JP5190832B2 - Image generation apparatus, game machine, and image generation program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a three-dimensional image generation technique, and more particularly to a method for realizing a speedy image display with a small amount of data.

  One of the devices that applied 3D image generation technology is a game device that can simulate the progress of the virtual 3D space from the back to the back. A typical example is a driving game in which a car is driven through a preset course.

For example, in JP-A-8-276074, a road is divided into a plurality of areas, and shape data represented by polygons to be displayed according to the area where the player's own vehicle is traveling is displayed. A perspective transformation was performed for display (Patent Document 1, FIG. 11, etc.). According to such an image generation device, the behavior of the four-axis suspension of the own vehicle is simulated based on the operation information, the vehicle is simulated according to the player's operation, and the shape corresponding to the position on the course of the vehicle By providing images of the road and background based on the data, it was possible to produce the atmosphere of the original racing scene with a high sense of realism.
JP-A-8-276074 (FIG. 11, paragraphs 0061-0063)

  However, in the method of storing shape data along the movement route (traveling route) in the virtual three-dimensional space and reading out the corresponding shape data according to the viewpoint (own vehicle) position and generating an image, It was necessary to create and store the shape data in advance, and there was a problem that the amount of image data was remarkably increased. Further, specifying the viewpoint position for each image update timing, reading out the corresponding shape data and performing the perspective transformation, inevitably increases the burden for image processing.

  Depending on the game or game machine, there may be a production content that is sufficient if it is possible to produce an atmosphere that is traveling in a three-dimensional space. For example, the effect is as if your character is traveling at high speed in the sea, in the air, or on the ground. In such effects, it is not required to reproduce the three-dimensional effect of the terrain to be drawn and the accuracy of the shape. Rather, it is higher priority to be able to effectively produce an atmosphere in which one's own character is traveling at high speed.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an image generation device, a game machine, and an image generation program capable of generating a stereoscopic image with a sense of speed without requiring a large amount of image data or high image processing capability. And

In order to solve the above problems, an image generation apparatus according to the present invention models at least a pair of columnar objects in a virtual three-dimensional space in an image generation apparatus that generates an image obtained by projecting a virtual three-dimensional space onto a projection plane. A columnar object placement unit for placing a pair of columnar objects near a side surface forming a quadrangular pyramid view volume that defines a range of a virtual three-dimensional space projected on the projection plane, and a predetermined pattern on the surface of the columnar object A rendering unit that renders the pattern, and the pattern rendered on the surface of each of the pair of columnar objects is controlled to move with time as viewed from the viewpoint.

According to such a configuration, the pattern rendered on the surface of the columnar object is visualized as an image, but this pattern moves with time, i.e., the pattern itself at each image update timing even if the position of the columnar object is the same. Since the position of is changed, the moving image is visually recognized as if the pattern is moving. At this time, since only a part of the columnar object enters the view volume, a perspective projection image is obtained in which the side surface of the columnar object is enlarged and observed, instead of being imaged as a columnar object. . Since the pattern on the surface of the columnar object is moving, the movement speed of the pattern recognized from the viewpoint is slow in the vicinity of the skyline (boundary with the background) of the columnar object, and becomes faster as it leaves. Therefore, an image is provided in which the viewpoint is moving at high speed in a sandwiched space surrounded by wall surfaces set in a virtual three-dimensional space. Since the pattern to be rendered only needs to have a data amount to be mapped onto the surface of the columnar object, the image data amount can be greatly reduced. Further, since it is only necessary to change the position of the pattern at each image update timing, it is possible to generate a stereoscopic image with a sense of presence even with an apparatus having a low processing capability.
In addition, since the pair of columnar objects are arranged in the vicinity of the side surfaces constituting the quadrangular pyramid viewing volume, the side walls of the columnar objects are projected on the left and right or upper and lower periphery of the image display surface serving as a projection surface, and image display is performed. An image is provided in which the pattern moves at high speed around the surface. Therefore, an image is provided in which the self-character modeled in the viewpoint or in front of the viewpoint moves at high speed along the z-axis direction (the line-of-sight direction).
In addition, it is also possible to generate an image as if moving in a closed space (tunnel etc.) surrounded by walls by imaging the wall surface both left and right and top and bottom with two pairs of columnar objects It is. Further, even if the columnar object is arranged so that the central axis is parallel to the diagonal of the cross section of the viewing volume on the quadrangular pyramid, the same effect can be obtained.

Here, several variations are possible as the columnar object. For example, the columnar object can be modeled in a cylindrical shape, and in this case, the pattern is moved by rotating the columnar object around the axis.
According to such a configuration, since the columnar object is rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis, a moving image with a sense of speed can be obtained simply by rotating an object with a pattern rendered on the surface at a predetermined speed in a virtual three-dimensional space. Can be generated. As the image data for the pattern to be rendered, it is only necessary to hold a data amount that can be mapped to the side surface of the columnar object.

The columnar object can be modeled into a rotationally asymmetric shape about the axis center. At this time, the pattern moves by changing the arrangement of the pattern to be rendered on the surface of the columnar object over time.
According to such a configuration, the columnar object is rotationally asymmetric. Therefore, if the columnar object is rotated about the axis, the outline of the object viewed from the viewpoint moves. Instead, in the present invention, the position of the pattern to be rendered on the surface is changed with respect to the object, so that a moving image with a sense of speed can be generated. As the image data for the pattern to be rendered, it is only necessary to repeatedly use image data for rendering on the surface included in the viewing volume, and the data amount can be reduced to a certain amount or less.
In addition, as such a rotationally asymmetric columnar object, an elliptical column, a rectangular column, and a planar object can be a columnar object in a broad sense.

Specifically, it is preferable that the patterns rendered on each of the pair of columnar objects are controlled so as to move symmetrically with each other.
According to such a configuration, since the pattern moves symmetrically in the opposite peripheral portions of the image display surface, an image in which the viewpoint or the modeled self-character in front of the viewpoint is moving at high speed is provided. Is done. For example, if you move symmetrically so that the pattern flows to the right side near the right side and the pattern flows to the left side near the left side, the image looks like the viewpoint is moving forward, and the pattern is near the right side. If the image is moved symmetrically so that it flows to the left side and the pattern flows to the right side near the left side surface, an image in which the viewpoint is moving backward (retracted) is provided.

In the present invention, it is preferable that a background image generation unit that generates a background image is provided, and the basic color of the pattern rendered on the surface of the columnar object is configured to approximate the basic color of the background image.
According to such a configuration, the pattern on the surface of the columnar object that has been perspectively projected has the same base color as the background image observed from behind the columnar object, and therefore the boundary (skyline) of the columnar object that has been perspectively projected becomes inconspicuous Natural images integrated with the background can be provided.

  In the present invention, a color density changing unit that changes the color density according to the distance from the viewpoint is provided, and the color density in the vicinity of the tangent line from the viewpoint to the side surface of the columnar object is controlled to be equal to or higher than a predetermined value. preferable.

  According to such a configuration, the color density is controlled to a certain level or more at a distance near the boundary (skyline) of the perspectively projected columnar object, so that the boundary can be blurred and what the background image looks like It is possible to provide a natural image that does not make the boundary stand out.

The present invention is also a gaming machine provided with the image generation apparatus of the present invention as described above.
Here, the “game machine” is not particularly limited, but for example, a pachinko machine (including a first-class pachinko machine and a second-class pachinko machine), a revolving game machine (hereinafter referred to as a “slot machine”). Etc.

The present invention is an image generation program for generating an image obtained by projecting a virtual three-dimensional space onto a projection plane, and models at least a pair of columnar objects in the virtual three-dimensional space, and projects the projection onto the projection plane. A function of arranging a pair of columnar objects near the side surface of the quadrangular pyramid view volume defining the range of the virtual three-dimensional space, a function of rendering a predetermined pattern on the surface of the columnar object, and a pair of columnar objects a pattern each is rendered on the surface, is also an image generation program for executing the function of controlling so as to move over time from the perspective, to the computer.

  This image generation program can be stored in a predetermined storage medium readable by a computer. That is, the program of the present invention is stored in an information processing apparatus such as a business or home video game machine or a personal computer through various media such as a CD-related disk, a DVD-related disk, a magnetic disk, a semiconductor memory, and a communication network. Can be loaded and executed.

  According to the present invention, only a part of the columnar object is imaged, and the pattern on the surface is moving, so the object moves at high speed in the sandwiched space surrounded by the wall surface where the viewpoint is set in the virtual three-dimensional space. The image is provided. Therefore, the amount of data that can be mapped onto the surface of the columnar object is sufficient, and the amount of image data can be greatly reduced. Further, since it is only necessary to change the position of the pattern at each image update timing, it is possible to generate a stereoscopic image with a sense of presence even with an apparatus having a low processing capability.

Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
In the present embodiment, as an example of a gaming machine, a so-called first-class pachinko machine (hereinafter, abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) will be described as an example. However, the present invention can be applied to other pachinko machines (second type, third type, etc.) as long as the model has an image display function.

(Definition)
Terms used in the present embodiment are defined as follows.
“Amusement machines”: Pachinko machines and slot machine machines that are installed in halls and are subject to customary laws (“Abbreviations for“ Regulations on customs business operations and business optimization ”).
“Game Ball”: A ball (pachinko ball) (rented ball) used in a gaming machine, by allowing a card reader to read a predetermined card, or by directly inserting coins into a ball rental machine , Provided.
“Prize ball”: A game ball to be paid out by winning.

“Winning”: A game ball enters the winning gate.
“Winning hole”: It is set to pay out a winning ball when a game ball enters. In this embodiment, it corresponds to a general winning hole 111 and a big winning hole 113.
“Start winning prize opening”: means a lottery set to start when a game ball enters, and is also called “chucker”. In the present embodiment, it corresponds to the start winning opening 112.

“Big prize opening”: An electric accessory that is released as a result of a jackpot, also called an “attacker”. In the present embodiment, the big prize opening 113 corresponds.
“Lottery”: “Lottery” or “losing” lottery results are output with a predetermined probability when a game ball wins a winning prize opening.
“Big Bonus”: Refers to shifting to a special game as a result of lottery.

“Reach”: A “big hit” if one more condition is met. For example, if one more number is arranged in the “decorative symbol”, the symbol “big hit” is displayed.
“Normal game”: A game that is played before a “big hit”.
“Special game”: A game state advantageous to the player.

  “Special symbol”: A symbol for displaying the result of the lottery, and “Big jackpot” or “Lose” is displayed.

  “Decoration design”: A design for presenting a lottery result with an image having an impact on the player, and corresponds to a lottery result of “big hit” or “losing” displayed by “special design”. Usually, a decorative design is represented by a design such as a number or a symbol. A design such as individual numbers or symbols is simply referred to as a “decorative design”. In the gaming machine, a group of a series of decorative symbols (for example, 10 numbers “0” to “9”) is moved and displayed as a unit. This group of “decorative symbols” is called “a series of ornamental symbols”. In the gaming machine, one of the “series of decorative symbols” is selected. By displaying a combination of a plurality of the selected decorative symbols, “winning” or “losing” is displayed. The combination of the decorative symbols expressed by the combination of the plurality of selected decorative symbols is referred to as “decorative symbol combination”.

“Normal symbol”: a symbol indicating whether or not a game ball is likely to win a normal electric accessory (so-called electric tulip) having a start winning opening.
“Variation display”: Displaying a decorative symbol while moving a lottery.
“Holding number”: The cumulative number of game balls that have entered the winning slot, which is the number of waiting for a lottery due to winning. Usually an upper limit is set.

“Probability variation mode”: a probability variation mode, which is a mode in which a state in which the probability of becoming a “big hit” is higher than in a normal game is formed.
“Time-saving mode”: A mode in which the fluctuation time of “special symbol” and “ordinary symbol” is shortened for a predetermined period or a period in which a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times.

(Embodiment 1)
The first embodiment of the present invention describes the overall configuration and relates to the basic principle of the present invention.
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of an external configuration of a pachinko machine.
In FIG. 1, a pachinko machine (game machine) 100 includes a game board (gauge board) that constitutes a game board surface and a game machine frame that supports and fixes the game board.

  The game board includes a plurality of nails 101, windmills 102a and 102b, a normal symbol operating gate 103, a normal electric accessory 104, a center decorative part 105, a special symbol display device 106, an effect display device 107, a normal symbol display device 108, an outside A rail 110, an inner rail 109, and the like are provided as game parts. Further, the game board is provided with a general winning port 111, a starting winning port 112, a big winning port 113, and an out port 114.

The inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 are for guiding the launched game balls to the game area 115.
The nail 101 and the windmills 102 a and 102 b are provided at predetermined positions in the game area 115. For example, the game balls that enter the game area 115 and move from the top to the bottom of FIG. 1 are irregularly moved, or the game balls to the general prize opening 111, the start prize opening 112, and the big prize opening 113 are The winning frequency and the passing frequency of the game ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103 are adjusted.

The special symbol display device 106 is provided on the side of the inner rail 109, and includes, for example, a 7-segment LED 116 that displays the special symbol and four LEDs 117 that display the number of winnings to the starting winning port 112 of the game ball. It is prepared for.
In this embodiment, the 7-segment LED 116 is caused to emit light based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112, and “3” and “7”, which are special symbols corresponding to “big hit”, and “losing”. After the corresponding special symbol “-” is displayed in a variable manner, one of these three types of special symbols is stopped and displayed based on the result of the lottery.

  The four LEDs 117 are for displaying the number of lottery results held based on the winning of the game balls at the start winning opening 112. Each time the game balls win the start winning opening 112, the light is sequentially emitted. When the fluctuation display starts, the lights are turned off sequentially. That is, the number of light emission of the four LEDs 117 corresponding to the upper limit value of the number of holdings is notified to the player of the current number of holdings of the lottery result based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 112. In the present embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of holds of the lottery result based on winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 112 is set to four. Then, when the number of reserves is four and a game ball is won at the start winning opening 112, the number corresponding to winning at the start winning opening 112 without performing a lottery based on the winning of the game ball. Only to play the prize ball.

  The effect display device 107 is a display device for displaying an image including a decorative design, and is provided at a substantially central position of the game area 115 so that the player can easily recognize it, and displays related to various effects. A liquid crystal display device for performing the above is provided.

The display screen 118 is an area in which an image is provided to the player so as to be visually recognized on the liquid crystal display device provided in the effect display device 107. On the display screen 118, a set of decorative symbols is displayed. As a set of decorative designs, for example, “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5”, “6”, “7”, “8”, There are “9”, “A”, “B”, “C”, “D”, “E”, “F”. During the variation period of the decorative symbols, the decorative symbols are displayed alternately in the order determined by the gaming machine. At the end of the decorative symbol variation period, any one of “0” to “9” and “A” to “F” is stopped and displayed as decorative symbols. The combination of these three decorative symbols indicates “big hit” or “lost”. On the other hand, when the result of the lottery is “losing”, decorative symbols other than the combination of specific decorative symbols corresponding to “big hit” are stopped and displayed.
The effect display device 107 is an object (character) for giving the player a sense of expectation of “big hit” in the “reach” effect after the transition to the reach state as well as the image parts and the decorative symbols. An image or the like is also displayed as a background image of a decorative design.

Further, the effect display device 107 may display the number of winnings of the game ball at the start winning opening 112 and notify the player of the current number of winnings at the starting winning opening 112.
Below the effect display device 107, an ordinary electric accessory 104 is provided. The ordinary electric accessory 104 opens and closes to guide the game ball to the start winning opening 112.
A big prize opening 113 is formed below the ordinary electric accessory 104. The big prize opening 113 becomes a “hit” and when the game shifts to a special game, the big prize opening door 120 falls down and is opened. In the present embodiment, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed in a special game. More specifically, during a unit game, when a game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V zone) 121 formed in the big prize opening 113, it may shift to the next unit game. As much as possible, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed. In the present embodiment, the specific area 121 is formed in the special winning opening 113, but the specific area 121 is not necessarily formed. In this case, when shifting to the special game, it is guaranteed that 15 unit games will be executed.

  The center decorative component 105 is a molded product including a transparent portion, and is provided around the effect display device 107. The center decoration part 105 plays a role of protecting the effect display device 107 or decorating the pachinko machine 100. Further, in the pachinko machine 100 shown in FIG. 1, the game ball that has entered the through portion 105 a formed at the upper part of the center decorative part 105 passes through the center decorative part 105 and is placed below the center decorative part 105. A flow path is formed so as to move to the formed stage 105b.

The normal symbol operation gate 103 is provided between the normal electric accessory 104 and the inner rail 109. For example, a game ball can pass through the normal symbol operation gate 103 from top to bottom. It is configured.
The normal symbol display device 108 is provided at a position facing the normal symbol operation gate 103 through the normal electric accessory 104. For example, the 7-segment LED 122 for displaying the normal symbol and the normal symbol operation gate 103 for the game ball are provided. And four LEDs 123 that display the number of passages to. The normal symbol is a symbol for indicating whether or not the normal electric accessory 104 is opened according to the result of the lottery performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 103.

  The normal symbol display device 108 causes the 7-segment LED 122 to emit light based on the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operation gate 103 and, for example, “7” and “−” as the normal symbols are alternately displayed in a variable manner. Either “7” or “−” is stopped and displayed. Then, when “7” is stopped and displayed, it is determined as “winning” and the ordinary electric accessory 104 is opened. On the other hand, when “−” is stopped and displayed, it is “lost”, and the ordinary electric accessory 104 is not opened.

  The four LEDs 123 indicate the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operating gate 103. The regular LEDs are sequentially lit each time the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 103, and the normal symbol variation display is displayed. Turns off sequentially when starting. That is, the number of passages of the normal symbol operation gate 103 is notified to the player by the number of light emission of the four LEDs 123.

  The general winning opening 111 is provided between the normal symbol operating gate 103 and the inner rail 109. When a gaming ball wins the general winning opening 111, a predetermined number of gaming balls are paid out.

  The out port 114 is provided at the lowermost part of the game area 115 and collects game balls that have not won any of the start winning port 112, the general winning port 111, and the big winning port 113. The collected game balls are released to the outside of the pachinko machine 100.

The gaming machine frame includes an outer frame 124, a front frame 125, a transparent plate 126, a door 127, and a ball tray unit 128.
The outer frame 124 has an opening and is a frame for fixing the pachinko machine 100 to a position where it should be installed. The front frame 125 is a frame body aligned with the opening portion of the outer frame 124, and is attached to the outer frame 124 so as to be freely opened and closed by a hinge mechanism or the like.

  The front frame 125 includes a mechanism for launching a game ball, a mechanism for detachably storing a game board, a mechanism for guiding or collecting the game ball, and the like. Furthermore, electrical decoration parts 130a to 130d such as game effect lamps that are turned on according to the state of the game are provided on the peripheral edge of the front frame 125.

  The transparent plate 126 is for protecting the game board, and is, for example, a transparent glass plate. A player plays a game through the transparent plate 126 while seeing through the game area 115 of the game board.

  The door 127 is for supporting the transparent plate 126, and is attached to the front frame 125 so as to be freely opened and closed by a hinge mechanism or the like.

  The ball tray unit 128 is provided below the front frame 125. The ball tray 128a stores a certain amount of game balls (rental balls and prize balls), a mechanism for storing game balls, and fires the game balls. A mechanism for sending out the game ball to the mechanism for the above, a ball removal mechanism for extracting the stored game ball into a ball exit storage box (so-called dollar box), a firing handle 131, an operation switch 132, and the like.

  In the pachinko machine 100 of this embodiment, a push button type is adopted as the ball removing mechanism. More specifically, when the player presses the bullet release button 128b, a part of the bottom surface of the ball tray 128a is opened, and the game ball stored in the ball tray 128a is released to the outside.

  The launch handle 131 is operated by the player when launching the game ball toward the game area 115. When the player rotates the launch handle 131, the game ball is guided toward the game area 115 by being guided by the inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 at a speed corresponding to the rotation angle.

The operation switch 132 is operated by the player, and a game effect is executed by reflecting the operation content. In the present embodiment, the operation switch 132 includes a push button and a cross key (not shown).
In addition, speakers 133 for reproducing and outputting sound effects are provided on both sides of the ball removal mechanism 128b.

(Outline of the game)
Next, an outline of the game in the pachinko machine 100 will be described.
First, in a state where the rented game balls are placed on the ball tray 128a, when the player turns the launch handle 131 in the clockwise direction toward FIG. 1, the game balls are directed toward the game area 115. Fired. The game ball that has entered the game area 115 collides with the nail 101 or the windmill 102 formed in the game area 115, and moves in the game area 115 from top to bottom while moving irregularly.

  At the start of the game, the decorative screen is not displayed on the display screen 118 of the effect display device 107, and the background image and an image in which a predetermined character (object) moves around the background image, and the theme of this gaming machine Is displayed.

  When the game ball wins the start winning opening 112, a predetermined number of winning balls (four winning balls in the present embodiment) are paid out to the ball tray 128a, and the special symbol display device 106 displays a variation display of the symbols. Be started. The lottery is started based on the winning. Corresponding to the start of the lottery, the decorative symbol is displayed on the display screen 118 and the variable display is started. When the result of the lottery executed based on the winning prize is “losing”, a special symbol corresponding to “losing” is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106. Then, a “reach” effect is executed on the display screen 118 as necessary, and a predetermined combination of decorative images corresponding to “losing” is displayed in the final stop, and then the mode shifts to a standby mode.

  On the other hand, when the result of the lottery executed based on the winning prize is “big hit”, after executing the reach effect, a special symbol corresponding to “big win” is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 in this stop. The The display screen 118 displays a predetermined combination of decorative symbols corresponding to “big hit”, and then shifts to a special game. The timing of the special symbol stop and the decorative symbol main stop coincide with each other.

In the special game, the special prize opening door 120 falls and the special prize opening 113 is opened. Each time a game ball wins a prize in the opened big winning opening 113, a predetermined number of prize balls (15 prize balls in this embodiment) are paid out. In this embodiment, when the grand prize opening 113 is opened for 29.5 seconds or when a specific number of game balls are won in the grand prize opening 113, the grand prize opening door 120 is opened. Standing up, the special prize opening 113 is closed.
In the following description, when the specific number is 10, that is, either the big prize opening 113 is opened for 29.5 seconds or ten game balls are awarded to the big prize opening 113. In this state, the case where the special winning opening door 120 is raised will be described as an example.

If the game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V zone) 121 formed in the big winning opening 113 while the winning opening 113 is opened, the big winning opening 113 is opened again. In the present embodiment, the opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning opening 113 is performed up to 15 times. That is, as described above, in the special game, a unit game in which the opening / closing of the special winning opening 113 is set as a set is performed 15 times at maximum.
In this way, when a special game is executed, a large amount of prize balls are paid out in a short period of time, and a great merit can be given to the player.

  When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the normal symbol display device 108 (7-segment LED 122) starts to display the normal symbol in a variable manner. Thereafter, when a predetermined normal symbol (“7” in the present embodiment) is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108, the normal electric accessory 104 performs an opening / closing operation. When the ordinary electric combination 104 is opened, the game ball can win the start winning opening 112 without passing between nails (so-called life nails) above the start winning opening 112.

  Further, according to the result of the lottery executed based on the winning at the start winning opening 112, the mode is shifted to either the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” after the special game is executed. When shifting to the “probability change mode”, the special symbol display device 106 displays “7” as the special symbol, and the effect display device 107 executes an effect indicating the shift to the “probability change mode” to play the game. Inform the person. Further, when shifting to the “short time mode”, the special symbol display device 106 displays “3” as the special symbol, and the effect display device 107 executes an effect indicating that the transition to the “short time mode” is performed. , Inform the player.

  As described above, when the transition to the “probability change mode” is performed after the execution of the special game, it is possible to prevent the holding ball from being reduced as much as possible until the next special game is started. Further, even when the mode is shifted to the “short time mode”, it is possible to prevent the holding ball from being reduced as much as possible for a while after the execution of the special game.

  When a game ball wins the general winning opening 111, a predetermined number of prize balls (four prize balls in this embodiment) are paid out to the ball tray 128a. If the game ball has not won any winning opening, the game ball flows into the out opening 114.

(Description of system configuration)
Next, a system configuration such as an internal configuration of the pachinko machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the pachinko machine 100. As shown in FIG.
Inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100, there are a main control board 201, a sub control board 202 connected to the main control board 201, a winning hole board 203, an LED drive board 204, a launch control board 205, a payout control board 206, A power receiving board 207, an electric decoration board 208, and the like are provided.

(Main control board 201)
The main control board 201 is provided with a main CPU 201a, ROM 201b, RAM 201c, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 201d, which are connected to each other via a bus 201e.

  The main CPU 201a reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. And main CPU201a reads the program, data, etc. which are memorize | stored in ROM201b, and controls the whole pachinko machine 100 based on these.

  The ROM 201b stores programs and data necessary for the main CPU 201a to perform processing shown in FIGS. 6 to 10 described later and other game controls. The RAM 201c is used as a work area when the main CPU 201a performs various controls and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The I / F circuit 201d transmits and receives signals performed between the main control board 201, the sub control board 202, the winning hole board 203, the LED drive board 204, the launch control board 205, and the payout control board 206. Control the timing. However, between the main control board 201 and the sub control board 202, transmission of signals from the main control board 201 to the sub control board 202 is performed, but transmission of signals from the sub control board 202 to the main control board 201 is not performed. Not done. That is, only one-way transmission is possible.

  In addition, the I / F circuit 201 d is supplied with predetermined power from the power supply device 209 disposed inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100 via the power receiving board 207. With this power, the main control board 201 can perform various processes described later.

(Sub control board 202)
The sub control board 202 is provided with a sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image sound processor 202d, image data ROM 202e, video RAM 202f, tone generator circuit 202g, amplifier 202h, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 202i. The sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image sound processor 202d, and I / F circuit 202i are connected to each other via a bus 202j. The sound source circuit 202g, the image data ROM 202e, and the video RAM 202f are connected to the image sound processor 202d, and the amplifier 202h is connected to the sound source circuit 202g. Furthermore, an electrical decoration board 208 is connected to the I / F circuit 202i.

  The sub CPU 202a reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. Then, the sub CPU 202a reads a program, data, and the like stored in the ROM 202b, and controls the entire sub control board 202, in particular, controls the effects for the player.

  The ROM 202b stores programs and data necessary for the sub CPU 202a to execute processing shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, which will be described later, and other effects during the game. The RAM 202c is used as a work area when the sub CPU 202a performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

  Note that the ROM 202b and the RAM 202c may be the same as the ROM 201b and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201, respectively, but those having a larger capacity may be used.

  The effect display device 107 includes a liquid crystal display device, and is connected to the image sound processor 202d. The decoration display and the background image are displayed on the display screen 118 by the effect display device 107.

  The image data ROM 202e stores image data such as objects (characters) and characters constituting these decorative symbols and background images.

The video RAM 202f is a memory used when the image sound processor 202d creates an image to be displayed on the effect display device 107. The video RAM 202f can store a plurality of frame image data. An area for storing individual frame image data is a storage layer.
Needless to say, the effect display device 107 may be configured using, for example, a plasma display instead of the liquid crystal display device.

  The sound source circuit 202g is for generating an audio signal corresponding to the game effect, and is connected to the amplifier 202h. The sound based on the sound signal generated by the sound source circuit 202g is amplified by the amplifier 202h and output from the speaker 133.

  Furthermore, in addition to the effect display device 107 and the speaker 133, an electrical decoration component 130 that is turned on or off according to the state of the game is provided as an effect peripheral device. For example, as the illumination component 130, an illumination component (LED) that is lit when a reach state is formed, an illumination component (LED) that is lit during execution of a special game, and an illumination component that is lit during a prize ball ( LED).

  These effect peripheral devices are peripheral devices that are not directly related to the game, and output the effects during the game, and are controlled only by the sub-control board 202 and not by the main control board 201. .

  The I / F circuit 202 i performs timing control when receiving a signal from the main control board 201. Further, the I / F circuit 202i detects the operation of the operation switch 132 and transmits the detection signal to the sub CPU 202a. Thereby, the sub CPU 202a recognizes the operation content of the operation switch 132.

  The I / F circuit 202 i is supplied with predetermined power via the power receiving board 207 from the power supply device 209 arranged inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100. With this electric power, the sub-control board 202 can perform various processes described later.

(Electric board 208)
The above-mentioned electrical decoration part 130 is connected to the electrical decoration board 208, and the electric power supplied from the power supply device 209 arranged inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100 is output to the electrical decoration part. Thereby, the electrical decoration component 130 performs lighting or light extinction. A control signal corresponding to the gaming state is supplied to the electrode substrate 208 via the I / F circuit 202i.

(Prize opening board 203)
On the winning opening board 203, a start winning opening switch 210 for detecting the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening 112, a normal symbol operating gate switch 211 for detecting the passing of the gaming ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103, A general winning opening switch 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the winning opening 111, a large winning opening switch 213 that detects a winning of a gaming ball to the big winning opening 113, and a specification formed in the large winning opening 113 A specific area detection switch 214 that detects passage of a game ball to the area 121 is connected.

  Based on the signals transmitted from the start winning port switch 210, the normal symbol operating gate switch 211, the general winning port switch 212, the large winning port switch 213, and the specific area detecting switch 214, the winning port board 203 It identifies which region has passed and transmits a game ball passing signal indicating the identified result to the main control board 201.

  Further, the prize winning board 203 has an ordinary electric accessory solenoid 215 for opening the ordinary electric accessory 104, a prize winning solenoid 216 for opening the prize winning opening 113, and the prize winning opening 113. A specific area solenoid 217 for controlling the movement of the game ball is connected. Specifically, the specific area solenoid 217 makes it easy to pass the game ball to the specific area until the specific area detection switch 214 detects the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121, and enters the specific area 121. When the passage of the game ball is detected, the state where the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121 becomes easy is released.

  The prize opening board 203 outputs a current for driving the ordinary electric combination 104 to the ordinary electric combination solenoid 215 when an ordinary electric combination release instruction signal is input from the main control board 201 as will be described later. As a result, the ordinary electric accessory 104 performs an opening / closing operation.

  In addition, when the prize winning hole opening instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the prize winning hole board 203 outputs a current for driving the big prize winning hole door 120 to the big prize winning hole solenoid 216. As a result, the special prize opening door 120 falls and the special prize opening 113 is opened. On the other hand, when a special winning opening closing instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the output of the current for driving the special winning opening door 120 is stopped. As a result, the grand prize opening door 120 stands and the special prize opening 113 is closed.

  Furthermore, when the game ball passes through the specific area 121, it is determined that the special game will be transferred to the next unit game, and when the specific area control instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the winning opening board 203 is specified. A current for releasing the state where the passing of the game ball to the area 121 becomes easy is output to the specific area solenoid 217. As described above, in this embodiment, a maximum of 15 unit games are continued in one special game.

(LED drive board 204)
A special symbol display device 106 and a normal symbol display device 108 are connected to the LED drive board 204. When a special symbol display instruction signal is input from the main control board 201 as described later, the LED drive board 204 receives the 7-segment LED 116 disposed in the special symbol display device 106 based on the special symbol display instruction signal, The four LEDs 117 that display the number of winnings are made to emit light. In addition, when the normal symbol display instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the LED drive board 204, based on the normal symbol display instruction signal, the 7-segment LED 122 disposed in the normal symbol display device 108, and the gate passage The four LEDs 123 for displaying the numbers are caused to emit light.

(Launch control board 205)
The launch control board 205 is connected to a launch handle 131 for launching a game ball into the game area 115. The launch control board 205 detects that the launch handle 131 has been operated by the player, and transmits a launch operation detection signal indicating the detected result to the main control board 201. As a result, the main control board 201 recognizes that the firing handle 131 has been operated.

  The main control board 201 transmits a launch permission signal to the launch control board 205 when the game balls are not stored in the ball tray 128a in a certain amount or more. Then, the launch control board 205 controls the launch handle 131 so that the game ball is launched toward the game area 115.

  On the other hand, when a certain amount or more of the game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a, the main control board 201 transmits a launch non-permission signal to the launch control board 205. Thereby, the launch control board 205 controls the launch handle 131 so that the game ball is not launched toward the game area 115.

(Discharge control board 206)
When the payout control board 206 receives a prize ball number signal transmitted from the main control board 201 as will be described later, the number of prize balls (game balls) corresponding to the prize ball number signal is paid out to the ball tray 128a. Thus, the dispensing device 218 disposed inside the pachinko machine 100 is controlled. Thereby, the payout device 218 pays out a winning ball (game ball) corresponding to the winning.

  The winning a prize board 203, the LED drive board 204, the launch control board 205, and the payout control board 206 operate based on the power supplied from the power supply device 209 via the power receiving board 207.

(Power receiving board 207)
When the power switch 219 disposed inside the pachinko machine 100 is turned on, the power receiving board 207 is supplied with power from the power supply device 209, and the power is supplied to the main control board 201 and the sub-control as described above. This is distributed to the board 202, the winning hole board 203, the LED driving board 204, the launch control board 205, the payout control board 206, and the decoration board 208.

(Functional configuration of main control board 201)
Next, a functional configuration of the main control board 201 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the main control board 201. The main control board 201 has a function of generating a lottery result of the present invention, and the sub-control board 202 changes the object display mode based on the lottery result.

(Winning determination unit 301)
The winning determination unit 301 determines which region the game ball has passed based on the game ball passing signal transmitted from the winning hole board 203. Specifically, based on the game ball passing signal, the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball is a start winning port 112, a normal symbol operating gate 103, a general winning port 111, a large winning port 113, and a specific area 121. Which of the above has been passed is determined.
The winning determination unit 301 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Payout instruction unit 303)
The payout instructing unit 303 transmits the award ball number signal indicating the number of winning balls to the payout control board 206 based on the result determined by the winning determination unit 301. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the start winning port 112 (that the game ball has won the start winning port 112), the payout instructing unit 303 receives the award. The prize ball number signal indicating that the number of balls is “4” is transmitted to the payout control board 206.

  When the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the general winning opening 111, the payout instructing unit 303 sends the winning ball number signal indicating that the number of winning balls is “4” to the payout control board 206. Send. Further, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113, the payout instructing unit 303 sends the winning ball number signal indicating that the number of winning balls is “15” to the payout control board 206. Send.

Thereby, the payout control board 206 controls the payout device 218 so that payout according to the number of prize balls indicated in the prize ball number signal is made.
The payout instruction unit 303 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Special symbol lottery section 304)
The special symbol lottery unit 304 generates and acquires a random number ranging from “0” to “65535”, for example, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has won the start winning opening 112. For example, if no random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area in the RAM 202 c, the acquired random number is output to the winning determination unit 305.

On the other hand, when a random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area, the acquired random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area. In the present embodiment, up to four random numbers acquired by the special symbol lottery unit 304 can be stored in the special symbol random number storage area, and the random number storage order can be identified. Then, the special symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the random number stored earliest in the special symbol random number storage area to the winning determination unit 305 and deletes the output random number from the special symbol random number storage region.
The special symbol lottery unit 304 is realized by using a main CPU 201a, a ROM 201b, and a RAM 202c provided on the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 305)
The winning determination unit 305 determines whether the random number output from the special symbol lottery unit 304 corresponds to “big hit” or “lost” based on the random number value output by the special symbol lottery unit 304. Further, when the “big hit” is true, it is determined whether to shift to the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” after the “big hit”. These determinations are made using, for example, a lottery table.

  Then, if it corresponds to “big hit”, the bonus flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on. Further, when the “accuracy change mode” is applicable, the probability change flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on. On the other hand, in the case of “time reduction mode”, the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on.

  In the present embodiment, a lottery table that is different between the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” and the other cases (the case where the mode is shifted to the “short-time mode” and the normal game is played) is used. It is determined whether it corresponds to the above-mentioned “big hit” or “losing”.

  More specifically, in the present embodiment, the probability variation lottery table used when shifting to the “probability change mode”, the case of shifting to the “time reduction mode”, and the case of performing a normal game There are two lottery tables, the normal lottery table to be used.

And, in the case of shifting to the “probability mode”, the probability of being a “big hit” is higher than the case of shifting to the “short-time mode” and the case of performing a normal game. The contents of the two lottery tables are set.
The winning determination unit 305 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Special symbol display instruction unit 306)
The special symbol display instruction unit 306 determines the special symbol variation display time in the special symbol display device 106 based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and determines the result determined by the winning determination unit 305. Based on this, the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 is determined.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the probability variation flag or the time reduction flag is turned on (in the case of shifting to the “probability variation mode” or the “time reduction mode”) is more than the case where the probability variation flag or the time reduction flag is turned on (the “normal” The special symbol variation display time is made much shorter than when playing “games”.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when it corresponds to “big hit” and shifts to “probability change mode”, “7” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106. On the other hand, when it corresponds to “big hit” and shifts to “time reduction mode”, “3” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106. Further, in the case of “losing”, “−” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106.

The special symbol display instruction unit 306 forms a display pattern based on the stop symbol determined in this way, the special symbol variation display time, and the like, and the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the display pattern is displayed on the LED drive base. 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.
The special symbol display instruction unit 306 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Big prize opening opening instruction unit 307)
When the winning determination unit 305 determines that the lottery result by the special symbol lottery unit 304 corresponds to “big hit” by the winning determination unit 307 and the bonus flag in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on, The special winning opening release instruction signal is transmitted to the substrate 203. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened. After that, when it is determined that the game ball has passed the specific area 121 formed in the big prize opening 113 based on the result of the determination in the winning determination section 301, the special prize opening release instruction section 307 performs the specific area control. An instruction signal is transmitted to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the state in which the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121 is released.

  Thereafter, for example, when it is determined that ten game balls have passed through the prize winning opening 113, or when it has been determined that 29.5 seconds have elapsed since the prize winning opening 113 was opened, the prize winning opening releasing instruction unit 307 Then, a large winning opening closing signal is transmitted to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  When the big prize opening 113 is closed as described above, the big prize opening opening instructing unit 307 facilitates the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121 while the big prize opening 113 is being opened. It is determined whether or not the state has been released. As a result of this determination, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is released, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not the special winning opening 113 is opened 15 times. . That is, it is determined whether or not 15 unit games have been consumed.

  As a result of these determinations, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is facilitated and all the unit games in the special game have not been digested, the special winning opening release instructing unit 307 The prize winning opening instruction signal is transmitted to the prize winning board 203 to shift to the next unit game, and the operation for opening and closing the prize winning opening 113 as described above is repeated until all the unit games are consumed. Do.

On the other hand, when all the rounds of the special game have been completed, the special game has ended, and the special winning opening 113 is not opened. Further, when the game ball does not pass through the specific area 121 while the special winning opening 113 is opened, it is a so-called “punk” state, and whether or not all unit games in the special game have been consumed. Regardless, the special game is forcibly terminated. Accordingly, in this case as well, the special winning opening 113 is not opened.
The special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal symbol lottery section 309)
When the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 103, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 generates and acquires a random number within a predetermined range. Then, when the normal symbol is not being displayed in the normal symbol display device 108 (that is, when it is not necessary to hold the normal symbol lottery result), the acquired random number is output to the winning determination unit 310. .

On the other hand, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less and the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner on the normal symbol display device 108, the obtained random number Are stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. As described above, in the present embodiment, up to four random numbers acquired by the normal symbol lottery unit 309 can be stored in the normal symbol random number storage area, and the random number storage order can be identified. . Then, the normal symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the random number stored earliest in the normal symbol random number storage area to the winning determination unit 310 and deletes the output random number from the normal symbol random number storage region.
The normal symbol lottery unit 309 is realized by using the main CPU 201a, the ROM 201b, and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 310)
The winning determination unit 310 determines whether the random number output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309 corresponds to “win” or “losing” based on the random number value output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309. This determination is performed using, for example, a lottery table.

  In the present embodiment, using the lottery table that is different between the case of shifting to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode” and the case of performing a normal game, either “winning” or “losing” described above is used. Judgment is made as to whether this is the case.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, a special mode lottery table used when shifting to the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” and a normal lottery table used when a normal game is being performed. There are two lottery tables.

The two lottery tables are set so that the probability of “winning” is significantly higher in the case of shifting to “probability mode” or “short-time mode” than in the case of playing a normal game. Is set. As a result, the probability of winning a normal symbol when the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode” is increased. Therefore, when the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode”, the normal electric accessory 104 is released more frequently than when the normal game is played, and the ball is held as much as possible. The game can be progressed without being reduced.
The winning determination unit 310 is realized by using the main CPU 201a, the ROM 201b, and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal symbol display instruction unit 311)
The normal symbol display instruction unit 311 determines the normal symbol variation display time based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and based on the lottery result determined by the winning determination unit 310, the normal symbol display time A normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the display device 108 is determined. Then, a display pattern based on the determined stop symbol and the normal symbol variation display time is formed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the case where the probability change flag or the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode”). The normal symbol variation display time is made much shorter than when they are not turned on (than when the normal game is played).

  If the result of the determination by the winning determination unit 310 is “winning”, for example, “7” is determined as a normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108. On the other hand, in the case of “losing”, for example, “−” is determined as a normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108.

Then, the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 forms a display pattern based on the stop symbol determined in this way, the normal symbol variation display time, and the like, and sends the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern to the LED drive board. 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.
The normal symbol display instruction unit 311 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal electric accessory driving instruction unit 312)
Based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, the lottery result determined by the winning determination unit 310, etc., the normal electric combination driving instruction unit 312 determines the operation mode of the normal electric combination 104, A normal electric accessory release instruction signal indicating the determined operation mode is transmitted.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the case where the probability change flag or the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode”). The operation mode of the ordinary electric accessory 104, for example, the opening time is determined so that the game ball can be easily won at the start winning opening 112, compared with the case where they are not turned on (than when the normal game is performed). Like to do.

  Note that the normal electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 is realized by using the main CPU 201 a and the ROM 201 b provided on the main control board 201.

(Direction command generator 313)
The effect command generation unit 313 is the result of the determination by the winning determination unit 301, the result of determination by the winning determination unit 305 (special symbol lottery result), the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and the special symbol display. Based on the special symbol variation display time determined by the instruction unit 306, an effect command corresponding to the current game state is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202. The effect command output from the effect command generation unit 313 to the sub-control board 202 is information including the lottery result of the game machine.
The production command generation unit 313 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Functional configuration of sub-control board 202)
Next, a functional configuration of the sub control board 202 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the sub control board 202.
As shown in FIG. 4, the sub control board 202 includes an effect command analysis unit 401, an effect control unit 402, an effect pattern storage unit 403, a flag storage unit 404, an image generation unit 405, and an audio generation unit 406.

(Direction command analysis unit 401)
The effect command analysis unit 401 operates according to the flowchart of FIG. 11 and analyzes the effect command transmitted from the main control board 201 (effect command generation unit 313). For example, when information indicating the flag state is input from the main control board 201, the effect command analysis unit 401 stores this in the flag storage unit 404. In addition, when an effect command indicating a special symbol lottery result or a special symbol variation display time is input from the main control board 201, the effect command analysis unit 401 refers to the flag storage unit 404 and displays the current game mode. ("Probability change mode" based on the probability change flag, "Time reduction mode" based on the time reduction flag, or "Big hit" (special game) state based on the bonus flag) is acquired, and this information is output to the effect control unit 402 .

In addition, the effect command analysis unit 401 acquires an operation signal of the operation switch 132 and outputs variation information for the game mode to the effect control unit 402 based on the operation signal.
However, the processing performed by the production command analysis unit 401 is not limited to these, and processing according to the content of the production command is appropriately executed.
The effect command analysis unit 401 is realized by using a sub CPU 202a, a ROM 202b, and a RAM 202c provided on the sub control board 202.

(Production pattern storage unit 403)
The effect pattern storage unit 403 has information indicating the combination information of the decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed in the main stop, the decorative symbol variation pattern that is variably displayed before the main stop, “reach” effect time, and information indicating the effect contents in the “reach” effect Stored. These pieces of information are determined by the effect control unit 402 according to the lottery result.

As the decorative symbol variation pattern, a plurality of variation patterns related to the sequence of symbol transition from the variation display start to the main stop are set in a table. The reach production time is an extra time required to produce the “reach” when the “reach” is applied.
The effect pattern storage unit 403 corresponds to the ROM 202b.

(Production control unit 402)
Based on the current game mode and variation information output from the production command analysis unit 401, the production control unit 402 sends the combination information of decorative symbols that should be stopped and displayed in the actual stop from the production pattern storage unit until the actual stop. The information which shows the effect contents in the decorative design variation pattern, the “reach” effect time, and the “reach” effect to be variably displayed is selectively read out. Then, the image production content to be generated by the image generation unit 405 and the audio production content to be generated by the audio generation unit 406 are determined, and production information for designating the production content is determined at a predetermined image update timing (for example, every frame period). I will identify.

At the time of determining the combination of the decorative symbols, the production control unit 402 determines that the special symbol lottery result is “big hit” and the transition to the “probability change mode” is “111”, “333”, “ One of the combinations “555”, “777”, “999”, “AAA”, “CCC”, and “EEE” is determined as a combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed. In addition, when the lottery result of the special symbol is “big hit” and the mode shifts to the “short time mode”, “000”, “222”, “444”, “666”, “888”, “ A combination of any one of “BBB”, “DDD”, and “FFF” is determined as a combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed. The combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed on the effect display device 107 may be determined by lottery, for example.
Furthermore, when the lottery result of the special symbol is “losing”, the combination of the decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed is determined so that the combination of different decorative symbols is displayed on the display screen 118.

In addition, the production control unit 402 performs the “reach” production based on the current game mode, fluctuation information, a combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed in the final stop, a decorative symbol variation pattern that is displayed in a variable manner until the main stop, and the like. Determine presence or absence. And the decoration design effect information which specifies the decoration design displayed at the next image display timing is output. In addition, the effect control unit 402 outputs background image effect information for specifying a background image that is the background of the decorative design.
(Image generation unit 405)
The image generation unit 405 has a configuration according to the present invention, and will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
The image generation unit 405 generates image data related to the decorative design based on the decorative design effect information output from the effect command analysis unit 401 and the effect control unit 402. Further, image data for displaying a background image is generated based on the background image effect information. Then, these image data are combined and output to the effect display device 107 as output frame image data.
The image generation unit 405 is realized by an image sound processor 202d, an image data ROM 202e, and a video RAM 202f that operate based on the control of the sub CPU 202a provided on the sub control board 202.

(Voice generation unit 406)
The sound generation unit 406 generates sound data based on the sound effect information output from the effect command analysis unit 401 and the effect control unit 402 and outputs the sound data to the speaker 133.
For example, when the variation pattern information of the decorative pattern is output from the effect control unit 402, the expectation of “reach” or “big hit” is made corresponding to the decorative symbol in accordance with the progress degree of the variation pattern. Sound data that excites is generated and output to the speaker 133. When the production information related to the “reach” production is output from the production control unit 402, audio data is generated in accordance with the progress of the “reach” production, and is output to the speaker 133.

  The sound generation unit 406 is realized by using an image sound processor 202d and a sound source circuit 202g that operate based on the control of the sub CPU 202a provided on the sub control board 202. It goes without saying that the audio data generated by the audio generation unit 406 is not limited to these.

  The main control board 201 and the sub control board 202 may be provided with functions other than those described above. Also, the functions of the main control board 201 and the sub control board 202 are not limited to the above description, and may be implemented with various knitting.

(Description of operation)
Next, the basic operation in this embodiment will be described.
First, the operation of the main control board 201 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 10, and the basic operation of the sub control board 202 will be described with reference to FIG. The operation of the image generation unit 405 according to the present invention will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Processing of main control board 201)
FIG. 6 is a main flowchart showing an example of processing operations in the main control board 201.
In step S1 of FIG. 6, when the power switch 219 is turned on, the main control board 201 performs a game ball launch process. A specific example of this game ball launch process will be described.

  After the launch operation detection signal indicating that the launch handle 131 has been operated by the player is transmitted from the launch control board 205, first, the main control board 201 stores a certain amount or more of game balls in the ball tray 128a. It is determined whether or not.

  If the result of this determination is that a certain amount or more of game balls are not stored in the ball tray 128a, the main control board 201 transmits a launch permission signal to the launch control board 205 and the game balls are directed to the game area 115. A command indicating that it has been fired is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202. Thereby, a game ball is launched into the game area 115 and an effect during the game is started.

  On the other hand, when a certain amount or more of game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a, the main control board 201 transmits a launch non-permission signal to the launch control board 205, and the game balls cannot be launched into the game area 115. A command indicating this is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202. In this case, even if the player operates the launch handle 131, the game ball is not fired toward the game area 115. In addition, the player is notified by turning on the illumination part 130 that a certain amount or more of the game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a.

  Next, in step S2, the main control board 201 performs a general winning process. This general winning process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 wins the general winning opening 111. Details of the general winning process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the main control board 201 performs normal symbol operation gate passage processing. This normal symbol operation gate passing process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 passes through the normal symbol operation gate. The normal symbol operation gate passing process will be described later with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B.

  Next, in step S4, the main control board 201 performs a start winning process. This start winning process is a process that is performed based on a winning of a game ball launched into the game area 115 to the start winning port 112. Details of the start winning process will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

  Next, in step S5, the main control board 201 performs a special game execution process. In this special game execution process, as a result of determining “big hit” by the winning determination unit 305, a predetermined symbol or effect image is displayed on the special symbol display device 106 and the effect display device 107, resulting in a “hit”. This is a process that is performed when a transition is made. Details of the special game execution process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  As described above, in the main control board 201, the game ball launching process, the general winning process, the normal symbol operation gate passing process, the starting winning process, and the special game executing process are repeatedly performed, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 below. Thus, in the present embodiment, each process is repeatedly executed while omitting unnecessary processes according to the state of the game.

(General winning process)
Next, the details of the general winning process in step S2 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In addition, each process (including the partial process to which the code | symbol is not provided) can be arbitrarily changed in order within the range which does not produce contradiction in the processing content, or can be performed in parallel (this point is other The same applies to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S <b> 11 of FIG. 7, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the gaming ball has won the general winning opening 111 based on the gaming ball passage signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has won the general winning opening 111, the process proceeds to step S12, where the payout instruction unit 303 pays out the award ball number signal indicating that the number of winning balls is “4”. Transmit to the substrate 206. As a result, four prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a. In addition, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating that the general winning opening 111 has been won and transmits the effect command to the sub control board 202. Thereby, the sub-control board 202 informs the player that the general winning opening 111 has been won by, for example, lighting the electric decoration part 130. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.
On the other hand, when the game ball has not won the general winning opening 111, it is not necessary to perform the process of step S12, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Normal symbol operation gate passing processing)
Next, details of the normal symbol operation gate passing process in step S3 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 8A and 8B.
In step S21 of FIG. 8A, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the gaming ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 103 based on the gaming ball passage signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the routine proceeds to step S22, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 generates a random number and performs lottery (that is, obtains a random number).

  Next, in step S23, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether or not the normal symbol is being variably displayed. If the result of this determination is that the normal symbol is variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S24, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 counts the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not there are three or less. As a result of the determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S25, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines the normal symbol lottery result (step S22). Is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area, and the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S24 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S22 may be suspended. Since normal symbols cannot be displayed based on, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S23 that the normal symbol is not being variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S26, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether or not a random number is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. Determine. As a result of this determination, if random numbers are stored, the process proceeds to step S27, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less. Determine whether.

  As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S28, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines the normal symbol lottery result (step S22). Is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area.

Next, in step S29, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 reads the random number stored earliest in the normal symbol random number storage area, and proceeds to step S30.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S26 that no random number is stored, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 skips steps S27 to S29 and proceeds to step S30.

If it is determined in step S27 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S22 may be suspended. Since the normal symbol based on cannot be displayed, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 returns to the main flowchart of FIG.
When the normal symbol lottery result (random number) is obtained as described above, the process proceeds to step S30, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 outputs the obtained random number to the winning determination unit 310.

  Next, in step S31, the winning determination unit 310 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on, it is determined that the mode is shifting to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, and the process proceeds to step S32, where the winning determination unit 310 The special mode lottery table used in the case of the “short time mode” or “probability change mode” is read.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that neither the time-saving flag nor the probability variation flag is turned on, it is determined that the game is in the normal game, and the process proceeds to step S33. The winning determination unit 310 is used when the game is in the normal game. The normal lottery table to be extracted is extracted.

  As described above, when the lottery table is selected in step S33, the process proceeds to step S34 in FIG. 8B, and the winning determination unit 310 selects the lottery result (random number) output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309 in step S30. It is determined whether or not the lottery table corresponds to “winning”. That is, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won.

  As a result of this determination, if the normal symbol lottery is won, the process proceeds to step S35, and the normal symbol display instructing unit 311 and the ordinary electric accessory driving instructing unit 312 refer to the flag storage unit 302, and It is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. That is, it is determined whether or not a transition is made to either the “time reduction mode” or the “probability change mode”. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on and the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S36.

  In step S 36, when the transition to the “short time mode” is in progress, the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner during the default normal symbol fluctuation display time in the “short time mode”. A display pattern for stopping and displaying “7” indicating “win” is formed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  On the other hand, when transitioning to the “probability change mode”, the normal symbol display instructing unit 311 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner during the default normal symbol change display time in the “probability change mode”, and then “wins”. A display pattern for stopping and displaying “7” indicating that the normal symbol is displayed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  Next, in step S <b> 37, the ordinary electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the default operation mode in the “time reduction mode” or the “probability change mode” to the winning opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG. The normal electric accessory release signal is transmitted after the normal symbol is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S35 that neither the time reduction flag nor the probability variation flag is on, the normal game is in progress, so the process proceeds to step S38, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the default during normal game. During the normal symbol variation display time, after the normal symbol is variably displayed, a display pattern is formed such that “7” indicating “winning” is stopped and displayed, and the normal symbol indicating the formed display pattern is formed. A display instruction signal is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  Next, in step S <b> 39, the ordinary electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the default operation mode during the normal game to the prize opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG. The normal electric accessory release signal is transmitted after the normal symbol is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108.

  If it is determined in step S34 that the normal symbol lottery has not been won, the process proceeds to step S40, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to set the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag. Determine whether it is turned on. As a result of these determinations, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on and the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S41, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 During the default normal symbol fluctuation display time in “mode” or “probability change mode”, after the normal symbol is variably displayed, a display pattern is formed so that “−” indicating “losing” is stopped and displayed. The normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S40 that neither the time reduction flag nor the probability variation flag is on, the normal game is in progress, so the process proceeds to step S42, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the default normal in normal game. After the normal symbol is variably displayed during the symbol variation display time, a display pattern is formed so that “-” indicating “losing” is stopped, and the normal symbol display instruction indicating the formed display pattern is formed. A signal is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S21 of FIG. 8A that the game ball has not passed the normal symbol operation gate 103, the process proceeds to step S43, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 is provided with the normal symbol provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not random numbers are stored in the random number storage area. If a random number is stored as a result of this determination, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 proceeds to step S29 described above. On the other hand, when the random number is not stored, it is not necessary to perform the processing after step S22, so the normal symbol lottery unit 309 returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Start-up winning process)
Next, details of the start winning process in step S4 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 9A and 9B.
In step S61 of FIG. 9A, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the game ball has passed the start winning port 112 based on the game ball passing signal transmitted from the winning port substrate 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S62, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 generates a random number and performs lottery (that is, obtains a random number).

  Next, in step S63, the special symbol lottery unit 304 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag has been turned off, the process proceeds to step S64, and the special symbol lottery section 304 determines whether or not the special symbol is being variably displayed. If the result of this determination is that the special symbol is variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S65, where the special symbol lottery section 304 counts the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not there are three or less.

As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S66, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines the special symbol lottery result (step S62). Is stored in the special symbol random number storage area.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S63 that the bonus flag is not turned off (turned on), the special symbol lottery unit 304 proceeds to step S65 because the special game is being executed.

  If it is determined in step S65 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S62 may be suspended. Therefore, the special symbol lottery unit 304 returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S64 that the special symbol is not being variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S67, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines whether or not a random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area. Determine. If the result of this determination is that random numbers are stored, the process proceeds to step S68, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines whether the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less. Determine whether.

  As a result of the determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S69, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines the special symbol lottery result (step S62). Is stored in the special symbol random number storage area.

Next, in step S70, the special symbol lottery unit 304 reads the random number stored earliest in the special symbol random number storage area, and proceeds to step S71.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S67 that no random number is stored, the special symbol lottery unit 304 skips steps S68 to S70 and proceeds to step S71.

  If it is determined in step S68 that the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S62 may be suspended. Since the special symbol based on the symbol cannot be displayed, the special symbol lottery unit 304 returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  When the special symbol lottery result (random number) is obtained as described above, the process proceeds to step S71, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the obtained random number to the winning determination unit 305.

  Next, in step S72, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the probability variation flag is on, it is determined that the mode has been shifted to the “probability variation mode”, and the process proceeds to step S73. The winning determination unit 305 is used when the probability variation mode is in effect. The lottery table for probability variation to be extracted is extracted.

  On the other hand, if the probability variation flag is not turned on, the process proceeds to step S74, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the time reduction flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag is turned on, it is determined that the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode”, the process proceeds to step S75, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302. Add 1 to the number of time reductions. That is, the number of games in which the current game corresponds to the “short time mode” is counted.

Next, in step S76, the winning determination unit 305 extracts a normal lottery table to be used in the “time reduction mode”.
Next, in step S77, the winning determination unit 305 determines whether or not the “time saving mode” has ended by digesting the prescribed number of games. If the result of this determination is that the prescribed number of games has been exhausted and the “time reduction mode” has ended, the process proceeds to step S78, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and turns off the time reduction flag.

If it is determined in step S77 that the prescribed number of games has not been consumed, the “time reduction mode” is ongoing, and thus the processing in step S78 is omitted.
If it is determined in step S74 that the time reduction flag is not turned on, the game is in a normal game, so the process proceeds to step S79, and the winning determination unit 305 selects a normal lottery table to be used during the normal game. Extract.

  As described above, when the lottery table is extracted in steps S73, S76, and S79, the process proceeds to step S80 in FIG. 9B, and the winning determination unit 305 outputs the lottery result (random number) output from the special symbol lottery unit 304 in step S71. Determines whether or not it corresponds to “big hit” in the extracted lottery table. That is, it is determined whether or not a special symbol lottery is won.

  As a result of this determination, if the special symbol lottery is won, the process proceeds to step S81, and the winning determination unit 305 further determines whether to shift to the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” after the special game. Referring to the flag storage unit 302, the bonus flag is turned on and the process proceeds to step S82. On the other hand, if the special symbol lottery is not won, the process of step S81 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S82.

  In step S82, the special symbol display instruction unit 306 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on, since either the “time reduction mode” or the “probability variation mode” is being executed, the process proceeds to step S83. The special symbol display instructing unit 306 forms a display pattern for the time reduction / probability change mode based on the determination result in steps S80 and S82, and sends the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern to the LED drive board 204. Send. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  On the other hand, if the hourly flag or the probability variation flag is not turned on, it means that the game is in the normal game, so the process proceeds to step S84, and the special symbol display instruction unit 306 uses the determination result in steps S80 and S82 for normal game. And the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  In step S <b> 85, the payout instructing unit 303 transmits the prize ball number signal indicating that the number of prize balls is “4” to the payout control board 206. As a result, four prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a.

Next, in step S86, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag is on, the process proceeds to step S87, and if the winning determination unit 305 determines in S87 to shift to the “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S88, where the flag storage unit Referring to 302, the probability variation flag is turned on.
On the other hand, if the winning determination unit 305 determines in S87 to shift to the “short time mode”, the process proceeds to step S89 and refers to the flag storage unit 302 to turn on the short time flag.

  In step S90, the effect command generating unit 313 generates an effect command based on the determination results in steps S80 and S82 and the stored contents of the flag storage unit 302, and transmits the effect command to the sub control board 02. Return to.

  If it is determined in step S61 in FIG. 9A that the game ball has not passed through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S91, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 is provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not random numbers are stored in the design random number storage area. If a random number is stored as a result of this determination, the process proceeds to step S70 described above. On the other hand, when the random number is not stored, it is not necessary to perform the processing after step S62, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Special game execution process)
Next, the details of the special game execution process in step S5 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step S101 of FIG. 10, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag is not turned on, there is no need to perform the processing after step S102 (since it does not shift to a special game), the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if the bonus flag is on, the process proceeds to step S102. In step S <b> 102, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 transmits the special winning opening opening instruction signal to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened, and one round of the specific game consisting of 15 rounds starts.

Next, in step S <b> 103, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113 based on the gaming ball passing signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203.
If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113, the process proceeds to step S104, where the winning determination section 301 determines that the game ball is based on the gaming ball passing signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. It is determined whether or not the specific area 121 has been passed. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the specific area 121, the process proceeds to step S105, where the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203 and proceeds to step S106. move on. As a result, the state in which the game ball easily passes through the specific area 121 is released. On the other hand, if the game ball has not passed through the specific area 121, the process skips step S105 and proceeds to step S106.

Next, in step S <b> 106, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating that the game ball has passed through the big prize opening 113 or the specific area 121, and transmits it to the sub control board 202. As a result, an image indicating that the game ball has passed the special winning opening 113 or the specific area 121 is displayed on the effect display device 107. Also, the payout instruction unit 303 transmits the prize ball number signal indicating that the prize ball number is “15” to the payout control board 206. Thereby, 15 prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a.
If it is determined in step S103 that the game ball has not won the big winning opening 113, the winning determination unit 301 skips steps S104 to S106 and proceeds to step S107.

  Next, in step S107, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not a predetermined time (29.5 seconds) has elapsed since the special winning opening 113 is opened. As a result of the determination, if the predetermined time has elapsed, it is the end of the unit game, so the process proceeds to step S108, and the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 transmits a special winning opening closing signal to the winning opening board 203. To do. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

Next, in step S <b> 109, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not the state where it is easy to pass the game ball to the specific area 121 is released. As a result of this determination, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is released, the process proceeds to step S110, where the special winning opening release instructing unit 307 determines that all unit games in the special game (that is, It is determined whether or not (special game) has ended. If the result of this determination is that the special game has ended, the process proceeds to step S111, where the effect command generating unit 313 generates an effect command indicating the end of the special game and transmits it to the sub control board 202. As a result, an image indicating the end of the special game is displayed on the effect display device 107.
Further, the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121.
In step S112, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302, turns off the bonus flag, and returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

If it is determined in step S107 that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the special winning opening 113 is opened, the process proceeds to step S113, and the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 is transmitted from the winning determination unit 301. Based on the game ball passage signal, it is determined whether or not 10 or more game balls have passed through the big winning opening 113. If the result of this determination is that there are 10 or more game balls that have passed through the special winning opening 113, it means that the unit game is over, so that the process proceeds to step S108, and the special winning opening 113 is closed.
On the other hand, when the number of game balls that have passed through the big winning opening 113 is not ten or more, the unit game is continuing, and the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S110 that all unit games in the special game have not ended, the process proceeds to the next unit game, and thus the process proceeds to step S114, where the effect command generation unit 313 An effect command indicating progress to a game is generated and transmitted to the sub control board 202. As a result, an image indicating that the game has progressed to the next unit game is displayed on the effect display device 107. In addition, the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203 and returns to the main flowchart of FIG. As a result, the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121.

  Needless to say, processes other than those shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 may be performed. For example, the timing at which the production command is generated and transmitted is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 7 to 10, and other production commands may be generated and transmitted.

(Principle, configuration and operation according to the present invention)
Next, the operation principle in this embodiment will be described.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view schematically showing the arrangement of the columnar objects according to the present invention in the virtual three-dimensional space, and shows the visual volume VV (view volume) set in the virtual three-dimensional space. FIG. 14 is a plan view overlooking the visual volume VV. FIG. 15 is a side view of the visual volume VV.

  The visual volume VV defines a space area to be projected when perspectively projecting a virtual three-dimensional space onto a predetermined projection plane. The viewing volume VV includes a rear clipping plane 501 for excluding objects that are too far from the viewpoint C from the imaging target, and a front clipping plane 502 that excludes objects that are too close to the viewpoint C from the imaging target. The number of objects to be actually imaged is limited from the large number of objects that fall within the viewpoint C. The background image may be synthesized as a two-dimensional image after rendering the virtual three-dimensional space, or may be placed at a predetermined position in the virtual three-dimensional space, for example, at the position of the rear clipping plane 501 and seen with other objects. It may be projected and imaged.

  Now, the present invention is characterized in that a virtual object called a columnar object is modeled and arranged so that a part thereof is included in the visual volume VV. In the first embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, the pair of columnar objects 503 and 504 are arranged slightly behind the front clipping plane 501 so as to partially enter from the left and right side surfaces of the visual volume VV, respectively. Shall be. The columnar object 503 is a columnar object having a radius r1, and is set as an object that rotates about the axis O. The columnar object 504 is a columnar object having a radius r2, and is set as an object that rotates about the axis O. The axis O of these columnar objects 503 and 504 is set to be parallel to the Y axis of the world coordinate system which is a virtual three-dimensional space. The length in the Y-axis direction of the columnar objects 503 and 504, that is, the height h in the longitudinal direction of the columnar shape is preferably set to be equal to or higher than the height of the side surface of the visual volume VV. The columnar objects 503 and 504 face each other with a distance d between the surfaces.

  A certain pattern is developed on the surface of the columnar object. Although the pattern to be developed is arbitrary, it is possible to produce that the viewpoint is moving at high speed by being controlled to move with time as viewed from the viewpoint C. The movement with time means that the pattern is moved for each image update timing and developed so that a player who observes it as a moving image appears to move.

  The content of the pattern is arbitrary, but it is an image that can be given an illusion as if the viewpoint is moving at a high speed when moving as a moving image by being placed relatively close to the viewpoint The contents of For example, when the production theme is a three-dimensional image in the sea, it is conceivable that a texture simulating sand, rocks, corals, etc. on the sea floor is mapped. In the case where the production theme is a three-dimensional image on the ground, it is conceivable that a texture simulating a ground grass, rocks, forest, forest, or the like on the ground is mapped. When the production theme is a three-dimensional image in the air, it is conceivable to use a pattern in which textures simulating clouds and flying birds are mapped.

There are two methods for controlling the movement of the columnar object pattern over time.
The first method relates to the first embodiment. The pattern is developed in advance of the entire circumference of the side surface of the columnar object, the columnar object on which the pattern is expanded is rotated at a constant speed, and the rotating columnar object is Perspective projection conversion is performed. That is, all the patterns are developed based on the starting point of the columnar object rotation, the rotation angular velocity of the columnar object is set, the columnar object is rotated at each image update timing, and the columnar object after rotation is viewed from the viewpoint. The image data is generated by perspective projection and rendering processing with reference to the above. The magnitude of the angular velocity affects the feeling of speed of the generated display image. Since the first method performs modeling conversion for rotating the object, it can be applied to the case of a columnar object as in the first embodiment that is an axis object and is rotationally symmetric.

  The second method is a method that will be described later in the fourth embodiment. The column object is not rotated, and the relative position of the pattern to be mapped to the surface of the columnar object is moved on the projection plane after perspective projection conversion based on the viewpoint. I will let you. It is a concept that only a pattern flows on the surface of an object. In this case, it is necessary to set the movement distance of the pattern at each image update timing. The magnitude of the pattern movement distance affects the sense of speed of the generated display image. This second off is applicable to a columnar object that is not subject to rotation, that is, when the columnar object cannot be rotated.

  In the first embodiment, the first method is used, and a texture simulating an underwater landscape is mapped as a pattern to be applied to the columnar objects 503 and 504. The character object is arranged in front of the viewpoint, and the columnar objects 503 and 504 to which the texture is mapped are symmetrically rotated to produce an image as if the character object is moving at high speed in the sea. .

FIG. 16 shows an example of image display according to the first embodiment.
In the present embodiment, textures simulating an underwater landscape are mapped to the columnar objects 503 and 504. In the image display surface 600, an image obtained by perspective projection of the left side surface of the columnar object 503 is arranged on the right side, and an image obtained by perspective projection of the right side surface of the columnar object 504 is arranged on the left side. As the texture to be projected in perspective, rocks 612 and corals 611 on the seabed are drawn as patterns, and bubbles 610 expressing the flow are drawn. In front of the viewpoint C, a character object simulating a fish is modeled and arranged. By projecting this through, the character object 604 is displayed at the center of the image display surface 600, that is, between the columnar objects 503 and 504. A background image 603 is projected between the columnar objects 503 and 504.

  In the first embodiment, in the plan view shown in FIG. 14, the columnar object 503 is controlled to rotate counterclockwise and the columnar object 504 is rotated clockwise. As a moving image obtained by perspective projection of the columnar object 503, an image in which a texture appears from the boundary (skyline) 620 between the columnar object 503 and the background image 603 and flows toward the right end of the image display surface 600 while increasing the speed. Provided. In addition, as a moving image obtained by perspectively projecting the columnar object 504, an image in which a texture appears from the boundary (skyline) 620 between the columnar object 504 and the background image 603 and flows to the left end of the image display surface 600 while increasing the speed. Is provided. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the character object 604 itself does not move, but its left and right textures flow to the left and right, so that a moving image in which the character object 604 is moving in the z-axis direction is provided. It will be.

  If the angular velocity of the rotation of the columnar objects 503 and 504 is set to a larger value, the texture flow speed increases, and as a result, an image as if the character object 604 is thrusting further back at a higher speed is simulated. Can be obtained.

  Here, the basic color of the texture rendered on the surfaces of the columnar objects 503 and 504 is provided so as to approximate the basic color of the background image 603. Thus, by making the base color common to the texture of the columnar object and the background image, the boundary 602 becomes inconspicuous.

  In addition, if the rotation directions of the columnar objects 503 and 504 are reversed, it is possible to provide a moving image as if the character object is moving in the opposite direction. That is, in the plan view shown in FIG. 14, if the columnar object 503 is rotated clockwise and the columnar object 504 is rotated counterclockwise, the textures appearing from the left and right ends of the image display surface 600 are respectively columnar. It disappears to the boundary 620 of the object. For example, if the character object 604 is arranged so as to face the direction of the viewpoint C, that is, face is faced, and the columnar objects are respectively rotated in the reverse direction, it is as if the character object 604 has been pushed forward. An image can be obtained in a pseudo manner.

  Furthermore, the angular speed of the rotation of the columnar objects 503 and 504 does not need to be constant, and the speed can be increased, decreased, dynamically changed to zero, or the rotation direction can be reversed according to the production conditions. Of course you can.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 14, the columnar objects 503 and 504 are separated by a distance d, but this distance can be arbitrarily changed. If the distance d is set to be small, an image is displayed as if the walls on both sides are approaching, and it is possible to increase the sense of speed. Conversely, if the distance d is set to be large, the walls on both sides are far away, and the distance between the speeds is increased. Can be suppressed. FIG. 17 shows a modification in which the distance d is made smaller than in the image display embodiment of FIG. Thus, by changing the distance between the columnar objects, it is possible to adjust the speed of image display.

  Also, the radius r1 of the columnar object 503 and the radius r2 of the columnar object 504 can be arbitrarily changed. By setting one radius larger than the other, the boundary between the image area corresponding to the columnar object and the background image can be moved on the image display surface.

(Description of functional block configuration according to the present invention)
Next, a functional configuration of the image generation unit 405 that operates based on the above principle will be described.
FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the image generation unit 405. Such a functional block is realized by the sub control board 202 operating according to a flowchart as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the image generation unit 405 includes a columnar object arrangement unit 410, a rendering unit 411, a background image generation unit 412, an image composition unit 413, an object data storage unit 414, a texture data storage unit t415, and a background data storage unit. 416, an object image storage layer 417, a background image storage layer 418, an output frame image storage layer 419, and a display control unit 420.

  Among these, the object data storage unit 414, the texture data storage unit 415, and the background data storage unit 416 correspond to the image data ROM 202b. The columnar object placement unit 410, the rendering unit 411, the background image generation unit 412, and the image composition unit 413 are realized by an image acoustic processor 202d that operates based on the control of the sub CPU 202a. Each storage layer of the video RAM 202f corresponds to the object image storage layer 417, the background image storage layer 418, and the output frame image storage layer 419. The display control unit 420 corresponds to the image sound processor 202d.

(Object data storage unit 414)
The object data storage unit 414 is a functional block that stores shape information for defining the shape of an object arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space. In particular, the object data storage unit 414 stores object data (shape information) that defines the shapes of the columnar objects 503 and 504 according to the present invention. For example, in the case where the object is represented by a polygon, the object data is a set of vertex coordinates of each polygon constituting the object. The vertex coordinates of each polygon are defined in a local coordinate system (a body coordinate system, an object coordinate system, a modeling coordinate system) that is a reference coordinate determined for each object.

(Texture data storage unit 415)
The texture data storage unit 415 is a functional block that stores color information necessary for rendering for each object. Specifically, it is texture data representing a predetermined pattern mapped to the side surfaces of the columnar objects 503 and 504. The texture data is image data defined in two dimensions with a predetermined area, and is stored in various formats such as TIFF format, PIN format, bitmap format, and JPEG format.
In particular, in this embodiment, texture data for mapping a texture simulating an underwater landscape is stored. The basic color of the texture data is set to be the same basic color as the background image.

  Instead of texture data, color information that determines the color of the object may be stored. Such color information is information for determining the hue, saturation, and lightness (luminance) for determining the color of each polygon. For example, the density value of each color pixel of RGB is set in correspondence with the vertex.

(Background data storage unit 416)
The background data storage unit 416 is a functional block that stores background data for displaying a background image. The background image data stored in the storage unit includes all background images that can be displayed on the gaming machine. At each image update timing, the background data of the portion of the background image that falls within the viewing angle cut by the orientation of the viewpoint for perspective projection conversion of the virtual three-dimensional space at that time is used.
The background image 603 represented by this background data has the same basic color as the basic color of the texture mapped to the columnar objects 503 and 504.

(Columnar object placement unit 410)
The columnar object placement unit 410 is a functional block configured to model one or more columnar objects in a virtual three-dimensional space. The columnar object arrangement unit 410 arranges columnar objects so that a part of the columnar object arrangement unit 410 enters the visual volume VV.

  In particular, in the first embodiment, the columnar object placement unit 410 performs forward clipping so that the center axis O of the columnar objects 503 and 504 is parallel to the Y axis of the world coordinate system, as shown in FIGS. It is arranged in the vicinity of the left and right ends of the surface 502 so that a part of the columnar object enters the visual volume VV.

  Specifically, the object data related to the columnar object defined in the local coordinate system is read from the object data storage unit 414, and coordinate conversion processing to the world coordinate system is performed in order to place the columnar objects 503 and 504 in the virtual three-dimensional space. To do. Next, a viewing conversion process for defining the viewpoint C in the viewpoint coordinate system is performed. Further, normalization conversion processing for redefining the visual volume VV defined in the viewpoint coordinate system in the normalized coordinate system is performed. With the above processing, the distance from the viewpoint C to the object can be directly processed with the z value that is the z coordinate.

(Rendering unit 411)
The rendering unit 411 is a functional block that renders a predetermined pattern on the surface of the columnar object defined in the normalized coordinate system. That is, perspective projection conversion is performed by projecting a columnar object onto a predetermined projection plane with reference to the viewpoint, and color information of each pixel in a portion included in the image display plane is determined to generate two-dimensional image data.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the rendering unit 411 performs perspective projection from the viewpoint onto the projection plane by controlling the pattern mapped on the surface of the columnar object with time so that the pattern moves with time as viewed from the viewpoint. The generated two-dimensional image is generated. Specifically, the rendering unit 411 determines a reference line parallel to the central axis O on the side surfaces of the columnar objects 503 and 504, and uses the reference line as a starting point of texture mapping. Then, a perspective projection conversion process for projecting the columnar object onto the projection plane with reference to the viewpoint C is performed, and a texture is mapped on an area where the columnar object is projected in the image display plane 600. That is, texture data simulating an underwater landscape is read from the texture data storage unit 415, and an image is developed using a texture mapping technique on the projection areas of the columnar objects 503 and 504 that have been subjected to perspective projection conversion. At that time, the rendering unit 411 performs texture expansion / reduction as necessary so that the texture stored in advance is mapped over the entire circumference of the columnar object. Furthermore, the luminance and hue of each pixel on the image display surface 600 may be adjusted as necessary in consideration of the position of a virtual light source.

  At this time, the rendering unit 411 rotates the columnar object prior to the rendering process. That is, the columnar object is rotated by a predetermined angle. Since the texture mapped from the reference line is determined for the columnar object, the position of the texture drawn on the image display surface 600 is moved by rotating the columnar object prior to rendering. The rendering unit 411 rotates the columnar object at a predetermined angular velocity by rotating the columnar object by a predetermined angle in a predetermined direction every time the image update timing arrives. As for the rotation direction, as shown in FIG. 14, in this embodiment, the columnar object 503 is counterclockwise and the columnar object 504 is clockwise.

  The object image data of the columnar objects 503 and 504 generated by the rendering process as described above is stored in the object image storage layer 417. The object image storage layer 417 has a capacity that can store pixel data (frame image) of a two-dimensional image corresponding to the image display surface 600. Two-dimensional image regions other than the columnar object are output as pixel data that does not exist (color density value is zero).

(Background image generation unit 412)
The background image generation unit 412 is a functional block that specifies a background image in a range clipped by the visual volume VV and generates the background data. That is, the background image generation unit 412 specifies a range projected on the projection plane with the viewpoint C as a reference, reads background data corresponding to the background image in the range from the background data storage unit 416, and uses the background data as background image data. Store in the image storage layer 418.

  Here, the background image generation unit 412 may refer to only the image data for the pure background stored in the background data storage unit 416 as the background image data, but in the view volume VV in addition to the background image. An object other than the columnar object modeled in the above may be rendered to generate background image data captured as part of the background.

(Image composition unit 413)
The image composition unit 413 composes a plurality of modeled and rendered image data in a predetermined order, generates color information of each pixel of the final output frame image, and outputs an output frame image storage layer 419. Is a functional block to be stored. Specifically, the image composition unit 413 reads the background image data stored in the background image storage layer 418 and temporarily transfers it to the output frame image storage layer 419. Next, the object image data is read from the object image storage layer 417 and overwritten on the output frame image storage layer 419.

  Through the above processing, two-dimensional image data in which an object image is superimposed on the background image is obtained. In the object image data, since pixel data does not exist in a region other than the region where the columnar objects 503 and 504 are perspective-projected, the background image data in the region cannot be rewritten. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 16, the output image is a scene image 603 drawn between an image area 601 rendered corresponding to the columnar object 503 and an image area 602 rendered corresponding to the columnar object 504. Will be.

(Display control unit 420)
The display control unit 420 outputs the output frame image data stored in the output frame image storage layer 419 to the effect display device 107 at a predetermined image display timing (for example, every 1/30 seconds that is a frame period). It is configured.

(Description of operation according to the present invention)
Next, image generation processing according to the present invention will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.
These processes are mainly executed in the image generation unit 405 of the sub control board 202. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, the illustration of the decorative pattern synthesized before the background image and the description of the display method are omitted.

  In step S201, the effect control unit 402 sets, as the effect information corresponding to the effect command, the decorative symbol effect information that specifies the decorative symbol to be displayed at the next image display timing, and the background image effect information that specifies the background image. Set.

  Next, in step S202, the effect control unit 402 determines whether the image update (drawing) timing has been reached. If the image update timing has not been reached, the effect control unit 402 proceeds to step S212 in order to continue the current display state. On the other hand, when it is determined in step S 202 that the image update timing has been reached, the effect control unit 402 outputs effect information to the image generation unit 405 and passes the processing to the image generation unit 405.

  In step S203, the columnar object placement unit 410 of the image generation unit 405 reads object data about the columnar object from the object data storage unit 414, performs modeling conversion, and determines the placement in the world coordinate system.

  In step S204, the rendering unit 411 of the image generation unit 405 converts the columnar object defined in the world coordinate system after modeling conversion into a viewpoint coordinate system, converts it into a normalized coordinate system, and further performs perspective projection conversion. The two-dimensional coordinates on the projection plane are determined.

  In step S205, the rendering unit 411 performs columnar object rotation processing, and calculates how much the texture mapped to the side surface of the columnar object has moved from the previous image update timing. Next, the process proceeds to step S206, and the rendering of the region projected on the projection plane in the texture after rotating the columnar object is performed. Thereby, the pixel data of the image areas 601 and 602 corresponding to the columnar objects 503 and 504 on the image display surface 600 are determined.

  In step S <b> 207, the rendering unit 411 stores object image data that is a set of pixel data in the object image storage layer 417.

  Next, in step S208, the background image generation unit 412 of the image generation unit 405 reads the background data from the background data storage unit 416, and in step S209, background image data for displaying the background image corresponding to the image display surface 600. Are stored in the background image storage layer 418.

  Subsequently, the process proceeds to step S <b> 210, and the background image generation unit 412 of the image generation unit 405 combines the background image data stored in the background image storage layer 418 and the object image data stored in the object image storage layer 417. Then, the process proceeds to step S211, and the generated composite image is stored in the output frame image storage layer 419.

In step S212, the display control unit 420 of the image generation unit 405 transfers the output frame image data corresponding to the image display surface 600 stored in the output frame image storage layer 419 to the effect display device 107 as needed.
Through the above processing, one frame image corresponding to the image update timing is generated.

(Effect of Embodiment 1)
As described above, the first embodiment has the following advantages.
1) According to the first embodiment, a side surface portion of a columnar object is arranged so as to occupy a part of an image display surface after perspective projection, and a texture simulating an underwater landscape mapped on the surface is rendered. . Since the columnar object rotates at a predetermined speed, a moving image is provided on the image display surface 600 such that an underwater landscape appears from the boundary 620 and disappears at both ends of the image display surface when approaching the viewpoint. The The movement speed of the texture is slow in the vicinity of the boundary 620 of the columnar object, and becomes faster as it moves away. Therefore, an image is provided in which the viewpoint C and the object 604 arranged in front of the viewpoint are moving at high speed in the sandwiched space surrounded by the wall surface set in the virtual three-dimensional space.

  2) According to the first embodiment, it is sufficient that the texture to be rendered has a data amount that can be mapped onto the surface of the columnar object. Therefore, the amount of image data can be greatly reduced. In addition, since the process only changes the position of the texture at each image update timing, it is possible to generate a realistic stereoscopic image even with a device having low processing capability.

  3) According to the first embodiment, since the texture mapping target is a cylindrical object, the object is rotationally symmetric with respect to the central axis, and therefore the columnar object is rotated without changing the texture mapping position. It is possible to move the texture with a sense of speed.

  4) According to the first embodiment, the pair of columnar objects 503 and 504 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the image display surface, and one is rotated counterclockwise and the other is rotated clockwise to control the movement of the texture symmetrically. Therefore, it is possible to provide an image in which the viewpoint or the self-character modeled in front of the viewpoint is moving at high speed.

  5) According to the first embodiment, since the basic color of the texture rendered on the surface of the columnar object is approximated to the basic color of the background image, the perspectively projected image areas 601 and 602 of the columnar object that has been perspectively projected The boundary 620 with the background image 603 becomes inconspicuous, and a natural image integrated with the background can be provided.

(Embodiment 2)
Embodiment 2 of the present invention relates to a device for making the boundary between an image region corresponding to a columnar object and a background image inconspicuous.
In the gaming machine according to the second embodiment, some processing is added to the rendering processing of the rendering unit 411. Other configurations and operations are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  In the second embodiment, the rendering unit 411 performs processing for increasing the color density of the pixel in accordance with the distance from the viewpoint, in addition to rendering the texture mapped on the surface of the columnar object after perspective projection conversion. For example, the color density of a specific color is increased according to the distance to the object, that is, the z value in the normalized coordinate system. This process is generally called a mist process, and an object located far away from the viewpoint, for example, behind the rear clipping plane 501 is effectively increased by increasing its pixel color density to 100%. This is a process to prevent drawing. If the color is set to white, the process is exactly as if an object is desired in the fog. The color of the mist process is selected according to the basic color of the texture or background image. In the present embodiment, since the texture and the background image are themed on the underwater landscape, blue is applied as the color used for the mist process. If the blue density is improved according to the z value, it is possible to skillfully imitate the underwater landscape.

FIG. 18 is a plan view of the visual volume including the columnar object in the second embodiment.
As illustrated in FIG. 18, the mist process is performed so that the blue density increases in accordance with the distance from the viewpoint C. When the distance from the viewpoint C to the contact points of the side surfaces of the columnar objects 503 and 504 is R, the color density of the pixel by the mist processing at the distance R is set to be sufficiently high (for example, 90% or more). In the plan view, the position that becomes the contact point with the side surface of the columnar object corresponds to the boundary 620 between the image areas 601 and 602 corresponding to the columnar object and the background image 603 in the image display surface 600 shown in FIGS. It becomes a part to do. If the color density of the pixel is sufficiently high at the distance to the vicinity of the boundary, the color difference between the image regions 601 and 602 and the background image 603 in the vicinity of the boundary 620 becomes inconspicuous.

FIG. 19 shows a density setting example for the z value in the mist processing.
In FIG. 19, it is assumed that the density C _BL is a color density that is sufficiently high in blue density so that the boundary between the columnar object and the background image is not subjectively concerned. For example, as shown in the characteristic f1, it is possible to perform a mist process that linearly increases the color density according to the z value. Since the color density of the pixel is sufficiently high near the contact point with the columnar object at the distance R, the boundary can be made inconspicuous. Further, as shown in the characteristic f2, it is possible to perform a mist process in which the color density is increased in a high-order function or exponential manner according to the z value. Even in the case of this characteristic, the color density of the pixel at the distance R can be made sufficiently high by increasing the color density to _CBL or more, while the color density at a short distance can be lowered. Can be drawn.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained, and the boundary between the image region corresponding to the columnar object and the background image can be made inconspicuous by using the mist processing together. Is possible. In addition, if the color density by mist processing is set sufficiently high, an image in which the texture is sucked into the mist (fog) is provided, and a natural image is provided without providing a background image in particular. Can do.

(Embodiment 3)
Embodiment 3 of the present invention relates to an example in which the number of columnar objects is reduced.
In the gaming machine according to the third embodiment, the columnar object modeling process by the columnar object placement unit 410 is slightly changed. Other configurations and operations are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the columnar object placement unit 410 reads out object data related to one columnar object from the object data storage unit 414 and performs modeling so as to occupy a part of the visual volume VV. Since there is only one columnar object, the radius of the columnar object is set to be large and the proportion of the columnar object is increased. The rendering unit 411 maps and renders the texture in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and it is assumed that the columnar object 505 is rotated clockwise.

FIG. 20 shows a plan view of the columnar objects arranged in this way.
As shown in FIG. 20, in the third embodiment, only one columnar object 505 is arranged so as to occupy a part of the visual volume VV. The columnar object 505 is a columnar object having a radius r3, and is set as an object that rotates about the axis O. The axis O is set to be parallel to the Y axis of the world coordinate system, which is a virtual three-dimensional space. The length in the Y-axis direction of the columnar object 505, that is, the height in the longitudinal direction of the columnar shape is preferably set to be equal to or higher than the height of the side surface of the visual volume VV, as in the first embodiment. It is assumed that the same texture as that of the first embodiment is mapped on the surface of the columnar object 505.

Here, the columnar object 505 is provided at a position where the central axis is shifted by a predetermined amount with respect to the center of the line of sight. When the texture moves in the circumferential direction on the side surface of the columnar object, as a moving image, the texture appears to move most rapidly in the vicinity of a line connecting the line of sight and the axis of the columnar object. For this reason, it is preferable that the moving speed of the texture is the fastest in the peripheral part of the image display surface as an image effect in which the viewpoint advances in the virtual three-dimensional space or conversely moves backward. For this reason, also in this embodiment, the axis O of the columnar object 505 is shifted from the line-of-sight center by a certain distance.
Of course, the columnar object 505 can be arranged so as to occupy the right side of the visual volume VV.

FIG. 21 shows an example of image display according to the third embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 21, the columnar object 505 is slightly shifted to the left and subjected to perspective projection conversion. Therefore, on the image display surface 600, the image area 605 corresponding to the columnar object 505 occupies the left half or more. Since the texture is the same as that of the first embodiment, the rock 612 and the coral 611 on the seabed are drawn as a pattern. A character object 604 simulating a fish that moves with the viewpoint C is arranged at the center of the image display surface, but in the third embodiment, it is modeled with a posture facing right.

  When the columnar object 505 is rotated clockwise, a moving image is displayed on the image display surface such that the texture mapped on the surface of the columnar object 505 appears from the boundary 620 with the background image 603 and flows to the left side. Is done. Therefore, as a whole, this image is an image that makes an illusion that the image is proceeding to the right side. Therefore, by making the character object 604 face right, it is possible to provide an image as if it is facing the traveling direction. is there.

  Note that if the columnar object 505 is rotated counterclockwise, an image appears as if it is moving toward the left side. If the character object 604 is also modeled in the left direction, the traveling direction and the direction of the character coincide with each other to form a natural image.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, even when only one columnar object is modeled, it is possible to provide an image full of speed as in the first embodiment. In particular, when there is one columnar object, it is easy to produce an atmosphere that is moving in a direction parallel to the image display surface.

  Similarly to the first embodiment, the texture to be rendered only needs to have a data amount that can be mapped onto the surface of the columnar object. Furthermore, since the texture mapping target is a cylindrical object, it is possible to perform a texture moving process with a sense of speed by simply rotating the columnar object without changing the texture mapping position.

(Embodiment 4)
The fourth embodiment of the present invention relates to the second method described in the principle of the first embodiment, and changes the pattern mapping position without rotating the shape object to obtain the same effect as described above.
In the fourth embodiment, the columnar object is modeled into a rotationally asymmetric shape. Although there is a slight difference between the modeling process of the columnar object arrangement unit 410 and the rendering process of the rendering unit 411, other configurations and operations are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

FIG. 22 shows a plan view of columnar objects arranged in the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 22, the pair of columnar objects 506 and 507 are arranged at substantially the same positions as the columnar objects 503 and 504 of the first embodiment, but are modeled into columnar shapes having an elliptical cross section. The cross section is an ellipse and has a circumference such that the sum of the distances from the focal points O1 and O2 is constant.

  It is preferable that the columnar object has an elliptical shape because the side surface in the long axis direction when viewed from the viewpoint can be widened. In order to project a wide side onto the projection plane, it is better to slightly tilt the major axis direction. In FIG. 22, the major axis directions D1 and D2 are both inclined in the line-of-sight direction.

  The elliptical columnar objects 506 and 507 are rotationally asymmetric. When this object is rotated, the position of the boundary between the image region corresponding to the columnar object and the background image on the image display surface changes. For this reason, the first method of rotating a rotationally asymmetric object cannot be used.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the second method is applied. In other words, the columnar object arrangement unit 410 does not change the arrangement of the columnar objects 506 and 507 and does not rotate them after modeling. Instead, the rendering unit 411 performs processing so that the position where the texture is mapped to the elliptical columnar object is changed at each image display timing. As a result, it is possible to provide an image in which the texture moves in the image area corresponding to the columnar object on the image display surface after the perspective projection conversion, as in the above embodiment.

(Embodiment 5)
The fifth embodiment of the present invention also relates to a modification of the shape of the columnar object.
Also in the fifth embodiment, a rotationally asymmetric columnar object is modeled as in the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 23 shows a plan view of a columnar object arranged in the fifth embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 23, the pair of columnar objects 511 and 512 are arranged at substantially the same positions as the columnar objects 503 and 504 of the first embodiment, but are modeled in a prismatic shape. Although the center axis O exists and is an axisymmetric solid, it is treated as a rotationally asymmetric one because the contour seen from the viewpoint changes when rotated. In order to show a wide side when observed from the viewpoint, it is better to slightly tilt the side of the prism as shown in the figure.

  When the prismatic columnar objects 511 and 512 are also rotated about the axis O, the position of the boundary between the image region corresponding to the columnar object and the background image on the image display surface changes. For this reason, the first method cannot be used, and the second method is applied. That is, the columnar object placement unit 410 does not rotate the columnar objects 511 and 512 after modeling. Instead, the rendering unit 411 changes the position where the texture is mapped to the prismatic columnar object at each image display timing. As a result, it is possible to provide an image in which the texture moves in the image area corresponding to the columnar object on the image display surface after the perspective projection conversion, as in the above embodiment.

(Embodiment 6)
The sixth embodiment of the present invention uses a pair of cylindrical columnar objects similar to the first embodiment, but relates to a modification of the arrangement.
FIG. 24 is a side view of a columnar object arranged in the sixth embodiment.
In the first embodiment, the columnar objects 503 and 504 are arranged on the left and right sides of the image display surface. In the sixth embodiment, the columnar object arrangement unit 410 arranges the pair of columnar objects 513 and 514 above and below the image display surface. . The axis O which is the center of the columnar objects 513 and 514 is parallel to the X axis. Since the columnar objects 513 and 514 are arranged above and below the visual volume VV, a texture that is assumed to be reflected vertically on the image display surface is used and mapped. The rendering unit 411 maps the texture for vertical arrangement on the surfaces of the columnar objects 513 and 514.

  Since the columnar objects 513 and 514 are rotationally symmetric, the first method and the second method can be applied to the texture movement process.

FIG. 25 shows an example of image display according to the sixth embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 25, if the columnar object 513 is controlled to rotate clockwise and the columnar object 514 is rotated counterclockwise in the side view of FIG. 24, the character object 604 modeled forward or in front of the viewpoint moves forward. An image is provided as if it were.

  By approximating the basic color of the texture to be mapped and the basic color of the background image, it is possible to make the boundary 620 between the image areas 606 and 607 corresponding to the columnar objects 513 and 514 and the background image 603 inconspicuous. In this case, it is also possible to use the mist process described above.

  Further, if the rotation direction of the columnar object is reversed, it is possible to provide an image as if the viewpoint or the character object 604 is moving backward.

  Further, the radius of the columnar object may be arbitrarily changed, or the distance between both columnar objects may be changed. Furthermore, on the assumption that the second method is used, rotationally asymmetric columnar objects may be arranged above and below the visual volume VV.

(Embodiment 7)
The seventh embodiment of the present invention uses a pair of cylindrical columnar objects similar to those in the first embodiment, but relates to a modification of the arrangement direction.
FIG. 26 is a conceptual perspective view of a columnar object arranged in the seventh embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 26, the seventh embodiment relates to an example in which columnar objects are arranged obliquely. That is, the columnar objects 521 and 522 are inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the X axis and the Y axis. It is assumed that the texture mapped to the surfaces of the columnar objects 521 and 522 is reflected obliquely on the image display surface. Since the columnar objects 521 and 522 are rotationally symmetric, both the first method and the second method can be applied to the texture movement process.

FIG. 27 shows an example of image display according to the seventh embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 27, if the columnar object 521 is controlled to rotate clockwise and the columnar object 522 is rotated counterclockwise, an image as if the character object 604 modeled in front of the viewpoint or the viewpoint is moving forward is obtained. Provided. Here, since the entire image is inclined obliquely, the character object 604 can also be modeled by being inclined at the same angle.

  By approximating the basic color of the texture to be mapped and the basic color of the background image, the boundary 620 between the image areas 608 and 609 corresponding to the columnar objects 521 and 522 and the background image 603 can be made inconspicuous. In this case, it is also possible to use the mist process described above.

  Further, if the rotation direction of the columnar object is reversed, it is possible to provide an image as if the viewpoint or the character object 604 is moving backward.

  Further, the radius of the columnar object may be arbitrarily changed, or the distance between both columnar objects may be changed. Furthermore, on the assumption that the second method is used, rotationally asymmetric columnar objects may be arranged above and below the visual volume VV.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be variously modified and applied.
In the above embodiment, a cylindrical shape is illustrated as a rotationally symmetric columnar object, and an elliptical columnar shape and a rectangular columnar shape are illustrated as rotationally asymmetric columnar objects. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, instead of a solid object having a volume, a simple plane may be arranged as an object. In this case, since it becomes rotationally asymmetric, the texture moving process is performed by changing the texture mapping position at each image update timing by the second method.

  In addition, the arrangement of the columnar objects can be further changed without being limited to the above-described embodiments such as up, down, left, and right of the viewing volume. Arrangements other than the embodiment may be applied depending on what kind of image effect is to be performed.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the pachinko machine was illustrated as a gaming machine, it is applicable to a slot machine as a gaming machine. Further, the image generation processing according to the present invention may be applied to the image display of a game device or a simulation device beyond the frame of the gaming machine.

Front view showing an example of the external configuration of the pachinko machine of the present embodiment Block diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the pachinko machine 100 Functional block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the main control board 201 Functional block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the sub-control board 202 Functional block diagram showing details of a functional configuration of the image generation unit 405 Main flowchart showing an example of processing operation in the main control board The flowchart explaining the detail of the general winning process in step S2 of FIG. The flowchart explaining the detail of the normal symbol action | operation gate passage process in step S3 of FIG. The flowchart explaining the detail of the normal symbol action | operation gate passage process in step S3 of FIG. Flowchart explaining details of start winning process in step S4 of FIG. Flowchart explaining details of start winning process in step S4 of FIG. The flowchart explaining the detail of the special game execution process in step S5 of FIG. The flowchart which shows an example of the processing operation in the normal game in the sub control board 202 The flowchart explaining the detail of the columnar object generation processing of the embodiment Conceptual perspective view of columnar object arrangement in embodiment 1 Schematic plan view of columnar object arrangement in embodiment 1 Schematic side view of columnar object arrangement in embodiment 1 Example of image display by columnar object arrangement of embodiment 1 Image display modification example by columnar object arrangement of embodiment 1 Schematic plan view of columnar object arrangement of embodiment 2 FIG. 10 is a relationship diagram between the z value and color density setting in the color density changing process according to the second embodiment Schematic plan view of columnar object arrangement of embodiment 3 Example of image display by columnar object arrangement of embodiment 3 Schematic plan view of columnar object arrangement of embodiment 4 Schematic plan view of columnar object arrangement of embodiment 5 Schematic side view of columnar object arrangement of embodiment 6 Image display example of columnar object arrangement of embodiment 6 Schematic perspective view of columnar object arrangement of embodiment 7 Example of image display of columnar object arrangement of embodiment 7

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Pachinko machine 103 Normal symbol operation gate 106 Special symbol display device 107 Production display device 108 Normal symbol display device 112 Start winning opening 113 Grand winning opening 131 Launch handle 132 Operation switch 201 Main control board 203 Winning opening board 210 Start winning opening switch 215 Ordinary electric accessory solenoid 301 Winning determination unit 302 Flag storage unit 304 Special symbol lottery unit 305 Winning determination unit 306 Special symbol display instruction unit 309 Normal symbol lottery unit 310 Winning determination unit 311 Normal symbol display instruction unit 312 Normal electric accessory driving instruction Unit 313 effect command generation unit 401 effect command analysis unit 402 effect control unit 403 effect pattern storage unit 404 flag storage unit 405 image generation unit 406 audio generation unit 410 columnar object arrangement unit 411 rendering unit 412 background image generation unit Color density change unit)
413 Image composition unit 414 Object data storage unit 415 Texture data storage unit 416 Background data storage unit 417 Object image storage layer 418 Background image storage layer 419 Output frame image storage layer 420 Display control unit

Claims (8)

In an image generation apparatus that generates an image obtained by projecting a virtual three-dimensional space onto a projection plane,
Be one that models at least a pair of prop in a virtual three-dimensional space, the pair of the columnar near the side face making up the pyramidal view volume defining the range of the virtual three-dimensional space to be projected on the projection plane A columnar object placement section for placing objects;
And a rendering unit that renders a predetermined pattern on the surface of the prop,
The pattern rendered on the surface of each of the pair of columnar objects is controlled to move with time as viewed from the viewpoint .
Image generation device. The columnar object is modeled as a cylinder,
The pattern is moved by rotating around the axis of the columnar objects, the image generating apparatus according to claim 1. The columnar object is modeled in a rotationally asymmetric shape about the axis,
The pattern is moved by change over time of placement of the pattern to render the surface of the prop, the image generating apparatus according to claim 1. The pair of the pattern, each rendered in the prop is controlled so as to move symmetrically with each other, the image generating apparatus according to claim 1. A background image generation unit for generating a background image;
Base color of the pattern to be rendered on the surface of the prop, the approximate basic colors of the background image, the image generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4. A color density changing unit that changes the color density according to the distance from the viewpoint,
The color density in the vicinity of the tangent from the viewpoint to the side surface of the columnar object is controlled to be a predetermined value or more, the image generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Gaming machine comprising an image generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. An image generation program for generating an image obtained by projecting a virtual three-dimensional space onto a projection plane,
Be one that models at least a pair of prop in a virtual three-dimensional space, the pair of the columnar near the side face making up the pyramidal view volume defining the range of the virtual three-dimensional space to be projected on the projection plane The ability to place objects,
A function for rendering a predetermined pattern on the surface of the prop,
Image generation program for executing the pattern to be rendered on each surface of the pair of the prop, and a function of controlling so as to move over time from the perspective, to the computer.

Images