, and the game control means transmits payout instruction data to the payout control means based on detection of winning in the plurality of winning devices, so that the payout control means can store the number of prize balls to be paid out. A payout device for paying out the number of prize balls set based on the storage of the payout storage device, and a prize ball paid out by the payout device. A payout detection means, and is configured to subtract a payout number stored in the payout storage means based on the detection of a prize ball by the payout detection means, and among the plurality of winning devices, In the gaming machine in which the number of the prize balls to be paid out by the one winning device is different by the payout device of the other winning devices, the payout storage means has a plurality of payout numbers corresponding to one count value. It is constituted by the maximum prize balls plurality of prize balls paid out counter and does not exceed the payout number value to each other is set to the value of the power of different two of payout number of prize balls set in the winning device, the payout There are a plurality of instruction data corresponding to the number of payouts of the different prize balls, and one payout instruction data is represented by binary bit data consisting of the same number of bits as the number of the prize ball payout counter. And each bit representing the binary bit data is configured to correspond to each of the plurality of prize ball payout counters on a one-to-one basis. It is set so that the sum of the number of payouts of one count value indicated by the prize ball payout counter corresponding to the bit set to ON among each bit of the bit data representing data is paid out as the number of payout of the prize balls. On the other hand, each bit of the bit data representing the payout instruction data is set to ON or OFF in advance so as to be the payout number of the prize balls set in advance in the payout instruction data, and the payout control means , at the time of storing a payout number of prize balls in accordance with the payout instruction data received on the basis of the winning detection to said plurality of winning device to the dispensing storage means, a payout number of the prize balls, the dispense instruction The prize ball payout counter corresponding to each bit of data is provided with a distribution holding means for distributing and holding as one count value when the value of the bit is on. And

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, in the plurality of prize ball payout counters of the payout storage means, the number of payouts for one count value is set for detection of one winning ball in the plurality of winning devices. It is set in the range from the minimum value to the maximum value of the power of 2 within the range of the maximum number of prize balls.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect, the distribution holding unit stores the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of winning to the plurality of winning devices in the payout storage unit. Out of a plurality of prize ball payout counters in which the number of payouts for one count value is set to a power of 2, the prize ball payout counter having a larger power of 2 is preferentially distributed.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the payout storage means does not exceed the maximum prize ball payout number among the prize ball payout numbers set in the plurality of winning devices, and the payout number corresponding to one count value does not exceed each other. It is composed of a plurality of prize ball payout counters set to different powers of 2 and has a plurality of the payout instruction data corresponding to the number of payouts of the different prize balls. Is represented by binary bit data composed of the same number of bits as the number of prize ball payout counters, and each bit representing the binary bit data is in one-to-one correspondence with each of the plurality of prize ball payout counters. The prize ball payout counter is configured to correspond to the prize ball payout counter corresponding to the bit set to ON among the bits of the bit data representing the payout instruction data. The sum of the number of payouts of one count value shown is set to be paid out as the number of payouts of the prize balls, while each bit of the bit data representing the payout instruction data is preset in each of the payout instruction data. It is set on or off in advance so as to be the number of prize balls to be paid out, and the payout control means determines the prize balls corresponding to the payout instruction data received based on the winning detection to the plurality of prize winning devices. When storing the number of payouts in the payout storage means, the payout number of the prize balls is distributed to the prize ball payout counter corresponding to each bit of the payout instruction data as a count value when the value of the bit is on. by that it comprises a sorting holding means for holding Te, set the payout counter for all values up to the payout counter of a predetermined number from the payout counter for one (e.g. 15) It is possible to reduce the storage area that is not used for paying out the number of prize balls, compared to those that do or set up a payout counter according to the number of prize balls. Even when the number of prize balls is changed due to a change in the model of the gaming machine, the method for storing the number of prize balls does not change, so it is possible to reduce the burden of program change such as setting of a storage area related to payout. .

  According to the invention of claim 2, the plurality of prize ball payout counters of the payout storage means has a maximum number of prize balls in which the number of payouts for one count value is set for detection of one winning ball in the plurality of winning devices. By setting the range from the minimum value to the maximum value of the power of 2 within the range of, the unused storage area not used is reduced, and the values corresponding to all the set number of prize balls are stored It becomes possible to do.

  According to the invention of claim 3, the distribution holding means stores the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of winning to a plurality of winning devices in the payout storage means, and the number of payouts per count value is 2. Among a plurality of prize ball payout counters set to a power value, when a prize ball command having a large value is sent, a smaller value is assigned by giving priority to the prize ball payout counter having a larger power value of 2. Can be stored efficiently and evenly so that the memory does not concentrate on the prize ball payout counter.

It is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a rear view of the gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows simply the connection of the control board, apparatus, etc. of the gaming machine. It is a front view of the payout device of the gaming machine. It is a disassembled perspective view of the same dispensing device. It is a flowchart of a main process. It is a flowchart of the interruption process in the main process. It is a flowchart of a winning detection process in the interrupt process. It is a flowchart of the pending | holding addition process in the interruption process. It is a flowchart of special operation processing in the same interrupt processing. It is a flowchart of the success / failure determination process in the interrupt process. It is a flowchart of the process of the payout control board in the same gaming machine. It is a flowchart of the main control command analysis process in the process of the same payout control board. It is a 1st flowchart regarding Example 1 of the payout counter addition process classified by bit in the process of the same payout control board. It is a 2nd flowchart regarding Example 1 of the same payout counter addition process according to the bit. It is a 1st flowchart regarding Example 2 of the payout counter addition process classified by bit. It is a 2nd flowchart regarding Example 2 of the same pay-by-bit payout counter addition process. 10 is a flowchart of a bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 1 according to the second embodiment of the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process. 10 is a flowchart of a bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 2 according to the second embodiment of the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process. 10 is a flowchart of a bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 3 according to the second embodiment of the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process. It is a flowchart regarding Example 3 of the payout counter addition processing classified by bit. It is a flowchart of the payout apparatus control process in the process of the same payout control board. 10 is a flowchart of a payout control board payout number determination process in the payout device control process. It is a flowchart of the idle time setting process in the process of the same payout control board.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an entire gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a view showing the back side of the gaming machine, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram simply showing connection of a control board, a device and the like of the gaming machine. It is.

  A gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a pachinko gaming machine that uses a game ball as a game medium, and an outer rail 3 and an inner rail 4 are arranged in a substantially circular shape on the edge of the gaming board 2, and the outer rail 3 and the inner rail A game area 6 divided by 4 is provided on the game board 2. On the front side of the gaming machine 1, there is a decorative lamp 35, an upper ball receiving tray 36 for receiving paid out game balls, a lower ball receiving tray 37 for receiving game balls when the upper ball receiving tray 36 is full, sound effects And a launching device 64 for projecting and launching a game ball toward the game area 6 in response to a player's launch operation. Reference numeral F1 denotes an outer frame of the gaming machine, F2 denotes a front frame attached to the outer frame F1, and G denotes a glass frame attached to the front frame F2 by a hinge so as to be opened and closed. The game board 2 is provided in the outer frame F1, and the player can visually recognize the game area 6 from the front side of the gaming machine through the glass frame F2. In the game area 6, a plurality of nails (not shown) for guiding a game ball driven into the game area 6 are erected at a required position. Hereinafter, main parts of the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  In the game area 6, a display device 10, an upper start port 41, a lower start port 42, a big winning port 45, and an out port 49 are arranged in order from the upper part to the lower part on the center line. A left sleeve winning port 51, a right sleeve winning port 52, a left dropping winning port 53, and a right dropping winning port 54 are arranged on the left and right sides of the upper starting port 41, the lower starting port 42 and the large winning port 45, respectively. Further, normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 are provided on the left and right of the display device 10, lamp windmills 74 and 75 are provided above them, and windmills 76 and 77 are provided below them. The upper start opening 41, the lower start opening 42, the big winning opening 45, the left sleeve winning opening 51, the right sleeve winning opening 52, the left dropping winning opening 53, and the right dropping winning opening 54 are connected to the game board 2 in the present invention. The game ball flowing down in the formed game area 6 corresponds to a plurality of winning devices that can win (win). When a game ball wins (wins a ball) at each of the award ports (winning devices) and a win (ball) is detected, a predetermined number of prize balls (game balls) are detected by the player for the detection of one win ball. To be paid out. The number of prize balls (game balls) to be paid out for the detection of one winning ball is set for each winning port (winning device). In the present embodiment, there are three for winning the upper start opening 41, four for the lower starting opening 42, 13 for the large winning opening 45, and the left sleeve winning opening. 51, the right sleeve winning port 52, the left dropping winning port 53, and the right dropping winning port 54 are set to 10 payouts.

  The display device 10 can display symbols and the like, and includes an image display device such as a liquid crystal, a dot matrix, or an LED display device. In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD module) is used.

  In the display device 10, the lower left part is a normal symbol display unit 50, and the other part is a special symbol display unit 11. The special symbol display unit 11 corresponds to a display means capable of variably displaying a determination symbol for displaying the determination result, and the left special symbol (medium determination symbol) on the left side and the middle special symbol (medium determination) on the center The right special symbol (right judgment symbol) is variably displayed on the right side, and is variably displayed for a predetermined time. After that, the left special symbol, middle special symbol, and right special symbol are stopped and displayed as finalized symbols. Is done. Further, in addition to the special symbol (determination symbol), a background image (including characters, backgrounds, characters, etc.) may be displayed on the special symbol display unit 11, and the background image changes in the special symbol. Variation display may be possible due to a predetermined condition such as start. Further, on the upper left and right sides of the special symbol display unit 11, special symbol fluctuation reserved ball number displays 43 made of LEDs or the like are provided. In this embodiment, the left special symbol, the middle special symbol, and the right special symbol which are displayed in a variable and stopped state are eight patterns of “1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8”, respectively. ing. In this embodiment, when the game success / failure determination result is a jackpot (winning), the special symbol display unit 11 has a jackpot special symbol combination, in this example “1,1,1” (so-called “1”). Special symbol (judgment symbol) is stopped and displayed in a combination of the same numbers (such as “2)” or “2,2,2” (so-called '2' tick)) Transition to game (special game). In this embodiment, the privilege advantageous to the player is set to increase the ease of acquiring the game ball by the player.

  The normal symbol display unit 50 variably displays and stops a normal symbol for determining a small hit such as a symbol or a picture (character). The normal symbols that are changed and stopped on the normal symbol display unit 50 in the present embodiment are ten patterns of “0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9”. . The normal symbol is a small hit normal symbol, which is a small hit when stopped at an odd number in this example.

  The upper start port 41 has a shape with an open top so that a game ball can enter (winning is possible). On the other hand, the lower start port 42 is provided directly below the upper start port 41, and the two movable pieces 42a and 42b are substantially vertical by the lower start port solenoid on the back surface, making it difficult to win (enter) a game ball. It is controlled so as to be able to change between a narrow open state (normal state) and a generally V-shaped (reverse C-shaped) easy-to-win open / open state. A space between the movable pieces 42a and 42b of the lower start port 42 corresponds to a winning (ball-entering) area. The lower opening of the lower start opening 42 is displayed with a fixed stop (per odd symbol) with a fixed stop display at a specific normal symbol (odd number in this embodiment) after the normal symbol fluctuates in the normal symbol display section 50. Performed when established.

  Further, on the back of the game board 2, an upper start port detection switch (upper start port sensor) and a lower start port detection switch (lower start port sensor) are provided in each winning ball passage, The game ball is configured to detect winning of a game ball (entering a ball) into the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42. In the present embodiment, the detection (winning) of the game ball at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42 is set based on the acquisition of the random number value and the start of the variation display of the special symbol (determination symbol). Has been. In addition, even if a game ball wins at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42 while the special symbol display unit 11 is displaying the variation of the special symbol, a new special symbol variation display may be started immediately. Therefore, the number of winnings to the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42 is stored as a special symbol variation holding ball number, and the special symbol variation display in the special symbol display unit 11 is temporarily suspended and the special symbol is suspended. The stored value of the variable reserved ball number is lit and displayed on the special symbol variable reserved ball number display unit 43, and the result of the success / failure determination is displayed when the special symbol display unit 11 starts or ends the change. As a result, the stored value of the number of special symbol variation reserved balls is subtracted and the number displayed on the special symbol variation reserved ball number display 43 is reduced. In this embodiment, the upper limit of the number of winning times stored in the upper starting port 41 and the lower starting port 42, that is, the upper limit value of the number of special symbol variation holding balls is set to four.

  When the number of special symbol variation holding balls is stored up to the set upper limit number (that is, the maximum number is stored), the upper start port detection switch and the lower start port detection switch detect more winning game balls. However, the number of special symbol fluctuation reserve balls is an invalid ball that is not stored, and a prize ball (prize game ball) for winning is paid out for the invalid ball without making a change and determination of whether or not the ball is valid.

  The normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 are detected by detecting a game ball passing through the normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 with a normal symbol variation start switch provided on the back of the game board 2. The display unit 50 starts to change the normal symbol. Further, during the normal symbol variation display, the normal symbol variation generated by the passing of the game ball through the normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 is stored as the number of normal symbol variation reserved balls up to four times. The normal symbol fluctuation holding ball number display 49 provided at the lower right position of the game area 6 displays the normal symbol fluctuation holding ball numerical value, and the normal symbol fluctuation holding ball number is reduced by starting the fluctuation of the normal symbol. The number of symbols displayed on the symbol variation holding ball number display 49 is reduced. Furthermore, a left sleeve winning opening detection switch and a right sleeve winning opening detection switch for detecting the winning balls of the left sleeve winning opening 51 and the right sleeve winning opening 52, and the left dropping winning opening 53 and the right dropping winning opening 54 are provided. A left drop winning opening detection switch and a right drop winning opening detection switch for detecting a winning ball are respectively provided on the back of the corresponding game board.

  The special prize opening 45 includes an opening / closing plate 46 that is opened and closed by a special prize opening opening solenoid provided on the back of the game board 2. The special winning opening 45 is normally in a state in which the opening / closing plate 46 is closed, and a part of the special winning opening 45 has a specific area that is opened when the special winning opening 45 is opened to allow a winning. A winning opening 47 is provided. Further, the specific area winning opening 47 is provided with an open / close door that is opened and closed by a specific area opening solenoid in a predetermined condition. Further, the specific area winning opening 47 is provided with a specific winning ball detection switch (specific area sensor) for detecting a specific winning ball, and the right to continue to open the large winning opening 45 by the detection of the winning ball is established. In the embodiment, up to 15 rounds can be repeated. In addition, a winning ball count switch (count sensor) for detecting a winning ball that has won the big winning port 45 and has not won the specific area winning port 47 is provided in the approximate center of the big winning port 45. It has been.

  The launching device 64 has a launching motor that is driven by the operation of the operation lever 65 on the back side, and the game ball is ejected by the driving of the launching motor. The launch ball fired by the launch device 64 is guided to the game area 6 through a launch ball guide path formed between the inner guide rail 4 and the outer guide rail 3 erected on the game board surface. The game ball guided to the game area 6 rolls down and falls down and wins each device and each prize opening, or if no prize is given anywhere, the game board 2 enters the game board 2 from the out slot 49. It is discharged to the back side.

  Further, on the back side of the gaming machine 1, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of control boards, devices, and the like are provided. Main control boards include a main control board 200, a sub-control board 205, a display control board 210, an audio control board 220, a payout control board 240, a power supply board 250, and a launch control board 260. Reference numeral 265 is an external terminal, 281 is a payout device, 283 is a no-ball detection switch, 289 is a ball storage tank, 291 is a ball guide rod, and 71 is an error release switch. Each control board is provided with a control circuit. Moreover, each control board is arrange | positioned in the back side of the game machine 1 in the state accommodated in the case individually or collectively. The main control board is simply shown using the block diagram of FIG.

  The main control board 200 corresponds to a game control means for controlling a game in the present invention, and includes at least a microcomputer including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and a plurality of counters, a sub control board 205, a payout control board 240, etc. It is connected. The CPU executes a control program and performs main control related to the game. The main control board 200 operates by receiving power from the power board 250.

  The CPU in the main control board 200 includes a control unit, a calculation unit, various counters, various registers, various flags, etc., performs calculation control, generates a random number value, and outputs a control signal to the sub-control board 205 or the like. (Transmission) is possible.

  The RAM stores the number of times the determination condition is satisfied by entering the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42, that is, the special symbol variation holding ball detected by the upper start port detection switch or the lower start port detection switch. Temporary storage of various data such as the storage area for the number of normal symbols fluctuation holding balls detected by the number and the normal symbol fluctuation start switch, the storage area for various random values generated by the CPU, and the game data necessary for the game A storage area, a flag, and a CPU work area are provided.

  In the ROM, control programs and control data for the CPU, variation patterns and symbol data relating to variation display in the special symbol display unit 11 are written, and determination values for big hits and small hits are written. Yes.

  Note that the CPU of the main control board 200 also functions as a big hit determination unit for determining whether or not a game is won or a small hit determination unit for determining a small hit. In the control signal (command) output from the main control board 200, symbol variation data for variably displaying the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 11 according to the mode based on the jackpot determination result, the special symbol display unit 11 The jackpot determination result data to be displayed, the jackpot determination result data to be displayed on the special symbol display unit 11, the jackpot determination result data to be displayed on the normal symbol display unit 50 in a manner based on the small hit determination result, and a prize At least a winning ball command (including payout instruction data) based on detection of winning in a mouth (winning device) is included. In addition, the control signal output from the main control board 200 may include data such as when power is turned on, when an abnormality occurs, and when a big hit round is performed.

  The sub-control board 205 corresponds to game control means for controlling the game together with the main control board, and an input / output circuit connecting the microcomputer having a CPU, ROM, RAM and a plurality of counters to the main control board 200. And an input / output circuit for connecting the display control board 210 and the lamp relay board. The CPU of the sub control board 205 controls the game according to the control signal output from the main control board 200. In this embodiment, the sub-control board 205 also serves as a lamp control board, receives the control signal output from the main control board 200, and controls the lamp relay board and the display control board 210 based on the received control signal. A signal is being output. The control signal from the main control board 200 includes variation data for the special symbol display unit 11, a control signal for the decorative lamp 35, and the like, and controls the game according to the contents of the control signal. The ROM of the sub-control board 205 stores control programs, data constants, and the like, and the RAM has a storage area for various data and a work area for the CPU. Lamps such as a decoration lamp 35 are connected to the lamp relay board, and the operation of the decoration lamp 35 and the like is controlled by a control signal transmitted from the sub-control board 205 to the lamp relay board. The sub control board 205 is operated by receiving power from the power board 250.

  The display control board 210 includes a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, an input circuit that connects the sub control board 205, an output circuit that connects the audio control board 220 and the display device 10, and the like. Based on the control signal output from the substrate 205, the display of the display device 10 is controlled. A control program is stored in the ROM of the display control board 210. In the display control board 210, the CPU reads predetermined display control data from the ROM based on the control signal from the sub-control board 205, generates control data in the storage area of the RAM, and outputs it to the VDP (not shown). To do. The VDP reads necessary data from the ROM based on a command from the CPU, creates display image map data, and stores it in the VRAM. The image data stored and stored in the VRAM is converted into RGB signals by a D / A conversion circuit provided in the output circuit and output to the display device 10.

  The audio control board 220 synthesizes an audio signal with the signal output from the display control board 210 and outputs it to the amplifier. The amplifier amplifies the audio signal and outputs it to the speaker 38.

The payout control board 240 corresponds to payout control means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls in the present invention, and includes a microcomputer having a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The payout control board 240 receives the control signal output from the main control board 200 and controls the payout device 281. A program for controlling the CPU is stored in the ROM of the payout control board 240. The RAM of the payout control board 240 corresponds to payout storage means in the present embodiment, and is configured to be able to store the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of winning in various winning ports (winning devices). The RAM is provided with a plurality of prize ball payout counters capable of storing the number of prize ball payouts, and the value of each prize ball payout counter can be stored. In the plurality of prize ball payout counters, the payout number for one count value is set to a power of 2. In this embodiment, as shown in Table 1, the number of payouts for one count value is 8 (= 2 ³ ), 8 (2 ³ ) payout ball payout counters, and the number of payouts for 1 count value is 4 4 ^{(2 2) (2 2)} pay award balls paid out counter, 1 2 payout number for the count two ^{(2 1) (2 1)} payment prize balls paid out counter, one count value 1 1 payout number (2 ⁰⁾ (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize ball payout counter provided for. Each prize ball payout counter is set with a storage upper limit count value, which is set so as not to be stored beyond the storage upper limit count value. The storage upper limit count value in this embodiment is 65535 in each prize ball payout counter.

The payout control board (payout control means) 240 distributes the number of prize balls to be paid out based on detection of winning to the plurality of winning devices in the RAM (payout storage means) of the payout control board 240. The value of the number of prize balls to be paid out is divided into powers of 2 by the holding means, and the divided value is distributed to the prize ball payout counter corresponding to the divided value and held as the count value of the prize ball payout counter. Let For example, when it is detected that a prize ball is paid out to 13 winning devices, the 13 paid-out numbers are set to powers of 2, 8 (= 2 ³ ), 4 (= 2 ² ). 1 (= 2 ⁰ ), and 8 (= 2 ³ ) of the divided values are counted by adding 1 to the count value of the corresponding 8 (2 ³ ) payout ball payout counters. For the 4 (= 2 ² ) divided values, the count value of the corresponding 4 (2 ² ) paying ball payout counters is incremented by 1 and held as a count value. For 1 (= 2 ⁰ ) values, the count value of the corresponding 1 (2 ⁰ ) payout ball payout counter is incremented by 1 and held as a count value, whereby the payout control board 240 is sorted out. Stored in the RAM.

Further, the plurality of prize ball payout counters have a payout number corresponding to one count value within a range of maximum prize balls set for detection of one prize ball in the plurality of prize winning devices (winning ports). It is set in the range from the minimum value of the power of 2 to the maximum value. In the present embodiment, since the maximum number of prize balls set for detection of one winning ball in a plurality of winning devices is set to 13, it is the minimum value of powers of 2 within 13 ranges. In the range from 1 (= 2 ⁰ ) to 8 (= 2 ³ ) which is the maximum value of power of 2, the number of payouts for one count value in the plurality of prize ball payout counters is set. That is, one dispensing number is one to (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize balls eight payout number is eight from payout counter (2 ³⁾ pay award balls paid out counter, the payout number power of two values Is set. Note that the maximum number of prize balls set for detection of one winning ball in this embodiment is 13, and is set for detection of winning in the big winning opening 45. Also, three prize balls are set for the upper start opening 41, four prize balls are set for the lower start opening 42, and ten prize balls are set for the other winning openings.

The distribution holding means counts one when the payout control board (payout control means) 240 stores the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the winning detection to the plurality of winning devices in the RAM (payout storage means). Out of a plurality of prize ball payout counters whose payout numbers with respect to values are set to powers of 2, the prize ball payout counter with higher power of 2 (that is, the payout number with respect to 1 count value is larger) is assigned with priority. Like that. For example, when the number of prize balls to be paid out is 13 based on the winning detection to the winning device, the number of payouts is 13 (8 (= 2 ³ ), 4 (= 2 ² ), 1 (2 ⁰ )). divided into pieces, the divided value, first payout number eight eight (2 ³⁾ pay award balls paid out counter, then the payout number four four (2 ²⁾ pay awards sphere payout counter and finally to the payout number held by distributing the order of one (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize ball payout counter one.

  Further, the payout control board (payout control means) 240 detects whether or not at least one prize ball payout counter among the plurality of prize ball payout counters is in a memory upper limit state (memory upper limit count value). At least one prize ball payout counter among the plurality of prize ball payout counters for holding a value divided into a power value of the detection means and the power of 2 is in a storage upper limit state (storage upper limit count value) by the storage upper limit detection means. Prize value alternative addition storage means for distributing and holding the stored upper limit state and the value to be stored in the detected prize ball payout counter to the prize ball payout counter not in the storage upper limit state when it is detected that there is ing.

For example, the number of prize balls 13 to be paid out based on the winning detection to the winning device is divided into 8 (= 2 ³ ), 4 (= 2 ² ) and 1 (2 ⁰ ), and the number of payouts is 8 when eight (2 ³⁾ pay award balls paid out counters continue to hold in the order, is detected to be eight (2 ³⁾ pay awards sphere payout counter storage limit state (storage upper limit count value), If another prize balls paid out counter has not reached the storage limit state (storage upper limit count value), 8 (= 2 ³⁾ to be held in the eight (2 ³⁾ pay awards sphere payout counter pieces and storage limit state The number of powers of 2 set in the prize ball payout counter having the maximum payout number for one count value among the prize ball payout counters having a payout quantity for one count value smaller than the prize ball payout counter of (memory upper limit count value) value, i.e., divided into 4 (= ^{2 2)} pieces × 2 The payout number based on the values divided to 2 adds four four (2 ²⁾ count value of the payment prize ball payout counter. Further, the four (2 ²⁾ payout number 4 (= 2 ²⁾ that originally is held to pay prize ball payout counter for number is then the count value of the four (2 ²⁾ pay awards sphere payout counter It is held by adding 1. The value to be held in the prize ball payout counter that is detected as being in the memory upper limit state is distributed to the prize ball payout counter that is not in the memory upper limit state, and the value of the distribution destination prize ball payout counter is in the memory upper limit state. If it becomes, it is distributed to other prize ball payout counters that are not in the storage upper limit state and held. The payout control board 240 is operated by the power supplied from the power board 250.

  The payout control board (payout control means) 240 includes a payout confirmation means, a payout means, a payout suspension means, a payout executed by a control program stored in the ROM of the payout control board (payout control means) 240. It has a remaining confirmation means.

  The payout confirming means determines in advance whether the count values of the plurality of prize ball payout counters in the RAM (payout storage means) of the payout control board 240 are 1 or more for the plurality of prize ball payout counters. Confirm with.

  When the count value of the prize ball payout counter confirmed by the payout confirmation means is 1 or more (that is, when the number of payouts is stored), the payout means pays out the prize ball for each confirmation with respect to the prize ball payout counter. The payout device 281 pays out the number of payouts of one count value set in the counter once. The payout control board (payout control means) 240 subtracts the count value for the payout from the prize ball payout counter by the payout. The payout by the payout device 281 is a single payout performed by driving a payout motor (electrical drive source) of the payout device 281. The payout number of powers of 2 set to 1 count value of the prize ball payout counter It is designed to pay out in minutes.

  Further, the payout confirming means has a count value of 1 or more for the next prize ball payout counter and the like in accordance with a preset order after one payout by the payout device 281 based on the count value of the prize ball payout counter. That is, it is confirmed sequentially whether there is a memory of the number of payouts to be paid out.

  The payout suspension means pauses the payout operation of the payout device according to the payout number paid out by the payout device 281. Further, as the number of payouts paid out by the payout device 281 increases, the pause time of the payout operation is set longer. Therefore, since the pause time can be set according to the operating time of the payout motor (electrical drive source) in the payout device, the burden on the payout device is suppressed, and when normally paying out a small number of payouts, etc. It is possible to prevent a decrease in the payout capacity per unit time.

  The payout remaining confirmation means confirms the state of storage of the number of payouts by the payout storage means for all the prize ball payout counters, and if the count values of all the prize ball payout counters are 0 (all prize ball payout counters). If there is no memory to pay out, it is determined that there is no payout to be paid out.

  The power supply board 250 is supplied with AC24V from the outside, converts the input AC24V into DC34V, converts the converted DC34V into DC12V and DC5V by each regulator, and supplies them to each board.

  The launch control board 260 controls the launch motor in the launch device 64.

  As shown in the front view of FIG. 4 and the exploded perspective view of FIG. 5, the payout device 281 includes a payout device case main body 281a, a payout motor 281c having a payout screw 281b, a main body cover 281d, a payout sensor (here, a photo sensor) 281e. , Case bearing 281f, case bearing cover 281g, and the like. The dispensing device 281 is configured such that the dispensing screw 281b rotates when a dispensing motor (electric drive source) 281c is operated. The game ball that has been guided from the ball guide bar 291 and entered the payout device 281 rides on the wing portion of the payout screw 281b, and gradually moves downward by the rotation of the payout screw 281b. Game balls are paid out one by one from (not shown). The payout sensor 281e corresponds to payout detection means, and detects the paid game balls one by one. The dispensing device 281 stops dispensing by stopping the operation of the dispensing motor (electric drive source) 281c. During the rest period, the payout motor (electric drive source) is stopped.

  Here, the game in the gaming machine 1 will be briefly described. In the gaming machine 1, when a game ball launched by the launching device 64 toward the gaming area 6 wins the various winning devices and a winning is detected, one winning ball is awarded for each winning device. The number of game balls set for detection (the number of game balls paid out in one payout unit) is paid out to the upper ball tray 36 as a prize ball. The payout motor (electrical drive source) 281c of the payout device 281 is temporarily stopped every time the payout device 281 finishes payout once, and the next payout is performed after a predetermined pause time has elapsed. At that time, when the number of one payout by the payout device 281 is small, the pause time of the payout motor (electric drive source) 281c is set short, and the number of one payout by the payout device 281 is large. Is set to a long pause time of the payout motor (electric drive source) 281c.

  When the game ball passes through the normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56, a normal symbol random number value is acquired, and a normal symbol hit (small hit) determination is performed based on the acquired random number value, and the normal symbol display unit At 50, the normal symbol starts to fluctuate and stops after fluctuating for a predetermined time. At that time, if the hit determination result of the normal symbol is a small hit, the small hit normal symbol, in this example, stops at an odd number, and the two movable pieces 42a, 42b of the lower start port 42 The solenoid for the start port changes from a narrow open state (normal state) that is almost vertical and difficult to win, to a substantially V-shaped (reverse C-shaped) open and open state that is easy to win, and the game ball is easy to win. When a game ball is won and detected at the lower start opening 42, the number of prize balls set for the detection of one winning ball is paid out from the payout device 281 and then the The driving of the payout motor 281c is stopped during a pause time.

  Further, when a game ball is won and detected at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42, the prize ball is paid out, and a jackpot random number value, a jackpot symbol random number value, etc. are acquired, and the acquired jackpot A jackpot determination is made based on the random value, and after the determination, the special symbol (determination symbol) starts to change in the special symbol display unit 11, and is stopped and displayed after a predetermined time change.

  When the result of determining whether or not the jackpot is successful (a jackpot), the special symbol display unit 11 displays a jackpot symbol (a jackpot determination symbol). In this example, “1,1,1” (so-called “1” roar ) Or “2, 2, 2” (a combination of the same numbers such as so-called “2”), and the game shifts to a jackpot game (special game). In the big win game (special game) state, the open / close plate 46 of the big prize opening 45 is opened to make it easy to receive the game balls falling on the surface of the game area 6 so that the big prize opening 45 can be won. . When a winning to the big winning opening 45 is detected, the number of prize balls set for the detection of one winning ball is paid out from the payout device 281 and then becomes the pause time. The driving of the payout motor 281c is stopped. The opening / closing plate 46 is closed after a predetermined time (for example, 29.5 seconds) has elapsed or when the number of winning balls reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10). Further, when a winning ball to the specific area winning opening 47 in the big winning opening is detected during the opening of the big winning opening 45 or within about 2 seconds after the closing of the big winning opening 45, the big hit is repeated again. A right is generated, and the opening / closing plate 46 is repeatedly opened for a predetermined maximum number of rounds (for example, a maximum of 15 rounds). Further, the opening / closing plate 46 may be repeatedly opened and closed for a predetermined maximum number of rounds (for example, up to 15 rounds) or for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) even if a winning ball to the specific area winning port 47 is not detected.

  The jackpot includes a normal jackpot and a probable jackpot (special jackpot). In the case of a normal jackpot, the probability of the next jackpot is set to a low probability (1/315 in this embodiment) after the end of the special game, whereas in the case of a probable jackpot (special jackpot) After the game is over, the next jackpot probability is set to a high probability (5/315 in this embodiment). In the case of the normal jackpot, a normal jackpot symbol (ordinary jackpot determination symbol) composed of even numbers such as “2, 2, 2” is displayed on the special symbol display unit 11, while on the other hand, in the case of a probable variation jackpot Is displayed on the special symbol display unit 11 with a probability variation jackpot symbol (special jackpot determination symbol) composed of odd numbers such as “1, 1, 1”.

  Next, the control process of the gaming machine 1 will be described. As the random number counter provided on the main control board 200, there are a jackpot random number counter, a jackpot symbol random number counter, a reach random number counter, a special symbol data random number counter, an effect random number counter, a normal symbol random number counter, and the like.

The jackpot random number counter is used for jackpot determination (game success / failure determination) by the jackpot determination means (win / no-go determination means), and is composed of random numbers from “0” to “629”. The random number of the jackpot random number counter (the jackpot random number) is incremented by 1 every time a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process to be described later starts at “0” when the gaming machine is turned on. Is set to “0” and the addition is repeated again. The jackpot random number value is acquired due to winning at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42, and the acquired value is set as a jackpot value in the low probability state of '3', '397' If it matches any one, it becomes a big hit, while in the high probability state, '3', '53', '113', '173', '227', '281', '337', If it matches any of '397', '449', and '503', it will be a big hit.

  The jackpot symbol random number counter determines a jackpot symbol combination that is confirmed and stopped in the special symbol display unit 11 when the jackpot winning / bad determination result is a hit, from the random numbers from “0” to “7” Become. The jackpot symbol random number value starts from “0” when the power is turned on, and is incremented by 1 every update processing of a normal symbol / special symbol main random number, which will be described later. The addition is repeated. The jackpot symbol random number value is acquired due to winning in the upper start winning opening 41 and the upper starting winning opening 42. The jackpot symbol random number value is assigned a jackpot symbol combination that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 11 when the jackpot winning / failing determination result is a hit. In the present embodiment, when it is “0”, it is one grove (all the same symbols) where the jackpot symbol combination is “1,1,1”, and when it is “1”, it is “2,2,2”. 2 slots, if '2', 3 slots, '3, 3, 3'; if '3', 4 slots, '4, 4, 4' 5 for eyes, 4 for 5 and 5 for 5; 6 for 6; 6, 6 for 6; In this case, a jackpot symbol combination consisting of 7 grids of “7, 7, 7” and 8 grids of “8, 8, 8” is allocated.

  The reach random number counter is used for determining whether or not a reach state is reached when the jackpot determination result based on the jackpot random number value is out of reach, and is a random number of “0” to “126”. Consists of. The reach state in the present embodiment excludes the special symbol (for example, the middle special symbol) that is stopped and displayed last among the left special symbol, the middle special symbol, and the right special symbol that are displayed with the variable symbol stopped on the special symbol display unit 11. When other special symbols (for example, left special symbol and right special symbol) are the same (excluding the final stop symbol, the state is equal to the jackpot special symbol combination, and finally the jackpot special symbol combination) And a case where a special symbol combination is included. The random number of the reach random number counter (reach random number) starts from “0” when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and is incremented by 1 every time a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process described later is performed. Then, it is set to “0” and the addition is repeated again. The reach random number is acquired due to winning at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42, and when the determination result is wrong, the numerical value is compared with the reach reach value determined in advance. Presence or absence is determined. In this embodiment, reach establishment values are “5”, “17”, “28”, “40”, “51”, “63”, “74”, “86”, “97”, “109”, “ 120 '.

  The special symbol data random number counter is used for determining a special symbol combination to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 11 when the jackpot determination result based on the jackpot random number value is out, The special symbol data 1 random number counter for determining the left special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the display unit 11, the special symbol data 2 random number counter for determining the middle special symbol, and the special symbol data 3 for determining the right special symbol. Each special symbol data random number counter is composed of random numbers from “0” to “7”.

The random number of the special symbol data 1 starts from “0” when the power is turned on, and is incremented by “1” every time a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process to be described later is reached. And the addition is repeated again. The random number of the special symbol data 2 starts from “0” when the power is turned on, and is incremented by “1” when the random number of the special symbol data 1 is rewritten to “0”, and reaches “7”. Then, it is rewritten to “0” and the addition is repeated again. Furthermore, the random number of the special symbol data 3 starts from “0” when the power is turned on or after the reset process, and is incremented by “1” when the random number of the special symbol data 2 is rewritten to “0”. When it reaches', then it is rewritten to '0' and the addition is repeated again. Thereby, even if the random number ranges of the special symbol data 1 to 3 are the same, the random numbers of the special symbol data 1 to 3 can be prevented from being synchronized (added in the same combination).

  Each of the random numbers of the special symbol data 1 to 3 is “1” when “0”, “2” when “1”, and “3” when “2”. A judgment symbol consisting of a left special symbol, a middle special symbol, and a right special symbol that are stopped and displayed on the display unit 11 is assigned. The random numbers of the special symbol data 1 to 3 are acquired due to winning in the upper starting port 41 and the lower starting port 42, and the special symbol data 1 to 3 is obtained by combining the random numbers of the acquired special symbol data 1 to 3 when the special symbol data is lost. A judgment symbol consisting of a left special symbol, a middle special symbol, and a right special symbol displayed on the symbol display unit 11 is determined.

  The effect random number counter is used for selecting and determining the variation pattern of the special symbol in the special symbol display unit 11 and includes effect random numbers from ‘0’ to ‘198’. This effect random number value starts from “0” when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and is incremented by 1 for each of the normal symbol / special symbol main random number update processing to be described later. It is set to 0 'and the addition is repeated again. The random number value (effect random number value) of the effect random number counter is acquired due to winning at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42. The obtained effect random number value is compared with the numerical value for determining the variation mode to which the variation mode is assigned, and the variation mode in the special symbol display unit 11 is determined.

  About the acquired jackpot random number value, jackpot symbol random number value, reach random number value, special symbol data random number value, production random number value, respectively, a maximum of four, in the corresponding area in the RAM of the main control board 200, the number of reserved balls Stored in correspondence and used sequentially.

The normal symbol random number counter is used to determine a small hit. When the gaming machine 1 is turned on, it starts from “0” and is incremented by “1” every time a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process described later is performed. When 9 'is reached, it is then rewritten to' 0 'and the addition is repeated again. The normal symbol random numbers are acquired every time the game balls that have passed through the normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 are detected by the normal symbol variation start switch, and up to four normal symbols are stored in the RAM of the main control board 200. It is stored in the symbol random number storage area.

  In addition, a normal symbol is assigned to the normal symbol random value. The normal symbol random number value “0” is assigned as “0”, “1” is assigned to “1”, “2” is assigned to “2”, and so on. In the present embodiment, the hit probability for small hits is ½. Specifically, when the obtained random number value of the normal symbol random number is an odd number, the hit is small and the lower start port 42 Expand and open. In addition, when the acquired random number value of the normal symbol random number is other than that, it is not a small hit, and the lower start port 42 is left in a narrow open state where it is difficult to win.

  In the main control board (main control circuit) 200, the CPU of the microcomputer performs a main process M in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the main process M in the main control board 200.

  In the main process M, an initial setting process (S10), an interrupt prohibition process (S20), a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S30), and an interrupt permission process (S40) are performed.

  In the initial setting process (S10), stack setting, interrupt time setting, CPU setting, SIO, PIO, CTC setting and the like are performed. This main process M is repeatedly performed every interrupt time (4 ms), but the initial setting process (S10) is a process necessary only when the power is turned on, and is executed only in the first round, and thereafter. Although not well known, details are omitted. In the interrupt prohibition process (S20), even if the interrupt process (S100) is entered every 4 msec, the interrupt is prohibited until the interrupt is permitted. In the normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S30), various random numbers are added by 1 for each normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S30), and when the set upper limit value of each random number is reached as described above, Return to '0' and the addition is performed again. The updated random number is stored in the RAM of the main control board 200. In the interrupt permission process (S40), the interrupt process (S100) that enters every 4 msec is permitted.

  In the interrupt process (S100), as shown in FIG. 7, an output process (S110) is first performed. In the output process (S110), the command (control signal) stored in the output buffer of the main control board 200 by each process is output to the corresponding control board or the like. In the subsequent input processing (S120), signal input is performed when various sensors (such as detection switches of the winning devices) detected in the gaming machine 1 are detected. In the next normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S130), the same process as the normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S30) performed in the loop process in the main process M is performed. .

  In the winning detection process (S140), as shown in FIG. 8, it is determined to which winning device a game ball has won and a winning is detected (S140-1 to S140-7), and the winning opening from which the winning is detected is determined. The prize ball (game ball) payout command (prize ball command) set for the detection of one winning ball is set (S140-8 to S140-14). More specifically, it is first determined whether or not a winning at the upper start port 41 is detected (S140-1). If a winning is detected, a command for three winning balls is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200. (S140-8). If no winning is detected at the upper start opening 41, it is determined whether a winning is received at the lower starting opening 42 (S140-2). If a win is detected, the winning ball 4 is determined. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-9). If no winning at the lower start opening 42 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the left sleeve winning opening 51 is detected (S140-3). If a winning is detected, the winning ball 10 is determined. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-10). If no winning at the left sleeve winning opening 51 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the right sleeve winning opening 52 is detected (S140-4). If a winning is detected, the winning ball 10 is determined. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-11). If no winning at the right sleeve winning opening 52 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the left dropping winning opening 53 has been detected (S140-5). If a winning is detected, the winning ball 10 is determined. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-12). If no winning at the left dropping winning opening 53 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the right dropping winning opening 54 is detected (S140-6), and if a winning is detected, the winning ball 10 is detected. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-13). If no winning at the right drop winning opening 54 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the large winning opening 45 is detected (S140-7). If a winning is detected, 13 winning balls are detected. The command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-14). If no winning device is detected in any winning device, no winning ball command is set.

  On the other hand, when a winning at the upper starting winning opening 41 is detected and a winning at the lower starting opening 42 is detected, a holding addition process (S140-15) is performed.

  In the holding addition process (S140-15), as shown in FIG. 9, it is determined whether the number of special symbol fluctuation holding balls is 4 or more (S140-15-1). 15) is finished, if it is less than 4, 1 is added to the number of special symbol variation holding balls (S140-15-2), and the jackpot random number value, the reach random number value, the special symbol data random value, and the effect random number value are acquired. It is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM (S140-15-3), and this hold addition process (S140-15) is completed.

  In the special operation process (S150), as shown in FIG. 10, a success / failure determination process (S150-1) and a jackpot process (S150-2) are performed.

  In the success / failure determination process (S150-1), as shown in FIG. 11, it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing in the special symbol display unit 11 (S150-1-1). On the other hand, if (S150-1) is finished and not changing, it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol change reservation balls is 1 or more (S150-1-2). When the number of special symbol variation holding balls is 0, the success / failure determination process (S150-1) ends. On the other hand, when the number is 1 or more, the acquired and stored jackpot random value is compared with the jackpot value. (S150-1-3). At this time, if it is in the low probability state, it is compared with either “3” or “397” set as the jackpot success value, while in the high probability state, “3” is set as the jackpot success value. , '53', '113', '173', '227', '281', '337', '397', '449', and '503'. In the case of a jackpot, a jackpot flag is set (S150-1-4), and a jackpot symbol combination determination process (S150-1-5) is performed.

  In the jackpot symbol combination determination process (S150-1-5), the jackpot symbol combination assigned to the acquired jackpot symbol random number is determined. That is, when the acquired jackpot symbol random number is '0', the first slot where the jackpot symbol combination is '1,1,1', and when the acquired jackpot symbol random number is '1' Is determined in the second tick that the jackpot symbol combination is '2, 2, 2'. In addition, when the determined jackpot symbol combination is an odd symbol combination, for example, “1, 1, 1”, etc., it is set to a high probability state, and is acquired in the next determination process (S150-1). If the jackpot random number value is compared with the value of the big jackpot in the high probability state, while the determined jackpot symbol combination is an even number of symbol combinations, for example, '2, 2, 2', etc., it is set to the low probability state. In the next round of success / failure determination processing (S150-1), the acquired jackpot random number value is compared with the jackpot value in the low probability state.

  On the other hand, when the jackpot random number value acquired and stored does not match the jackpot value, the off symbol combination determination process (S150-1-6) is performed. In the off symbol combination determination process (S150-1-6), it is determined whether all of the random numbers of the acquired special symbol data 1 to 3 match, and if they match, the acquired reach random number value is reached. Contrast with established value. When the acquired reach random number value matches the reach establishment value, the random value obtained by adding 1 to the random value of the special symbol data 2 is assigned to the random values of the special symbol data 1 to 3 as the random value of the special symbol data 2 The special symbol that is displayed is determined as a symbol combination that is out of place. On the other hand, if the acquired reach random number value does not match the reach establishment value, the random value obtained by adding 1 to the random value of the special symbol data 3 is used as the random value of the special symbol data 3, and the special symbol data 1 to 3 The special symbol assigned to the random number value is determined as an outlier symbol combination. In addition, when only the random number value of the acquired special symbol data 1 and the random number value of the special symbol data 3 match, if the acquired reach random number value matches the reach establishment value, the acquired special symbol data If the special symbols assigned to the random numbers 1 to 3 are determined to be out-of-order symbol combinations, and the acquired reach random number value does not match the reach establishment value, 1 is added to the random number value of the special symbol data 3. Using the added random number as the random value of the special symbol data 3, the special symbols assigned to the random values of the special symbol data 1 to 3 are determined as outlier symbol combinations. Also, if the random numbers of the acquired special symbol data 1 to 3 do not all match, and if the acquired reach random number value matches the reach establishment value, the acquired random number value of the special symbol data 3 is changed to the special symbol data 1 The special symbols assigned to the random values of the special symbol data 1 to 3 are determined to be out of the special symbol combination, while the acquired reach random number value matches the reach establishment value. If not, the special symbol assigned to the random number values of the special symbol data 1 to 3 is determined as an extra special symbol combination.

  After the jackpot symbol combination determination process (S150-1-5) or the off symbol combination determination process (S150-1-6), a special symbol variation start process (S150-1-7) is performed. In the special symbol variation start process (S150-1-7), the special symbol display unit 11 starts the variation of the special symbol. The variation mode at that time is performed in a variation mode determined based on the acquired effect random number value.

  Next, in the reserved ball number subtraction process (S150-1-8), the special symbol variation reserved ball number stored in the RAM is decremented by 1, and then the success / failure determination process (S150-1) ends.

  In the jackpot process (S150-2) performed after the success / failure determination process (S150-1), when the jackpot flag is set in the hit / failure determination process (S150-1), the jackpot symbol combination determination process (150 -1-5) A special symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 11 with the jackpot symbol combination determined in 1-5), and a jackpot action (hit game) is executed. On the other hand, if the jackpot flag is not set, the special symbol display unit 11 stops and displays the special symbol with the symbol combination determined to be out in the symbol combination determination processing (S150-1-6), and the special operation processing. (S150) is terminated.

  Following the special operation process (S150), a reserved ball number process (S155) is performed. In the reserved ball number processing (S155), the current special symbol variation reserved ball number is loaded and set in the output buffer.

  In other processing (S157), other various processing required in the gaming machine is executed. As other processing, there are, for example, processing for normal symbol variation and small hits. These processes are not particularly related to the present invention and will not be described.

  Next, control processing executed by the CPU of the payout control board (payout control means) 240 will be described. As shown in FIG. 12, in the control processing (S160) by the CPU of the payout control board 240, initialization of the RAM (S160-1), initial setting of the device (S160-2), sensor and switch input (S160-3) , Timer update (S160-4), payout sensor monitoring (S160-5), main control command analysis (S160-6), payout device control (S160-7), output processing (S160-8) are performed and output After the process (S160-8), the process returns to the sensor and switch input (S160-3) and the above processes are repeated.

  In initialization of the RAM (S160-1), initialization of the RAM in the payout control board 240 is performed. In the initial setting of the device (S160-2), initial setting of various devices on the payout control board 240 is performed. Further, in the input of the sensor and switch (S160-3), the switches 281, the no-ball detection switch 283, and the full switches provided in the lower ball tray 37 are input. . In the timer update process (S160-4), the timers such as the operation of the payout device 281 and the pause time are updated. In the payout sensor monitoring process (S160-5), the payout sensor (here, a photo sensor) monitors payout abnormalities such as payout of prize balls paid out by the payout device 281 and excessive discharge of prize balls and shortage of payouts. ) 281e.

  In the main control command analysis process (S160-6), as shown in FIG. 13, it is determined whether the command received from the main control board 200 is valid or invalid (S160-6-1). When the main control command analysis process (S160-6) is completed and the command is valid, it is determined whether the received command is a winning ball command set in the winning detection process (S140) in the main control board 200. If the command is not a prize ball command (S160-6-2), other command processing (S160-6-4) is performed, and then the main control command analysis processing (S160-6) ends. The other command processing (S160-6-4) is a known technique not related to the present invention, and thus the description thereof is omitted. On the other hand, when the received command is a prize ball command, a bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3 in the first embodiment, S160-6-3A in the second embodiment, and in the case of the third embodiment). S160-6-3B) is performed, and then the main control command analysis process (S160-6) is completed.

In the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3) of the first embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the value of the payout instruction data (payout instruction command) included in the prize ball command is 8 (= 2). ³ ) It is determined whether or not (S160-6-3-1), and if the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 8 (= 2 ³ ) or more, the 8 (2 ³ ) payout balls It is confirmed whether the count value of the payout counter is in the storage upper limit state (storage upper limit count value) (S160-6-3-2). If the count value of the eight (2 ³⁾ pay award balls paid out counter is not stored upper limit, the count value of the eight (2 ³⁾ pay awards sphere payout counter value after the addition is 1 added 8 ^{(2 3)} held in the payment prize ball payout counter (stored) (S160-6-3-3), followed by 8 subtracted from the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) (S160-6-3-4 Thereafter, the process returns to S160-6-3-1 again, and the processing after the determination of whether or not the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 8 (= 2 ³ ) or more is repeated.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S160-6-3-1 that the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is less than 8 (= 2 ³ ), or in S160-6-3-2, the 8 (2 ³ When the count value of the payout ball payout counter is confirmed to be the upper limit of storage, it is determined whether or not the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 4 (= 2 ² ) or more (S160-6). 3-5) If the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 4 (= 2 ² ) or more, the count value of the 4 (2 ² ) payout ball payout counters indicates the storage upper limit state (memory upper limit). Count value) is confirmed (S160-6-3-6). If the count value of the four (2 ²⁾ pay award balls paid out counter is not stored upper limit, the count value of the four (2 ²⁾ pay awards sphere payout counter value after the addition is 1 added 4 ^{(2 2)} held in the payment prize ball payout counter (stored) (S160-6-3-7), followed by 4 subtracted from the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) (S160-6-3-8 Thereafter, the process returns to S160-6-3-5 again, and the processing after the determination whether the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 4 (= 2 ² ) or more is repeated.

When it is determined in S160-6-3-5 that the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is less than 4 (= 2 ² ), or in S160-6-3-6, the four (2 ² When it is confirmed that the count value of the payout ball payout counter is the upper limit of storage, it is determined whether or not the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 2 (= 2 ¹ ) or more (S160-6). 3-9) If the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 2 (= 2 ¹ ) or more, the count value of the two (2 ¹ ) payout ball payout counters indicates the storage upper limit state (memory upper limit). Count value) is confirmed (S160-6-3-10). If the two (2 ¹⁾ the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter is not stored upper limit, the two (2 ¹⁾ the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter value after the addition is 1 added 2 ^{(2 1)} held in the payment prize ball payout counter (stored) (S160-6-3-11), followed by 2 subtracted from the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) (S160-6-3-12 Thereafter, the process returns to S160-6-3-9 again, and the processing after the determination whether the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 2 (= 2 ¹ ) or more is repeated.

When it is determined in S160-6-3-9 that the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is less than 2 (= 2 ¹ ), or in S160-6-3-10, the two (2 ¹ When it is confirmed that the count value of the payout ball payout counter is the upper limit of storage, it is determined whether or not the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 1 (= 2 ⁰ ) or more (S160-6). 3-13), when the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) 1 (= ^{2 0)} or more, the count value of said one ^{(2 0)} payment prize ball payout counter, stores the upper limit state (storage upper limit Count value) is confirmed (S160-6-3-14). If the count value of said one (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize ball payout counter is not stored upper limit, the count value of said one (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize ball payout counter value after the addition is 1 added 1 ^{(2 0)} held in the payment prize ball payout counter (stored) (S160-6-3-15), then decremented by 1 from the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) (S160-6-3-16 Thereafter, the process returns to S160-6-3-13 again, and the processing after the determination as to whether or not the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is 1 (= 2 ⁰ ) or more is repeated.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S160-6-3-13 that the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) is less than 1 (= 2 ⁰ ) (that is, 0), or in S160-6-3-14, the 1 when the number (2 ⁰⁾ count value of the payment prize ball payout counter is determined to be storage upper limit, the bit-specific payout counter addition process of example 1 (S160-6-3) is completed. The bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3) of the first embodiment corresponds to the distribution holding means and the prize value alternative addition storage means in the present invention, and the S160-6-3-2, S160-6-3-6, S160-6-3-10, and S160-6-3-14 correspond to the storage upper limit detection means in the present invention.

In the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3A) of the second embodiment, the value of the payout instruction data (payout command) included in the prize ball command received from the main control board 200 is determined based on the value of the bit position. The value held in each prize ball payout counter is distributed. The payout instruction data (payout command) is represented by a 4-bit binary number. For example, in the case of 13 payout instruction data (payout command), it becomes “1101” in a 4-bit binary number, and becomes bit 0, bit 1, bit 2, and bit 3 in order from the right side. In the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3A) of the second embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 16 to 20, firstly, payout instruction data (payout command) included in the prize ball command received from the main control board 200. It is determined whether the value of bit 3 is 0 (that is, whether the value of the payout instruction data is less than 8 (= 2 ³ )) (S160-6-3A-1). (If the value of is not less than 8 (= 2 ³ )), it is confirmed whether the count value of the 8 (2 ³ ) payout ball payout counter is the upper limit of storage (S160-6-3A-2). The eight (2 ³⁾ when the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter was stored upper limit, the eight (2 ³⁾ over can not be maintained in the payment prize ball payout counter flow - 8 as payout number of Is set in the storage addition counter (S160-6-3A-13), and the per-bit payout counter distribution process 1 (S160-6-3A-14) is performed. In the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 1 (S160-6-3A-14), a process of distributing and holding the overflowed eight payout numbers to other prize ball payout counters is performed. The bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 1 (S160-6-3A-14) will be described later. Meanwhile, said eight in S160-6-3A-2 ^{(2 3)} when the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter was not stored upper limit, the eight ^{(2 3)} pay award balls paid out counter counts value is held (stored) in 1 summed eight to ^{(2 3)} pay awards sphere payout counter (S160-6-3A-3).

After the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 1 (S160-6-3A-14), or the 8 ^{(2 3)} the count value of the payment prize balls paid out counter is incremented by 1 and holds (stores) processing (S160 -6-3A-3) or the value of bit 3 in the payout instruction data (payout command) in S160-6-3A-1 is 0 (that is, the value of the payout instruction data is less than 8 (= 2 ³ ) ), It is then determined whether the value of bit 2 in the payout instruction data (payout command) is 0 (that is, whether the value of the payout instruction data is less than 4 (= 2 ² )) ( S160-6-3A-4), 0 if not (i.e. 4 the value of the payout instruction data (= ^{2 2)} be less than) the four ^{(2 2)} count value of the payment prize ball payout counter stores It is confirmed whether it is the upper limit (S16 -6-3A-5). The four (2 ²⁾ when the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter was stored upper limit, the overflow of the four (2 ²⁾ can not be retained in the payment prize ball payout counter - 4 as payout number of Is set in the storage addition counter (S160-6-3A-15), and it is not necessary to perform the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 1 (S160-6-3A-14), so the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 2 (S160- 6-3A-16) is performed. In the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 2 (S160-6-3A-16), a process for distributing and holding the overflowed four payout numbers to other prize ball payout counters is performed. The bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 2 (S160-6-3A-16) will be described later. Meanwhile, said four in S160-6-3A-5 ^{(2 2} pieces) when the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter was not stored upper limit, the four ^{(2 2)} pay award balls paid out counter counts value is held (stored) in the four ^{(2 2)} pay award balls paid out counter is incremented by 1 (S160-6-3A-6).

After the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 2 (S160-6-3A-16), or the four ^{(2 2),} the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter adds 1 to the holding (storage) processing (S160 -6-3A-6) or the value of bit 2 in the payout instruction data (payout command) in S160-6-3A-4 is less than 0 (that is, the value of the payout instruction data is less than 4 (= 2 ² )) ) Is then determined whether or not the value of bit 1 in the payout instruction data (payout command) is 0 (that is, whether the value of the payout instruction data is less than 2 (= 2 ¹ )) ( S160-6-3A-7), if not 0 (that is, if the value of the payout instruction data is less than 2 (= 2 ¹ )), the count value of the two (2 ¹ ) payout ball payout counters is stored. It is confirmed whether it is the upper limit (S16 -6-3A-8). Wherein when two (2 ¹⁾ the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter was stored upper limit, the overflow of the two (2 ¹⁾ can not pay prize ball payout counter holding - 2 as payout number of It is set in the storage addition counter (S160-6-3A-17), and the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 1 (S160-6-3A-14) and the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 2 (S160-6-3A-16) Since there is no need to perform this, the per-bit payout counter distribution processing 3 (S160-6-3A-18) is performed. In the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 3 (S160-6-3A-18), a process of distributing and holding the two overflowed payout numbers to other prize ball payout counters is performed. The bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 3 (S160-6-3A-18) will be described later. Meanwhile, the said two in S160-6-3A-8 ^{(2 1} piece) when the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter was not stored upper limit, the two ^{(2 1)} payment prize balls paid out counter counts value is held (stored) in two ^{(2 1)} payment prize balls paid out counter is incremented by 1 (S160-6-3A-9).

After the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 3 (S160-6-3A-18), or by adding ( ¹ ) the count value of the two (21) payout ball payout counters and holding (storing) (S160) -6-3A-9) or the value of bit 1 in the payout instruction data (payout command) in S160-6-3A-7 is 0 (that is, the value of the payout instruction data is less than 2 (= 2 ¹ )) ) Is then determined whether the value of bit 0 in the payout instruction data (payout command) is 0 (that is, whether the value of the payout instruction data is less than 1 (= 2 ⁰ )) ( S160-6-3A-10), 0 if not (that is, the value of the payout instruction data 1 (= ^{2 0)} if not less than) the one ^{(2 0)} count value of the payment prize ball payout counter stores It is confirmed whether it is the upper limit (S1 0-6-3A-11). Said one (2 ⁰⁾ number when the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter not the storage limit, said one (2 ⁰⁾ count value of the payment prize ball payout counter 1 is incremented by 1 (2 ⁰ Is held (stored) in the payout ball payout counter (S160-6-3A-12), and the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3A) of the second embodiment is completed. On the other hand, if it is determined in S160-6-3A-10 that the value of bit 0 in the payout instruction data (payout command) is 0 (that is, the value of the payout instruction data is less than 1 (= 2 ⁰ )) or S160 the one in -6-3A-11 (2 ⁰ pieces) when the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter is determined to be storage upper limit, holding a value to any of the prize balls payout counter (storage) Without this, the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3A) of the second embodiment ends.

  The bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3A) of the second embodiment corresponds to the distribution holding means and the prize value alternative addition storage means in the present invention. In particular, in the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3A) of the second embodiment, the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 1 (S160-6-3A-14) and the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 2 ( S160-6-3A-16) and the bit-by-bit payout counter distribution process 3 (S160-6-3A-18) correspond to prize value alternative addition storage means. The S160-6-3A-2, S160-6-3A-5, S160-6-3A-8, and S160-6-3A-11 correspond to the storage upper limit detecting means in the present invention.

  The per-bit payout counter distribution process 1 (S160-6-3A-14), the per-bit payout counter distribution process 2 (S160-6-3A-16), and the per-bit payout counter distribution process 3 (S160-6-3A) -18) will be described.

In the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 1 (S160-6-3A-14), the said eight in ^S160-6-3A-2 (2 ³ pieces) the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter is determined that the upper limit state If the, instead of the eight (2 ³⁾ held by adding the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter (stored), the four (2 ²⁾ pay award balls paid out counter, the two ( 2 ¹⁾ payment prize balls paid out counter, said one (2 ⁰⁾ a process of storing and holding separately payout number of dispense instruction data to pay prize ball payout counter is performed.

In the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 1 (S160-6-3A-14), as shown in FIG. 18, the four ^{(2 2)} count value of the payment prize balls paid out counter is checked whether the storage limit state ( S160-6-3A-14-1), if the count value of the four ^{(2 2)} pay award balls paid out counter is not the storage limit, the four ^{(2 2)} pay award balls paid out the count value of a counter There four are 1 added ^{(2 2)} held in the payment prize ball payout counter (stored) (S160-6-3A-14-2), holding a payout number of the overflow (memory) to which stores adding The counter value is subtracted by 4 (S160-6-3A-14-3). Next, it is determined whether the value of the storage addition counter is 0 (that is, whether the number of payouts overflowing is 0) (S160-6-3A-14-4). S160-6-3A-14) is completed, whereas, if not 0, the four ^{(2 2)} count value of the payment prize ball payout counter stores the upper limit state of confirmation processing (S160-6-3A- Returning to 14-1), the subsequent processing is repeated. Moreover, said four in S160-6-3A-14-1 ^{(2 2} pieces) when the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter is determined to be stored upper limit, the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 2 (S160- 6-3A-16) is performed, and thereafter, the per-bit payout counter distribution processing 1 (S160-6-3A-14) is completed.

Wherein the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 2 (S160-6-3A-16), the four in the S160-6-3A-5 or the S160-6-3A-14-1 ^{(2 2} pieces) payment prize balls when the count value of the payout counter is determined to limit state, instead of the four (2 ²⁾ held by adding the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter (stored), the two (2 ¹ ) pay award balls paid out counter, said one (2 ⁰⁾ a process of storing and holding separately payout number of dispense instruction data to pay prize ball payout counter is performed.

Wherein the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 2 (S160-6-3A-16), as shown in FIG. 19, the two ^{(2 1)} the count value of the payment prize balls paid out counter is checked whether the storage limit state ( S160-6-3A-16-1), the two ^{(2 1)} if the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter is not the storage limit, the two ^{(2 1)} payment prize balls paid out the count value of a counter There two are 1 added ^{(2 1)} held in the payment prize ball payout counter (stored) (S160-6-3A-16-2), holding a payout number of the overflow (memory) to which stores adding The counter value is subtracted by 2 (S160-6-3A-16-3). Next, it is determined whether the value of the storage addition counter is 0 (that is, whether the number of payouts overflowing is 0) (S160-6-3A-16-4). S160-6-3A-16) is completed, whereas, if not 0, the two ^{(2 1)} the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter stores the upper limit state of confirmation processing (S160-6-3A- Returning to 16-1), the subsequent processing is repeated. Further, the case where the two in S160-6-3A-16-1 ^{(2 1} piece) count value of the payment prize ball payout counter is determined to be stored upper limit, the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 3 (S160- 6-3A-18) is performed.

In the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 3 (S160-6-3A-18), the said two in S160-6-3A-8 or the S160-6-3A-16-1 ^{(2 1} piece) payment prize balls when the count value of the payout counter is determined to limit state, instead of holding by adding the two (2 ¹⁾ the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter (stored), the one (2 ⁰ ) Processing for storing the number of payouts of the payout instruction data in the payout ball payout counter is performed.

In the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 3 (S160-6-3A-18), as shown in FIG. 20, the one ^{(2 0)} count value of the payment prize balls paid out counter is checked whether the storage limit state ( S160-6-3A-18-1), wherein one ^{(2 0)} if the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter stores the upper limit, the bit-specific payout counter distribution processing 3 (S160-6-3A-18 ) is completed, whereas, the one (2 ⁰⁾ if the count value of the payment prize ball payout counter is not the storage upper limit, the count value of said one (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize balls paid out counter is incremented by 1 1 Te ^{(2 0)} held in the payment prize ball payout counter (stored) (S160-6-3A-18-2), the value of the holding payout number overflow (store) to which stores adding counter 1 is subtracted (S160- -3A-18-3). Next, it is determined whether the value of the storage addition counter is 0 (that is, whether the number of payouts overflowing is 0) (S160-6-3A-18-4). S160-6-3A-18) is completed, whereas, if not 0, the one ^{(2 0)} count value of the payment prize ball payout counter stores the upper limit state of confirmation processing (S160-6-3A- Returning to 18-1), the subsequent processing is repeated. Therefore, in this embodiment, since the value of the bit received by the command is divided as it is, the software logic for deriving the prize ball payout counter to be added from the received prize ball command can be easily configured. Compared with those having prize ball payout counters of all values from a prize ball payout counter to a predetermined number (for example, 15) of prize ball payout counters or having a prize ball payout counter corresponding to the number of prize balls Is good.

  In the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3B) of the third embodiment, the payout instruction data (payout command) value (represented by a 4-bit binary number) included in the prize ball command received from the main control board 200. Are assigned to the corresponding prize ball payout counters in order from the position of bit 0 and held (stored).

The bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3B) of the third embodiment corresponds to the distribution holding means of the present invention. The bit-specific payout counter addition process of Example 3 (S160-6-3B), as shown in FIG. 21, the position data is one prize balls paid out counter for storing a payout number (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize balls paid out The counter is set (S160-6-3B-1), and the number of repetitions is set to 4 which is the total number of prize ball payout counters (S160-6-3B-2). Next, the value of bit 0 in the payout instruction data (payout command) included in the winning ball command received from the main control board 200 is determined (S160-6-3B-3). payout counter (one in the initial set (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize balls paid out counter) the count value count is incremented by one of stored and held to the prize ball payout counter (S160-6-3B-4), On the other hand, if the value of bit 0 in the payout instruction data (payout command) is 0, the process of adding 1 to the count value of the prize ball payout counter (S160-6-3B-4) is not performed, and the next process is performed. Jump.

  Thereafter, the payout instruction data (payout command) is shifted to the right by 1 bit (S160-6-3B-5). That is, the value of bit 0 is erased, the value of bit 1 is shifted to bit 0, the value of bit 2 is shifted to bit 1, and the value of bit 3 is shifted to bit 2. For example, in the case of 13 payout instruction data (payout command), it is represented as [1101] in binary number, and becomes bit 0, bit 1, bit 2 and bit 3 in order from the right, and [1101] payout instruction data (payout) When the command is shifted to the right by 1 bit, the order is [1101] → [0110] → [0011] → [0001].

Next, the position data of the prize ball payout counter that stores the number of payouts is set in the next prize ball payout counter in association with the bit position movement of the payout instruction data (S160-6-3B-6). In this embodiment, the position data of the prize balls paid out counter for storing a payout number is, the in correspondence with the bit position movement of the dispense instruction data, one (2 ⁰⁾ payment prize ball payout counter → 2 pieces (2 ¹ number) to pay prize ball payout counter → 4 pieces (2 ²⁾ pay prize ball payout counter → 8 pieces (2 ³⁾ is set in the order of the pay award ball payout counter. For example, the prize balls paid out counter for storing a payout number, if it is set to the current one ^{(2 0)} payment prize balls paid out counter, two in S160-6-3B-6 ^{(2 1} piece) payment Award Set to the ball payout counter. Next, the repeat number is subtracted by 1 (S160-6-3B-7), and it is determined whether the remaining repeat number is 0 (S160-6-3B-8). If the remaining number of repetitions is 0, the bit-by-bit payout counter addition process (S160-6-3B) of the third embodiment is completed. On the other hand, if the remaining number of repetitions is not 0, the payout instruction data (payout command) The above-described processing after the determination processing (S160-6-3B-3) on whether or not the value of bit 0 in FIG.

  In the payout device control process (S160-7), as shown in FIG. 22, it is first confirmed whether the payout device 281 is operating (the payout motor 281c is driving) (S160-7-1). If there is, it is confirmed whether or not the payout sensor (payout detecting means) 281e has detected the paid out prize ball (game ball) (S160-7-2). When the payout sensor (payout detecting means) 281e detects the payout prize ball (game ball), the payout number is subtracted from the set prize ball payout number (S160-7-3). For example, when four payout numbers are set, 1 is subtracted from the set payout number, and the remaining payout number (the number of payout game balls) is set to three. Next, it is determined whether the remaining number of payouts is 1 or more (S160-7-4). On the other hand, when the payout sensor (payout detecting means) 281e has not detected the paid out prize ball (game ball), the payout number subtraction process (S160-7-3) is not performed and the remaining It is determined whether the number of payouts is 1 or more (S160-7-4). When the remaining payout number is not 1 or more, the operation of the payout device 281 is stopped (S160-7-5), and this payout device control (S160-7) is ended. On the other hand, when the remaining number of payouts is 1 or more, the driving of the payout motor 281c is continued (S160-7-6), and thereafter, the payout device control (S160-7) is ended. By the processing of S160-7-2 to S160-7-6, the operation of the payout device 281 (drive of the payout motor 281C) is performed until the payout for the number of payouts set for the detection of one winning is completed. That is, it continues until one payout is finished, and when the payout for the number of payouts set for the detection of one winning is finished, that is, when one payout is finished, the operation of the payout device 281 (payout motor 281C). Driving) stops.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S160-7-1 that the payout device 281 is not in operation, it is confirmed whether or not the stop time (pause time of the payout motor) of the payout device 281 has passed (S160-7-7). If not, the payout device control process (S160-7) ends. On the other hand, if the pause time has elapsed, it is confirmed whether an error has occurred (S160-7-8). If an error has occurred, the payout device control process (S160-7) ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that an error has not occurred, it is confirmed whether there is a ball lending payout request from a prepaid card unit (not shown) connected to the gaming machine 1 (S160-7-). 9). If there is no ball rental payout request, it is confirmed whether there is a prize ball payout number (ie, the payout number is 1 or more) (S160-7-10). If there is no payout number, this payout device control process (S160). -7) ends. On the other hand, if there is a payout number (that is, 1 or more), a payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) is performed. When it is determined in S160-7-10 that there is a ball lending payout request, the payout number is set to 25 (S160-7-14). The payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-14) will be described later. Note that S160-7-2 to 6 and S160-7-13 correspond to payout means.

  After the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) or the setting of the payout number 25 (S160-7-14), a pause time setting process (S160-7-12) and a payout apparatus operation start (S160) -7-13) is performed, and thereafter, the payout device control process (S160-7) ends. The pause time setting process (S160-7-12) will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 23, in the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11), the number of confirmation repetitions for the prize ball payout counter is set to 4 which is the total number of the prize ball payout counter (S160). -7-11-1). With this setting, it is possible to confirm whether or not there is a memory to be paid out for all prize ball payout counters. Next, it is checked whether the count value of the prize ball payout counter is 0 (no memory to be paid out in the prize ball payout counter) with respect to the current prize ball payout counter (S160-7-11-2). The confirmation order of the prize ball payout counter is set in descending order from the prize ball payout counter having the largest power value of 2 by the initial setting performed when the gaming machine is turned on or reset. Yes. That is, in this embodiment, eight (2 ³⁾ pay awards sphere payout counter → 4 pieces (2 ²⁾ pay awards sphere payout counter → 2 pieces (2 ¹⁾ payment prize ball payout counter → 1 piece (2 It is set to check in the order of the ( ⁰ ) payout ball payout counter. In this embodiment, the maximum payout number is confirmed from the eight payout ball payout counter. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the minimum payout number may be confirmed from the single payout ball payout counter. Good.

When it is confirmed in S160-7-11-2 that the count value of the prize ball payout counter is not 0 (that is, when there is a memory to be paid out), the count value of the prize ball payout counter is decremented by 1 ( S160-7-11-3), power of the payout number of 2 set to the prize ball payout counter (e.g., eight ^{(2 3)} if payment prize balls paid out counters, eight payout amount ) Is set to the number of payouts from the payout device 281 (S160-7-11-4), and then the confirmation target moves to the next prize ball payout counter in the confirmation order (S160-7-11-5), Thereafter, the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) is completed. The payout of the number of payouts determined in the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) is determined according to the order of checking the value (stored value) of the prize ball payout counter (S160). In S160-7-2 to 6 and S160-7-13 in step -7).

  On the other hand, if the count value of the prize ball payout counter is determined to be 0 in S160-7-11-2, the process moves to the next prize ball payout counter based on the confirmation order (S160-7-11-11). 6) 1 is subtracted from the number of repetitions for confirmation (S160-7-11-7), and it is confirmed whether the number of repetitions after subtraction is 0 (S160-7-11-8). Returning to 7-11-2, it is checked again whether the count value of the prize ball payout counter is 0, and the subsequent processing is repeated in the same manner as described above based on the check result. When it is determined in S160-7-11-8 that the number of repetitions is 0, that is, all the prize ball payout counters have been checked, there is no payout of prize balls to be paid out by the payout device 281 (no payout remaining) ) Is set to no payout (S160-7-11-9), and thereafter, the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) ends. The payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) corresponds to a payout check means and a payout remaining check means.

  In the pause time setting process (S160-7-12), the payout operation of the payout device 281 is paused according to the payout number paid out by the payout device 281. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 24, it is determined whether the number of payouts paid out by the payout device 281 is 5 or less, 6 to 10 or 11 or more (S160-7-12). -1, S160-7-12-2). The number of payouts paid out by the payout device 281 is the number of game balls detected by the payout sensor (payout detection means) 281e. In this embodiment, the number of prize balls paid out from the start of driving of the payout motor 281c of the payout device to the stop of driving is determined by the payout sensor (payout detection means) by one payout by the payout device 281. ) 281e is the number of game balls detected.

  In the pause time setting process (S160-7-12), if the number of payouts is 5 or less, the pause time of the payout motor after one payout is set to 150 ms (S160-7-12-5). If the number is 6 to 10, the pause time is set to 300 ms (S160-7-12-4), and if 11 or more, the pause time is set to 700 ms (S160-7-12). 3). After the pause time is set, the pause time setting process (S160-7-12) ends. The pause time setting process (S160-7-12) and S160-7-7 of the payout device control (S160-7) correspond to payout suspending means.

  In the output process (S160-8), if there is data in the buffer, a signal for driving the payout device 281 is transmitted according to the data.

  Thus, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the payout storage means is configured by a plurality of prize ball payout counters in which the number of payouts for one count value is set to a power of 2, and it is possible to detect winnings in a plurality of winning devices. When storing the payout number of the prize ball based on the payout storage means, the value of the payout number is divided into powers of 2 and the divided value is distributed to the prize ball payout counter corresponding to the divided value. By storing as a count value, a payout counter for all values from one payout counter to a predetermined number (for example, 15) payout counters is set in the storage area related to the payout number, or according to the number of prize balls Therefore, it is possible to reduce the storage area that is not used for paying out the number of prize balls, compared to setting the payout counter. Since the method for storing prize counts even if the prize counts is changed according to a change does not change, it is possible to reduce the burden of program changes, such as storage settings regarding payout.

In addition, this invention is not limited to the said Example, It can change in the range which does not deviate from the meaning of invention. For example, a payout number for one winning detection to winning device in this embodiment is the up to 13, if the payout number for one winning detection had sixteen ones, 16 (2 ⁴⁾ payment prize balls A payout counter may be provided.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Game board 10 Display apparatus 11 Special symbol display part 64 Launcher 281 Dispensing apparatus

Claims (3)

Game control means for controlling the game;
A payout control means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls;
A plurality of winning devices capable of winning a game ball flowing down in a game area formed on the game board;
A payout storage means in which the payout control means can store the payout number of prize balls by the game control means transmitting payout instruction data to the payout control means based on detection of winning in the plurality of winning devices;
A payout device for paying out the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the storage of the payout storage means under the control of the payout control means;
A payout detecting means for detecting a prize ball paid out from the payout device;
With
The number of payouts stored in the payout storage means is configured to be subtracted based on detection of prize balls by the payout detection means,
In the gaming machine set so that the number of prize balls to be paid out by at least one winning device out of the plurality of winning devices by the payout device of the other winning devices is different.
The payout storage means is a power of 2 that has a payout number corresponding to one count value that does not exceed a maximum prize ball payout number among the prize ball payout numbers set in the plurality of winning devices and has a value different from each other. Is composed of a plurality of prize ball payout counters set to
A plurality of the payout instruction data corresponding to the payout number of the different prize balls,
One payout instruction data is represented by binary bit data composed of the same number of bits as the number of prize ball payout counters, and each bit representing the binary bit data represents the plurality of prize ball payout counters. Are configured to correspond one-to-one with
The prize ball payout counter is a sum of the number of payouts of one count value indicated by the prize ball payout counter corresponding to the bit set to ON among each bit of the bit data representing the payout instruction data. On the other hand, each bit of the bit data representing the payout instruction data is turned on or off in advance so as to be the payout number of the prize balls set in advance in the payout instruction data. Is set,
The payout control means when storing a payout number of prize balls in accordance with the payout instruction data received on the basis of the winning detection to said plurality of winning device to the dispensing storage means, a payout number of the prize balls A game machine comprising: a distribution holding means for distributing and holding as one count value when a value of the bit is on in a prize ball payout counter corresponding to each bit of the payout instruction data .   In the plurality of prize ball payout counters of the payout storage means, the number of payouts for one count value is 2 within the range of the maximum number of prize balls set for detection of one winning ball in the plurality of winning devices. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is set in a range from a minimum value to a maximum value of a power.   The distribution holding means sets the payout number for the 1 count value to a power of 2 when storing the payout number of prize balls based on detection of winning to the plurality of winning devices in the payout storage means. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein, among the plurality of prize ball payout counters, the game balls are assigned with priority from a prize ball payout counter having a large power value of 2.

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