JP5220291B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  According to the present invention, a predetermined game can be performed using a game ball, and the game ball is difficult to enter or does not enter based on the winning of the game ball in the first start area provided in the game area. The first variable winning device that performs an operation that makes it easy for a game ball to enter the first state from the first state, and the game ball has won a special area provided in the first variable winning device. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine capable of shifting a gaming state to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of game balls are prizes (prize balls) ) Is paid to the player. Further, a variable display unit capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display unit becomes a specific display result, the gaming state (game) The state of the machine, more specifically, the state in which the gaming machine is controlled) is configured to give a predetermined game value to the player. The game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode (specific display) determined in advance as a display result of variable display of special symbols (identification information) started in the variable display unit based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening When the result is derived and displayed, a “big hit” occurs. Note that the derivation display is to stop and display a symbol (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening (one of the winning areas) is opened a predetermined number of times (for example, 15) and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. That is, winning is likely to occur in the big hit gaming state, and the player can acquire a large number of winning balls. An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. In addition, hereinafter, the opening period of each big prize opening is referred to as a round.

  Further, in the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) are continuously stopped for a predetermined time, and are stopped, swung, There is a possibility that a big hit will occur before the final result is displayed due to the state of scaling or deformation, or multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol being switched An effect performed in a continuing state (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. The player plays the game while enjoying how to generate the big hit.

  When a game ball wins a grand prize opening, a game ball as a prize is paid out to a player. Generally, the number of game balls to be paid out when a game ball wins a normal prize opening other than the big prize opening. However, there are more game balls to be paid out when a game ball is won at the big prize opening. Then, it becomes easy to receive a fraudulent act that attempts to obtain a game ball as a prize illegally by creating a situation in which a game ball has won a prize winning opening by using an unauthorized tool or the like. At this time, the game ball is not actually won in the big prize opening.

  Therefore, a game machine is proposed that is configured to notify an abnormality and stop the game if an abnormal winning is detected when a winning of a game ball to the big winning opening is detected when the big winning opening is closed. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

JP-A-5-228243 (paragraphs 0147, 0151)

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1, when an abnormal winning at the big winning opening is detected, the launch of the gaming ball into the gaming area is prohibited. By prohibiting the launch of the game ball, it is impossible to continue the game, and it is possible to prevent the game store from being disadvantaged due to continued fraud. However, the gaming machine is equipped with an electric tulip (ordinary electric accessory) that opens and closes to make it easier to win a game ball when the normal symbol becomes a winning symbol. No measures are taken to prevent it. Therefore, it can happen that the amusement shop suffers a disadvantage due to an illegal act against the electric tulip.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can prevent an illegal act with respect to a variable winning device (electric tulip, ordinary electric accessory).

The gaming machine according to the present invention can play a predetermined game using a game ball, and the game ball has won a first start area (for example, the second start winning opening 14) provided in the game area. Based on the first variable winning device (for example, a game ball is moved from a first state (for example, a closed state) to enter a second state (for example, an open state) where the game ball is likely to enter (for example, an open state). The game ball has won a special area (for example, the first specific area 73 and the second specific area 74) provided in the first variable prize apparatus with the second large winning opening (the accessory 75). A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of shifting the gaming state to a specific gaming state (for example, a second jackpot gaming state) advantageous to the player based on the first starting area Closed state where game balls do not win (for example, closed State) and an open state (for example, open state) in which a game ball can win in the first start area, and the game ball wins in a second start area (for example, gate 32) provided in the game area. Based on this, the second variable winning device (for example, variable winning ball device 15, ordinary electric accessory) that is in the open state and the game ball that has won the first starting area are detected and a detection signal is output. Detecting means (for example, the second start port switch 14a), a special variable winning device capable of changing from a state where a game ball does not win in a specific gaming state to a state where it is easy to win, and a game ball won in the special variable winning device a prize detecting means for outputting a winning detection signal is detected and, the game control means for controlling the progress of a game (e.g., game control microcomputer 560 including a CPU 56) and a gaming control means, the second An open / close determining means for determining the open / closed state of the prize winning device (for example, the part executing step S560 or S184 in the gaming control microcomputer 560) and the second variable winning device being closed by the open / close determining means. When the determination is made (for example, N in step S560 or Y in step S184), an abnormality is detected based on detection of a winning game ball by the detecting means (for example, N in step S563 or Y in step S188). Anomaly notification means for executing notification (for example, a part for executing step S564 or S189 in the game control microcomputer 560, a part for executing steps S911 to S914 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and a winning from the winning detection means Whether a detection signal is input A winning determination means for determining, a winning abnormality notification means for performing a winning abnormality notification based on the determination that the winning determination means has input a winning detection signal in a gaming state other than the specific gaming state, and a game progress state State control means for controlling the state of the variable display device and the special variable winning device based on the data, and the state control means includes the special variable winning when the data indicating the game progress state is a numerical value outside a predetermined range. The device is changed to a state where it is easy to win a prize, and the prize abnormality notifying means determines that the winning judgment means has input a prize detection signal when the data indicating the game progress status indicates a value other than a predetermined range. Based on the fact that the winning anomaly notification is not executed and the winning determination means inputs the winning detection signal when the data indicating the game progress state indicates a numerical value within a predetermined range. Based on that there was boss, and executes the winning abnormality notification.

  An operation for prohibiting the start of the operation of the first variable winning device when the winning means of the game ball is detected by the detecting device when the opening / closing determining device determines that the second variable winning device is in the closed state. Inhibiting means (for example, the part for executing steps S325A and S325B in the game control microcomputer 560 in the second embodiment, the part for executing steps S339 and S340 in the game control microcomputer 560 in the fourth embodiment, and the embodiment. 5 may include a part for executing step S326 in the game control microcomputer 560.

  Payout control means for executing a control for paying out the game ball in response to the game ball winning in the first starting area (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the processing of steps S362 to S369 and S371 to S382 is executed. The payout control means is based on the fact that the winning means of the game ball is detected by the detecting means when the opening / closing determining means determines that the second variable winning device is in the closed state. It may be configured to include payout control prohibiting means (for example, a part for executing steps S366 and 367 in the game control microcomputer 560) for prohibiting execution of control for paying out the game ball.

  The game control means includes numerical value update means for updating a predetermined numerical value (for example, the part for executing the processing of step S24 in the game control microcomputer 560) and a predetermined time (for example, the first start winning award 13 and the first Numerical value extraction means for extracting a numerical value from the numerical value update means (for example, a part for executing steps S322 (especially S322C) and S324 in the game control microcomputer 560) when a game ball is won at the 2 start winning opening 14) The display result determination means (for example, steps S67 and S68 in the game control microcomputer 560) determines information that can specify the display result (for example, stop symbol) of the variable display of the identification information based on the numerical value extracted by the numerical value extraction means. , S87 and S88), and power supply to the gaming machine is started And an initialization means for executing an initialization process for setting a numerical value to an initial value (for example, a part for executing the process of step S12 in the game control microcomputer 560). When executing, initialization notification means for performing initialization notification indicating that the initialization processing has been executed until a predetermined termination condition is satisfied (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes the process of step S13). Part for performing step S632A in the microcomputer 100 for effect control, and abnormality notification prohibiting means for prohibiting the start of abnormality notification by the abnormality notification means (when the initialization notification means is performing initialization notification) For example, in the game control microcomputer 560, steps S44, S45, S551 to S55. Portions for performing the process) and may comprise.

  The present application also discloses the following configuration.

  A plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can be identified based on the winning of a game ball in a first starting region (for example, the second starting winning port 14) provided in the gaming region. A variable display device (for example, special symbol display 8 and variable display device 9) for performing variable display and deriving and displaying the display result is provided, and the first specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display device. The first variable winning device is sometimes shifted to a specific gaming state (for example, a first big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player and a second specific display result (for example, a small winning symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display device. A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1) that changes a second state (for example, second prize winning opening (an accessory 75)) to a second state (for example, an open state), and a second variable winning by an opening / closing determination means. When the device is closed If it is determined that the winning of the game ball is detected by the detecting means, the variable display prohibiting means for prohibiting the variable display of the identification information on the variable display device (for example, the game control micro A portion for executing steps S325A and S325B in the computer 560, a portion for executing steps S807A and S807B in the production control microcomputer 100, and a portion for executing steps S339 and S340 in the game control microcomputer 560 in the fourth embodiment. In the fifth embodiment, a part for executing step S326 in the game control microcomputer 560 may be provided.

  A plurality of types of second specific display results (for example, a small hit A symbol and a small hit B symbol) are provided, and a path switching member (for example, a channel switching member) that can switch the path of a game ball that has entered the first variable winning device. 78) and route switching means for switching the route by operating the route switching member at a predetermined timing from when the first variable winning device changes to the second state (for example, step S27B in the game control microcomputer 560, A portion for executing S308 to S310), and a switching period selection means (for example, for game control) for changing the switching timing of the route by the route switching means according to the type of the second specific display result derived and displayed on the variable display device A portion for executing steps S240 to S242 in the microcomputer 560).

In the first aspect of the present invention, the game control means determines that the second variable winning device is in the closed state by the open / close determining means for determining the open / closed state of the second variable winning device and the open / close determining means. In some cases, the detection means includes an abnormality notification means for performing abnormality notification based on the detection of the winning of the game ball, so that it is notified that the prize winning abnormality has occurred due to an illegal act on the second variable winning device. it can be, as a result, Ru can be reliably prevented abuse for the second variable winning device.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, when the detection unit detects the winning of the game ball when the open / close determination unit determines that the second variable winning device is in the closed state, the first variable winning device Since the operation prohibiting means for prohibiting the start of the operation is provided, it is possible to surely prevent a transition to the specific gaming state due to an illegal act.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, the payout control means is based on the fact that the winning means of the game ball is detected by the detecting means when the open / close determining means determines that the second variable winning device is in the closed state. The payout control prohibiting means for prohibiting the execution of the control of paying out the game ball is included, so that if there is a possibility of winning in the first starting area due to fraud, do not pay out the winning ball based on the win. A disadvantage can be prevented from being given to an amusement store.

  In the invention of claim 4, since the abnormality notification prohibiting means for prohibiting the start of the abnormality notification by the abnormality notification means is provided when the initialization notification means is performing the initialization notification, the initialization notification is a winning abnormality It is executed in preference to the notification, and it can be reliably recognized outside the gaming machine that the initial value is set to a numerical value for determining information that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (bullet ball gaming machine) 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  Near the center of the game area 7, a variable display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided. Each of the display screens of the variable display device 9 is identified based on the establishment of a start condition that is a variable display execution condition (for example, the hit ball has won the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14). There is a display area for variably displaying a plurality of kinds of decorative designs for effects and deriving and displaying the display results. On the display screen of the effect display device 9, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, that is, the number of reserved memories (the reserved memory is also referred to as start memory or start winning memory). ) Is displayed (holding storage display area 18c). In the reserved memory display area 18c, every time there is an effective start winning, the lighting color of the reserved memory display indicating the number of reserved memories is changed by one (for example, changed from red to blue). Then, each time the variable display on the effect display device 9 is started, the lighting color of the on-hold storage display is restored to one (for example, from blue to red).

  Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result means that the symbol is stopped and displayed (except for the stop before the so-called re-variation).

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the lower left side of the game board 6. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by two simple and small displays (for example, 7 segment LEDs) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. Therefore, the special symbol display 8 is configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of 00 to 99 as special symbols. In this embodiment, the variation of the special symbol is such that the symbol displayed on each of the left and right indicators in the special symbol display 8 changes from “−” → “0” →... → “9”. Is realized.

  In the vicinity of the special symbol display 8, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, that is, the number of reserved memories (the stored memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start winning memory). A special symbol reservation storage display 18 comprising four displays for display is provided. The special symbol storage memory display 18 increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one every time there is an effective start winning. Then, every time variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  The variable display device 9 performs variable display of a decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (for production) during the variable display time of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8. The variable display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. The special symbol display 8 that performs variable display of the special symbols is controlled by a game control microcomputer mounted on the game control board.

  Below the variable display device 9, there is formed a first start winning opening 13 through which a game ball can be won. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  Further, a second start winning opening 14 is formed immediately below the first starting winning opening 13. The second start winning opening 14 is provided with a variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, no gaming ball is won in the second starting winning port 14, and when the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the gaming ball can be won in the second starting winning port 14. . The variable winning ball device 15 is opened and closed by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, it becomes easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 (easy to start winning), which is advantageous to the player. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a.

  At the bottom of the variable display device 9, an accessory 75 that forms a second grand prize opening is provided. The accessory 75 is provided with a blade-like movable member 76 that is driven by a driving device such as a motor. When the movable member 76 is controlled to a position where the movable member 76 is tilted to the left, the game ball enters a state where it can enter the second grand prize opening (open state). When the movable member 76 is controlled to a position that closes the second grand prize opening, the game ball cannot enter the second big prize opening (closed state). Hereinafter, the accessory 75 may be expressed as a “second grand prize opening” or a “second grand prize opening (an accessory)”.

  A second grand prize opening winning switch 71a for detecting a game ball that has entered is provided inside the second big prize winning opening (an accessory). Further, a first specific area 73 and a first specific area passing switch 73a for detecting a game ball that has passed through the first specific area 73 are provided. Further, a second specific area 74 and a second specific area passing switch 74a for detecting a game ball that has passed through the second specific area 74 are provided.

  Also, below the variable winning ball device 15, the solenoid 21 is opened in a specific game state (a big hit game state) that occurs when a special display result (a big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8. A special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is provided. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate and forms a first big winning opening. A game ball that has entered the first grand prize opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided at the lower right side of the game board 6. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (a symbol can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). For example, if the left lamp is lit when the variable display ends, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  A decorative lamp 25 blinkingly displayed during the game is provided around the left and right of the game area 7 of the game board 6, and an out port 26 into which a hit ball that has not won a prize is taken in at the bottom. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c provided on the front frame are provided at the outer periphery upper portion, the outer periphery left portion, and the outer periphery right portion of the game area 7. Furthermore, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as the second grand prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine. Also, a prize ball lamp 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball break lamp 52 that is turned on when the supply ball is cut out is provided in the vicinity of the right frame lamp 28c. Is provided.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. If the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a or the second start opening switch 14a, it is in a state where variable symbol display can be started ( For example, the previous variable display or jackpot game has ended and the variable display start condition has been established), the special symbol display 8 starts variable display (variation) of the special symbol, and the variable display device 9 The variable display of symbols is started. If the special symbol variable display cannot be started, the number of reserved memories is increased by 1 on the condition that the number of reserved memories has not reached the upper limit.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of how the game proceeds in the gaming machine of this embodiment. When a game ball wins the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14, that is, when a start winning occurs, a lottery is executed by the game control means (game control microcomputer 560) for controlling the progress of the game. . In the lottery, any one of the first big hit A, the first big hit B, the small hit A, the small hit B, and the second big hit is determined. Then, based on the fact that the variable display start condition is satisfied, the variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol (variable display) is started.

  When the variation time (variable display time) elapses, the variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is finished. As a result of the lottery, if it is determined to be out of play, the big hit game is not executed and the first big prize opening is not opened. If the first big hit A is determined as a result of the lottery, the first big win game (first big win game) in which the first big winning opening is opened 15 times (15 rounds, 1 round opening allowance time is 29 seconds) If A) is performed and the first big hit B is determined, the first big win game (first round) in which the first big prize opening is opened twice (2 rounds, 1 round opening allowance time is 29 seconds). A big hit game B) is played. The first big hit A and the first big hit B may be collectively referred to as the first big hit, and the first big hit and the second big hit may be collectively referred to as the big hit.

  As a result of the lottery, when either the small hit A or the small hit B is determined, the second big winning opening is opened twice (opening 0.5 seconds per time). However, when the small hit A is determined and when the small hit B is determined, the timing at which the second big winning opening is opened is different. That is, the timing from when the symbol change is finished (when the stop symbol is derived and displayed) to when the second big prize opening is released is determined as the small hit A and the small hit B. It depends on the case. The timing at which the second big prize opening opens when the small hit A is determined is referred to as an opening timing A, and the timing at which the second big winning opening when the small hit B is determined is referred to as an opening timing B. . In addition, an operation in which the second grand prize opening is opened twice (in the case of opening for 0.5 seconds per time) may be referred to as a starting operation.

  When a game ball enters the second grand prize opening and wins the first specific area 73 in the second big prize opening, the second big prize opening is opened for 15 rounds (2 seconds per round, 7 times). The second big hit game is executed. When a game ball wins the second specific area 74 in the second big prize opening, the second big prize opening opens seven rounds (two seconds per round, seven times open), and the second big hit game is executed. Is done. Note that, even during the start-up operation and the second big hit operation, the game ball is won at the second big prize opening, and when the game ball is detected by the second big prize opening prize switch 71a, the prize ball is paid out.

  As a result of the lottery, if it is decided to win the second big hit, the second big prize opening opens 15 rounds (2 seconds per round, 7 times open) without starting operation. Two big hit games are executed.

  3-5 is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a structure in the accessory 75 which forms a 2nd big winning opening, and the mode of the flow of the game ball in the accessory 75. FIG. 6 and 7 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the storing operation of the flow path switching member 78. FIG. In the accessory 75, when the movable member 76 falls down by the motor 24 as the driving device, the second big prize opening is opened, and the game ball can enter the second big prize opening. The game ball that has entered the second grand prize opening is detected by, for example, a second big prize opening prize switch 71 a using a proximity switch and reaches the flow path switching member 78.

  The flow path switching member 78 is driven by the motor 22 and falls downward as shown in FIG. 3 (a state in which the game ball is guided to the lower part in the accessory 75) and a horizontal state as shown in FIG. The state changes to a state where the ball is guided to the tip of the flow path switching member 78 and a state where the ball stands upward (a state where the game ball is stored (stopped)) shown in FIG. Thus, by changing (moving) the flow path switching member 78, the flow path (path) of the game ball that has entered the second grand prize winning opening is switched. In this embodiment, the flow path switching member 78 is initially in a horizontal state. The operation of the flow path switching member 78 is started when a predetermined time has elapsed since the stop of the symbol change and the stop symbol (small hit symbol indicating that a small hit has been reached) is derived and displayed. And the state which fell down, the horizontal state, and the state which stood up are repeated alternately for a predetermined period. In this embodiment, when a small hit A occurs (when a small hit symbol indicating that the small hit A has been derived is displayed), even when a small hit B occurs (becomes a small hit B). The time from when the small hit symbol is derived and displayed until the operation of the flow path switching member 78 is started is also constant. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the small hit A is generated and when the small hit B is generated, the time until the movable member 76 is operated after the small hit symbol is derived and displayed is made different. ing.

  When the game ball reaches the flow path switching member 78 when the flow path switching member 78 is tilted downward, the game ball is guided to the lower part in the accessory 75 as shown in FIG. The game ball guided to the lower part in the accessory 75 is guided to the back side of the game board 6 and discharged. The game ball guided to the back side of the game board 6 is guided to one discharge path and is detected by a second big prize opening discharge switch 72a provided in the discharge path.

  The flow path switching member 78 returns to a position where the game ball is guided to the tip of the flow path switching member 78 by, for example, reverse rotation of the motor 22 (the flow path switching member 78 is horizontal). become). A first specific area 73 and a second specific area 74 are provided at the tip of the flow path switching member 78.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the game ball that has passed through the first specific area 73 is detected by the first specific area switch 73 a by, for example, a proximity switch, and then guided to the back side of the game board 6 and discharged. The game ball guided to the back side of the game board 6 is guided to one discharge path and is detected by a second big prize opening discharge switch 72a provided in the discharge path.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the game ball that has passed through the second specific area 74 is detected by the second specific area switch 74a by, for example, a proximity switch and then guided to the back side of the game board 6 and discharged. . The game ball guided to the back side of the game board 6 is guided to one discharge path and is detected by a second big prize opening discharge switch 72a provided in the discharge path.

  When the game ball reaches the flow path switching member 78 while the flow path switching member 78 is standing upward, the game ball is blocked by the flow path switching member 78 and temporarily stored as shown in FIG. Thereafter, when the flow path switching member 78 returns to a horizontal state, the stored game ball is a croon provided with the first specific area 73 and the second specific area 74 (a dish used for distributing the game balls). It is a piece with a hole in it. In this case, since the traveling speed of the game ball is slow, the ratio of the game ball entering the first specific area 73 provided on the near side increases.

  When the game ball reaches the flow path switching member 78 when the flow path switching member 78 is in a horizontal state, the game ball passes through the flow path switching member 78 without being stored, as shown in FIG. The game ball that has passed through the flow path switching member 78 travels at a higher speed toward the croon in which the first specific area 73 and the second specific area 74 are provided. In this case, since the traveling speed of the game ball is fast, the ratio of the game ball entering the second specific area 74 provided on the back side becomes high.

  As described above, the path is switched according to the state of the flow path switching member 78 when the game ball enters the second grand prize opening. That is, an advantageous route (a route reaching a specific region) and an unfavorable route (a route not reaching the specific region) are switched depending on whether or not the flow path switching member 78 is tilted downward. Further, it is determined whether it is easy to enter the first specific area 73 or the second specific area 74 depending on whether or not the flow path switching member 78 is standing upward.

  In this embodiment, the position of the flow path switching member 78 changes according to the drive of the motor 22, but the flow path switching member 78 may be driven by a solenoid. Moreover, although the position of the movable member 76 changes according to the drive of the motor 24, the movable member 76 may be driven by a solenoid.

  The structure of the accessory 75 illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5 is an example, and the positional relationship between the first specific area 73 and the second specific area 74, the size difference, the first specific area and the second specific area. You may change the difference in the number.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration in the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 8 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached.

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

  In addition, the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the second large winning port winning switch 71a, the second large winning port discharge switch 72a, the first specific area passing switch 73a, and An input driver circuit 58 that supplies a detection signal from the second specific area passing switch 74 a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. In addition, a solenoid 16 that opens and closes the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid 21 that opens and closes the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that forms the first grand prize opening, and the entrance of the game ball into the second big winning opening (a role). An output circuit for driving the motor 24 for driving the movable member 76 to allow and the motor 22 for driving the flow path switching member 78 in the second prize winning opening (legal object) according to a command from the microcomputer 560 for game control. 59 is also mounted on the main board 31. Further, an information output circuit (not shown) for outputting an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

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

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

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the microcomputer is not mounted on the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, but a microcomputer may be mounted. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

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

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

As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 77A is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 9 illustrates a diode. Also, unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

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

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

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

  The signal for driving the lamp and the sound number data are transmitted between the effect control CPU 101, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 in two-way communication (such as transmitting a response signal from the signal receiving side to the transmitting side). Communication).

  The effect control CPU 101 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM is for storing character image data displayed on the variable display device 9, specifically, a person, a character, a figure, a symbol or the like (including a decorative design and a background design) in advance. The effect control CPU 101 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the data input from the effect control CPU 101.

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

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing the security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

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

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes a normal initialization process (steps S10 to S15, including S44 and S45).

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

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S15.

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

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

  By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, an award ball flag, a ball out flag, and a payout stop An initial value is set to a flag such as a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state.

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

  Further, the CPU 56 sets an abnormality notification prohibition flag (step S44) and sets a value corresponding to the prohibition period value in the stop period timer (step S45). The prohibition period value is a value indicating a period during which an abnormal winning notification described later is prohibited. The abnormality notification prohibition flag is a flag indicating that notification of abnormal winning is prohibited, and is maintained in the set state until the stop period timer times out. Therefore, the start of the abnormal winning notification is prohibited for a predetermined period after the initialization notification is started in the variable display device 9.

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

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

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process in steps S20 to S35 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, via the input driver circuit 58, the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the second big prize port prize switch 71a, the second big prize port discharge switch 72a, The detection signals of the first specific area passing switch 73a and the second specific area passing switch 74a are input, and the state is determined (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a display control process for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S33 and S34.

  In addition, the CPU 56 detects that a game ball has won a prize winning opening (first grand prize winning opening, second grand prize winning opening) at a time other than the regular time, or the second time at a time other than the regular time. When it is detected that a game ball has won at the start winning opening, a process for notifying the abnormal winning is performed (step S23: abnormal winning notifying process).

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S24). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S25 and S26).

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (including a small hit) (for big hit determination)
(2) Random 2: Determines the special symbol stop symbol when generating a big hit (for big hit symbol determination)
(3) Random 3: Determine the special symbol's off symbol (stop symbol) (for determining off symbol)
(4) Random 4: Determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(6) Random 6: Determine the initial value of random 1 (for determining the random 1 initial value)
(7) Random 7: Determine the initial value of random 5 (for determining the random 5 initial value)

  In step S24 in the game control process shown in FIG. 11, the game control microcomputer 560 determines (1) a big hit determination random number, (2) a big hit symbol determination random number, and (5) a normal symbol hit determination. The counter for generating a random number for use is incremented (added by 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (7) are also used. Further, in this embodiment, since the special symbols are separated by one type (for example, “-”), it is not necessary to use the random symbols for determining the special symbols.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S27A). In the special symbol process, the processing corresponding to the special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning award (the first big winning award and the second big winning award) in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. Execute. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  In addition, the CPU 56 performs a switching member control process (step S27B). In the switching member control process, the operation of starting the flow path switching member 78 is started at a predetermined timing, and the operation of the flow path switching member 78 is stopped when the predetermined timing is reached.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs normal symbol process processing (step S28). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command related to the display control of the variable display device 9 (effect control command control process: step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S30).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a winning ball process for setting the number of winning balls based on detection signals of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the second large winning port winning switch 71a, and the count switch 23. (Step S31). Specifically, the payout control board according to the winning detection based on one of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the second big winning port winning switch 71a, and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command indicating the number of award balls is output to a payout control microcomputer mounted on 37. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 provides the output port with contents relating to solenoid on / off in the RAM area of the output port. Output (step S32: output processing). The CPU 56 also performs signal output processing for driving the motors 22 and 24 in the output processing.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds, the CPU 56 increments the value of the display control data set in the output buffer by 1 every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 performs variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S34). For example, if the normal symbol fluctuation speed is such that the display state (“◯” and “×”) is switched every 0.2 seconds, the CPU 56 sets the output buffer every 0.2 seconds. The display control data value to be switched (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “×”) is switched. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer. Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S35), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of steps S21 to S34 (excluding step S30) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot determination value. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the counter for generating the big hit determination random number at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the big hit determination random value. The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches the judgment value, it is determined to be big hit (first big hit A, first big hit B or second big hit) or small hit (small hit A or small hit B).

  In this embodiment, as a result of the lottery, the probability variation state in which the probability that a big hit will occur is not controlled. That is, the probability variation state does not occur. However, when a predetermined probability change state transition condition is satisfied, the gaming state may be controlled to a probability change state with an increased probability of jackpot. In that case, in the probability variation state, the number of jackpot determination values increases. In the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 may be increased.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, the game state is shortened by a predetermined number of fluctuations (for example, 50 times) after the first big hit game is finished (the game state in which the variable symbol display time of the special symbol is shortened compared to the normal game state) ) Is controlled. By shortening the variable display time in this way, the variable display of symbols is frequently executed, and the probability of jackpot per unit time is improved, resulting in an advantageous state for the player. Although not shown in FIG. 30, which will be described later, in the first big hit end process, a time reduction flag indicating that the gaming state is controlled to the time reduction state is set. In addition, in a predetermined process (for example, a variation pattern setting process) in the special symbol process, the number of variations after the transition to the short-time state is counted by a variation number counter, and the number of variations after the first big hit game is completed is a predetermined number 50 times), the process of resetting the time reduction flag is performed. Further, in this embodiment, when the time-short state is controlled, the probability that the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is higher than that in the normal gaming state, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened. The time and the number of times of opening are higher than those in the normal gaming state (see FIG. 44). Furthermore, when it is controlled in the time-short state, control for shortening the variable display time (variation time) of the normal symbol is performed. As a result, the probability of occurrence of the second start prize (winning to the second start prize opening 14) is increased, and the player becomes more advantageous. In addition, the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol becomes a winning symbol is improved, and one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are increased, and the variable display time of the normal symbol is reduced. A normal state other than the high base state is called a low base state.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram for explaining how the game state changes when the special symbol is changed based on the start winning in this embodiment. When the start winning is generated, the CPU 56 performs a lottery process for determining whether to win or not. If the lottery result is to generate “first big hit A”, after the special symbol variable display is finished, the first big hit game is made and the first big prize opening is made 15 times (15R = 15 rounds). ) Opened and closed. Also, if the lottery result is to generate “first big hit B”, after the variable symbol special display is finished, the first big hit game is entered and the first big winning opening is made twice (2R = 2 rounds) are opened and closed. In addition, when the lottery result is to generate “second big hit”, after the special symbol variable display is finished, the second big win game is entered and the second big prize opening is made a predetermined number of times (15R or 7R). ) Opened and closed. In addition, when the lottery result is to generate “small winning A”, after the variable symbol special display is finished, the second big prize opening is opened and closed twice by changing to the small winning game. When a game ball wins a specific area in the big winning opening, the game is shifted to the second big winning game, and the second big winning opening is opened and closed a predetermined number of times (15R or 7R). In addition, when the lottery result is to generate “small hit B”, after the variable symbol special display is finished, the second big prize opening is opened and closed twice by changing to the small hit game. When a game ball wins a specific area in the big winning opening, the game is shifted to the second big winning game, and the second big winning opening is opened and closed a predetermined number of times (15R or 7R).

  FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a decorative symbol stop pattern in the variable display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 15, when the first big hit A occurs, “777” (a stop symbol that reminds the occurrence of the first big hit A) is derived and displayed. Further, when the first big hit B is generated, “111”, “333”, “555”, and “999” (stop symbols reminiscent of the occurrence of the first big hit B) are derived and displayed. When the second big hit occurs, “222”, “444”, “666”, and “888” (a stop symbol that reminds of the occurrence of the second big hit) are derived and displayed. When a small hit A occurs, “135”, “357”, and “579” (a stop symbol that reminds the occurrence of a small hit A) are derived and displayed. Further, when the small hit B is generated, “123”, “345”, and “567” (stop symbols reminiscent of the occurrence of the small hit B) are derived and displayed. In the case of a disengagement, a stop symbol (excluding the small hit symbol) in which the left / right / right symbols are not aligned or the left / right symbol does not match the middle symbol is derived and displayed. The decorative symbols that are variably displayed and stopped on the variable display device 9 are numbers, alphabets, character-like symbols, symbols in which numbers are displayed in character-like display objects, and any other symbols. There may be. Hereinafter, the stop symbol of the decorative design that reminds of the occurrence of the first big hit (the first big hit A or the first big hit B) and the stop symbol of the decorative design that reminds the occurrence of the second big hit are also called the big hit symbols. . Further, a stop symbol of a decorative pattern that reminds of occurrence of a small hit (small hit A or small hit B) is called a small hit symbol.

  Note that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a symbol in a state where left and right numbers are aligned with odd numbers, for example, when a big hit occurs, and when a small hit occurs, for example, the left and right numbers are even numbers. When the big hits and the small hits do not occur, for example, the left and right numbers are not aligned.

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a change in state when the accessory 75 is controlled to the open state based on the small hit. When the small hit occurs, the movable member 76 is opened and the second grand prize opening is opened. However, when the game ball wins in the first special area 73 provided in the second big prize opening, the second prize winning opening is further increased. When the second big hit game is executed in which the second big winning opening is opened for 15 rounds (2 seconds per round, 7 times), and the game ball wins in the second special area 74 provided in the second big winning opening. A second big hit game is executed in which the second winning opening is opened 7 rounds (2 seconds per round, 7 times). Note that the movable member 76 being in an open state is also referred to as blade opening. In this embodiment, the small hit game is a game including a start operation and a second big hit game that follows.

  FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram for explaining how the gaming state changes after the second grand prize opening is opened as the starting operation. When the movable member 76 is in an open state (see (A)), the game ball can enter the second grand prize winning opening (an accessory), but when the entered game ball is dropped by the flow path switching member 78, A game ball cannot win a specific area (the first specific area 73 and the second specific area 74) (see (B)).

  When the game ball that has entered the second grand prize winning opening (community) is not dropped by the flow path switching member 78 and passes through the first specific area 73 (see (C)), 15 rounds of the second big hit game are executed. Is done. In addition, when the game ball that has entered the second grand prize winning opening (act) is not dropped by the flow path switching member 78 and passes through the second specific area 74 (see (D)), the second round of second big hit game is played. Is executed.

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing an example of a special symbol process (step S27A) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning a prize opening (the first big winning a prize opening and the second big winning a prize mouth) is executed.

  When the CPU 56 performs the special symbol process, if the first start port switch 13a for detecting that a game ball has won the first start winning port 13 provided in the game board 6 is turned on, That is, if a start winning that causes the game ball to win the first start winning opening 13 has occurred (Y in step S321), the first start opening switch passing process is executed (step S322).

  If the second start port switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won the second start winning port 14 provided on the game board 6 is turned on, that is, the game ball is started for the second time. If a start winning to win the winning opening 14 has occurred (Y in step S323), a second start opening switch passing process is executed (step S324). Then, any one of steps S300 to S314 is performed.

  The processes in steps S300 to S314 are as follows.

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

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

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

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the variable symbol display on the special symbol display 8 is stopped. Then, the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the variable display device 9 to stop the decorative symbols when it receives the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the time for displaying and stopping the special symbol elapses (the special symbol process timer times out), if the first jackpot flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value corresponding to step S305 (this example Then, update to 5). When the second big hit flag or the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. If the first big hit flag, the second big hit flag, and the small hit flag are not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example).

First big winning opening opening pre-process (step S305): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the first big prize opening pre-processing, the first big prize opening is controlled to be opened. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the first grand prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the first big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the first big prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) corresponding to step S306. The first special winning opening open preprocessing is executed for each rounds, when starting the first round, the first special winning opening open pretreatment is also the process starts the first jackpot gaming.

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

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the first jackpot gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Normal object release control normal process (step S308): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. When the small hit flag is set, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a process for causing the start operation to be performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is processed while the accessory is being released (step S309). Is updated to a value corresponding to (9 in this example). When the small hit flag is not set (that is, when the second big hit flag is set), the processing for starting the second big hit gaming state is executed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is changed. It is updated to a value (11 in this example) corresponding to the second big prize opening pre-processing (step S311).

  Process during opening of bonuses (step S309): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. When it is detected that the game ball has won the first special area 73, the first V winning flag is set, and when it is detected that the game ball has won the second special area 74, the second V winning flag is set. When the opening time of the second grand prize opening at the time of the start prize has passed, control is performed to close the second big prize opening, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is a value corresponding to the post-function closing process (step S310) ( In this example, it is updated to 10).

  Post-combination processing (step S402): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. When it is detected that the game ball has won the first special area 73, the first V winning flag is set, and when it is detected that the game ball has won the second special area 74, the second V winning flag is set. When all of the game balls won in the second grand prize opening are discharged from the second big prize opening, when the opening of the second second prize opening in the start operation is completed, the first V prize flag or the second On the condition that the 2V winning flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (11 in this example) corresponding to the second large winning opening opening pre-processing (step S311). If the first V winning flag and the second V winning flag are not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (in this example, 0) corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300). When the opening of the second big prize opening in the starting operation is not completed twice, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (in this example, 9) corresponding to the processing of releasing the accessory (step S309). To do.

Pre-opening process for second big prize opening (step S311): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 11. Control to open the second big prize opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the second grand prize opening) is initialized, and the motor 24 is driven to open the second big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the second big prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is a value (12 in this example) corresponding to the second big winning opening opening process (step S312). Update to Note that the second special winning opening open preprocessing is executed for each rounds, when starting the first round, second bonus prize hole opening preprocessing is also the process starts the second jackpot gaming.

  Second big prize opening opening process (step S312): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 12. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the second big prize opening is performed. When the closing condition for the second winning prize opening is satisfied, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (13 in this example) corresponding to the second large winning opening closing process (step S313). .

  Process after closing second winning prize opening (step S313): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 13. A process for confirming that all game balls have been discharged from the second grand prize opening is performed. When all the game balls are discharged and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is a value (12 in this example) corresponding to the second big prize opening opening process (step S312). Update to When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (14 in this example) corresponding to the second big hit end process (step S314).

  Second big hit end process (step S314): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 14. Control for causing the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the second big hit gaming state has ended is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (in this example, 0) corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300).

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 20, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 using eight signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7. Further, between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80, a signal line of the effect control INT signal for transmitting the capture signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired.

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

  As shown in FIG. 21, the 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Therefore, when viewed from the effect control microcomputer 100, the effect control INT signal corresponds to a signal that triggers the capture of effect control command data.

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

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control microcomputer 100. In the example shown in FIG. 22, commands 8001 (H) to 8008 (H) are effect control commands (variation) for designating a variation pattern of decorative symbols variably displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to variable display of special symbols. Pattern command). The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the variation start. Therefore, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives any of the commands 8001 (H) to 8008 (H), the variable display device 9 controls the variable display device 9 to start variable display of the decorative symbols.

  Command 8C01 (H) is an effect control command (first big hit A designation command) that designates that the display result of variable display of the decorative symbols designated by the variation pattern command is the first big hit A symbol (see FIG. 13). is there. Command 8C02 (H) is an effect control command (first big hit B designation command) that designates that the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbols designated by the variation pattern command is the first big hit B symbol. The command 8C03 (H) is an effect control command (small hit A designation command) that designates that the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol designated by the variation pattern command is the small hit A symbol. The command 8C04 (H) is an effect control command (small hit B designation command) that designates that the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol designated by the variation pattern command is the small hit B symbol. Command 8C05 (H) is an effect control command (second jackpot designation command) that designates that the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol designated by the variation pattern command is the second jackpot symbol. Command 8C06 (H) is an effect control command (outgoing designation command) for designating that the display result of variable display of the decorative design designated by the variation pattern command is to be used as the off-design. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C06 (H). Therefore, the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C06 (H) are referred to as display result specifying commands.

  Note that the game control microcomputer 560 does not transmit a display result specifying command, but varies according to each of first big hit A / first big hit B / small hit A / small hit B / second big hit / displacement. The pattern command may be determined, and the production control microcomputer 100 may determine the stop symbol of the decorative symbol based on the received variation pattern command.

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

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if the data is stored in the backup RAM, and otherwise designates initialization. Send a command.

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

  Command A001 (H) is an effect control command (first jackpot start designation command: fanfare designation command) that designates the start of the first jackpot game.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  Command A301 (H) is an effect control command (first jackpot end designation command: ending designation command) for displaying the first jackpot end screen, that is, for ending the first jackpot game.

  Command A501 (H) is an effect control command (second jackpot start designation command: fanfare designation command) that designates the start of the second jackpot game. Command A 701 (H) is an effect control command (second jackpot end designation command: ending designation command) for displaying the second jackpot end screen, that is, designating the end of the second jackpot game.

  Command D001 (H) is an effect control command (first abnormal winning designation command) for instructing notification of abnormal winning to the first big winning opening. The command D002 (H) is an effect control command (second abnormal winning designation command) for instructing notification of abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14. Command D003 (H) is an effect control command (third abnormal winning designation command) for instructing notification of abnormal winning to the second big winning opening. Command D004 (H) is an effect control command (discharge abnormality designation command) for instructing that the game ball is not discharged from the second grand prize opening.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the variable display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 22, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70.

  Before sending the variation pattern command, the normal state / short time when the game state (for example, the probability change state or the short time state (the game state in which the variable symbol variable display time is shortened)) is controlled. A background designation command for designating a background image in the variable display device 9 according to the state / probability change state) may be transmitted. Further, an effect control command indicating the number of reserved memories may be transmitted following the display result specifying command.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the first start port switch passing process in step S322. In the first start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the reserved storage number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step S322A). If the number of reserved memories is 4 (Y in step S322A), the process ends.

  If the number of reserved memories is not 4 (N in step S322A), the value of the reserved memory number counter indicating the number of reserved memories is incremented by 1 (step S322B). Further, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (such as a counter value for generating a jackpot determination random number), and stores them as a storage area in the reserved storage buffer corresponding to the value of the reserved storage number counter as the extracted random number value. The process to store in is executed (step S322C). In step 322C, the CPU 56 extracts random values 1 to 4 (see FIG. 12) as software random numbers. In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is secured. Further, a counter for generating a jackpot symbol determination random number and the like and a reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  The second start port switch passing process in step S324 has the same contents as the first start port switch passing process shown in FIG.

  24 and 25 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. The state where the special symbol normal process is executed is when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300. When the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300, the special symbol display unit 8 does not display the variation of the special symbol, and the first big hit gaming state and the starting operation are performed. This is a case where the player is neither in the game state nor in the second big hit game state.

  In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the number of reserved memories (step S50). Specifically, the count value of the pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the number of reserved storage is 0 (Y in step S50), the process is terminated.

  If the reserved memory number is not 0 (N in step S50), the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55, and the random number buffer of the RAM 55 In addition to storing in the area (step S51), the value of the reserved storage number is decreased by 1 (the count value of the reserved storage number counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S52). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. To store. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes.

  Then, the CPU 56 reads random 1 (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area (step S61), and executes the jackpot determination module (step S62). The big hit determination module compares a predetermined big hit determination value (see FIG. 13) with a big hit determination random number, and if they match, the big hit (first big hit A, first big hit B or second big hit) or small This is a program that executes a process of determining to be a hit (small hit A or small hit B). Note that deciding whether or not to make a big hit means deciding whether or not to shift to the big win gaming state, but deciding whether or not to make the stop symbol in the special symbol display 8 a big hit symbol. It is also a thing. Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, it is determined to make a small hit (small hit A, small hit B) at a high rate.

  When it is determined to be the first big hit (first big hit A or first big hit B) (Y in step S63) and when it is decided to be the first big hit A (Y in step S64), the CPU 56 Sets the first big hit A flag (step S65). Further, the first big hit flag is set (step S66). Further, the big hit symbol determining random number is read from the random number buffer area (step S67), and the big hit symbol as the stop symbol is determined based on the big hit symbol determining random number (step S68). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S69).

  When it is not determined to be the first big hit (N in step S63) and when it is decided to be the second big hit (Y in step S81), the CPU 56 sets the second big hit flag ( Step S82). On the other hand, when it is decided to make a small hit (Y in step S83), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag (step S84). If the small hit is the small hit A (Y in step S85), the CPU 56 sets the small hit A flag (step S86).

  If it is decided not to make a big hit or a small hit (N in step S83), the CPU 56 reads out the random number for determining symbols out of the random number buffer area (step S87), and generates a stop symbol based on the random numbers for determining out of symbol. Determine (step S88). In this case, the off symbol (in this example, “-”) is determined. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S69).

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 reads the variation pattern determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S201). Then, the variation pattern is determined based on the variation pattern determination random number (step S202).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a variation pattern command (see FIG. 22) corresponding to the variation pattern selected in step S202 to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S203). Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command is used as a pointer. set. And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S29).

  Also, the special symbol change is started (step S204). For example, a start flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S33 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S205). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result specifying command transmission process (step S302) (step S206).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the display result specifying command transmission process (step S302). In the display result specifying command transmission process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first big hit flag is set (step S211), and when the first big hit flag is set (Y in step S211), the first big hit A It is confirmed whether the flag is set (step S212). When the first big hit A flag is set (Y in step S212), control for transmitting the first big hit A designation command is performed (step S213), and when the first big hit A flag is not set (step S212). N), control is performed to transmit the first big hit B designation command (step S214). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S220).

  When the first big hit flag is not set (N in step S211), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second big hit flag is set (step S215A). When the second jackpot flag is set (Y in step S215A), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second jackpot designation command (step S215B). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S220).

  When the second big hit flag is not set (N in step S215A), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S216A). When the small hit flag is set (Y in step S216A), the CPU 56 checks whether the small hit A flag is set (step S216B). When the small hit A flag is set (Y in step S216B), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a small hit A designation command (step S217), and when the small hit A flag is not set (step S217). N in S216B), control is performed to transmit a small hit B designation command (step S218). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S220).

  When the small hit flag is not set (N in step S216A), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a loss designation command (step S219). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S220).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variable time timer (step S221), and checks whether the variable time timer has timed out (step S222). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  When the fluctuation time timer times out, the CPU 56 sets an end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S33 to end the special symbol variation, and performs control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol on the special symbol display 8. This is performed (step S223). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S224). Then, the CPU 56 sets a time (stop display time) for displaying the special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol process timer (step S225), and sets the value of the special symbol process flag to the special symbol stop processing (step S304). The corresponding value is updated (step S226).

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the special symbol process timer (step S231), and checks whether the special symbol process timer has timed out (step S232). If the special symbol process timer has not timed out, the process is terminated.

  When the special symbol process timer times out (Y in step S232), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first big hit flag is set (step S233). If the first jackpot flag is set (Y in step S233), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first jackpot start designation command (step S234). Further, a value corresponding to the first big hit display time (time for notifying the occurrence of the first big hit, for example, in the variable display device 9) is set in the first big hit display time timer (step S235). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first big prize opening opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S236).

  When the first big hit flag is not set (N in step S233), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second big hit flag is set (step S237). When the second jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) in the accessory release time timer (step S238A) and performs control to transmit a second jackpot start designation command (step S238A). Step S238B). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the accessory release control normal process (step S308) (step S244).

  When the second big hit flag is not set (N in step S237), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S239). If the small hit flag is set (Y in step S239), the CPU 56 checks whether the small hit A flag is set (step S240). When the small hit A flag is set (Y in step S240), since the small hit A is generated, the CPU 56 sets the time of the release timing A in the accessory release time timer (step S241). . The time of the release timing A is the time from when the symbol stop time has elapsed in the state where the small hit A symbol is derived and displayed until the movable member 76 is first actuated (operated).

  When the small hit A flag is not set (N in step S240), since the small hit B is generated, the CPU 56 sets the time of the release timing B in the accessory release time timer (step S242). . The time of the release timing B is the time from when the symbol stop time has elapsed in the state where the small hit B symbol is derived and displayed until the movable member 76 is first actuated (operated).

  Then, the CPU 56 sets the operation start time in the switching member control timer (step S243). The operation start time is such that the flow path switching member 78 is operated from the time when the symbol stop time has elapsed (when the stop symbol is determined) in a state where the small hit symbol (small hit A symbol or small hit B symbol) is derived and displayed ( This is the time until the operation starts. Thereafter, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the accessory release control normal process (step S308) (step S244).

  In this embodiment, control is not performed to transmit an effect control command for designating the start of a small hit game (starting operation of the second big winning opening (movable member 76)) when a small hit occurs. Such an effect control command may be transmitted. In this case, the effect control CPU 101 notifies the player of the start of the small hit game based on the reception of the effect control command for specifying the start of the small hit game (starting operation of the second big prize opening). An effect is executed using an effect device such as the variable display device 9.

  If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S239), the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S245).

  In this embodiment, the following processing is executed as processing during the big hit game.

  In the first big winning opening opening pre-processing, when the first big hit display time timer is set, the CPU 56 performs control to open the first big winning opening when the first big winning display time timer times out. Then, a value corresponding to the opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is set in the first big winning opening opening time timer, and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first big winning opening opening process (step S306). To do. The case where the first big hit display time timer is set is the case before the start of the first round. When an interval timer (a timer for determining the interval time between rounds) is set, when the interval timer times out, control is performed to open the first big prize opening and the first big prize opening time timer Is set to a value corresponding to the opening time (for example, 29 seconds), and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first big prize opening opening process (step S306).

  In the first grand prize opening opening process, the CPU 56 finishes when the first big prize opening time timer times out or the number of winning balls to the first big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10). If the round has not ended, control is performed to close the first grand prize opening, a value corresponding to the interval time is set in the interval timer, and the value of the special symbol process flag is set before the first big prize opening is opened. The value is updated to a value corresponding to the process (step S305). When the final round ends, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first big hit end processing (step S307).

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the first big hit end process (step S307). In the first jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first jackpot end display timer is set (step S250). If the first jackpot end display timer is set (Y in step S250). The process proceeds to step S255. If the first big hit end display timer is not set (N in step S250), the first big hit end flag is reset (step S251), and control is performed to transmit a first big hit end designation command (step S252). In addition, when the first big hit A flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the first big hit A flag (step S253). Then, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to a display time corresponding to a time during which the big hit end display is being performed in the variable display device 9 (first big hit end display time) in the first big hit end display timer (step S254). ), The process is terminated.

  In step S255, 1 is subtracted from the value of the first jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the first jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the first jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S256). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S257).

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the accessory release control normal process (step S308). In the accessory release control normal process, the CPU 56 first subtracts 1 from the value of the accessory release time timer (step S410A). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the accessory release time timer has timed out (whether or not the value of the accessory release time timer has become 0) (step S410B). Here, the time of the opening timing A set in step S241 (the time from when the small hit A symbol is confirmed until the second big winning opening is first opened) or set in step S242 by the accessory release time timer. The time of the released opening timing B (the time from when the small winning B symbol is confirmed until the second big winning opening is first opened) is measured.

  If the accessory release time timer has not timed out (N in step S410B), the process is terminated. When the accessory release time timer times out (Y in step S410B), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S411). When the small hit flag is not set (N in step S411), that is, when the second big hit flag is set (when it is determined that the second big hit is determined in the big hit determination), the process proceeds to step S418. .

  When the small hit flag is set (Y in step S411), that is, when it is determined that the small hit (small hit A or small hit B) is determined in the big hit determination, the CPU 56 counts in the accessory release number counter. 2 is set (step S412). Also, a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is set in the accessory release time timer (step S413). Further, the second grand prize winning opening (community) is controlled to be opened (step S414). Specifically, the movable member 76 is driven by driving the driving motor 24 connected to the rotating shaft of the movable member 76 for allowing the game ball to enter the second grand prize opening (community). The game ball is set in a state in which it can enter the inside of the second grand prize winning opening (an accessory). In addition, the in-function game ball number counter that counts the game balls that have entered the second grand prize opening (community) is cleared (initialized to 0) (step S415). ) Is set to the unlocking flag indicating that it is in the open state (step S416). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the process during releasing an accessory (step S309) (step S417).

  In step S418, the CPU 56 sets 15 in the accessory release number counter (step S418). Further, the second big hit start request flag is set (step S419A). Further, a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is set in the accessory release time timer (step S419B). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the second big prize opening pre-processing (step S311) (step S420). By the processing of steps S418 to S420, the game is shifted to the second big hit game without performing the starting operation.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the process during opening of an accessory (step S309). In the process during opening of the accessory, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the accessory release time timer by 1 (step S421). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the accessory release time timer has timed out (step S422).

  If the accessory release time timer has not timed out (N in step S422), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second big prize opening prize switch 71a is turned on (step S423). When the second grand prize opening prize switch 71a is turned on (Y in step S423), that is, when a game ball that has entered the second big prize opening is detected, the value of the in-function game ball number counter is incremented by 1 (step S424). Further, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the second big prize winning port discharge switch 72a is turned on (step S425). When the second grand prize winning port discharge switch 72a is turned on (Y in step S425), that is, when the game ball discharged from the second big winning prize outlet is detected, the value of the in-function game ball number counter is decremented by one (step S426). ). In addition, there are provided a passing port for passing game balls that do not pass through the first specific region 73 and the second specific region 74, and a passing port switch for detecting game balls that have passed through the passing port. 2 The number of discharged balls may be measured by the total number of game balls detected by the specific area passing switch 74a and the passing port switch.

  When the first specific area passing switch 73a indicating that the game ball has passed the first specific area 73 is turned on (Y in step S427), the CPU 56 sets the first V winning flag (step S428). When the second specific area passing switch 74a indicating that the game ball has passed the second specific area 74 is turned on (Y in step S429), the CPU 56 sets a second V winning flag (step S430).

  When the bonus release timer has timed out (Y in step S422), the CPU 56 controls the second big prize opening (a bonus) to be closed (step S431). Specifically, the motor 24 is reversely rotated to prohibit the entry of the game ball into the second grand prize opening (community), and the movable member 76 is replaced with the game ball by the second grand prize opening (community). Return to the state where it is impossible to enter. Then, the CPU 56 discharges and monitors a value corresponding to a detection monitoring time, which is a time for monitoring that the game ball that has entered the second grand prize opening (community) is discharged from the second big prize opening (community). The timer is set (step S432), and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-function closing process (step S310) (step S433).

  FIG. 33 and FIG. 34 are flowcharts showing the post-function closing process (step S310). In the post-completion processing, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the discharge monitoring timer by 1 (step S441). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the discharge monitoring timer has become 0, that is, whether or not the discharge monitoring timer has timed out (step S442). If the discharge monitoring timer has not timed out, it is checked whether or not the value of the in-function game ball number counter is 0 (step S443). If the value of the game ball number counter in the bonus is 0, it means that the game ball has not won the second grand prize opening or all the game balls that have won the second big prize opening have It means that it was discharged from the 2 biggest winning awards.

  When the value of the game ball number counter in the bonus is 0, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the bonus release counter by -1 (step S453). Then, the value of the accessory release number counter is confirmed (step S454). If the value of the accessory release number counter is not 0 (N in step S454), the process proceeds to step S463. When the value of the bonus release number counter is 0 (Y in step S454), that is, when the two releases in the starting operation are completed, the first V winning flag or the second V winning flag is set. It is confirmed whether it has been done (steps S455 and S457). If the first V winning flag is set, 7 is set in the bonus release counter (step S456), and the process proceeds to step S459. In this case, the value set in the accessory release number counter indicates the number of times of opening the second big winning opening in the first round in the second big hit game.

  If the second V winning flag is set (Y in step S457), 7 is set in the accessory release number counter (step S458). In this case, the value set in the accessory release number counter also indicates the number of times of opening the second big winning opening in the first round in the second big hit game.

  In step S459, the CPU 56 sets a second jackpot start request flag (step S459), and sets a time corresponding to 0.5 seconds in the accessory release time timer (step S460). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the second big prize opening pre-processing (step S311) (step S461).

  If neither the first V winning flag nor the second V winning flag is set (N in step S457), the process proceeds to step S467.

  In this embodiment, when both the first V winning flag and the second V winning flag are set, the first V winning flag is prioritized and the 15R second big hit game is started.

  If it is confirmed in the process of step S443 that the value of the in-function game ball number counter is not 0, that is, if there is still a game ball in the big winning opening (comb), the second largest When the winning port discharge switch 72a is turned on, that is, when the game ball discharged from the second large winning port is detected (step S444), the value of the in-function game ball number counter is decremented by 1 (step S445). When the first specific area passing switch 73a indicating that the game ball has passed the first specific area 73 is turned on (step S446), the first V winning flag is set (step S447). When the second specific area passing switch 74a indicating that the game ball has passed through the second specific area 74 is turned on (step S448), the second V winning flag is set (step S449).

  When the CPU 56 confirms that the discharge monitoring timer has timed out in step S442, that is, when the discharge monitoring timer has timed out before all the game balls are discharged from the second big prize opening (object), the effect control is performed. Control is performed to transmit a discharge abnormality designation command to the microcomputer 100 (step S451). Thereafter, loop processing is executed.

  Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 shifts to a state where the game control process is not executed. That is, the progress of the game is stopped. In other words, the game control microcomputer 560 performs control to stop the game.

  In step S463, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds in the accessory release time timer. Further, the second grand prize winning opening (community) is controlled to be opened (step S464). The game ball number counter for counting the number of game balls that have entered the second grand prize opening (combination) is cleared (initialized to 0) (step S465), and the value of the special symbol process flag is changed to the accessory. The value is updated according to the open process (step S309) (step S466).

  In step S467, the CPU 56 resets the bonus release flag. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S468). Since neither the first V winning flag nor the second V winning flag is set, that is, the game ball has not won in either the first specific area 73 or the second special area 74, without shifting to the second big hit game. Then, the starting operation ends.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the second big prize opening pre-processing (step S311). In the second big winning opening opening pre-processing, if the second big hit start request flag is set (Y in step S470), the CPU 56 sends a second big hit start designation command to the production control microcomputer 100. Control is performed (step S471A), and the second big hit start request flag is reset (step S471B). Then, control goes to a step S472A. When the second big hit start request flag is not set, the process immediately proceeds to step S472A.

  In step S472A, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the accessory release time timer (step S472A), and checks whether the accessory release time timer has timed out (step S472B). If the accessory release time timer has not timed out (N in step S472B), the process ends.

  When the accessory release time timer times out (Y in step S472N), the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value of the round number counter that counts the number of rounds of the second big hit game (step S472C). Further, the CPU 56 initializes a winning number counter (step S473). That is, the value of the winning number counter is set to zero. Then, a value corresponding to 2.0 seconds is set in the accessory release time timer (step S474). Further, the second grand prize winning opening (community) is controlled to be in an open state (step S475). The game ball counter for counting the number of game balls that have entered the second prize winning opening (combined product) is cleared (initialized to 0) (step S476), and the feature open flag is set (step S476). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the second big prize opening opening process (step S312) (step S478). When the small hit game is started, the bonus release flag is already set (see step S416).

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the second grand prize opening opening process (step S312). In the second grand prize opening opening process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the accessory release time timer (step S481). If the value of the accessory release time timer is 0, that is, if the accessory release time timer times out (Y in step S482), the process proceeds to step S491.

  If the bonus release timer has not timed out (N in Step S482), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the winning number counter has reached 10 (Step S483). When the value of the winning number counter becomes 10, the process proceeds to step S491. If the value of the winning number counter is not 10, when the second big prize opening prize switch 71a is turned on, that is, when a game ball that has entered the second big prize opening is detected (Y in step S484), The value of the inner game ball number counter is incremented by 1 (step S485). Further, when the second grand prize winning port discharge switch 72a is turned on, that is, when the game ball discharged from the second grand prize winning port is detected (Y in step S486), the value of the in-function game ball number counter is decremented by one ( Step S487). When the first specific area passing switch 73a indicating that the game ball has passed the first specific area 73 or the second specific area passing switch 74a indicating that the game ball has passed the second specific area 74 is turned on (step In S488, the value of the winning number counter is incremented by 1 (step S489).

  In step S491, the CPU 56 performs a process for closing the second big prize opening. Specifically, the second grand prize winning opening (community) is controlled to be closed. In addition, a value corresponding to a detection monitoring time, which is a time for monitoring that a game ball that has entered the second grand prize opening (community) is discharged from the second grand prize opening (community) is set in the discharge monitoring timer. (Step S492). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the second large winning opening closing post-process (step S313) (step S493).

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the second large winning opening opening post-processing (step S313). In the second large winning opening opening post-process, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the discharge monitoring timer by 1 (step S501). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the discharge monitoring timer has become 0, that is, whether or not the discharge monitoring timer has timed out (step S502). If the discharge monitoring timer has timed out (Y in step S502), the process proceeds to step S506. If the discharge monitoring timer has not timed out (N in step S502), it is confirmed whether or not the value of the in-function game ball number counter is 0 (step S503). If the value of the game ball number counter in the bonus is 0, it means that the game ball has not won the second grand prize opening or all the game balls that have won the second big prize opening have It means that it was discharged from the 2 biggest winning awards.

  If the value of the game ball number counter in the bonus is not 0, that is, if a game ball still exists in the big prize opening (right) (N in step S503), the second big prize opening When the discharge switch 72a is turned on, that is, when a game ball discharged from the second big prize opening is detected (Y in step S504), the value of the in-function game ball number counter is decremented by 1 (step S505).

  When the value of the game ball number counter in the bonus is 0 (Y in step S503), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the bonus release count counter by 1 (step S511). If the value of the bonus release counter is not 0 (N in step S512), the CPU 56 sets the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the second big prize opening pre-processing (step S311). (Step S513). When the value of the bonus release counter is 0 (Y in step S512), when the opening operation of the second big winning opening seven times in one round is completed, the CPU 56 determines the round counter Check the value of. Then, when the second big hit of 15 rounds (that is, when the first V winning flag is set), the CPU 56 determines whether the value of the round number counter is 15, and the second big hit of 7 rounds When it is (that is, when the second V winning flag is set), it is determined whether or not the value of the round number counter is 7 (step S514).

  If the value of the round number counter is not 7 or 15 (N in step S514), that is, if all the rounds in the second big hit game have not ended, 7 is set in the bonus release counter (step S515). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the second big prize opening opening pre-processing (step S311) (step S516).

  If the value of the round number counter is 7 or 15 (Y in step S514), that is, if all rounds in the second big hit game have ended, the bonus release flag is reset (step S517). . Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the second big hit end process (step S314) (step S518).

  In step S506, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a discharge abnormality designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100. Thereafter, loop processing is executed. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 shifts to a state where the game control process is not executed. That is, the progress of the game is stopped. In other words, the game control microcomputer 560 performs control to stop the game. Here, the discharge abnormality designation command is transmitted when a discharge abnormality is detected during the second big hit game, but the discharge abnormality designation command is also transmitted when a discharge abnormality is detected during the starting operation. (See step S451).

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the second big hit end process (step S314). In the second jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second jackpot end display timer is set (step S521). If the second jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S524. . If the second jackpot end display timer is not set, control is performed to transmit a second jackpot end designation command (step S522). Then, a value corresponding to a display time corresponding to a time (second big hit end display time) during which the big hit end display is performed in the variable display device 9 is set in the second big hit end display timer (step S523). Exit.

  In step S524, 1 is subtracted from the value of the second jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the second jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the second jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S525). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the small hit flag or the small hit A flag is reset if the small hit flag or the small hit A flag is set (step S526), and if the second big hit flag is set The second big hit flag is reset (step S527). Further, the first V winning flag or the second V winning flag is reset (step S528). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S529).

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the switching member control process (step S27B) executed by the game control microcomputer 560. In the switching member control process, the CPU 56 first determines whether the value of the special symbol process flag is 8 to 10, that is, the accessory release control normal process (step S308), the accessory release process (step S309), or the accessory It is confirmed whether or not post-closing processing (step S310) is being executed (step S531). When the value of the special symbol process flag is not 8 to 10 (N in Step S531), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the flow path switching member 78 is in the initial position (horizontal state) (Step S536). In this embodiment, when the flow path switching member 78 is not operating and is on standby, the flow path switching member 78 is always in the initial position (horizontal state). Therefore, in a state where the operation of the flow path switching member 78 has not started, it is determined that the flow path switching member 78 is always in the initial position (N in step S536), and the flow path switching member 78 remains stopped. The state is maintained (step S537).

  When the value of the special symbol process flag is 8 to 10 (Y in step S531), the CPU 56 executes the execution of the accessory release control normal process (step S308), that is, whether the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. It is confirmed whether it is in the middle (step S532). When the value of the special symbol process flag is 8 (Y in step S532), the CPU 56 decrements the switching member control timer by 1 (step S533). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the switching member control timer has timed out (step S534). When the switching member control timer has not timed out (N in step S532), the operation start time has not elapsed, and the operation start timing of the flow path switching member 78 has not yet been reached, so the processing is terminated.

  When the switching member control timer has timed out (Y in step S534), the CPU 56 executes control for starting the operation of the flow path switching member 78 (step S535). In the control of the flow path switching member 78, the CPU 56 performs, for example, a control for rotating the motor 22 connected to the rotating shaft of the flow path switching member 78 in a normal direction and a control for rotating the motor 22 in a predetermined time (for example, 1 second). repeat. For example, when the motor 22 rotates forward, the flow path switching member 78 moves so as to drop the game ball. Further, when the motor 22 rotates in the reverse direction, the flow path switching member 78 returns to a state (horizontal state) in which the game ball passes through the advantageous route. Further, when the motor 22 rotates in the reverse direction, the flow path switching member 78 moves so as to store a game ball. Further, when the motor 22 rotates in the forward direction, the flow path switching member 78 returns so as to allow the game ball to pass through the advantageous route.

  Here, the time from when the small hit symbol is determined until the operation of the flow path switching member 78 is started (operation start time) is constant regardless of whether the small hit A or B is determined. On the other hand, regarding the time from when the small hit symbol is determined until the operation of the blade-like movable member 76 is started (the second big prize opening is opened), as described above, when the small hit A is determined. Is the time of the opening timing A, and when the small hit B is determined, it is the time of the opening timing B. In this way, by providing a plurality of timings for opening the second big prize opening according to the types of small hits (small hits A, B), when the second big prize opening is opened according to the types of small hits The state of the flow path switching member 78 can be set in advance.

  For example, the opening timing A for opening the second big prize opening when the small hit A is determined is set to a timing immediately before the flow path switching member 78 falls down from the horizontal state. At such timing, there is a high possibility that a game ball that has won a prize in the second big prize opening immediately after the second big prize opening opens will be guided to the lower part in the accessory 75, and the second big prize opening will be A game ball that has won a prize in the second grand prize winning port immediately before the closing passes without being stored in the flow path switching member 78 and is likely to win in the second specific area 74. On the other hand, when the small hit B is determined, the opening timing B for opening the second big prize opening is changed from the horizontal state to the state where the flow path switching member 78 falls down, and the state returns to the horizontal state. , And set to the timing just before standing up (vertically). At such timing, there is a high possibility that the game balls won in the second grand prize opening immediately after the second big prize opening is opened will be stored in the flow path switching member 78, and as a result, The possibility of winning in the area 73 increases. In addition, the game ball that has won a prize in the second big prize opening immediately before the second big prize opening is closed passes without being stored in the flow path switching member 78, and the possibility of winning in the second specific area 74 is increased.

  According to such a configuration, even if a game ball is launched at the same timing, the percentage of game balls entering the second grand prize opening, and the entry of game balls into the first specific area 73 and the second specific area 74 are as follows. Since the ratio is different, it is possible to prevent the game from becoming monotonous. The opening timing of the second grand prize opening as described above is an example, and other timings may be used.

  In step S532, if the value of the special symbol process flag is not 8 (N in step S532), that is, if the process during opening of an accessory (step S309) or the process after the closing of an accessory (step S310) is being executed, The CPU 56 continues the operation of the flow path switching member 78 as it is.

  Thereafter, when the starting operation (two opening operations of the second grand prize opening) is completed, the value of the special symbol process flag becomes a value other than 8 to 10 (N in step S531). In this case, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the flow path switching member 78 is in the initial position (horizontal state) (step S536). If the flow path switching member 78 is not in the initial position at this time (when the starting operation is completed) (N in step S536), the flow path switching member 78 is continuously operated. When the flow path switching member 78 returns to the initial position (Y in step S536), the CPU 56 stops the operation of the flow path switching member 78 (step S537). By such processing, when the flow path switching member 78 is not operated, the initial position is maintained.

  In this embodiment, the operation start time of the flow path switching member 78 is made constant, and the opening timing of the second big prize opening is made different according to the type of the small hit, but the second big prize opening is opened. The timing may be fixed, and the operation start time of the flow path switching member 78 may be varied according to the type of small hits. Specifically, in the special symbol stop process shown in FIG. 29, an operation start time that differs depending on whether the small hit A or the small hit B is set in the switching member control timer, and the fixed release timing time is set as the accessory release time timer. You may comprise so that it may set to.

  In this embodiment, the flow path switching member 78 is operated during the starting operation. However, the flow path switching member 78 may be operated during the second big hit game. In this case, the operation of the flow path switching member 78 is started when the value of the special symbol process flag reaches a value (11 in this example) indicating the second big prize opening pre-processing (step S311), and the special symbol process is started. The operation of the flow path switching member 78 is stopped when the value of the flag reaches a value (14 or 0 in this example) indicating the second big hit end process (step S314) or the special symbol normal process (step S300). do it.

  Next, the normal symbol process (step S28) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 will be described. FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing an example of the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol process, when detecting that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 and the gate switch 32a is turned on (step S111), the CPU 56 executes a gate switch passage process (step S112). Then, the CPU 56 executes any one of the processes shown in steps S100 to S103 according to the value of the normal symbol process flag.

  Gate switch passage processing (step S112): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value (gate passage storage number) of the gate passage storage counter has reached the maximum value ("4" in this example). If the maximum value has not been reached, the count value of the gate passage storage counter is incremented by one. Note that the LED of the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is turned on according to the value of the gate passage storage counter. Then, the CPU 56 performs processing for extracting the value of the random number for normal symbol determination (random 4) and storing it in the storage area (normal symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of passages through the gate.

  Normal symbol normal processing (step S100): This is executed when the normal symbol process flag is zero. The CPU 56 is in a state where normal symbol variation can be started (for example, when the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value indicating step S100, specifically, the normal symbol change display on the normal symbol display 10). Is not performed, and when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not being opened or closed based on the normal symbol display 10 having been derived and displayed, the value of the number of gate passing memories is confirmed. Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win (whether or not to stop the normal symbol as a winning symbol). Then, the normal symbol variation time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation process (step S101).

  Normal symbol variation processing (step S101): Executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is 1. The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, stops the variation of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10, sets the normal symbol stop symbol display time in the normal symbol process timer, Start the timer. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) indicating the normal symbol stop process (step S102).

  Normal symbol stop process (step S102): Executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is 2. The CPU 56 confirms whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, confirms whether or not the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol. If it is not a winning symbol (if it is a missing symbol), the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal processing (step S100). On the other hand, if the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the normal electric accessory operating time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Further, it is confirmed whether or not the current gaming state is a high base state, and if it is a high base state, an opening pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) in the high base state is selected, If in the low base state, the release pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) in the low base state is selected, and the selected release pattern is set. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal electric accessory operation processing (step S103).

  Normal electric accessory operation processing (step S103): This is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3. The CPU 56 counts the number of winning game balls (the number of winnings to the second start winning port 14) to the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) on the condition that the normal symbol process timer has not timed out. The ordinary electric winning combination winning count process is executed, and the ordinary electric accessory releasing pattern process is performed to release the ordinary electric winning combination with the set opening pattern (execution of opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 15). . When the normal symbol process timer times out, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100).

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing normal symbol normal processing (step S100). In the normal symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the gate passing memory number is 0 by confirming the count value of the gate passing memory number counter (step S121). If the gate passing memory number is 0 (Y in step S121), the process is terminated as it is. If the gate passing memory number is not 0 (N in Step S121), the CPU 56 reads the random number value for determination per ordinary symbol stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = 1, and the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (Step S122). Then, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the gate passage storage number counter by 1 and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S123). That is, the random number value for normal symbol determination stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of gate passing memories = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of gate passing memories = n−1. Store. Therefore, the order in which the random numbers for determination per ordinary symbol stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective gate passing memory numbers are extracted is always the order of the gate passing memory number = 1, 2, 3, 4 It is supposed to match.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a normal random number for symbol determination from the random number storage buffer (step S124), and determines whether to win or not based on the read random number value (step S125). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the random number for normal symbol determination matches the hit determination value, and if there is a matching hit determination value, it is determined to be a hit. For example, when the hour / short flag is set, that is, in the high base state (time / short state), the hit determination value is any one of 1 to 10, and in the low base state, the hit determination value is 3 or 7. If the random number for determination per normal symbol is updated in a numerical range of 0 to 10, the winning probability in the high base state is 10/11, and the winning probability in the low base state is 2/11. As described above, the hit is made with a high probability in the high base state, and the win is made only with a low probability in the low base state.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the normal symbol change time in the normal symbol process timer (step S126), and starts the normal symbol change in the normal symbol display 10 (step S127). In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 44, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol at the time of the low base is 30.0 seconds, and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol at the time of the high base is 1.0 seconds. . Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation process (step S101) (step S128).

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol variation process (step S101). In the normal symbol variation process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S131). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S131), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S135).

  When the normal symbol process timer expires, that is, when the variation time of the normal symbol has elapsed (Y in step S131), the CPU 56 stops the variation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 (step S132). Then, the CPU 56 sets the normal symbol stop symbol display time in the normal symbol process timer (step S133). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “2”) indicating the normal symbol stop process (step S102) (step S134).

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol stop process (step S102). In the normal symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S141). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S141), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S142).

  When the normal symbol process timer expires, that is, when the normal symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (Y in step S141), the CPU 56 determines whether or not the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (in step S125). (Whether or not it is determined to be a win) is confirmed (step S143). Note that whether or not the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol is determined by, for example, setting the normal symbol per symbol determination flag when it is determined to be a winning symbol in step S125, and checking whether or not the flag is set. Can do.

  When the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (Y in step S143), the CPU 56 sets the normal electric accessory operating time in the normal symbol process timer (step S144). The ordinary electric accessory operating time is the maximum time during which the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) can operate. The normal electric accessory operating time is set to be longer in the high base state than in the low base state.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether the gaming state is a high base state or a low base state (step S145). Whether the base state is the high base state or the low base state can be confirmed by checking whether or not the time reduction flag is set. When the time reduction flag is set, it can be determined that the high base state is set, and when the time reduction flag is not set, it can be determined that the low base state is set. In the high base state, a high base state flag indicating the high base state is set, and whether the base state is the high base state or the low base state is determined depending on whether or not the flag is set. You may do it.

  When in the high base state (Y in step S145), the CPU 56 selects the opening pattern set in the high base time table shown in FIG. 44 as the opening pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (step S146). On the other hand, when it is in the low base state (N in step S145), the CPU 56 selects the release pattern set in the low base time table shown in FIG. 44 as the release pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (step S147). In the example shown in FIG. 44, in the low base time table, an opening pattern data with an opening time of 0.5 seconds and an opening count of 1 is set. Also, in the high base time table, data of an opening pattern with an opening time of 2.5 seconds and an opening frequency of 2 is set.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets the release pattern selected in step S146 or S147 in the release pattern buffer (step S148). When the opening pattern is set in the opening pattern buffer, the opening pattern time (in this case, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is set) is added to the ordinary electric accessory opening pattern timer (the timer for measuring the opening time and closing time of the ordinary electric accessory). The process of setting the closing time until the first opening is also performed. Thereafter, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal electric accessory operation processing (step S103) (step S149).

  When it is determined in step S143 that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is not a winning symbol but a missing symbol (N in step S143), the CPU 56 sets the value of the normal symbol process flag to the normal symbol normal process (step S100). Is updated (specifically, “0”) (step S150).

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the ordinary electric accessory actuating process (step S103). In the normal electric actor operation process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S161). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S161), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S162).

  Then, the CPU 56 loads the switch-on buffer into the register (step S163). The switch-on buffer is a buffer in which 1 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch when switch-on is detected, and 0 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch when the switch-off is detected.

  The CPU 56 checks whether 1 is set in the second start port switch input bit (corresponding bit of the second start port switch 14a) (step S164). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the second start opening switch 14a is turned on (whether or not a game ball has won the second start winning opening 14). If 1 is not set in the second start port switch input bit (N in step S164), the process proceeds to step S168. If 1 is set in the second start port switch input bit (Y in step S164), the second start port switch 14a has been turned on, so the CPU 56 performs the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15). 1 is added to the number of counters for the number of game balls won in the ordinary electric accessory winning prize counter (step S165). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the ordinary electric accessory winning number counter is less than 8 (step S166). When the value of the ordinary electric winning prize counter is not less than 8 (N in Step S166), that is, when it is 8 or more, the CPU 56 clears (to 0) the value of the ordinary symbol process timer (Step S167). With this process, the ordinary electric accessory actuating process is completed (see Y in step S161, S172). Thus, in this embodiment, when eight or more game balls win the variable winning ball device 15 within the normal electric accessory operating time, the normal electric accessory operating process is terminated.

  Next, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer by -1 (step S168). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer is 0, that is, whether or not the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer has expired (step S169). If not timed out (N in step S169), the process is terminated as it is. If time-out has occurred (Y in step S169), the CPU 56 sets the release pattern time in the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer (step S170). Then, the CPU 56 drives the solenoid 16 to open or close the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) (step S171).

  Specifically, when the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer expires when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the release time is set as the release pattern time in the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer, and the output port buffer ( The variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened by inverting the solenoid output bit of the ordinary electric accessory of the solenoid buffer. When the normal electric accessory release pattern timer expires when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, a closing time is set as an open pattern time in the normal electric accessory release pattern timer, and the normal output port buffer (solenoid buffer) The variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed by reversing the electric accessory solenoid output bit.

  Through the processes in steps S168 to S171 described above, an open pattern in the low base state and an open pattern in the high base state are realized. When the gaming state is in the low base state, the opening time is 0.5 seconds and the number of times of opening is one, so that, for example, 1.0 seconds from the start of the normal electric accessory activation process When the closing time elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 0.5 seconds elapses thereafter, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed. Further, when the gaming state is the high base state, the release time is 2.5 seconds and the number of times of opening is 2, so that, for example, 2.5 after the normal electric accessory actuating process is started. When the second closing time elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 2.5 seconds elapses thereafter, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed. When the closing time of 5 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 2.5 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed.

  In step S161, when the normal symbol process timer expires (Y in step S161), the CPU 56 sets the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100) (specifically “0”). (Step S172).

  FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of bit assignment of input ports related to a switch for detecting a game ball in the game control microcomputer. As shown in FIG. 46, the bits 0 to 7 of the input port 0 include the count switch 23, the gate switch 32a, the second specific area passing switch 74a, the first specific area passing switch 73a, and the second big prize exit discharging, respectively. Detection signals of the switch 72a, the second grand prize opening winning switch 71a, the second starting opening switch 14a, and the first starting opening switch 13a are input. The input port 0 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG.

  Next, payout control commands (payout control signals) transmitted and received between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 will be described. FIG. 47 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a payout control signal output from the game control microcomputer 560 to the payout control microcomputer.

  The prize ball REQ signal is a signal that is in an output state (= ON state) when a prize ball number command is transmitted (that is, a trigger signal for a prize ball payout request). The 4-bit prize ball number signal is a signal (prize ball number command) output for designating the number of game balls (0 to 15) to be paid out.

  FIG. 48 is a block diagram showing signal lines and the like used for transmission / reception of each control signal shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 48, the prize ball REQ signal and the prize ball number signal are output by the game control microcomputer 560 via the output circuit 67 and input to the payout control microcomputer 370 via the input circuit 373A. . The output circuit 67 is installed outside the I / O port portion 57 shown in FIG. 8 on the main board 31 (not shown in FIG. 8). Further, on the payout control board 37, an output circuit 67 is provided in the preceding stage of the input port in the payout control microcomputer.

  FIG. 49 is a timing chart showing an example of how to output the payout control signal. As shown in FIG. 49, based on the fact that the winning detection switch (count switch 23, second big winning opening winning switch 71a, first starting opening switch 13a, and second starting opening switch 14a) has detected winning of a game ball. Then, the game control microcomputer 560 turns on the prize ball REQ signal and turns the output state of the prize ball number signal into a state according to the number of prize balls to be paid out in accordance with winning. Specifically, when the gaming control microcomputer 560 detects that a game ball has won a winning area provided in the gaming machine based on a detection signal from the winning detection switch, the gaming control microcomputer 560 calculates a predetermined number of winning balls. It is added to the content of the total number of winning balls stored in the backup RAM. When the content of the total winning ball number storage buffer becomes a non-zero value, the winning ball REQ signal is turned on, and the output state of the winning ball number signal is set in accordance with the number of winning balls to be paid out according to winning. Put it in a state.

  In this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first start port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a, four prize balls are paid out, and the game ball is played by the second big prize port winning switch 71a. When detected, 10 prize balls are paid out, and when a game ball is detected by the count switch 23, 15 prize balls are paid out. Further, as described above, since the prize ball number signal is composed of 4 bits, among the prize ball number signals of 00 (H) to 0F (H) expressed in 8 bits, the lower 4 bits are The signal is transmitted from the main board 31 to the payout control board 37 by the award ball number signal. Hereinafter, it may be expressed as “00 (H) to 0F (H) prize ball number signal”, but in reality, the prize ball number signal is represented by 8 bits. This corresponds to the lower 4 bits of 0F (H).

  Further, in this embodiment, the prize ball number signal is transmitted by unidirectional communication in which the signal is transmitted only from the main board 31 toward the payout control board 37, but by bidirectional communication, A prize ball number signal may be transmitted from the main board 31 to the payout control board 37. When performing two-way communication, for example, the payout control microcomputer transmits an ACK signal (response signal) to the game control microcomputer 560 in response to reception of the prize ball REQ signal, or receives a prize ball number signal. An ACK signal indicating that the game has been performed is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 560.

  Next, the switch process (step S21) in the main process will be described. In this embodiment, when the ON state of the detection signal of each switch related to winning detection or gate passage continues for a predetermined time, it is determined that the switch is certainly turned on. Specifically, the switch process is activated every 2 ms, but if the switch is detected to be turned on in both the switch process activated at the present time and the switch process activated 2 ms ago, the switch process is surely performed. Determined to be on.

  FIG. 50 is an explanatory diagram showing each 1-byte buffer formed in the RAM 55 used in the switching process. The port buffer before two times is a buffer in which the switch on / off determination result of the last time (assuming 4 ms before) is stored. The previous port buffer is a buffer in which the switch on / off determination result of the previous time (2 ms before) is stored. The switch-on buffer is a buffer in which 1 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch when switch-on is detected, and 0 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch when the switch-off is detected. The previous data is a buffer area that is temporarily used when the switch process is executed. The previous-time port buffer, the previous port buffer, the switch-on buffer, and the previous data are formed in the RAM 55. The bit arrangement of the port buffer, the previous port buffer, and the switch-on buffer two times before the second corresponds to the bit arrangement of the input port 0. That is, information corresponding to each of the switch detection signals assigned to bits 0 to 7 shown in FIG. 46 is set in bits 1 to 7 of the port buffer, the previous port buffer, and the switch on buffer two times before.

  FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing a processing example of the switch processing in step S21 in the game control processing. In the switch process, the CPU 56 sets the content of the previous port buffer to the previous data (step S331). Further, the exclusive OR of the contents of the port buffer and the previous data is taken twice before (step S332). Then, the result of the exclusive OR operation is set as the previous data (step S333). At this stage, in the previous data, the bit having a different value among the 8 bits of the port buffer and the 8 bits of the previous port buffer is “1”. In addition, the contents of the previous port buffer are set in the port buffer two times before (step S334).

  Then, input port 0 data is input (step S335), and the input data is set in the previous port buffer (step S336). The processes in steps S334 and S336 correspond to a preparation process when the switch process is executed next time (after 2 ms).

  Next, the CPU 56 calculates the logical product of the data input from the input port 0 and the previous data (step S337). At this stage, in the previous data, a bit having a different value among the 8 bits of the previous port buffer and the 8 bits of the previous port buffer is “1”. That is, among the detection signals of the seven switches, the bit corresponding to the detection signal changed from the state before 2 ms from the state before 4 ms (from “0” to “1” or from “1” to “0”). Is “1”. Therefore, when the logical product of the previous data and the data input from the input port 0 is taken in step S337, the bit that is “1” in the data input from the input port 0 and 2 ms before The bit whose state has changed from the state 4 ms before becomes “1”. That is, as a result of the logical product operation, the bit corresponding to the detection signal in which the current state is the on state and has been detected to have changed from the off state to the on state during the previous switch processing (2 ms before) is “ 1 ”. In other words, the bit corresponding to the detection signal that has changed from the off state to the on state and then detected the on state twice in succession is “1”. Note that “continuously twice” means “both the switch process executed at a certain time and the switch process executed 2 ms after the switch process”.

  The CPU 56 stores the result of the logical product operation in the switch-on buffer (step S338). In the switch-on buffer, after changing from the off state to the on state, the bit corresponding to the detection signal in which the on state is detected twice consecutively is “1”. Therefore, the CPU 56 can confirm that the switch detection signal corresponding to the bit that is “1” in the switch-on buffer is surely turned on. Note that “definitely” means that the ON state has been detected twice in succession, that is, it can be considered that the ON state has continued for 4 ms. It can be done.

  FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing an example of the prize ball processing in step S31. In the prize ball process, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a prize ball number addition process (step S341) and a prize ball control process (step S342).

  In the prize ball number adding process, a prize ball number table shown in FIG. 53 is used. The prize ball number table is set in the ROM 54. The number of processes (in this example, “5”) is set at the start address of the winning ball number table, and the switch input bit determination for each switch of the winning opening from which the winning ball will be paid out by winning from the next address. The value and the number of winning balls are sequentially set corresponding to each switch of the winning opening. The switch input bit determination value is a value corresponding to the bit to which the detection signal of each switch at the input port 0 is input (see FIG. 46).

  FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing the award ball number adding process in step S341. In the winning ball number adding process, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the start address of the winning ball number table as a pointer (step S351). Then, the data at the address pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the number of processes) is loaded (step S352). Next, the switch-on buffer is loaded into the register (step S353).

  Then, the pointer value is incremented by 1 (step S354), and the logical product of the contents of the switch-on buffer and the prize ball number table data pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the switch input bit determination value) is calculated (step S355). . Further, the value of the pointer is increased by 1 (step S356).

  If the calculation result in step S355 is not 0, that is, if the detection signal of the switch to be inspected is on (N in step S361), the process proceeds to step S362. If the calculation result in step S355 is 0 (Y in step S361), that is, if the detection signal of the switch to be inspected is not on, the number of processes is reduced by 1 (step S359), and if the number of processes is 0 The process ends, and if the number of processes is not 0, the process returns to step S354 (step S360).

  In step S362, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the switch input bit determination value used in the process of step S355 is a count switch input bit determination value. That is, it is confirmed whether or not it is confirmed in step S361 that the count switch 23 is turned on (whether or not the switch to be inspected is the count switch 23). When the switch input bit determination value is the count switch input bit determination value (Y in step S362), the process proceeds to step S363.

  When the switch input bit determination value is not the count switch input bit determination value (N in step S362), the switch input bit determination value used in the process of step S355 is the second big prize opening winning switch input bit determination value. It is confirmed whether there has been (step S364). That is, in step S361, it is confirmed whether or not it has been confirmed that the second grand prize opening prize switch 71a is turned on (whether or not the switch to be inspected is the second big prize opening prize switch 71a). If the switch input bit determination value is the second big prize opening winning switch input bit determination value (Y in step S364), the process proceeds to step S365.

  When the switch input bit determination value is not the second big prize opening winning switch input bit determination value (N in step S364), the switch input bit determination value used in the process of step S355 is the second start opening switch input bit. It is confirmed whether or not the determination value has been reached (step S366). That is, it is confirmed in step S361 whether or not the second start port switch 14a has been turned on (whether or not the switch to be inspected is the second start port switch 14a). When the switch input bit determination value is the second start port switch input bit determination value (Y in step S366), the process proceeds to step S367. When the switch input bit determination value is not the second start port switch input bit determination value (N in step S366), the process proceeds to step S368.

  In step S363, the CPU 56 checks whether the value of the special symbol process flag is 5-7. That the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 to 7 means that in the special symbol process, the processing from the first big winning opening opening pre-processing in step S305 to the first big hit end processing in step S307 is executed. Means. That is, it means that the first big hit game is being played. Here, during the first big hit game, it is a period from the start of the big hit display until the end of the first big hit end process. That is, the value of the special symbol process flag being 5 to 7 is a state in which the first big prize opening may be controlled when the game control is normally executed. It shows that.

  If the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 to 7, the CPU 56 proceeds to step S368. That is, control for adding the prize ball addition value to the total prize ball number storage buffer is executed based on the count switch 23 being turned on. However, if the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 or more than 8, the control proceeds to step S359 without executing the control for adding the prize ball addition value to the total prize ball number storage buffer.

  The state where the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 or 8 or more is a state where the first big hit game is not executed and the control for opening the first big winning opening is not executed. When it is detected that the count switch 23 is turned on in such a state, it means that an abnormal prize has occurred at the first big prize opening or that the detection signal from the count switch 23 is long (over 4 ms). It means that a lot of noise got on. Therefore, when it is detected that the count switch 23 is turned on while the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5, the control for adding the prize ball addition value to the total prize ball number storage buffer is not executed. To do. That is, the prize ball payout based on the fact that the count switch 23 is turned on is not executed.

  Here, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning in the first grand prize opening has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag, but the first big winning opening is not actually opened. In some cases, when it is detected that the count switch 23 is turned on, the prize ball payout based on the count switch 23 being turned on may not be executed. However, when configured to determine whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag as in this embodiment, it is determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data. As a result, the determination process is simplified. Since the first grand prize opening is opened or closed over a plurality of rounds, it is judged whether or not an abnormal prize has occurred by judging whether or not the control for actually opening the first big prize opening is being performed. This complicates the processing.

  In addition, since there is a certain distance between the entrance of the first grand prize opening and the installation position of the count switch 23, it is determined whether or not the control for actually opening the first big prize opening is being performed. When determining whether or not a winning has occurred, it is necessary to consider a game ball that may have won the first big winning opening immediately after closing after the first big winning opening is controlled. That is, it is necessary to consider the time for the game ball to flow from the entrance of the first grand prize opening to the installation position of the count switch 23. That is, it is necessary to start determining whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred after a certain period of time has passed since the control for actually closing the first grand prize winning opening. This also complicates the processing.

  However, as in this embodiment, when it is configured to determine whether or not an abnormal winning to the first big winning opening has occurred after the completion of the first big winning end process, It is not necessary to consider the time for the game ball to flow between the entrance of the winning opening and the position where the count switch 23 is installed. This is because, after the first big winning opening is closed, the game balls that won the first big winning opening just before closing during the processing period of the first big hit ending process have reached the installation position of the count switch 23. . In this embodiment, during the processing period of the first big hit end process, that is, the period during which the first big hit end display is made on the variable display device 9, the game ball that won the first big win opening is the count switch 23. It is set longer than the time to reach the installation position.

  In step S365, the CPU 56 checks whether or not an accessory release flag indicating that the second big prize opening is open (step S365). Specifically, the bonus release flag is set when starting the small hit game and the second big hit game, and the second big prize opening is closed in the final round in the small hit game and the second big hit game. After that, when all the game balls in the second big prize opening are discharged from the second big prize opening, it is reset. In other words, the bonus release flag is set in a state where there is a possibility that the second big prize opening will be opened when the game control is normally executed.

  When the bonus release flag is not set (N in step S365), the process proceeds to step S359. The fact that the second big prize opening prize switch 71a is turned on when the bonus release flag is not set indicates that an abnormal prize has occurred at the second big prize opening or from the second big prize opening prize switch 71a. This means that noise for a long period (over 4 ms) is applied to the detection signal. In other words, the regular winning in the second grand prize opening has not occurred. Therefore, when it is detected that a winning is made in the second big winning opening when the bonus release flag is not set, the CPU 56 does not perform the payout for the winning ball based on the winning.

  In this case, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning for the second big prize opening has occurred based on the value of the opening bonus flag, but actually opens the second big winning opening. If it is detected that the second big prize opening winning prize switch 71a is turned on when there is not, the prize ball payout based on the fact that the second big prize winning opening prize switch 71a is turned on may not be executed. However, as in this embodiment, when it is configured to determine whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on the value of the unlocking flag, whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data. Since the determination can be made, the determination process is simplified. Since the second grand prize opening is opened or closed over a plurality of rounds, it is judged whether or not an abnormal prize has occurred by judging whether or not control is actually performed to open the second big prize opening. This complicates the processing.

  Further, since there is a certain distance between the entrance of the second grand prize opening and the installation position of the second grand prize opening prize switch 71a, it is not actually controlled to open the second grand prize opening. When determining whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred, consider the game ball that may have won the second big prize opening immediately after closing after controlling the second big prize opening. There is a need to. That is, it is necessary to consider the time during which the game ball flows from the entrance of the second grand prize opening to the installation position of the second grand prize winning prize switch 71a. That is, it is necessary to start determining whether or not an abnormal prize has occurred after a certain period of time has passed since the control for actually closing the second big prize opening. This also complicates the processing.

  However, as in this embodiment, when it is configured to determine whether or not an abnormal winning to the second big winning opening has occurred after the end of the second big winning end process, It is not necessary to consider the time for the game ball to flow between the entrance of the winning opening and the installation position of the second large winning opening winning switch 71a. During the processing period of the second big hit end process after the second big winning opening is closed, the game ball that won the second big winning opening just before the closing reaches the installation position of the second big winning prize winning switch 71a. Because. In this embodiment, during the processing period of the second big hit end process, that is, the period during which the second big hit end display is made on the variable display device 9, the game ball that won the second big winning opening will receive the second big win. It is set longer than the time required to reach the installation position of the mouth winning switch 71a.

  In step S367, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 (step S367). That the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 means that the normal electric accessory actuating process of step S103 is being executed in the normal symbol process. That is, it means that the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) is being opened and closed.

  If the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3, the CPU 56 proceeds to step S368. That is, the control for adding the prize ball addition value to the total prize ball number storage buffer based on the fact that the second start port switch 14a is turned on is executed. However, if the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3, the control proceeds to step S359 without executing the control for adding the prize ball addition value to the total prize ball number storage buffer.

  The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3 is a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is not operating and the control for opening the variable winning ball device 15 is not executed. In such a state, it is detected that the second start opening switch 14a is turned on. This means that an abnormal winning has occurred in the second start winning opening 14 or a detection signal from the second start opening switch 14a is long. This means that noise has been applied for a period (over 4 ms). Therefore, when it is detected that the second start port switch 14a is turned on when the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3 (N in step S367), the prize ball addition value is added to the total prize ball number storage buffer. Do not execute the control. That is, the prize ball payout based on the fact that the second start port switch 14a is turned on is not executed (the processing in steps S368 and S369 is skipped). Then, the process proceeds to step S359.

  Here, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred based on the value of the normal symbol process flag (see step S367). When the variable winning ball device 15 repeats the opening / closing operation based on the opening pattern according to the game state in the ordinary electric accessory operating process shown in FIG. 45, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed. When it is detected that the second start port switch 14a is turned on in the state), the prize ball payout based on the second start port switch 14a being turned on may not be executed. However, when it is configured to determine whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on the value of the normal symbol process flag as in this embodiment, it is determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data. As a result, the determination process is simplified. For example, when the variable winning ball device 15 is opened or closed a plurality of times (twice in the embodiment) as in the high base state, the variable winning ball device 15 is actually opened. If it is determined whether or not the control is performed and it is determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred, the processing becomes complicated. However, the processing can be simplified by determining based on the normal symbol process flag.

  In addition, since there is a certain distance between the entrance of the second start winning opening 14 and the installation position of the second start opening switch 14a, is it actually controlled to open the variable winning ball apparatus 15 or not? When determining whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred, a game ball that may have won the second start winning opening 14 immediately after closing after taking control of the variable winning ball device 15 is considered. There is a need to. That is, it is necessary to consider the time for the game ball to flow from the entrance of the second start winning opening 14 to the installation position of the second start opening switch 14a. Therefore, in this embodiment, the timing for determining the abnormal winning is delayed from the timing for closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15.

  Specifically, the time until the normal symbol process timer times out after the variable winning ball device 15 is closed last (that is, from when the variable winning ball device 15 is closed in step S171 to Y in step S161). Is set longer than the time until the game ball that has won the second start winning opening 14 reaches the installation position of the second start opening 14a. That is, in step S170, a closing time (for example, 5 seconds) is set as an opening pattern time in the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer, and until the ordinary symbol process timer times out after the ordinary electric accessory is finally closed in step S171. The normal electric accessory operating time is set so that the time becomes shorter (for example, 3 seconds) than the closing time (for example, 5 seconds) (step S144). The time until the normal symbol process timer times out after the ordinary electric accessory is closed for the last time (for example, 3 seconds), the game ball that won the second start winning opening 14 is set at the installation position of the second start opening 14a. It is sufficiently longer than the time to reach. By doing so, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection that an abnormal winning has occurred due to the winning of the game ball immediately before the variable winning ball device 15 is closed.

  In step S368, the CPU 56 sets the prize ball number table data pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the prize ball number) to the prize ball addition value (step S368), and the prize ball addition value is formed in the RAM 55. The contents are added to the contents of the 16-bit total prize ball number storage buffer (step S369). If a carry occurs as a result of the addition, the content of the total number of winning balls storage buffer is set to 65535 (= FFFF (H)) (steps S357 and S358). Then, the process proceeds to step S359.

  As a method of delaying the timing for determining the abnormal winning ball from the timing for closing the variable winning ball device 15, in the above example, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed a predetermined time before the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. However, when the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, the abnormal winning determination is made, but at the same time as the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. Alternatively, the abnormal winning determination may be performed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. Specifically, a predetermined time is set in the count timer when the value of the normal symbol process flag is changed from 3 to 0 (for example, immediately before or immediately after step S172 in FIG. 45), and every timer interruption (every 2 ms). ) Count down the count timer. When it is determined that the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3 in the award ball number adding process (N in step S367), it is determined whether or not the count timer is 0, and when the count timer is 0, The process of S369 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S359. Even with such a configuration, it is possible to delay the timing for determining an abnormal winning with respect to the timing for closing the variable winning ball device 15.

  It should be noted that, even in the determination of an abnormal winning to the big winning mouth (the first big winning mouth, the second big winning mouth), the timing for judging the abnormal winning by the same method may be delayed from the timing for closing the big winning mouth. it can. Specifically, in the case of determining the abnormal winning to the first big winning opening, when the value of the special symbol process flag is changed from 7 to 0, a predetermined time is set in the count timer, and each timer interruption ( The count timer is counted down every 2 ms). When it is determined that the value of the special symbol process flag is not 5 or more and 7 or less in the prize ball number adding process (N in step S363), it is determined whether the count timer is 0 or not. The process of steps S368 and S369 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S359. Also, in the case of determination of abnormal winning at the second grand prize opening, a predetermined time is set in the count timer when the bonus release flag is reset, and the count timer is set every timer interrupt (every 2 ms). Count down. Then, when it is determined in the award ball number addition process that the bonus release flag is not set (N in step S365), it is determined whether or not the count timer is 0. If the count timer is 0, step S368 is determined. , S369 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S359.

  If it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred (N in step S363, N in S365, N in S367), the control for prohibiting the payout of the prize ball may not be performed. As will be described later, when it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an abnormal winning notification designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100, and the effect control microcomputer 100 receives an abnormal win. This is because it is considered that the generation of the prize ball based on the abnormal winning can be stopped to the minimum since the occurrence is notified.

  FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing the prize ball control processing in step S342. In the winning ball control process, the CPU 56 confirms the contents of the total winning ball number storage buffer (step S371). If the value is 0, the process ends. If it is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is smaller than the prize ball command maximum value (“15” in this example) (step S372). If the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is equal to or greater than the prize ball command maximum value, the prize ball command maximum value is set in the prize ball number buffer (step S373). If the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is smaller than the prize ball command maximum value, the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is set in the prize ball number buffer (step S374). Then, the contents of the prize ball number buffer are set in the output port for outputting the prize ball number signal (step S375). Further, “1” is set to the bit of the prize ball REQ signal of the output port for outputting the prize ball REQ signal (step S376).

  A prize ball REQ signal is output by the processing of step S376. That is, the prize ball REQ signal is turned on. Further, a prize ball number signal is output by the process of step S375 (see FIG. 49). In this embodiment, the maximum prize ball command value is “15”. Therefore, a prize ball number signal designating the maximum number of payouts of “15” is transmitted to the payout control board 37.

  When the winning ball number signal is transmitted, the game control microcomputer 560 subtracts the contents of the winning ball number buffer (the winning ball payout number commanded to the payout control means) from the contents of the total winning ball number storage buffer (step S377). ).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets an on period of the prize ball REQ signal. Specifically, an initial value is set in the wait counter (step S378). Then, the value of the wait counter is decremented by 1 until the value of the wait counter becomes 0 (steps S379 and S380). When the value of the wait counter reaches 0, the on period is terminated.

  That is, “0” is set to the bit of the prize ball REQ signal of the output port for outputting the prize ball REQ signal (step S381), and 00 (H) is set to the output port for outputting the prize ball number signal. (Step S382).

  When the payout control microcomputer mounted on the payout control board 37 receives the prize ball number signal, it drives the payout device 97 so that the number of game balls specified by the prize ball number signal is paid out.

  56 and 57 are flowcharts showing the abnormal winning notification process in step S23. In the abnormal winning notification process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the abnormal notification prohibition flag is set (step S551). The abnormality notification prohibition flag is set in the main process executed when power supply to the gaming machine is started (see step S44 in FIG. 10). If the abnormality notification prohibition flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S555. If the abnormality notification prohibition flag is set, the value of the prohibition period timer set in step S45 is decremented by 1 (step S552). When the value of the prohibition period timer becomes 0, that is, when the prohibition period timer times out, the abnormality notification prohibition flag is reset (steps S553 and S554).

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 to 7 (5 or more and 7 or less) (step S555). A state in which the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 to 7 is a state in which a first big hit game is being played. In such a state, there is a possibility that a game ball will win the first grand prize opening, so it is not confirmed that an abnormal prize has occurred in the first big prize opening. That is, if the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 to 7, the process proceeds to step S560 without executing the processes of steps S556 to S559.

  If the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 or more than 8 (a state where the first big hit game is not played), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer into the register (step S556). Then, the logical product of the content of the loaded switch-on buffer and the count switch input bit determination value (02 (H), see FIG. 53) is calculated (step S557). When the content of the switch-on buffer is 02 (H), that is, when the count switch 23 is on, the logical product operation result is 02 (H). When the count switch 23 is not turned on, the operation result of the logical product is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred in the first big winning opening, and control is performed to transmit a first abnormal winning notification designating command to the effect control board 80 (step S558, S559). If the operation result of the logical product is 0, the process proceeds to step S560.

  In step S560, CPU 56 checks whether the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 (step S560). The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 is a state where the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is opened and closed. In such a state, there is a possibility that a game ball may win the second start winning opening 14, so that it is not confirmed that an abnormal win has occurred in the second start winning opening 14. That is, if the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3, the process proceeds to step S565 without executing the processes of steps S561 to S564.

  If the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value other than 3 (a state in which the normal electric accessory is not opened or closed), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer into the register (step S561). Then, the logical product of the content of the loaded switch-on buffer and the second start port switch input bit determination value (08 (H), see FIG. 53) is calculated (step S562). When the content of the switch-on buffer is 08 (H), that is, when the second start port switch 14a is on, the logical product operation result is 08 (H). When the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, the logical product operation result is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred in the second start winning opening 14, and control is performed to transmit a second abnormal winning notification designating command to the effect control board 80 (step S563). , S564). If the operation result of the logical product is 0, the process proceeds to step S565.

  In step S565, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the bonus release flag is set (step S565). If the bonus release flag is set, the process is terminated.

  A detection signal indicating that a prize has been won in the second grand prize opening when the bonus release flag is not set is received unless there is a fraudulent act or noise on the detection signal from the switch. There is no output from the switch 71a. Therefore, if the CPU 56 determines that the detection signal is output from the second big prize winning prize winning switch 71a when the bonus release flag is not set, the CPU 56 regards that the abnormal prize has occurred for the second big prize winning opening.

  Specifically, the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer into the register (step S566). Then, the logical product of the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer and the second big prize opening winning switch input bit determination value (04 (H), see FIG. 53) is calculated (step S567), and the logical product operation result is not zero. In this case, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred for the second big winning opening, and control is performed to transmit a third abnormal winning notification designating command to the effect control board 80 (steps S568 and S569).

  When the count switch 23 is turned on in the state where the first big hit game is not performed by the above processing, the first abnormal winning notification designating command is transmitted. In addition, when the second start port switch 14a is turned on in a state where the opening / closing operation of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is not performed, a second abnormal winning notification designating command is transmitted. Further, when the second big prize winning prize winning switch 71a is turned on in a state where the second big hit game and the small hit game are not performed, a third abnormal prize winning notification designation command is transmitted. Further, the process of steps S551 to S553 prohibits the start of abnormality notification when the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control CPU 101) is performing initialization notification. The production control microcomputer 100 continues to execute the initialization notification until the period corresponding to the prohibition period has elapsed since the start of the abnormality notification.

  Further, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 detects an abnormal winning based on the bonus release flag. In addition, as described above, the bonus release flag is displayed in the second big prize opening after the second big prize opening is closed in the final round in the small hit game (including the start operation) and the second big hit game. It is reset when all the game balls are discharged from the second grand prize opening. Since the abnormal winning is detected in the state that the bonus release flag is reset, the second grand prize is received when the second big prize opening (the accessory) is changed to the second state (for example, open state). The abnormal winning detection is executed on the condition that it is determined that the game ball that has entered the mouth (combination) is discharged from the second grand prize opening (combination). Even when the small hit game (including the start operation) and the second big hit game are not executed at all, the abnormal winning detection is executed.

  In step S565, it is determined whether or not the second big hit game and the small hit game are being performed depending on whether or not the bonus release flag is set. Whether or not the value of the process flag is 8 to 14 (whether the process from the accessory release control normal process (step S308) to the second jackpot end process (step S314) is being executed) is determined. Also good. The same applies to the processing in step S365.

  In the process of step S555, the game control microcomputer 560 (CPU 56) determines whether or not an abnormal winning in the first big winning opening has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag. Similar to the processing in step S363, since it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, the determination processing can be simplified. Further, as described above, since the first big hit ending process is executed for a predetermined time after the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed, the game won in the first big winning opening immediately before the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed. The ball is prevented from being detected by the count switch 23 after the value of the special symbol process flag returns to 0, and an error is not notified even though it is a regular winning.

  In the process of step S560, the game control microcomputer 560 (CPU 56) determines whether or not an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred based on the value of the normal symbol process flag. Similarly to the processing in step S367, since it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, the determination processing can be simplified. In addition, as described above, as a method of delaying the timing for determining an abnormal prize from the timing for closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is set a predetermined time before the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. Is closed, and when the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, an abnormal winning determination is made. Therefore, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is won at the second start winning opening 14 immediately before closing. The game ball is prevented from being detected by the second start switch 14a after the value of the normal symbol process flag returns to 0, and an error is reported even though it is a regular winning. There is nothing.

  Further, in the process of step S565, the game control microcomputer 560 (CPU 56) determines whether or not an abnormal winning to the second big prize opening has occurred based on the bonus opening flag. As in the process of S365, it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, so the determination process can be simplified. Further, as described above, since the second big hit end process is executed for a predetermined time after the second big prize opening is closed, the game ball that won the second big prize opening immediately before the second big prize opening is closed. , It is prevented from being detected by the count switch 23 after the bonus release flag is reset, and an error is not notified in spite of the regular winning.

  As described above, when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, and after the predetermined time has elapsed since the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, You may make it perform determination. Also, in the determination of an abnormal winning to the big winning mouth (the first big winning mouth, the second big winning mouth), the timing for judging the abnormal winning by the same method is delayed from the timing for closing the big winning mouth. May be.

Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described.
FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). .

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

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and executes a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. Further, a random number update process for updating a counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol of a decorative symbol) is executed (step S706). Further, a notification control process for performing notification using an effect device such as the variable display device 9 is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 59 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 22) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area.

  60 and 61 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

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

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

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

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

  If the received effect control command is a first jackpot start designation command (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets a first jackpot start designation command reception flag (step S624). If the received effect control command is the second jackpot start designation command (step S625), control is performed to display the second jackpot screen on the variable display device 9 (step S626). Note that the second big hit screen is deleted after a predetermined time, for example.

  If the received presentation control command is a power-on designation command (initialization designation command) (step S631), the presentation control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the variable display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632A). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols. Also, an initial notification flag is set (step S632B), and a value corresponding to the initial notification period value is set in the period timer (step S632C). The initial notification period is a period in which initialization notification is performed in response to reception of the initialization designation command. The effect control CPU 101 ends the initialization notification when the initial notification period elapses. The initial notification period is the same as the prohibition period set by the game control microcomputer 560 in step S45. Therefore, when initialization notification is performed, an abnormality notification designation command (first abnormality notification designation command, second abnormality notification designation command, or third abnormality notification designation command) is not received.

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

  If the received effect control command is the first jackpot end designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a first jackpot end designation command reception flag (step S642). If the received effect control command is the second jackpot end designation command (step S643), the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display the second jackpot end screen on the variable display device 9 (step S644). Note that the second big hit end screen is deleted when a predetermined time (second big hit end display time) elapses.

  If the received effect control command is an abnormal winning notification specifying command (first abnormal winning notification specifying command, second abnormal winning notification specifying command, or third abnormal winning notification specifying command) (step S645), the CPU 101 for effect control Then, an abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag corresponding to the abnormal winning notification designation command is set (step S646). Specifically, the production control CPU 101 sets the first abnormal prize notification designation command reception flag when receiving the first abnormal prize notification designation command, and receives the second abnormal prize notice designation command. When the second abnormal winning notification designating command reception flag is set and the third abnormal winning notification designating command is received, the third abnormal winning notification designating command reception flag is set.

  If the received production control command is a discharge abnormality notification designation command (step S647), a discharge abnormality notification designation command reception flag is set (step S648).

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S649). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 62 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S806 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 63 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 64 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads data indicating the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S821). Further, the display result (stop symbol) of the decorative symbol is determined according to the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command) (step S822). In step S822, if the received display result specifying command is the first jackpot A designation command, the first jackpot B designation command, or the second jackpot designation command, the combination of the decorative symbols with the left middle right aligned is determined as the stop symbol. (See FIG. 15). If the received display result specifying command is a small hit A designation command, a combination of decorative symbols “135”, “357”, or “579” is determined as a stop symbol (see FIG. 15). If the received display result specifying command is a small hit B designation command, a combination of decorative symbols of “123”, “345” or “567” is determined as a stop symbol (see FIG. 15). If the received display result specifying command is a disconnection designation command, the left / right / right / right mismatched symbol combination (excluding the small hit symbol) or the left / right aligned symbol combination is determined as the stop symbol. .

  In step S822, the effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol, and uses a stop symbol determination table in which data indicating a combination of ornament symbols and a numerical value are associated with each other. Determine the stop pattern. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating a combination of decorative symbols corresponding to a numerical value that matches the extracted random number. Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the display result specifying command reception flag (step S823).

  As for the decorative symbol, a stop symbol that recalls a big hit is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop symbol that recalls a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Further, the production control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S833). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S834).

  FIG. 65 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the variable display device 9 in accordance with the data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative symbols. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the variable display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the decorative pattern in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  The process table shown in FIG. 65 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 indicates an abnormality notification flag indicating that an abnormal prize is being notified (a first abnormality notification flag, a second abnormality notification flag, a third abnormality notification flag, or a discharge abnormality notification flag). ) Is not set, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1) Control of various lamps as parts and speaker 27 as an effect part is executed (steps S835A and S835B). For example, in order to display an image corresponding to the variation pattern on the variable display device 9, a command is output to the VDP 109. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the decorative pattern is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command on a one-to-one basis, but the effect control CPU 101 controls the change pattern command. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  When the abnormality notification flag (the first abnormality notification flag, the second abnormality notification flag, the third abnormality notification flag, or the discharge abnormality notification flag) is set, the process data 1 excluding the sound number data 1 Control of the effect device is executed according to the contents of (Steps S835A, S835C). In other words, when the abnormality notification flag is set, when a new variable display of a decorative symbol is started, a sound effect corresponding to the variable display is not executed, but an abnormal winning notification is made. The corresponding sound output is continued. If the sound effect sound effect according to the variable display and the alarm sound (notification sound) according to the abnormal winning notification are set in different channels, and these sounds can be output simultaneously, step There is no need to separate the processing of S835B and step S835C.

  In addition, when performing the process of step S835C, the effect control CPU 101 does not simply output a command based on the display control execution data 1 to the VDP 109, but also outputs a command for performing “superimposed display” to the VDP 109. In other words, the variable display device 9 is controlled so that the display at that time (notification of abnormal winning is made) and the display effect image of the decorative symbol variable display are simultaneously displayed on the variable display device 9. . That is, when the abnormality notification flag (the first abnormality notification flag, the second abnormality notification flag, the third abnormality notification flag, or the discharge abnormality notification flag) is set, a new variable display of a decorative symbol When is started, not only the display effect according to the variable display is executed but also the notification according to the notification of the abnormal winning is continued.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S836), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation process (step S802). (Step S837).

  FIG. 66 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S841) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (step S842). When the process timer times out (step S843), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S844). In addition, the abnormality notification flag (the first abnormality notification flag, the second abnormality notification flag, the third abnormality notification flag, or the discharge abnormality notification flag) is not set and is set next. Based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data, the control state for the effect device is changed (steps S845A and S845B).

  When the abnormality notification flag (the first abnormality notification flag, the second abnormality notification flag, the third abnormality notification flag, or the discharge abnormality notification flag) is set, the process data i (i is 2 to n) The control of the effect device is executed according to the content (except for the sound number data i) (steps S845A and S845C). Therefore, when the abnormality notification flag is set, the sound production according to the notification of the abnormal winning is continued, not the sound effect according to the variable display of the decorative symbol is executed.

  In addition, when the process of step S845C is performed, the CPU 101 for effect control does not simply output a command based on the display control execution data i to the VDP 109, but also outputs a command for performing “superimposed display” to the VDP 109. . Therefore, when the abnormality notification flag is set, not only the display effect according to the variable display of the decorative symbol is executed, but also the notification according to the notification of the abnormal winning is continued.

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S846), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S848). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S847), the process proceeds to step S848. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, the variation of the decorative symbol can be terminated when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol has ended).

  FIG. 67 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S851). If the confirmed command reception flag is set, the confirmed command reception flag is reset. Then, control is performed to derive and display the determined stop symbol (step S853). Then, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is determined to be a big hit (step S854). Whether or not it is determined to be a big hit is confirmed by, for example, a display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area.

  When it is determined to be a big hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S855). If it is determined not to win, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S856).

  In this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variation (variable display) of the decorative symbols on the condition that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received (see steps S851 and S853). However, if the variation time timer based on the received variation pattern command times out, the variation of the decorative symbol may be controlled to end without receiving the symbol determination designation command. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 may not transmit the symbol confirmation designation command for designating the end of variable display.

  FIG. 68 is a flowchart showing the big hit end process (step S806) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end effect timer is set (step S880). If the big hit end effect timer is set, the process proceeds to step S885. If the jackpot end effect timer is not set, it is checked whether or not a first jackpot end designation command reception flag indicating that the first jackpot end designation command has been received is set (step S881). If the first jackpot end designation command reception flag is set, the first jackpot end designation command reception flag is reset (step S882), and a value corresponding to the jackpot end display time is set in the jackpot end presentation timer. (Step S883), the variable display device 9 is controlled to display a first jackpot end screen (screen for informing the end of the first jackpot game) (Step S884). Specifically, an instruction for displaying the first big hit end screen is given to the VDP 109.

  When the first jackpot end designation command reception flag is not set (N in step S881), the CPU 56 resets the second jackpot end designation command reception flag indicating that the second jackpot termination designation command has been received (step S881). S88), a value corresponding to the jackpot end display time is set in the jackpot end effect timer (step S886), and the second jackpot end screen (screen for informing the end of the second jackpot game) is displayed on the variable display device 9. Control is performed (step S887). Specifically, an instruction for displaying the second big hit end screen is given to the VDP 109.

  In step S885, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end effect timer. Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end effect timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end effect time has elapsed (step S888). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S889).

  In the jackpot display process, the player is notified that a jackpot has occurred. At this time, it is preferable to notify in a identifiable manner whether the first big hit or the second big hit has occurred. Also, when notifying that the first big hit has occurred, it is preferable to notify in a identifiable manner whether the first big hit of 15 rounds or the first big hit of two rounds has occurred. Further, when notifying that the second big hit has occurred, it is preferable to notify in a identifiable manner whether the second big hit of 15 rounds or the second big hit of 7 rounds has occurred.

  In the big hit game processing, the big hit effect is executed. At this time, the effect during the first big hit and the effect during the second big hit may be distinguished. Also, the effect during the first big hit may be distinguished from the effect during the first big hit for 15 rounds and the effect during the first big hit for two rounds. Further, the effect during the second big hit may be distinguished from the effect during the second big hit of 15 rounds and the effect during the second big hit of 7 rounds.

  FIG. 69 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an initial screen and a power failure recovery screen displayed on the variable display device 9. FIG. 69 (A) shows an example of an initial screen displayed on the variable display device 9 by the presentation control CPU 101 in response to reception of the initialization designation command. FIG. 69 (B) shows an example of a power failure recovery screen displayed on the variable display device 9 by the production control CPU 101 in response to reception of a power failure recovery designation command.

  FIG. 70 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an abnormality notification screen displayed on the variable display device 9. FIG. 70 (A) shows an example of a first abnormality notification screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to the reception of the first abnormal prize notification designation command by the effect control CPU 101, and the variation of the decorative pattern is shown. Even if is started, it is shown that the display of the first abnormality notification screen is continued (see the right side of FIG. 70A). FIG. 70 (B) shows an example of the second abnormality notification screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to the reception of the second abnormal prize notification designation command by the effect control CPU 101, and the variation of the decorative pattern is shown. Even if is started, it is shown that the display of the second abnormality notification screen is continued (see the right side of FIG. 70B). FIG. 70 (C) shows an example of the third abnormality notification screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to the reception of the third abnormal prize notification designation command by the effect control CPU 101, and the variation of the decorative design is shown. Even if is started, it is shown that the display of the third abnormality notification screen is continued (see the right side of FIG. 70C). FIG. 70 (D) shows an example of the discharge abnormality notification screen displayed on the variable display device 9 by the production control CPU 101 in response to the reception of the discharge abnormality notification designation command, and the variation of the decorative design is started. However, it is shown that the display of the discharge abnormality notification screen is continued (see the right side of FIG. 70D).

  71 and 72 are flowcharts showing the notification control process in step S707. In the notification control process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the initial notification flag is set (step S901). The initial notification flag is set when an initialization designation command is received from the game control microcomputer 560 (see step S632B in FIG. 61). If the initial notification flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S906. If the initial notification flag is set, the value of the period timer set in step S632C is decremented by 1 (step S902). Then, when the value of the period timer becomes 0, that is, when the initial notification period has elapsed, the initial notification flag is reset (steps S903 and S904).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for deleting the initial screen or the power failure recovery screen in the variable display device 9 (step S905). The VDP 109 erases the initial screen or the power failure recovery screen from the variable display device 9 in response to the command.

  In step S906, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the first abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag indicating that the first abnormal winning notification designation command has been received is set. If not set, the process proceeds to step S911. If the first abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag is set, the first abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag is reset (step S907), and the variable display device 9 displays the screen displayed at that time. On the other hand, a command to superimpose and display the first abnormality notification screen is output to the VDP 109 (step S908). The VDP 109 superimposes and displays the first abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 according to the command (see FIG. 70A).

  Furthermore, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound data indicating sound output in response to the abnormal winning notification to the sound output board 70 (step S909). The voice synthesis IC 703 mounted on the voice output board 70 reads data corresponding to the input sound data from the voice data ROM 704 and outputs a voice signal to the speaker 27 side according to the read data. Therefore, sound output (output of abnormal notification sound) corresponding to notification of abnormal winning is performed thereafter. Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets a first abnormality notification flag indicating that abnormality notification is being performed (step S910).

  In step S911, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not a second abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag indicating that the second abnormal winning notification designation command has been received is set. If not set, the process proceeds to step S916. If the second abnormal prize notification designation command reception flag is set, the second abnormal prize notification designation command reception flag is reset (step S912), and the variable display device 9 displays the screen displayed at that time. On the other hand, a command to superimpose and display the second abnormality notification screen is output to the VDP 109 (step S913). The VDP 109 superimposes and displays the second abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 in accordance with the command (see FIG. 70B).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs sound data indicating sound output in response to the abnormal winning notification to the sound output board 70 (step S914). The voice synthesis IC 703 mounted on the voice output board 70 reads data corresponding to the input sound data from the voice data ROM 704 and outputs a voice signal to the speaker 27 side according to the read data. Therefore, sound output (output of abnormal notification sound) corresponding to notification of abnormal winning is performed thereafter. Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets a second abnormality notification flag indicating that abnormality notification is being performed (step S915).

  In step S916, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a third abnormal prize notification designation command reception flag indicating that the third abnormal prize notification designation command has been received is set. If not set, the process proceeds to step S921. If the third abnormal prize notification designation command reception flag is set, the third abnormal prize notification designation command reception flag is reset (step S917), and the variable display device 9 displays the screen displayed at that time. On the other hand, a command to superimpose and display the third abnormality notification screen is output to the VDP 109 (step S918). The VDP 109 superimposes and displays the third abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 in accordance with the command (see FIG. 70C).

  Furthermore, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound data indicating sound output in response to the abnormal winning notification to the sound output board 70 (step S919). The voice synthesis IC 703 mounted on the voice output board 70 reads data corresponding to the input sound data from the voice data ROM 704 and outputs a voice signal to the speaker 27 side according to the read data. Therefore, sound output (output of abnormal notification sound) corresponding to notification of abnormal winning is performed thereafter. Then, the production control CPU 101 sets a third abnormality notification flag indicating that abnormality notification is being performed (step S920).

  In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control has an abnormality notification (abnormal notification by the processing of steps S908 and S909) when an abnormal winning to the first grand prize opening occurs, and an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred. Anomaly notification (abnormality notification by the processing of steps S913 and S914) and anomaly notification when an abnormal winning regarding the second big prize opening occurs (abnormality notification by the processing of steps S918 and S919) can be distinguished. (See FIG. 70).

  In step S921, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not a discharge abnormality notification designation command reception flag indicating that a discharge abnormality notification designation command has been received is set. If not set, the process is terminated. If the discharge abnormality notification designation command reception flag is set, the discharge abnormality notification designation command reception flag is reset (step S922), and the variable display device 9 discharges the screen displayed at that time. A command to superimpose and display the abnormality notification screen is output to the VDP 109 (step S923). The VDP 109 superimposes and displays the discharge abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 in accordance with the command (see FIG. 70D).

  Furthermore, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound data indicating sound output in response to the discharge abnormality notification to the sound output board 70 (step S924). The voice synthesis IC 703 mounted on the voice output board 70 reads data corresponding to the input sound data from the voice data ROM 704 and outputs a voice signal to the speaker 27 side according to the read data. Therefore, thereafter, sound output (output of abnormality notification sound) according to the notification of the discharge abnormality is performed. Then, the production control CPU 101 sets a discharge abnormality notification flag indicating that the discharge abnormality notification is being performed (step S925).

  FIG. 73 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the state of the display effect on the variable display device 9 and the sound effect by the speaker 27. FIG. 73 (A) shows an example when the decorative display is variably displayed on the variable display device 9. FIG. 73 (B) shows an example in which initialization notification is performed in the variable display device 9.

  FIG. 73C shows an example in which the abnormal display is notified in the variable display device 9 and the abnormality notification sound is output by the speaker 27. When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the first abnormal prize notification designation command, the second abnormal prize notification designation command, or the third abnormal prize notification designation command from the game control microcomputer 560, the abnormality display screen is displayed on the variable display device 9. While performing control which displays (a 1st abnormality notification screen, a 2nd abnormality notification screen, or a 3rd abnormality notification screen), the control which outputs an abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 is performed. Further, even when the variable display of the decorative design is started in response to the reception of the variation pattern command, the display of the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 and the output of the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 are continued. In addition, even when the variable display of the decorative symbols ends, the display of the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 and the output of the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 are continued. Note that the production control microcomputer 100 does not execute the control for erasing the abnormality notification screen and the control for stopping the output of the abnormality notification sound, so the display of the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 and the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 are not performed. The output continues until the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. However, the production control microcomputer 100 stops the display of the abnormality notification screen and the output of the abnormality notification sound when a predetermined time has elapsed after the display of the abnormality notification screen and the output of the abnormality notification sound have started. You may control.

  In this embodiment, the abnormality notification is made by the variable display device 9 and the speaker 27. However, the abnormality notification may be performed using a lamp / LED. In that case, when receiving the abnormal winning notification designation command, the production control microcomputer 100 controls the lamp / LED to blink in a manner different from that in the normal state (when no abnormal winning has occurred). .

  FIG. 73 (C) illustrates a case where an abnormal winning notification is performed, but an abnormal notification screen (discharge abnormal notification screen) is displayed on the variable display device 9 even when a discharge abnormality notification is performed. Control to output an abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27. Further, even when the variable display of the decorative design is started in response to the reception of the variation pattern command, the display of the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 and the output of the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 are continued. In addition, even when the variable display of the decorative symbols ends, the display of the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 and the output of the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 are continued. In addition, since the production control microcomputer 100 does not execute the control for deleting the abnormality notification screen and the control for stopping the output of the abnormality notification sound, even in the case of a discharge abnormality, the display of the abnormality notification screen and the speaker in the variable display device 9 are performed. The output of the abnormality notification sound from 27 continues until the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. However, the production control microcomputer 100 stops the display of the abnormality notification screen and the output of the abnormality notification sound when a predetermined time has elapsed after the display of the abnormality notification screen and the output of the abnormality notification sound have started. You may control.

  In this embodiment, the gaming control microcomputer 560 does not detect abnormal winning and discharging abnormalities for a predetermined period (a period during which initialization notification is executed) after the power supply to the gaming machine is started. The abnormal winning notification designation command and the discharge abnormality notification designation command are not transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560. However, when the value of the special symbol process flag is within a predetermined numerical range (5 to 7 in this embodiment), the game control microcomputer 560 always detects an abnormal winning with respect to the first big prize opening, and the normal symbol process. When the value of the flag is a predetermined value (3 in this embodiment), an abnormal winning with respect to the second start winning opening 14 is always detected, and when the bonus release flag is not set, an abnormality with respect to the second major winning opening is always performed. In the case where the winning control is detected, and the production control microcomputer 100 receives an abnormal winning notification designation command within a predetermined period after the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the abnormal winning notification is performed. It may not be possible. In addition, regarding the discharge abnormality, when the bonus release flag is not set, the discharge control microcomputer 100 always detects the discharge abnormality related to the second big prize opening, and the production control microcomputer 100 starts supplying power to the gaming machine. If a discharge abnormality notification designation command is received during a predetermined period after that, notification of discharge abnormality may not be performed.

  As described above, in this embodiment, since the initialization notification is given priority over the abnormality notification (abnormal winning notification and discharge abnormality notification), there is a situation where the initialization notification becomes difficult to recognize. It is prevented from occurring. That is, the initialization notification is performed prominently. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits an initialization designation command when a user reset that causes the program to start executing from the top address (for example, address 0000) occurs even when power supply to the game machine is started. As a cause of the occurrence of the user reset, for example, in the case where the watchdog timer is configured to be used, there is a case where the watchdog timer has timed out due to an illegal act that prevents the smooth progress of the program. Such a fraudulent act is likely to occur particularly when it is configured to control the big hit gaming state based on the big hit determination random number. In other words, the game control microcomputer 560 is initialized, and a counter for generating a jackpot determination random number is initialized, and it is easy to receive an illegal act that makes it easy to grasp the count value of the counter. By making the initialization notice conspicuous as in this embodiment, it is possible to easily grasp from the outside of the gaming machine that the gaming control microcomputer 560 has been initialized. Is easily recognized.

  In the above embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 ends the initialization notification when a predetermined period has elapsed (see steps S901 to S905), but ends the initialization notification at another timing. May be. For example, the initialization notification is ended when the decorative symbol variable display is started for the first time after the initialization notification is started, or the abnormal winning notification designation command is received before the decorative symbol variable display is started. Sometimes the initialization notification may be terminated. Alternatively, the initialization notification may be terminated when the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received or when the first effect control command other than the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received after the initialization notification is started. That is, it is preferable that the initialization notification is continued only for a period sufficient for the game store clerk or the like to recognize the initialization notification.

  In the above embodiment, the first specific area 73 and the second specific area 74, which are specific areas in the second big prize opening, and the winning area in the second big prize opening are also used. May be.

  In the above embodiment, 1 is set at the time of occurrence of an abnormal prize (reset of the special symbol process flag value is 4 or less or 8 or more, the normal symbol process flag value is other than 3 and the bonus release flag is reset). If a single game ball wins a grand prize winning opening (first big winning prize opening, second big winning prize opening) or a second start winning prize opening 14, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred. The present invention is not limited, and it may be determined that an abnormal winning has occurred when a predetermined number of game balls have won the big winning opening or the second starting winning opening 14 at the occurrence timing of the abnormal winning. For example, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred when it is determined that five game balls have accumulated in the big winning opening when they are not in the first big hit game. Further, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred when it is determined that five game balls have accumulated in the big winning opening when they are not in the second big hit game. Further, when it is determined that two game balls have accumulated in the second start winning opening 14 when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not in the open / close operation, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred.

  Moreover, you may change the alerting | reporting sound which alert | reports that the abnormal winning has generate | occur | produced according to the kind of abnormal winning. For example, a different notification sound may be sounded when an abnormal winning at the big winning opening occurs and when an abnormal winning at the second starting winning opening 14 occurs, or an abnormal winning at the big winning opening. When the occurrence of an abnormality occurs, the abnormality notification may be performed with a louder sound than when an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 occurs.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment described above, even when it is detected that an abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14 has occurred, the variation of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 or the variation of the decorative symbol on the variable display device 9 It was configured to run continuously. Accordingly, when a game ball is won in the second start winning opening 14 illegally (for example, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened illegally even though the normal symbol is not a winning pattern, and the second starting winning opening 14 is opened. Even when a game ball is won), a big hit may occur due to the start winning, and the ball may be illegally acquired. Therefore, the second embodiment is configured to stop the variation of the special symbol and the variation of the decorative symbol at a predetermined timing when it is detected that the abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14 has occurred. ing.

  FIG. 74 is a flowchart showing special symbol process processing according to the second embodiment. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not an abnormal winning detection flag indicating that an abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14 is detected is set (step S325A). Here, the abnormal winning detection flag is set when an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected, that is, when N in step S563 in FIG.

  When the abnormal winning detection flag is set (Y in step S325A), the CPU 56 determines whether or not the special symbol display 8 has changed the special symbol, specifically, the value of the special symbol process flag is special. It is determined whether or not the value (“3”) indicating the symbol variation processing (step S302) (step S325B). When the value of the special symbol process flag is a value (“3”) indicating the special symbol changing process (Y in Step S325B), the processing after Step S321 is executed. That is, the special symbol display 8 causes the special symbol to be continuously changed. On the other hand, when the value of the special symbol process flag is not a value (“3”) indicating the special symbol changing process (N in step S325B), the special symbol process process is terminated. That is, the special symbol display control 8 stops the variation control of the special symbol. With such a configuration, when an abnormal winning at the second start winning opening is detected, if the special symbol is not changing, the special symbol is immediately prohibited from changing, and if the special symbol is changing, The variation of the special symbol is continued, and the variation of the next special symbol is prohibited. Further, by prohibiting the variation of the special symbol, the small hit symbol is not derived and displayed, and the opening of the second big prize opening is also prohibited.

  FIG. 75 is a flowchart showing effect control process processing in the second embodiment. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first confirms whether or not the second abnormal prize notification designation command reception flag is set (step S807A). When the second abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag is set (Y in step S807A), the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the decorative symbol is changed in the variable display device 9, specifically, the effect. It is determined whether or not the value of the control process flag is a value (“2”) indicating a decorative symbol changing process (step S802) (step S807B). When the value of the effect control process flag is a value (“2”) indicating the decorative symbol variation process (Y in step S807B), the decorative symbol variation processing (step S802) is executed. That is, the decorative display pattern is continuously changed in the variable display device 9. On the other hand, when the value of the effect control process flag is not a value (“2”) indicating the decorative symbol variation process (N in step S807B), the effect control process process is terminated. In other words, the decorative display variation control is stopped in the variable display device 9. With this configuration, when the abnormal winning notification designation command is received, if the decorative design is not changing, the decorative design is immediately prohibited from changing. If the decorative design is changing, the decorative design is changed. , And the next decorative pattern change is prohibited.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display 8 and the variation of the decorative symbol in the variable display device 9 based on the detection of the abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14 are performed. Since the prohibition control is executed, in the case where a winning to the second start winning opening 14 is generated by an illegal act (for example, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened even though the normal symbol is not a winning symbol) Even when the game ball is won at the second start winning opening 14), it is possible to reliably prevent the first big hit from being generated based on the winning. In addition, if the change of the special symbol is prohibited, it is prohibited to display and display the small hit symbol, and the second big prize opening is also prohibited. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent the second big hit from occurring due to the fraud.

  In the second embodiment, whether the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating the special symbol changing process, and the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the decorative symbol changing process. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, when an abnormal winning detection flag is set, and when an abnormal winning notification is designated. When the command reception flag is set, control for prohibiting the variation of the symbol may be performed immediately. Further, the number of reserved memories at the time when an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected is confirmed, and the variation of the symbols is continued until the variation of the symbols corresponding to the number of reserved memories is completed. When the variation of the symbol is finished, control for prohibiting the variation of the symbol may be performed. Specifically, when the abnormal winning detection flag is set, the number of reserved memory is confirmed, the counter counts whether or not a change corresponding to the confirmed reserved memory number has been executed, and the change corresponding to the reserved memory number is completed. Control that prohibits fluctuations is sometimes executed. According to such a configuration, it is possible to continue the fluctuation based on the start winning to the normal second start winning opening 14 and prohibit the fluctuation based on the abnormal winning. In the above configuration, in the case of prohibiting the variation of the symbol based on the abnormal winning correctly, the variation of the symbol is prohibited at the time when the variation of the reserved memory number -1 minute when the abnormal winning is detected is finished. You may do it.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the above-described first embodiment, it is confirmed whether the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value (“3”) indicating the normal electric accessory actuating process, so that the normal start timing is displayed to the second start winning opening 14. It is determined whether or not a prize has occurred (see steps S560 to S563 in FIG. 56). However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and by confirming whether or not a winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred at the timing when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the second time at a normal timing. It may be determined whether or not a winning at the start winning opening 14 has occurred.

  FIG. 76 is a flowchart showing a normal electric accessory actuating process in the third embodiment. In the normal electric actor operation process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S161). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S161), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S162).

  Next, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer by -1 (step S181). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer is 0, that is, whether or not the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer has expired (step S182). If not timed out (N in step S182), the process is terminated as it is. If time-out has occurred (Y in step S182), the CPU 56 sets the release pattern time in the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer (step S183). Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed by confirming, for example, a normal electric accessory solenoid output bit of an output port buffer (solenoid buffer) (step S184).

  When the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed (Y in step S184), the CPU 56 performs control to drive the solenoid 16 to open the variable winning ball apparatus 15 (step S185). And since this timing is not the timing at which a game ball normally wins in the second start winning opening 14, a process for checking whether or not an abnormal winning in the second starting winning opening 14 has occurred is performed. That is, the CPU 56 loads the switch-on buffer into the register (step S187). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether 1 is set in the second start port switch input bit (step S188). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the second start opening switch 14a is turned on (whether or not a game ball has won the second start winning opening 14).

  If 1 is not set in the second start port switch input bit (N in step S188), the process ends. If 1 is set in the second start port switch input bit (Y in step S188), the second start port switch 14a is turned on at an incorrect timing, so the CPU 56 produces an abnormal winning notification designation command. Control to transmit to the control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S189).

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is being opened in step S184 (N in step S184), the CPU 56 performs control to drive the solenoid 16 and close the variable winning ball device 15 (step S186). Since this timing is a timing at which a game ball normally wins at the second start winning opening 14, the process for checking whether or not an abnormal winning at the second starting winning opening 14 has occurred is not performed.

  In step S161, when the normal symbol process timer expires (Y in step S161), the CPU 56 sets the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100) (specifically “0”). (Step S172).

  76, the processing corresponding to steps S164 to S167 (ordinary electric winning prize winning count processing) of the ordinary electric accessory operating process shown in FIG. 45 is not shown in the ordinary electric accessory operating process shown in FIG. The normal electric accessory operation process shown in FIG. 76 may be executed in the same manner. In addition, when the abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected in the ordinary electric accessory operating process shown in FIG. 76, it is necessary to execute steps S560 to S563 of the abnormal winning notification process shown in FIG. There is no.

  According to the configuration as described above, since the abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected at the closing timing of the variable winning ball apparatus 15, the more accurate timing to the second starting winning opening 14 is detected. Abnormal winnings can be detected.

  As described in the first embodiment, in the third embodiment, the timing for determining an abnormal winning may be delayed from the timing for closing the variable winning ball device 15. For example, a timer is started when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 changes from an open state to a closed state (that is, when N changes to Y in step S184), and when the timer times out, steps S187 to S187 are started. The process of S190 is executed. According to such a method, it can be prevented that it is erroneously determined that an abnormal winning has occurred even though the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 at regular timing.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
In the first embodiment described above, in the prize ball number adding process shown in FIG. 54, there is a game ball winning in the second start winning opening 14 (Y in step S366), and the value of the normal symbol process flag is the normal electric combination. By configuring so that the number of prize balls is not added to the total prize ball number storage buffer when the value indicates the object operation process (“3”), the prize balls are not paid out based on the abnormal winning. Was configured. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. When an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected in the switch process, the winning itself may be invalidated.

  FIG. 77 is a flowchart showing switch processing according to the fourth embodiment. In the switch processing, steps S331 to S338 are the same as the processing described in FIG. After execution of the process of step S338, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is being opened (step S339). Here, whether or not the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is open can be determined by, for example, checking the normal electric accessory solenoid output bit of the output port buffer (solenoid buffer).

  When the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is being opened (Y in step S339), the process is ended as it is. When the variable winning ball device 15 is not open but closed (N in Step S339), the CPU 56 sets a second start port switch input bit (a bit corresponding to the second start port switch 14a) of the switch-on buffer. Clear (0) is set (step S340). As a result, when an abnormal winning is made to the second starting winning opening 14, the starting winning itself can be invalidated. In this case, it is not necessary to execute a process for preventing the prize ball number from being added to the total prize ball number storage buffer when an abnormal winning to the second starting prize opening 14 occurs in the prize ball number addition process. .

  In step S339, it is confirmed whether or not the ordinary electric accessory is being opened, but it is confirmed whether or not the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value ("3") indicating the ordinary electric accessory operation process. The second start winning prize may be invalidated.

  Further, as described in the third embodiment, the timing for determining the abnormal winning may be delayed from the timing for closing the variable winning ball device 15.

Embodiment 5 FIG.
In the fourth embodiment, when an abnormal winning to the second starting winning opening 14 occurs, the starting winning itself is invalidated in the switch processing. However, in the fifth embodiment, the second starting winning is performed. In the event that an abnormal winning is made to the mouth 14, the starting winning itself is invalidated in the special symbol process.

  FIG. 78 is a flowchart showing special symbol process processing according to the fifth embodiment. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 executes the first start port passage process (the process of step S322) when the first start port switch 13a is turned on (step S321), as described in FIG. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the invalid flag is set before checking whether or not the second start port switch 14a is turned on (step S326). Here, the invalid flag is set when an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected. Specifically, in the case of the first embodiment, when the second starting port switch 14a is turned on when the value of the normal symbol process flag is “3”, in the case of the third embodiment, the variable winning ball apparatus This is when the second start port switch 14a is turned on during the closing of 15. In step S326, it may be confirmed whether the abnormal winning detection flag described in the second embodiment is set instead of the invalid flag.

  When the invalid flag is set (Y in step S326), the CPU 56 confirms whether the second start port switch 14a is turned on (step S323) or the second start port notification process (step S324). Do not execute. When the invalid flag is not set (N in step S326), a confirmation process (step S323) for confirming whether the second start port switch 14a is turned on or a second start port notification process (the process in step S324) is executed. . According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent random number extraction based on the abnormal second start winning, etc., variation based on the abnormal winning is prohibited, and the occurrence of a big hit based on the abnormal winning is surely prevented. can do.

  In the case of the fifth embodiment, it is impossible to prohibit the payout of the winning ball based on the abnormal winning. Therefore, the first embodiment (the winning ball number adding process in FIG. 54) and the fourth embodiment (the switch in FIG. 77). It is preferable to simultaneously execute the control for prohibiting the payout of the winning ball based on the abnormal winning as described in the processing.

Embodiment 6 FIG.
In the first embodiment, the game ball is generated in the first specific area 73 that generates a second big hit (15 round second big hit) having a high game value depending on whether or not the game ball is stored in the flow path switching member 78. Was sorting out whether it was easy to enter. That is, when a game ball is stored in the flow path switching member 78, it is easy for the game ball to enter the first specific area 73, and when a game ball is not stored in the flow path switching member 78, the first specific area 73 is stored. It became difficult for game balls to enter. On the other hand, in the sixth embodiment, the game ball that has entered the second grand prize opening is preferentially entered into the first specific area 73.

  FIG. 79 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of an accessory that forms the second big winning opening in the sixth embodiment and the state of the flow of game balls in the accessory. As shown in FIG. 79, a shutter 79 that can be opened and closed is provided in the second specific region 74. When the shutter 79 is closed, the game ball is stopped by the shutter 79 and stored without dropping. On the other hand, when the shutter 79 is open, the game ball passes through the shutter 79 and falls. Accordingly, the entry of the game ball is detected by the second specific area passing switch 74a.

  The shutter 79 is opened when a predetermined time elapses after the second big prize opening is opened. The predetermined time is set to a time sufficient for the game ball that has won the second grand prize opening to enter the first specific area 73. Therefore, before a predetermined time has elapsed since the opening of the second grand prize opening, when the game ball that won the second big prize opening goes to the second specific area 74, it is stored by the shutter 79, and the game ball is stored in the first game area. When heading to the specific area 73, the first specific area passing switch 73a detects it and preferentially generates a second round of 15 rounds. On the other hand, when the game ball is stored by the shutter 79 but is not detected by the first specific area passing switch 73a because the game ball has not been directed to the first specific area 73, the shutter 79 is opened after a predetermined time has elapsed. The game ball stored in the shutter 79 is dropped and detected by the second specific area passing switch 74a, and a big hit of 7 rounds occurs. Note that the game control microcomputer 560 controls the opening / closing operation of the shutter 79.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to reliably prevent a game ball from entering the first specific area 73 and the second specific area 74 at the same time, and to the first specific area 73 that is advantageous to the player. Can be given priority.

  In the above embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the variable display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the variable display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

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

  The present invention is applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a start winning is likely to occur when the variable winning device (ordinary electric accessory, variable winning ball device 15) is open.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the way of winning of the game ball to a 1st start winning opening and a 2nd starting winning opening. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure example in the accessory which forms a 2nd big winning opening, and the mode of the flow of the game ball in an accessory. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure example in the accessory which forms a 2nd big winning opening, and the mode of the flow of the game ball in an accessory. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure example in the accessory which forms a 2nd big winning opening, and the mode of the flow of the game ball in an accessory. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the storage operation | movement of a flow-path switching member. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the storage operation | movement of a flow-path switching member. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board | substrate, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows a main process. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the random number for jackpot determination, and a jackpot determination value. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the method of the change of a game state when the change of a special symbol is performed based on a start winning prize. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of a decoration symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows a state change when an accessory is controlled to the open state based on the small hit. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the method of the change of the gaming state after the 2nd big winning opening as a starting operation. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. FIG. 38E illustrates an effect control command signal line. It is a timing chart showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal that constitute an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st start port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result specific command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows an accessory release control normal process. It is a flowchart which shows the accessory release middle. It is a flowchart which shows a post-completion process. It is a flowchart which shows a post-completion process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd grand prize opening pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd big winning opening opening process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd big winning opening closing post-process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a switching member control process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol stop process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the open pattern of the change time of a normal symbol, and a variable winning ball apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows a normal electric accessory operating process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the bit allocation example of the input port in the microcomputer for game control. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the payout control signal. It is a block diagram which shows the signal line etc. which are used for transmission / reception of a payout control signal. It is a timing diagram which shows an example of how to output a payout control signal. It is explanatory drawing which shows the buffer used by switch processing. It is a flowchart which shows a switch process. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a prize ball number table. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball number addition process. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball control process. It is a flowchart which shows an abnormal winning notification process. It is a flowchart which shows an abnormal winning notification process. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the initial screen displayed on a variable display apparatus, and a power failure recovery screen. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the abnormality alerting | reporting screen displayed on a variable display apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows alerting | reporting control processing. It is a flowchart which shows alerting | reporting control processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the condition of the display effect in a variable display apparatus, and the sound effect by a speaker. 6 is a flowchart showing special symbol process processing in the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing effect control process processing in the second embodiment. 12 is a flowchart showing a normal electric accessory operating process in the third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating switch processing according to the fourth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing special symbol process processing in the fifth embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a structure in the accessory which forms the 2nd big winning opening in Embodiment 6, and the mode of the flow of the game ball in an accessory.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Variable display device 13 1st starting winning opening 13a 1st starting opening switch 14 2nd starting winning opening 14a 2nd starting opening switch 15 Variable winning ball apparatus 20 Special variable winning ball apparatus (first 1 grand prize winner)
31 Main board 56 CPU
73 1st specific area 73a 1st specific area passage switch 74 2nd specific area 74a 2nd specific area passage switch 75 Accompaniment (2nd big prize opening)
76 Movable member 78 Flow path switching member 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
560 Microcomputer for game control

Claims (4)

A first state in which a predetermined game can be performed using a game ball, and the game ball is difficult to enter or does not enter based on the winning of the game ball in the first start area provided in the game area The first variable prize-winning device that performs an operation that makes it easy for the game ball to enter from the second state, and the game ball is won based on the fact that the game ball has won the special area provided in the first variable prize-winning device. A gaming machine capable of shifting the state to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player,
The game can be changed between a closed state in which no game ball is won in the first start area and an open state in which a game ball can be won in the first start area, and in a second start area provided in the game area. A second variable winning device that is in an open state based on the winning of a game ball;
Detecting means for detecting a game ball won in the first starting area and outputting a detection signal;
A special variable winning device capable of changing from a state in which the game ball does not win in the specific gaming state to a state in which it is easy to win,
Winning detection means for detecting a game ball won in the special variable winning device and outputting a winning detection signal;
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game,
The game control means includes
Open / close determining means for determining an open / closed state of the second variable winning device;
An abnormality notification means for performing abnormality notification based on detection of a winning of a game ball by the detection means when the opening / closing determination means determines that the second variable winning device is in a closed state. and,
A winning determination means for determining whether or not the winning detection signal from the winning detection means is input;
A winning abnormality notification means for performing a winning abnormality notification based on the determination that the winning determination means has input the winning detection signal in a gaming state other than the specific gaming state;
A variable display device based on data indicating a game progress state, and a state control means for controlling the state of the special variable winning device,
The state control means changes the special variable winning device to a state where it is easy to win when the data indicating the game progress state indicates a numerical value outside a predetermined range,
The winning abnormality notification means includes:
When the data indicating the game progress state indicates a numerical value outside a predetermined range, the winning determination means does not execute the winning abnormality notification based on determining that the winning detection signal is input,
When the data indicating the game progress state indicates a numerical value within a predetermined range, the winning abnormality notification is executed based on the determination that the winning determination means has input the winning detection signal. To play. An operation for prohibiting the start of the operation of the first variable winning device when the winning means of the game ball is detected by the detecting device when the opening / closing determining device determines that the second variable winning device is in the closed state. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising prohibition means. A payout control means for executing a control for paying out the game ball in response to winning of the game ball in the first start area;
The payout control means pays out the game ball based on the detection of the winning of the game ball by the detecting means when the open / close determining means determines that the second variable winning device is in the closed state. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising payout control prohibiting means for prohibiting execution of control. The game control means
Numerical value updating means for updating a predetermined numerical value;
Numerical value extracting means for extracting a numerical value from the numerical value updating means at a predetermined time;
Display result determining means for determining information capable of specifying a display result of variable display of identification information based on the numerical value extracted by the numerical value extracting means;
Initializing means for executing an initialization process for setting the numerical value to an initial value when power supply to the gaming machine is started,
Initialization notification means for performing initialization notification indicating that initialization processing has been executed until a predetermined end condition is satisfied when the initialization means executes initialization processing;
The abnormality notification prohibiting means for prohibiting the start of the abnormality notification by the abnormality notification means when the initialization notification means is performing the initialization notification. Gaming machine.

Images