JP5236211B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a first start area and a second start area are formed in a game area.

  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. Furthermore, as a display result of the variable display of the special symbol (identification information) started in the variable display unit based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening, a predetermined specific display mode (specific display result) is provided. There is a gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) when it is derived and displayed. Note that the derivation display is to stop and display a symbol (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening (one of the winning areas) is opened a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times), and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening is referred to as a round.

  In addition, the gaming machine includes a dish-like accessory (also referred to as “Kroon”) provided with a plurality of openings (for example, three holes) through which a game ball can pass, and a plurality of A game configured to shift the gaming state to a specific gaming state based on the entry of a gaming ball (also referred to as “V winning”) into a special opening (also referred to as “V winning opening”) among the openings. There is a machine.

  In addition, if a special condition such as a display result of variable display of identification information becomes a special specific display result (special display result) of the specific display results in the variable display device, the jackpot is subsequently obtained. Some are configured to shift to a high-probability state (also referred to as a probability variation state) in which the probability of occurrence of the occurrence is high.

  In addition, some gaming machines configured to shift to such a probability changing state are configured to have a probability changing limiter control function. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a gaming machine configured to perform control so that the probability variation mode does not continue beyond a predetermined number of times. In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when the probability variation mode is continued four times, control is performed so that the time reduction mode other than the probability variation mode or the normal mode is set at the fifth big hit.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 11-299993 (paragraph 0034, paragraphs 0071-0072, FIG. 14)

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 or the like, in order to perform game control while maintaining appropriate gambling, it is necessary to perform control so that a specific game state is generated with a certain low probability even if the game machine shifts to a certain change state. I must. Therefore, the state where only the time elapses without the occurrence of the specific game state continues, and there is a possibility that the interest in the game may be reduced during the game. In particular, when it is not in a probable state, there is a possibility that a state in which a specific gaming state does not occur continues for a long period of time, and there is a risk that the interest in gaming will be significantly reduced during the game.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of realizing a new gaming property while ensuring appropriate gambling, and further enhancing the interest in gaming.

  A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine in which a first start area (for example, the first start winning opening 13) and a second start area (for example, the second start winning opening 14) are formed in the game area, A first state in which a game medium (for example, a game ball) is difficult to enter or cannot enter the second start area (for example, a closed state), and a second state in which the game medium is likely to enter or can enter the second start area A variable starting device (for example, a variable winning ball device 15) that can be changed to any one of a state (for example, an open state) is provided, and a game medium enters the first starting region or the second starting region and is variably displayed. Variable display of identification information (for example, special symbol) is executed on the basis that the execution condition is established, and a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is always derived and displayed as the variable information display result of identification information Equipment (eg special Variable display for executing variable display of the identification information for variable approach (for example, normal symbol) based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition and the symbol display 8), and deriving and displaying the display result of variable display of the identification information for variable approach. When a predetermined display result (for example, a winning symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display device for entry (for example, the normal symbol display 10) and the variable display device for variable approach as the display result of the variable display of the variable entry identification information. The variable start device is changed from the first state to the second state, the variable start device is changed to the second state, and then changed to the first state again (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560). A part that executes steps S170 to S174), and a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device as a display result of variable display of identification information. Game state control means for shifting to a specific game state (for example, a big win game state) (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, after the big hit symbol is derived and displayed in step S361, the special symbol process flag is won in step S370. A value indicating the pre-opening process (for example, 4) is set and the process shifts to the pre-opening pre-opening process) and compared with the normal gaming state (for example, the normal state) when the specific gaming state ends. The entry advantageous state control means (for example, the part for executing steps S463 to S465 in the game control microcomputer 560, which shifts the variable starter to the entry advantageous state (for example, the short time state) that is likely to be in the second state. And the entry advantageous state control means is a predetermined number of times (for example, 200 times). When the game state control means shifts to the specific gaming state after the transition to the entry advantageous state, control is performed so as not to shift to the entry advantageous state when the specific game state is terminated (for example, for game control) The microcomputer 560 shifts to step S465 without executing step S464 when it is determined as Y in step S463).

Another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine in which a first start area (for example, the first start winning opening 13) and a second start area (for example, the second start winning opening 14) are formed in the game area. The first state where the game medium (for example, a game ball) is difficult to enter or cannot enter the second start area (for example, the closed state), and the game medium easily enters or enters the second start area. A variable starting device (for example, variable winning ball device 15) that can be changed to any one of a possible second state (for example, an open state) is provided, and a game medium is provided in the first starting region or the second starting region. Execute variable display of identification information (for example, special symbol) based on the fact that the execution condition of variable display has been entered, and the display result of variable display of identification information is almost (with an extremely high probability (for example, 80% or more) , Preferably 90 packs A variable display device (for example, special symbol display 8) for deriving and displaying a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) and variable approach identification information (for example, based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition) , The variable symbol display device (for example, the normal symbol display 10) and the variable indicator variable display device for variable approach for performing variable display of the variable approach identification information and deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display of the variable approach identification information. When a predetermined display result (for example, a winning symbol) is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of the variable approach identification information, the variable starter is changed from the first state to the second state, and the variable starter is set to the second state. Variable starter opening / closing means (for example, a part for executing steps S170 to S174 in the game control microcomputer 560) to be changed to the first state again after being changed to Game state control means (for example, for game control) that shifts to a specific game state (for example, big hit game state) advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the display device as the display result of variable display of identification information In the microcomputer 560, after the big hit symbol is derived and displayed in step S361, a value (for example, 4) indicating the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is set in the special symbol process flag in step S370 and the process proceeds to the pre-opening process for the big winning opening. Part) and pre-determining means (for example, steps S505 to S506B in the game control microcomputer 560) for determining whether the display result derived and displayed on the variable display device is the specific display result or not before the display result is derived and displayed. And the normal gaming state (for example, the normal state) when the specific gaming state is finished , The step of performing steps S463 to S465 in the entry advantageous state control means (for example, the game control microcomputer 560) that shifts to the entry advantageous state (for example, the short time state) in which the variable starting device is likely to be in the second state. In particular, the entry advantageous state control means is shifted to the entry advantageous state continuously for a predetermined number of times (for example, 200 times) and then shifted to the specific gaming state by the gaming state control means. In some cases, control is performed so as not to shift to the entry advantageous state when the specific game state is ended (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes step S465 without executing step S464 when determining Y in step S463). It is characterized in that it shifts to.
The gaming machine has variable display control means for controlling the execution of variable display of identification information in the variable display device, and entry advantageous state specifying information that can specify the entry advantageous state when transitioning to the entry advantageous state. An entry advantageous state specifying information setting means for setting, and the variable display control means causes the variable display device to execute variable display of the identification information according to a variable display time shorter than the variable display time of the variable entry identification information, and performs variable start The device opening / closing means changes the variable starting device to the second state for a longer period when the entry advantageous state specifying information is set than when the entry advantageous state specifying information is not set. The state specifying information setting means may be configured to clear the entry advantageous state specifying information when the state is shifted to the specific gaming state.

  The gaming machine has on-hold storage data (for example, on-hold storage count) that can specify the number of game media entering the first start area and the second start area where the execution condition up to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, 4) is not satisfied. It may be configured to include a holding storage unit (for example, a holding storage number counter) that stores a count value of the counter.

  The gaming machine is instructed to enter advantageous state notification means (for example, steps S844 and S865 in the production control microcomputer 100) for notifying that the advantageous state of entry has been or has been shifted to the advantageous state of entry for a predetermined number of times. (Execution part) may be provided.

  The game state control means is configured to select a first specific game state (for example, one game state for two rounds of big hit) or a second specific game state (for example, more advantageous for the player than the first specific game state) as the specific game state. (For example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines in step S510 that the type of jackpot determined in step S509 is jackpot 2, and then proceeds to step S511.) Control is made so that the big hit 2 flag is set and the big hit type 2 flag is not set when the judgment is made in step S510 that the big hit type is not big hit 2 (that is, the big hit 1). ) May be configured.

  The gaming machine uses the first identification information (for example, the first special information) based on the fact that the game medium has entered the first start area (for example, the first start winning opening 13) and the first execution condition of variable display has been established. A first variable display device (for example, the first special symbol display device 8a) that performs variable display of the symbols and derives and displays a display result of the variable display of the first identification information; and a second start area (for example, The second identification information (for example, the second special symbol) is variably displayed based on the fact that the game medium enters the second start winning opening 14) and the second execution condition of the variable display is established, And a second variable display device (for example, a second special symbol display device 8b) for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display of the identification information, and the gaming state control means includes the first variable display device or the second variable display device. Variable table of first identification information or second identification information on variable display device When a specific display result (for example, a jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed as the display result of the game, a transition is made to a specific game state (for example, a jackpot game state) that is advantageous to the player (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, step After deriving and displaying the jackpot symbol in the same process as S361, the special symbol process flag is set to a value (for example, 4) indicating the pre-opening process for the big prize opening in the same process as in step S370, and the pre-opening process for the big prize opening is performed. (Migrating part).

  In the first aspect of the invention, the variable display of the identification information is executed based on the fact that the game medium enters the first start area or the second start area and the variable display execution condition is satisfied, and the variable display of the identification information is performed. A variable display device that always derives and displays a specific display result as a display result, and a transition to a specific game state that is advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information on the variable display device It is configured to include a gaming state control unit and an entry advantageous state control unit that shifts the variable starting device to an entry advantageous state that is likely to be in the second state when the specific gaming state is finished, compared to the normal gaming state. Therefore, as long as you enter the first start area or the second start area, you can be sure to shift to the specific game state, and you can improve the fun of the game That. Moreover, since the transition to the entry advantageous state is made when the specific gaming state is ended, it is possible to provide a gaming state that is continuously shifted to the specific gaming state, realizing a new gaming property and further improving the gaming. The interest can be improved. Further, when the entry advantageous state control means is shifted to the entry advantageous state continuously for a predetermined number of times and then shifted to the specific gaming state by the gaming state control means, the entry advantageous state is transferred when the specific gaming state is ended. Since it is configured to control so as not to cause it to occur, it is possible to ensure moderate euphoria.

  According to the second aspect of the invention, the variable display of the identification information is executed based on the fact that the game medium enters the first start area or the second start area and the variable display execution condition is satisfied, and the variable display of the identification information is performed. A variable display device that derives and displays almost a specific display result as a display result, and a transition to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information on the variable display device A game state control means, a pre-decision means for deciding whether or not to display a display result derived and displayed on the variable display device as a specific display result, and a normal state when the specific game state is terminated. Since the variable starting device is configured to include the entry advantageous state control means for shifting to the entry advantageous state that is likely to be in the second state as compared with the gaming state, the first starting region or Need only enter two starting region, can be made to be migrated substantially specific game state, it is possible to improve the interest of the game. Moreover, since the transition to the entry advantageous state is made when the specific gaming state is ended, it is possible to provide a gaming state that is continuously shifted to the specific gaming state, realizing a new gaming property and further improving the gaming. The interest can be improved. Further, when the entry advantageous state control means is shifted to the entry advantageous state continuously for a predetermined number of times and then shifted to the specific gaming state by the gaming state control means, the entry advantageous state is transferred when the specific gaming state is ended. Since it is configured to control so as not to cause it to occur, it is possible to ensure moderate euphoria.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, on-hold storage means for storing on-hold storage data capable of specifying the number of game media entering the first start area and the second start area in which an execution condition up to a predetermined upper limit is not satisfied. If there is pending storage data when the game is shifted to the specific gaming state after being shifted to the entry advantageous state continuously for a predetermined number of times, immediately after the completion of the specific gaming state. It is possible to control so that the specific gaming state is generated and then continuously shifts to the entry advantageous state again for a predetermined number of times. Therefore, it is possible to provide a state in which the entry advantageous state continues twice as long as usual, and it is possible to further improve the interest of the game.

In the invention according to claim 5, since it is configured to include the entry advantageous state informing means for notifying that the entry advantageous state control means has made a continuous transition to the entry advantageous state for a predetermined number of times. It is possible for the player to grasp that the state is shifted to the entry advantageous state continuously for a number of times, and the gameability can be further improved.

In the invention according to claim 6 , the game state control means shifts as the specific game state to either the first specific game state or the second specific game state that is more advantageous for the player than the first specific game state. Therefore, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by shifting to a plurality of types of specific game states.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the variable display of the first identification information is executed based on the fact that the game medium has entered the first start area and the first execution condition of the variable display is satisfied, and the first identification information The first variable display device for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display, and the variable of the second identification information based on the fact that the game medium has entered the second start area and the second execution condition of the variable display is satisfied. Since it is configured to include a second variable display device that executes display and derives and displays a display result of variable display of the second identification information, the variable display of a plurality of identification information can be performed. By this, it is possible to give a wider range of playability.

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

Embodiment 1 FIG.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. In the following embodiments, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

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

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

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, an effect display device 9 for displaying various game effects using moving images and still images is arranged. In this embodiment, the effect display device 9 is constituted by a liquid crystal display device (LCD), and when a big hit is reached, a fanfare effect for notifying the start of a big win, during the round displaying the number of rounds during the big win, etc. An effect, an ending effect for notifying the end of jackpot, etc. are executed.

  In addition, based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition (for example, that the hit ball has won the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14), the effect display device 9 is synchronized with the variable display of the special symbol. It is also possible to variably display a plurality of types of decorative design for presentation that can identify each of them, and to display and display the display result. In this case, the effect display device 9 may be configured such that the decorative symbols are displayed and controlled in three display areas (decorative symbol display areas) of left, middle, and right. 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 when a predetermined variation time has elapsed since the symbol variation display is started (except for the temporary stop before the so-called re-variation). In addition, when the decorative display is variably displayed on the effect display device 9, symbols having numbers “0” to “9” may be used as the decorative symbols displayed in the three display areas of the effect display device 9. The decorative symbols “0” to “9” may be displayed in numerical order during the variable display (variation) of the decorative symbols.

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the right side of the effect display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers “0” to “9”, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display more types of numbers such as 0 to 99.

  In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 always displays and displays the big hit symbol (for example, symbols “1” to “9” other than “0”) as the display result of the variable symbol variable display. Note that the jackpot symbol is not always derived and displayed. Instead, the jackpot symbol is derived and displayed (with a very high probability (for example, a probability of 80% or more, preferably 90% or more)). May be displayed).

  The effect display device 9 displays effects such as fanfare effects, round effects, and ending effects during the execution of the big hit game. The effect display device 9 that performs an effect during the big hit game 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.

  On the upper part of the special symbol display 8, four 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 (also referred to as start memory or start winning memory) are displayed. A special symbol reservation storage display 18 comprising a display is provided. Further, every time there is an effective start winning, the display color of one display is changed. Each time the variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the display color of one display is restored. In this example, since the special symbol display 8 and the special symbol hold memory display 18 are provided separately, the number of hold memories can be displayed even during variable display. In addition, in the display area of the effect display device 9, a special symbol reserved storage display area including four display areas for displaying the number of reserved memories may be provided. Further, in this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is 4, but the upper limit value may be a larger value. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  On the lower left side of the effect display device 9, there is provided an entrance 33 through which a game ball can enter. Further, below the effect display device 9, there is provided a dish-like accessory 86 that includes three openings 13, 85A and 85B through which game balls can enter. The game ball that has entered the entrance 33 is guided to the accessory 86 through a path member 87 provided on the back surface of the game board 6.

  Of the three openings 13, 85A, 85B provided in the accessory 86, the opening 13 forms a first start winning opening. 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. In this embodiment, the special symbol display unit 8 always displays and displays the big hit symbol as a display result of the variable symbol special display. Therefore, as long as the game ball wins at the first start winning opening 13, it is always a big hit. Become.

  Of the openings provided in the accessory 86, two openings 85A and 85B form discharge ports. That is, even if the game ball enters the entrance 33 and is led to the accessory 86, it is out of the way when it is discharged from the discharge ports 85A and 85B. The game balls that have passed through the outlets 85A and 85B are returned to the game area again.

  On the lower right side of the effect display device 9, there is provided a second start winning opening 14 through which a game ball can be won. 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. The second start winning opening 14 is provided with a variable winning ball device 15 that performs an opening / closing operation. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16 (not shown in FIG. 1). When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, it becomes easy for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 (being easy to start winning) or to be able to win (start winning is possible), and for the player It becomes an advantageous state. Further, when the variable winning ball device 15 is closed, it becomes difficult for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 or impossible to win, which is disadvantageous for the player.

  In this embodiment, once a big hit occurs, after the big hit game is finished, until the special symbol variable display for a predetermined number of times (for example, 200 times) is finished, the transition to the short time state is made to shorten the variation time of the special symbol. Be controlled. In this embodiment, when the gaming state is the normal state, the frequency (the number of times of opening and the opening time) that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is extremely small, and in the closed state, the second start winning opening 14 is Since it is difficult to win or impossible to win, it is more difficult for the second start winning port 14 to start than the first start winning port 13. Accordingly, the player plays the game aiming at the first start winning opening 13. On the other hand, when the gaming state is the short-time state, the frequency (the number of times of opening and the opening time) that the variable winning ball device 15 is opened increases, and the second start winning opening 14 is higher than the first starting winning opening 13. Since it is easy to start a prize, the player plays the game aiming at the second start prize opening 14.

  In this embodiment, the first start winning opening 13 is provided in the cron 86 disposed below the effect display device 9, and the second start winning opening 14 is provided on the lower right side of the effect display device 9. However, the arrangement of the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 is not limited to that shown in this embodiment, and may be any arrangement. However, preferably, when the player is launching a game ball aiming at the first start winning opening 13, the second start winning opening 14 is arranged so that no game ball enters the first start winning opening 14. When the game ball is being shot and operated aiming at the 2-start winning port 14, it is preferable that the first starting winning port 13 is arranged so that no game ball enters. In this embodiment, when the player is launching the game ball aiming at the first start winning opening 13, the launch operation is aimed at the entrance 33 on the left side of the game area. The second start winning opening 14 arranged on the right side is not won or extremely difficult to win. In addition, when the player is launching the game ball aiming at the second start winning opening 14, the launch operation is aimed at the right side of the game area. It is difficult for game balls to enter the mouth 33, and the first start winning opening 13 is not won or very difficult to win.

  Further, in this embodiment, when starting the winning at the first starting winning opening 13, it is necessary to win the first starting winning opening 13 through the entrance 33, so that the first starting winning opening 13 It is rare to win a starting prize continuously. Further, the number of times and the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 are limited to some extent, and the second start winning port 14 is controlled so as to end the opening of the variable winning ball device 15 when one game ball wins. It is rare to win a starting prize continuously. For this reason, in this embodiment, a plurality of reserved memories are rarely collected (not completely absent), and the number of reserved memories of two or more is rarely displayed on the special symbol reserved memory display 18.

  In this embodiment, when the special symbol variable display is terminated a predetermined number of times (for example, 200 times) once the big hit has occurred, the big hit gaming state started for the predetermined number of special symbol variable displays. Control is performed so as not to shift to the time-saving state even if the operation is terminated. Hereinafter, this is also expressed as a time-limit limiter, and a predetermined number of times (for example, 200 times) is also expressed as a time-limit limit value.

  Below the second start winning opening 14, a specific occurrence that occurs when a special display result (a jackpot symbol: for example, symbols “1” to “9” other than “0”) is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8 A special variable winning device is provided that is opened by the solenoid 21 in the gaming state (big hit gaming state). The special variable winning device includes an opening / closing plate 20 and forms a big winning opening. The game ball that has entered the big prize opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  On the left side of the effect display device 9, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying normal symbols is provided. When the game ball passes through the gate 32 provided in the game area 7 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol display 10 displays a variable symbol of a normal symbol (in this example, a numeric display with a 7-segment LED). Be started. In this embodiment, “7” is stopped and displayed at the end of variable display in the case of winning, and other than “7” is stopped and displayed in the case of losing. In the case of winning, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. Note that the normal symbol hit probability is, for example, 12/13. Above the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of balls passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time the gate 32 passes, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29 and 30, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29 and 30 is detected by winning hole switches 29a and 30a, respectively. Each of the winning ports 29 and 30 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game balls and allowing winning. The first start winning opening 13, the second starting winning opening 14, and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts a game ball and allows winning. On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative lamps that are blinked and displayed during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. 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. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also provided with a prepaid card unit (not shown) adjacent to the prepaid card that enables lending a ball by inserting a prepaid card.

  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, when the big hit game ends or the previous variable display ends), the special symbol display 8 starts variable display (variation) of the special symbol. If the variable symbol special display cannot be started, the reserved memory number for the special symbol storage memory display 18 is increased by one.

  The variable symbol special display on the special symbol display 8 stops when a predetermined time has elapsed. When the stop symbol at the time of stoppage becomes a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot game state. That is, the game state shifts to a specific game state that is advantageous to the player as compared to a normal state other than the big hit game state. In the specific gaming state (big hit gaming state), the special variable winning device is opened until a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds) elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, one) of gaming balls has won the big winning opening. . It should be noted that one round in the big hit gaming state is a period from when the special variable winning device is opened until a predetermined period elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, one) of hitting balls wins the big winning opening. In this embodiment, the big hit gaming state is continued for 2 rounds or 5 rounds.

  In this embodiment, when the big hit gaming state is finished, the gaming state is shifted to the time-saving state until the special symbol variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (for example, 200 times). Further, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is the short-time state, the special symbol variation time is shortened, and the game ball becomes easy to start winning (that is, execution of variable display in the special symbol display device 8). It shifts to a high base state (start winning prize advantageous state) which is a gaming state controlled so that the condition is easily established. In the case of the high base state, for example, the number of times that the variable winning ball device 15 is opened is increased and the time in which the variable winning ball device 15 is opened is extended as compared with the case where the high base state is not. This makes it easier to start a prize.

  Instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is hit increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the special symbol short time state in which the variation time (variable display period) of the special symbol is shortened. In the special symbol short-time state, the special symbol change time is shortened, so the frequency of the special symbol change is increased (in other words, the digestion of the reserved memory is accelerated), and as a result, the start winning prize is obtained. It becomes easy (it shifts to a high base state), and the possibility that a big hit game will be performed increases.

  Furthermore, by making transitions to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it is easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state).

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration in the main board 31. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an interface board 66, a relay board 77, and an effect control board 80 that are mounted on the gaming machine. The main board 31 includes a basic circuit (corresponding to game control means) 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 32a, a first start port switch 13a, a second start port switch 14a, a count switch 23, and Commands from the basic circuit 53 include an input driver circuit 58 that supplies signals from the winning opening switches 29a and 30a to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 16 that opens and closes the variable winning ball device 15, and a solenoid 21 that opens and closes the special variable winning ball device 20. And an output circuit 59 driven according to the above.

  Note that the switches such as the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the winning port switches 29a and 30a may be referred to as sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means is not limited as long as it is a game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball. The first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a and 30a that perform winning detection are also winning detection means for detecting the winning of a game ball in the winning area. . Note that even if a passing gate such as the gate 32 is used, if a prize ball is paid out, a game ball entering the passing gate becomes a winning and a switch provided on the passing gate (for example, The gate switch 32a) becomes a winning detection means. Further, in this embodiment, the game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23. Therefore, the number of game balls won in the special winning opening corresponds to the number detected by the count switch 23.

  The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a program for game control (game progress control), a RAM 55 as storage means (variation data storage means for storing fluctuation data) used as a work memory, and a control operation according to the program. A game control microcomputer 560 having a CPU 56 is included. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 refers to a central processing unit (a portion excluding storage means such as the ROM 54 and RAM 55, the I / O port unit 57, etc.) of the basic circuit 53 that operates according to a program. Main processing and interrupt processing (timer interrupt processing) to be executed. The game control microcomputer 560 refers to a part of the basic circuit 53 including the CPU 56, storage means such as the ROM 54 and RAM 55, the I / O port 57, and the like. And transmission / reception of various data to / from the microcomputer mounted on the production control board 80).

  In this embodiment, the ROM 54, the RAM 55 serving as storage means as a work memory, and the I / O port unit 57 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 include at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 54. Therefore, hereinafter, the game control microcomputer 560 executes (or performs processing) specifically. Is that the CPU 56 executes control according to the program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31. The game control means is realized by a basic circuit 53 including a game control microcomputer 560.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (special symbol process flag, etc.) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  A reset signal from the power supply board 910 is input to the reset terminal of the game control microcomputer 560. The reset signal from the power supply board 910 is also input to the reset terminal of the payout control microcomputer. When the reset signal becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer become operable, and when the reset signal becomes low level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer stop operating. It becomes a state. Accordingly, during the period in which the reset signal is at a high level, an allowable signal that allows the operation of the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer is output, and in the period in which the reset signal is at a low level, An operation stop signal for stopping the operations of the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer is output. A reset circuit may be mounted on each control board (including the main board 31), or a reset circuit is mounted on one or more of the plurality of control boards, and a reset signal is sent from there to another control circuit. You may make it supply to a board | substrate.

  Furthermore, a power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board 910 has decreased to a predetermined value or less is input to the input port of the basic circuit 53 via the payout control board 37. A clear signal indicating that the clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to the input port of the basic circuit 53.

  The clear signal is branched in the main board 31 and is also supplied to the payout control board 37. Note that the state of the clear signal input by the game control microcomputer 560 via the input port may be output to the payout control board 37 via the output port.

  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. It receives and performs display control of the effect display device 9, sound output control of the speaker (sound output device) 27, display control of each lamp 28a, 28b, 28c, and the like. In this embodiment, “effect control” means display control of the effect display device 9, sound output control of the speaker 27, display control of each lamp 28a, 28b, 28c, and the like. This means performing. In this embodiment, the effect control means is realized by the effect control microcomputer 100 that performs display control of the effect display device 9, sound output control of the speaker 27, and display control of the lamps 28a, 28b, and 28c. The

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77 and the effect control board 80. In this embodiment, the display control of the effect display device 9, the sound output control of the sound output device 27, and the display control of the lamps 28a, 28b, 28c are performed using one control board (effect control board 80). However, it may be performed using a plurality of control boards. For example, in addition to the effect control board 80 for effect control, a lamp driver board for controlling each lamp and a sound output board for controlling the sound output device may be provided. In this case, the effect control means is realized by a control microcomputer and a control circuit mounted on the lamp driver board and the sound output board in addition to the effect control microcomputer 100. In this embodiment, the display control means is realized by an effect control microcomputer 100 that controls the effect display device 9.

  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 microcomputer 100 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and a strobe 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 microcomputer 100 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 using the LCD 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 is installed. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal.

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver 352. 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. In addition, it is supplied to a decorative lamp provided on the frame side.

  In addition, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs sound number data to the speech synthesis IC 173. The voice synthesizing IC 173 generates a voice or a sound effect corresponding to the sound number data and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 175. The amplifier circuit 175 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 173 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 176 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 174 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 fanfare effect, an effect during a round, and an effect period of an ending effect).

  The signal for driving the lamp and the sound number data are communicated between the production control microcomputer 100, the lamp driver 352, and the speech synthesis IC 173 (such as transmitting a response signal from the signal receiving side to the transmitting side). Communication).

  The effect control microcomputer 100 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM is used to store character image data frequently used among the images displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, people, characters, figures, symbols, or the like. The effect control microcomputer 100 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control of the effect display device 9 based on data input from the effect control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 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 effect display device 9.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of how the game proceeds in the gaming machine of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, when a game ball wins the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14 and the detection signal of the first start opening switch 13a or the second start opening switch 14a is turned on, that is, When a start winning occurs, a lottery of display results of variable symbol special display is executed by the game control means for controlling the progress of the game. In this embodiment, the lottery result is always a big hit and there is no losing. Note that when the gaming state is the normal state, the second start winning opening 14 is extremely difficult to start winning compared to the first start winning opening 13, so the player first starts to the first start winning opening 13. With the aim of winning a prize, the hitting operation handle 5 is operated so that a game ball is launched to the left of the game board 6. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 4, first, a game ball wins the first start winning opening 13 and the detection signal of the first start opening switch 13a is turned on, and the display result of the variable symbol display of special symbols by the game control means. Will be described as a jackpot with a probability of 100 percent.

  Next, the special symbol variation (variable display) is started. In this embodiment, since the big hit is always determined, when the change of the special symbol is finished, the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state. In this embodiment, the jackpot gaming state is shifted to either the jackpot 1 gaming state or the jackpot 2 gaming state according to the stop symbol of the special symbol. In this embodiment, the game is shifted to the jackpot 1 gaming state with a very high probability (for example, with a probability of 90%) as compared to the jackpot 2 gaming state.

  In the big win 1 game state, the big winning opening by the opening and closing plate 16 is controlled to be opened and closed twice (2 rounds, 1 round opening permissible time is 29 seconds). Further, in the big hit 2 gaming state, the big winning opening by the opening / closing plate 16 is controlled to be opened 5 times (5 rounds, 1 round has a permissible opening time of 29 seconds). In this embodiment, the number of rounds in the big hit gaming state is fixed at 2 or 5, but the number of rounds (for example, any one of 2 rounds, 5 rounds, and 10 rounds) may be determined by lottery or the like. Good.

  When the big hit gaming state is finished, the gaming state is shifted to the short time state. When the gaming state is a short-time state, the second starting winning port 14 is easier to win than the first starting winning port 13, so that the player can pass the game ball to the gate 32 and perform the second starting. Aiming for a start winning at the winning opening 14, the hitting operation handle 5 is operated so that a game ball is launched to the right of the game board 6.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and the detection signal of the gate switch 32a is turned on, a lottery of the display result of the variable display of the normal symbol is executed by the game control means. Then, normal symbol variation (variable display) is started. When the variation of the normal symbol is finished, if the display result of the variable symbol variable display is determined to be a hit, the variable winning ball device 15 is played three times (the opening time is 1. 2 seconds) Open control is performed. When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be opened, it is easy to start a winning to the second starting winning port 14 or a start winning is possible.

  When a game ball wins the second start winning opening 14 and the detection signal of the second start opening switch 14a is turned on, that is, when a start winning occurs, a lottery of the display result of the variable symbol display of special symbols is performed by the game control means. Executed and determined to be a big hit with 100 percent probability. Next, the variation of the special symbol (variable display) is started, and when the variation of the special symbol is finished, the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state. Then, when the big hit gaming state is finished, the gaming state is shifted to the time saving state.

  In this embodiment, for example, once a big hit occurs, the game state is shifted to the short time state after repeated big hit games are completed until the variable symbol special display is finished 200 times (that is, until the time limiter is applied). In this embodiment, the number of rounds won in a single jackpot gaming state is as few as two (however, five in the case of two jackpots gaming state), and the number of winning prizes allowed to the big winning opening during one round is small. Is limited to once, so if the number of prize balls to be paid out in a single winning entry is six, the number of prize balls obtained during one big hit game is 6 × 2 × 1 = 12 pieces (in the case of one big hit game state) and few. However, since the state is shifted to the short-time state after the big hit game is over, it becomes easy to make a start winning to the second start winning opening 14, and the expectation that the big win is obtained again within a predetermined period is increased. Therefore, until the special symbol variable display is finished 200 times after the big hit occurs once (that is, until the time limiter is applied), as a result, a total of 6 × 2 × 1 × 200 = 2400 pieces (all the big hits are 200 times) About 1 prize ball will be obtained. In the normal state, the number of game balls that enter the first start winning opening 13 is about 1 in about 3000 game balls driven by the player on average, and the croon 86 has three holes. Therefore, the number of game balls that enter the entrance 33 is about one in every 1000 balls.

  In this embodiment, the case where the Kleung 86 is used to distribute the game balls is shown. However, if the structure has the same winning rate (for example, about one in about 3000 balls), the Kleung 86 is used. Each winning opening including the first start winning opening 13 may be configured by using other than the above.

  In this embodiment, instead of making it possible to obtain 2000 or more prize balls with one big hit, instead of reducing the number of prize balls obtained with one big hit, it is easy to make a big hit several times in succession. By doing so, it is possible to keep the player interested in the game for a long time. For example, if you want to get more than 2000 winning balls at once with a single big hit, it will take time until the next big hit is obtained after the big hit game ends. If this happens, there is a risk that the interest in the game will decline during the game. In this embodiment, once a big hit occurs, the big hit is likely to be generated a plurality of times in succession, so that the player can be kept interested in the game for a long period of time. However, in this embodiment, when the big hit gaming state is finished after the variable symbol special display is finished 200 times (that is, when the time limiter is applied), the gaming state is not shifted to the time saving state. Control. Therefore, after the special symbol variable display is completed 200 times, the normal state is returned to the normal state in which it is difficult to win the start as compared with the short-time state.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. 5 and 6 show main processing executed by the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 in response to the start of power supply to the game machine and the reset signal to the game control microcomputer 560 becoming high level. It is a flowchart which shows. When the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes a high level, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes a security check process that is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid. The main processing 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, an interrupt mode for maskable interrupts is set (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set for the stack pointer (step S3). In step S2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the game control microcomputer 560 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is Set to the mode indicating the interrupt address. Further, when a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  Next, the built-in device register is set (initialized) (step S4). By the processing in step S4, the CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits) are set (initialized).

  The game control microcomputer 560 used in this embodiment also incorporates an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC) 504.

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not the power-off signal is in an OFF state depending on the state of bit 0 of the input port 1 (step S5). When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the output voltage of various power sources such as the + 5V power source gradually reaches the specified value, but the power-off signal is not output by the process of step S5, that is, the high power By confirming that the power supply voltage is stable, the CPU 56 can confirm that the power supply voltage is stable.

  When the power-off signal is in the on state, the CPU 56 confirms again whether the power-off signal is in the off state after a delay time of a predetermined period (for example, 0.1 second) (step S80). To do. If the power-off signal is off, the RAM 55 is set to an accessible state (step S6), and the process proceeds to a clear signal check process.

  When the power-off signal is in the off state, software delay processing for delaying the start timing of the gaming device control processing (game control processing) for controlling the progress of the game by software may be executed. By such software delay processing, the start timing of the game control processing can be delayed as compared with the case where the software delay processing is not executed. When the delay process is executed, a situation occurs in which the microcomputer of the other control board cannot receive the command transmitted from the game control board (main board 31) to the other control board (for example, the payout control board 37). Can be prevented.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the clear switch is turned on (step S7). Note that the CPU 56 may confirm the state of the clear signal only once via the input port 0, but may confirm the state of the clear signal a plurality of times. For example, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is an off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 seconds), the state of the clear signal is reconfirmed. If it is confirmed that the clear signal is in the on state at that time, it is determined that the clear signal is in the on state. Further, at this time, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is the off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time, the state of the clear signal may be confirmed again. Here, the number of reconfirmations is not limited to once or twice, but may be three or more times. It is also possible to check twice and check again when the check results do not match.

  If the clear switch is not turned on in step S7, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, a process for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. When it is confirmed that such power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 56 determines that the power supply stop processing has been performed, that is, the control state at the time of power supply stop is stored. . When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process is not performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process.

  Whether or not the power supply stop process has been performed is determined by the value of the backup monitoring timer stored in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process corresponding to the execution of the power supply stop process (for example, 2). ) Is confirmed by whether or not. Note that such a confirmation method is an example. For example, a flag indicating that the power supply stop process has been executed is set in the backup flag area in the power supply stop process, and the flag is set in step S8. If it is confirmed that the power supply is stopped, it may be determined that the power supply stop process has been performed.

  If it is determined that the control state at the time of stopping power supply is stored, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) in the backup RAM area (step S9). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer. Also, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1. The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area and uses the inverted data as the checksum.

  In the power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. 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 may be 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, the initialization process (the process of steps S10 to S14) executed when the power is turned on, not when the power supply is stopped is stopped. Run.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process 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. Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S91), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S92). ). 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 S91 and S92, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain. The parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating a gaming state before stopping power supply (such as a special symbol process flag and a time-count counter), an area where the output state of the output port is stored (output port buffer), This is a portion where data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S93), and proceeds to step S15.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). Note that the predetermined data may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 55. Also, the initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, for example, 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, a winning ball flag, a ball shortage flag, a short-time count An initial value is set to a flag or a counter for selectively performing processing according to a control state such as a counter. In this embodiment, a time limiter value 200 is set as an initial value in the time reduction counter. In addition, a bit corresponding to the output port that outputs the connection confirmation signal in the output port buffer is set (corresponding to the ON state of the connection confirmation signal).

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the start address of the initialization command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S13), and transmits an initialization command for initializing the sub board according to the contents to the sub board. Processing is executed (step S14). As an initialization command, a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the effect display device 9, an initialization command to the payout control board 37, or the like can be used.

  Then, the CPU 56 executes a timer interrupt setting process for setting a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms) ( Step S15). 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 timer interrupt setting is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display symbol random number update process (step S17) and the initial value determination random number update process (step S18). When the display symbol random number update process and the initial value determination random number update process are executed, the CPU 56 disables the interrupt (step S16), and when the display symbol random number update process and the initial value determination random number update process are finished, The interrupt is permitted (step S19).

  The display symbol random number is a random number for determining the display of the special symbol indicator 8. In this embodiment, a variation pattern determining random number for determining a variation pattern of a special symbol is used as the display symbol random number. The display symbol random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display symbol random number.

  The initial value determining random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value determining random number. A random number for determining the initial value is a random number for determining the type of jackpot (for example, whether to generate a jackpot symbol determining random number for determining a special symbol that generates a jackpot or a hit based on a normal symbol) This is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value, such as a counter (determination random number generation counter) for generating a normal random number for determination per symbol). A game control process described later (a process in which a game control microcomputer controls itself a game device such as an effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15, a ball payout device 97 provided in the gaming machine, or When the count value of the determination random number generation counter makes one round in a process of transmitting a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, or a gaming apparatus control process), an initial value is set in the counter.

  Note that when the display symbol random number update process and the initial value determination random number update process are executed, the interrupt is disabled. The display symbol random number update process and the initial value determination random number update process are described later. This is to avoid contention with the process in the timer interrupt process because the process is also executed (that is, the same process is also executed in steps S25 and S26 of the timer interrupt process). That is, if a timer interrupt is generated during the processing of steps S17 and S18 and the counter value for generating the display symbol random number and the initial value determining random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, The continuity of the count value may be impaired. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt disabled state is set during the processes of steps S17 and S18.

  As described above, a game clerk or the like can easily perform initial initialization by starting the power supply to the gaming machine (for example, turning on the power switch 914) while the clear switch 921 is turned on and the clear signal is output. Can be executed. That is, RAM clear or the like can be performed.

  Next, the game control process will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. When a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main process, specifically, in a period during which interruption is permitted during execution of the loop process of steps S16 to S19, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 A game control process is executed in a timer interrupt process activated in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt. In the timer interrupt process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off process (power-off detection process) for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether the power-on signal is turned on) (step S20). Next, detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a and 30a are input via the switch circuit 58, and their states A determination is made (switch process: step S21). Specifically, if the state of the input port for inputting the detection signal of each switch is ON, the value of the switch timer provided corresponding to each switch is incremented by one.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for outputting and clearing the DG signal to various displays such as the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, and the status indicator (step S22). Next, the CPU 56 executes an abnormal winning notification process for notifying that an abnormal winning to the special winning opening has been detected (step S23). Specifically, the count switch 23 is turned on in spite of the fact that it is before opening the grand prize opening in the special symbol process process described later (specifically, in the process of steps S300 to S303 described later). Is detected, it is determined that an abnormal winning in the big winning opening has been detected, and control is performed to notify.

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number used for game control is performed (random number update process: step S24). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value determining random number (initial value determining random number updating process: step S25). Furthermore, CPU56 performs the process which updates the count value of the counter for producing | generating a display symbol random number (display symbol random number update process: step S26).

  When the random number update process, the initial value determination random number update process, and the display symbol random number update process are performed, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process process (step S27). In the special symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S28). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting an effect control command for controlling the game effect in the effect display device 9 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and sending the effect control command (effect symbol command control process: step S29).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs an information output process for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, and time variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S30).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the prize opening switches 29a, 30a, etc. (step S31). Specifically, a payout command command such as a prize ball number command indicating the number of prize balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to detection of a winning based on turning on the prize opening switches 29a, 30a and the like. The payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 in response to receiving a prize ball number command indicating the number of prize balls.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a test terminal process which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine (step S32). In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided, but the CPU 56 outputs the contents related to the solenoid in the RAM area of the output port 2 to the output port. (Step S33: Output processing). And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in a pending | holding memory | storage number (step S34).

  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 S35).

  Next, 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 S36).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a status display lamp display process for setting status display control data for displaying each status display lamp in an output buffer for setting the status display control data (step S37). In this case, when the gaming state is the short time state, the state display control data for displaying the state indicator lamp indicating the short time state is set in the output buffer. When the gaming state is also controlled to a high probability state (for example, a probability variation state), state display control data for displaying a state indicator lamp indicating the high probability state is set in the output buffer. You may do it.

  In this embodiment, the game control process is started periodically (for example, every 2 ms). 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 has a flag. It may be executed in the main process based on the setting. In this embodiment, the processes of steps S21 to S37 (except for steps S30 and S32) correspond to a game control process for controlling the progress of the game.

  Thereafter, the CPU 56 sets the interrupt permitted state (step S38) and ends the process.

  Next, the special symbol process (step S27) in the main process will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process processing program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560). In the game control microcomputer 560, in the special symbol process, the first start port switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning port 13 provided in the game board 6 is turned on. If the second start opening switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 is turned on, that is, the game ball is in the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14 If a start winning to win a prize has occurred (step S311), after performing a start port switch passing process (step S312), any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state. If neither the first start port switch 13a nor the second start port switch 14a is turned on, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state.

  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 in a state where variable display of the special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the number of numerical data stored (the number of reserved memories) stored in the reserved memory number buffer. The number of numerical data stored in the reserved memory number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. If the count value of the reserved memory number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable symbol special display is set as the specific display result (whether or not the jackpot is determined). In this embodiment, the specific display result is determined with a probability of 100%. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Variations of variable display of special symbols (corresponding to the variation time here), multiple types of variations determined in advance according to the random number for determining the variation pattern (one of the display symbol random numbers) extracted at the time of starting winning Select from patterns. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) according to step S302.

  Special symbol variation process (step S302): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the special symbol process timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the value of the special symbol process timer becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) Is controlled to shift to step S303 (3 in this example).

  Special symbol stop process (step S303): The special symbol on the special symbol indicator 8 (in this embodiment, the big hit symbol) is stopped. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S304.

  Preliminary winning opening process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable winning ball device to open the big winning opening, and the round control display control command in the big hit gaming state is sent to the control microcomputer 100. Perform the process. Also, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the process timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) according to step S305. It should be noted that the pre-winner opening pre-processing is executed for each round, but when starting a round, the pre-opening pre-opening processing is also a process of starting a big hit game. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 realizes a specific game state transition control means by executing the pre-opening process for the big prize opening. Further, the specific game state transition control means may be defined as being realized by the effect control microcomputer 100 executing the jackpot display process. That is, the time point when the specific gaming state is started may be the time point when the effect for notifying the occurrence of the big hit is started.

  Large winning opening open process (step S305): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. Specifically, a process for confirming the establishment of the closing condition for the big prize opening and a process for sending an effect control command for displaying an interval during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100 are performed. Further, when the closing condition for the special winning opening is established, the control for closing the special winning opening is performed. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to close the special variable winning ball apparatus to close the special winning opening. In addition, the execution time of the post-hit opening process is set by the process timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) according to step S306.

  Post-winner opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. Processing such as checking whether there is a remaining round in the big hit gaming state is performed. If there is still a remaining round, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S304. In addition, when all rounds are finished, control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended, and 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. In addition to performing control for ending the big hit gaming state, processing for controlling the gaming state to the short-time state or the normal state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) according to step S300.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start-port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the reserved storage number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step S210). If the number of reserved memories is 4, the process is terminated.

  If the number of reserved memories is not 4, the value of the reserved memory number counter indicating the number of reserved memories is incremented by 1 (step S211). Further, the CPU 56 reads the count value from the counter for generating a random number to extract the software random number, and reads the count value of the random number circuit to extract the random R (the jackpot determination random number generated by the random number circuit), A process of storing them in the storage area in the reserved storage buffer corresponding to the value of the reserved storage number counter as the extracted random number value is executed (step S212). 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 random number for variation pattern and a holding storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  Then, the display of the special symbol hold memory display 18 is changed to a display indicating the value of the hold memory number counter (step S213).

  In addition, in the case where the effect display device 9 performs the variable display of the decorative symbol in synchronization with the special symbol variable display, the value of the reserved memory number counter is updated (see step S211), and then the effect control micro is displayed. You may make it perform control which transmits the start prize designation | designated command which designates generation | occurrence | production of a start prize to the computer 100. FIG. In this case, specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits the 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 set to a pointer. Then, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command is set in the pointer, and the effect control command is transmitted in the effect control command control process (step S29) (the same applies to other effect control commands).

  FIG. 10 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. 10, the command 9500 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) transmitted when the gaming state is the normal state, and the command 9501 (H) indicates that the gaming state is short. This is an effect control command (time-short state background designation command) transmitted when the state is in effect. Hereinafter, the effect control commands of commands 9500 (H) and 9501 (H) are referred to as background designation commands. The effect control microcomputer 100 selects the type of background to be displayed on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the received background designation command.

  Command AXXX (H) (X = arbitrary hexadecimal number) is an effect control command sent from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game. Among them, the command A000 (H) is an effect control command (big hit 1 start designation command: first fanfare designation command) that designates the start of one big hit game with two rounds. The command A001 (H) is an effect control command (big hit 2 start designation command: second fanfare designation command) that designates the start of a big hit 2 game with 5 rounds.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (display command during opening of a big winning opening) that designates display during a round during a big hit game. Note that the number of rounds displayed in “XX” is set. The command A2XX (H) is an effect control command (display command after opening the big prize opening) that specifies display after the round (display of the interval between rounds) during the big hit game.

  Command A300 (H) is an effect control command for designating the end of a single jackpot game (Big jackpot one end designating command: first ending designation command). The command A301 (H) is an effect control command that designates the end of the big hit 2 game (big hit 2 end designation command: second ending designation command).

  Command A 400 (H) is an effect control command (short time end notice designation command) for designating that the time limiter is to be notified when another special symbol change display is performed.

  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 effect display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 10, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70. An effect control command other than the effect control command shown in FIG. 10 is also transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. For example, a more detailed presentation control command related to the big hit game and a presentation control command indicating a gaming state (for example, a presentation control command indicating an initialization command) are also transmitted from the main board 31 to the presentation control board 80.

  In addition, in the case where the effect display device 9 also performs a variation display of the decoration symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol, the game control microcomputer 560, in addition to the effect control command shown in FIG. You may make it transmit the various production control commands for performing a display. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 corresponds to the variable display of the special symbol, the variation pattern command for designating the variation pattern of the decorative symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9, or the decorative symbol designated by the variation pattern command. The display result command for designating the display result of the variable display and the decoration design stop designation command for instructing the stop of the variable display of the decorative design may be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100. When the effect display device 9 also performs a variation display of the decorative symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 sends an effect storage information designation command for designating the number of reserved memories to the effect control microcomputer. You may make it transmit to 100.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern (variation time) of a special symbol used in this embodiment. The variation patterns # 1 to # 4 are variation patterns that are used when the gaming state is a normal state (not when the time is short). The variation patterns # 5 to # 8 are variation patterns for shortening variation that are used when the gaming state is the short time state. In this embodiment, a normal variation pattern table in which data indicating variation patterns # 1 to # 4 is set is stored in the ROM 54 in advance, and data indicating variation patterns # 5 to # 8 is set. A shortening variation pattern table is stored in the ROM 54 in advance.

  Next, the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process. In the special symbol normal process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) can start the variation of the special symbol (for example, the value of the special symbol process flag becomes a value indicating step S300). (Step S501), the value of the start winning memorized number (the number of reserved memories) is confirmed (step S502). Specifically, the count value of the start winning storage counter is confirmed. The case where the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is a case where the symbol is not changed in the effect display device 9 and is not in the big hit game.

  If the number of reserved memories is not 0 in step S502, each random number value (random numbers for determination and display design random numbers) stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved memories = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. At the same time (step S503), the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S504), and the value of the reserved storage number is decreased by 1 (the value of the start winning storage counter is decreased by 1). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. 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. That is, in this example, every time the variable display start condition is satisfied, the CPU 56 executes a process of shifting the contents of each storage area.

  Note that, for example, in the case where the decorative display is also displayed on the effect display device 9 in synchronization with the special display, the value of the start winning memory counter is updated in step S504 (a predetermined work area provided in the RAM). The CPU 56 may transmit the effect storage information designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 in the effect symbol command control process (step S29).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes big hit determination processing (steps S505 and S506) for determining whether or not to win. The CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S505), and executes the jackpot determination module (step S506). The jackpot determination module is a program that determines that a jackpot is determined when the jackpot determination random number matches a predetermined jackpot determination value. Note that the CPU 56 may use a software random number or a hardware random number output from a random number circuit as the big hit determination random number used for the big hit determination.

  In this embodiment, the jackpot determination process in steps S505 and S506 is determined to be a jackpot with a probability of 100%. For example, the CPU 56 prepares in advance jackpot determination values corresponding to all random number values of the jackpot determination random number, and even if any random number value is extracted as the jackpot determination random number, the jackpot determination random number Is determined to match the jackpot determination value and determined to be a jackpot.

  If the value of the start winning memory counter is updated in step S504 without performing the big hit determination process in steps S505 and S506, the process may directly move to step S507. Further, instead of determining the jackpot with a probability of 100 percent, it may be determined that the jackpot is almost (with a very high probability (for example, a probability of 80 percent or more, preferably 90 percent or more)). .

  If it is determined that the jackpot is made with a probability of 100 percent, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol when the jackpot is determined and loads a jackpot symbol setting table for determining the type of jackpot (step S507). ). Further, the CPU 56 reads out the big hit symbol random number for determining the special symbol stop symbol and the big hit type when the big hit is determined from the random number storage buffer (step S508). Then, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type based on the jackpot symbol setting table and the jackpot symbol random number (step S509).

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a jackpot symbol setting table. As shown in FIG. 13, the jackpot symbol setting table includes a random number value of the jackpot symbol random number, a special symbol stop symbol, and a jackpot type in association with each other. In step S509, the CPU 56 determines the special symbol stop symbol as any one of “1” to “9” according to the setting contents shown in FIG. 13 according to the random number value of the jackpot symbol. Further, the CPU 56 determines either the big hit type 1 (2 round big hit) or the big hit 2 (5 round big hit) according to the setting content shown in FIG. 13 according to the random number value of the big hit symbol random number. As shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, the jackpot is determined to be 1 with a very high probability (specifically, with a probability of 90%) as compared to the jackpot 2. Note that the probability that the jackpot is determined to be 1 is not limited to 90%, and for example, the jackpot may be determined to be 1 with a probability of 80%. The jackpot 1 and the jackpot 2 may be determined with the same probability (that is, with a probability of 50% for both), and the jackpot 2 may be determined with a higher probability than the jackpot 1. Good.

  If the determined big hit type is big hit 2 (Y in step S510), the CPU 56 sets a big hit 2 flag indicating that it has been determined to be big hit 2 (step S511), and proceeds to step S512. If the determined big hit type is not big hit 2, that is, big hit 1 (N in step S510), the process proceeds to step S512 as it is.

  Next, the CPU 56 transmits a background display designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S512). For example, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a time reduction flag, which will be described later, is set. If the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 transmits a time reduction state background designation command (command 9501 (H) shown in FIG. 10). If the time flag is not set, a normal state background designation command (command 9500 (H) shown in FIG. 10) is transmitted. Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value indicating the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S513).

  FIG. 14 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 first checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S201). If the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 determines to use the normal variation pattern table (see FIG. 11) (step S202). If the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 determines to use the shortening variation pattern table (see FIG. 11) (step S203).

  In the normal variation pattern table, variation patterns # 1 to # 4 shown in FIG. 11 are set in advance, and a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern. In addition, in the h shortening variation pattern table, variation patterns # 5 to # 8 shown in FIG. 11 are set in advance, and a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern.

  The CPU 56 reads the variation pattern determination random number from the random number storage buffer, and determines the variation pattern of the decorative pattern using the normal variation pattern table or the shortened variation pattern table based on the read variation pattern determination random number value (step) S204). Specifically, the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random value is determined as the variation pattern of the special symbol executed by the special symbol display 8. When the gaming state is the normal state, the CPU 56 determines to use any one of the variation patterns # 1 to # 4. Further, when the gaming state is the time saving state, the CPU 56 determines to use any one of the variation patterns # 5 to # 8.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the variation time in the special symbol process timer (step S205). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S302 (step S206).

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation process, first, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S351). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the special symbol process timer has expired (that is, whether or not the value of the special symbol process timer is 0), and if it has not expired (N in step S352), it remains as it is. The special symbol variation process is terminated. If the special symbol process timer has expired (Y in step S352), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S303 (step S353).

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation stop process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation stop process, the CPU 56 stops the variation of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8, and derives and displays the stop symbol (big hit symbol) (step S361). In this case, in the case where the decorative symbol variation display is performed in synchronization with the special symbol variation display, the CPU 56 stops the special symbol variation and specifies stoppage of the decorative symbol variation in the effect display device 9. The decorative design stop designation command to be sent may be transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  Next, the CPU 56 informs the player that the jackpot game is started after the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the jackpot control timer that measures the time for controlling the opening / closing of the jackpot. An execution time of fanfare effect) (a jackpot display time (for example, 3 seconds)) is set (step S362).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit 2 flag is set (step S363). If it is not set (that is, if the jackpot is 1), the CPU 56 transmits a jackpot 1 start designation command (first fanfare designation command) to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S364). Then, control goes to a step S366.

  If the big hit 2 flag is set (that is, if the big hit 2), the CPU 56 sends a big hit 2 start designation command (second fanfare designation command) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S365). Then, control goes to a step S366.

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the time reduction counter for measuring the number of time reductions (step S366), and checks whether or not the value of the time reduction counter after the subtraction is 1 (step S367). If the value of the time reduction counter is not 1, the process proceeds to step S369. If the value of the time reduction counter is 1, the CPU 56 transmits a time reduction end notice designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S368).

  In step S369, the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S369). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S304 (step S370).

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the pre-opening process for the special winning opening in the special symbol process (step S304). In the big prize opening pre-processing, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the big prize opening control timer by 1 (step S401). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (step S402). If the value is not 0 (N in step S402), the process is ended as it is. If the value of the big winning opening control timer is 0 (Y in step S402), the pointer of the big winning opening opening setting table for setting the opening time (round time) of the big winning opening at the time of big hit is a pointer. (Step S403).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a maximum time (round time) in which the big prize opening can be opened in each round in the big hit in the big prize opening control timer (step S404). Note that the set round time is, for example, 29 seconds.

  Next, the CPU 56 drives the solenoid 21 to perform control for opening the special winning opening (opening / closing plate 20) (step S405), and increments the value of the round number counter by 1 (step S406). In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided, and in step S405, the CPU 56 determines the contents related to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area of the output port. Set according to the open / close state of the solenoid to be driven. Then, the contents set in the RAM area of the output port in the output process of step S33 are output to the output port. As a result, a drive command signal is output from the output port to the solenoid circuit 59. The solenoid circuit 59 outputs a drive signal for driving the solenoid in response to a drive command signal to drive the solenoid. Hereinafter, in the process of opening and closing the solenoid, such an operation is performed.

  Next, the CPU 56 transmits a display command (A1XX (H)) during opening of the special prize opening designating the display state according to the number of rounds during the opening (during round) of the special prize opening to the effect control microcomputer 100. Is performed (step S407). The number of rounds is recognized by checking the value of a round number counter that counts the number of rounds in the big hit game. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S305 (step S408).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the special winning opening opening process (step S305) in the special symbol process. In the large winning opening opening process, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the game ball has been won at the large winning opening by confirming whether or not the count switch 23 is turned on (step S421). If the count switch 23 is on (that is, if a game ball has won a big winning opening), the process proceeds to step S424. If the count switch 23 is not turned on (that is, if the game ball has not won a prize winning opening), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the prize winning control timer by -1 (step S422). Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special winning opening control timer is 0 (step S423). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (Y in step S423), the process proceeds to step S424. If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0 (N in step S423), the processing is ended as it is.

  In this embodiment, when the process of step S421 is executed, if one game ball is won in the big winning opening, the process proceeds to step S424 even if the round time (for example, 29 seconds) elapses. Close the big prize opening. It should be noted that, based on the fact that a plurality (for example, two) of game balls have won in the big prize opening, the process may move to step S424 to close the big prize opening. In this case, for example, if the count switch 23 is turned on in step S421, the CPU 56 increments the value of the winning number counter for counting the number of winning game balls to the big winning opening. Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number (for example, two). If the value of the winning number counter is not the predetermined number, the process proceeds to step S422. When the value of the winning number counter reaches the predetermined number, the process proceeds to step S424.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets, in the pointer, the address of the time table after opening the big prize opening for setting the time (interval time) from the end of the round at the big hit to the start of the next round (step S424). . Next, the CPU 56 sets the time (interval time) from the end of the round during the big hit to the start of the next round (interval time) in the big prize opening control timer (step S425). The interval time is 5 seconds, for example.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to drive the solenoid 21 to close the special winning opening (opening / closing plate 20) (step S426). In this case, in the case of controlling to close the grand prize opening based on the winning of a plurality of (for example, two) game balls in the big prize opening, the value of the winning number counter is cleared (0). ).

  Next, the CPU 56 sends a display designation command (A2XX (H)) after opening the big prize opening to the microcomputer 100 for effect control that designates a display state corresponding to the number of rounds after the opening of the big prize opening (after the end of the round). Transmission control is performed (step S427). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value according to step S306 (post-processing for opening the big prize opening) (step S428).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the post-opening process for the special winning opening (step S306) in the special symbol process. In the special winning opening opening post-process, the CPU 56 first decrements the value of the special winning opening control timer by -1 (step S441). Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special winning opening control timer is 0 (step S442). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0 (N in step S442), the process is terminated as it is.

  If the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (Y in step S442), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit 2 flag is set (step S443). If it is not set (that is, if it is a big hit 1), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the round number counter is 2 (step S444). If the value of the round number counter is not 2, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S304 (preliminary winning opening process) (step S447). If the value of the round number counter is 2, the CPU 56 transmits a jackpot 1 end designation command (first ending designation command) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S445), and proceeds to step S449.

  If the big hit 2 flag is set in step S443 (that is, if the big hit is 2), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the round number counter is 5 (step S446). If the value of the number of rounds counter is not 5, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S304 (pre-processing for opening a big prize opening) (step S447). If the value of the round number counter is 5, the CPU 56 transmits a jackpot 2 end designation command (second ending designation command) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S448), and proceeds to step S449.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets the execution time of the effect (ending effect (for example, 10 seconds)) for notifying the player of the end of the big hit in the big prize opening control timer (step S449), and the special symbol process flag is set. The value is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (big hit end process) (step S450).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the big hit ending process, the CPU 56 first decrements the value of the big prize opening control timer by -1 (step S461). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the special winning opening control timer is 0 (step S462). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0 (N in step S462), the process is terminated as it is.

  If the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (Y in step S462), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the hour / times counter is 0 (step S463). If the value of the time reduction counter is not 0, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag indicating that the gaming state is shifted to the time reduction state (step S464), and the process proceeds to step S466.

  If the value of the time reduction counter is 0 in step S453, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined value (for example, time reduction limit value 200) in the time reduction counter (step S465) without setting the time reduction flag. The process directly proceeds to step S466. That is, when the value of the time reduction counter is 0, it means that the special symbol change display has been finished a predetermined number of times (for example, 200 times) after the big hit once, so the CPU 56 does not change the time reduction counter. In addition to returning the value to the initial value, control is performed so that a time limiter is applied (that is, it does not shift to the time reduction state after the end of the current big hit).

  It should be noted that when the value of the time reduction counter is not 0 in step S463, the time reduction flag is not always set to shift to the time reduction state, but almost (for example, a probability of 80% or more, preferably 90% or more) ()) You may make it shift to a short time state. In this case, for example, if the value of the time reduction counter is not 0 in step S463, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to shift to the time reduction state by performing a lottery process using a predetermined time reduction determination random number. To decide. If it is determined to shift to the time reduction state, the process proceeds to step S464 and the time reduction flag is set. On the other hand, if it is determined not to shift to the time reduction state, the process directly proceeds to step S466, and control is performed so as not to set the time reduction flag.

  Next, when it is set, the CPU 56 resets the big hit 2 flag (step S466). Then, the CPU 56 updates the internal state (the value of the special symbol process flag) to a value corresponding to step S300 (special symbol normal process) (step S467).

  Next, the normal symbol process (step S28) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol process, when the game control microcomputer 560 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 and the gate switch 32a is turned on (step S161), the game switch microcomputer 560 performs a gate switch passage process (step S162). Run.

  In the gate switch passage process, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the count value of the gate passage memory counter (the number of gate passage memories) 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. Further, the game control microcomputer 560 extracts the random number for normal symbol determination (random 3) and the random number for normal symbol determination (random 5), and saves the storage area (normal symbol) corresponding to the value of the number of passages through the gate. Processing to be stored in the determination buffer.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 executes any one of the processes shown in steps S170 to S174 in accordance with the value of the normal symbol process flag.

  The processes in steps S170 to S174 are as follows.

  Normal symbol normal processing (step S170): This is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is zero. The state in which the value of the normal symbol process flag is 0 is a state in which normal symbol variation can be started (for example, the normal symbol change display is not performed on the normal symbol display 10 and This is a case where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not in the open / close operation based on the fact that the symbol is derived and displayed on the normal symbol display 10. The game control microcomputer 560 checks the value of the number of passages through the gate in the normal symbol normal processing. Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the number of stored gate passages is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win using the normal symbol per-determining random number (whether or not to stop the normal symbol as a winning symbol). Also, the stop symbol of the normal symbol is determined using the random symbol for determining the normal symbol. Then, the normal symbol process timer is set to the normal symbol process timer, and the normal symbol process timer is started. Also, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “1”) corresponding to the normal symbol changing process (step S171).

  Normal symbol changing process (step S171): This is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is 1. The game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out. If timed out, the normal symbol change in the normal symbol display 10 is stopped, the normal symbol process symbol is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the normal symbol process timer is started. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) corresponding to the normal symbol stop process (step S172).

  Normal symbol stop process (step S172): Executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is 2. The game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, checks 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”) corresponding to the normal symbol normal processing (step S170). If the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) corresponding to the normal electric accessory release pre-processing (step S173).

  Normal electric accessory release pre-processing (step S173): This is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3. If it is before the first opening, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the opening number in the opening number counter, and drives the solenoid 15a to open the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15). Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “4”) corresponding to the process for releasing the normal electric accessory (step S174). If it is not before the first opening, that is, after the second or later opening, the closing time is measured, and when the closing time has elapsed, the value of the normal symbol process flag is set to the processing for opening the normal electric accessory (step S174). ) To a value corresponding to (specifically “4”).

  Normal electric accessory opening process (step S174): This is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is 4. The game control microcomputer 560 measures the opening time, and when the opening time has elapsed, stops the driving of the solenoid 15a and closes the ordinary electric accessory. When the last release is completed, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) corresponding to the normal symbol normal process (step S170). If the final release is not completed, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “3”) corresponding to the normal electric accessory release pre-processing (step S173).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol normal process (step S170). In the normal symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gate passing memory number is 0 (step S721). Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is 0, the process is terminated as it is. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads the normal symbol per-design random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = 1 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S722). ). The CPU 56 also stores the normal symbol determining random number in the random number buffer area. Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the gate passage storage number counter by 1 and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S723). That is, a random number value for determination per normal symbol stored in a storage area corresponding to the number of gate passing memories = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in a storage area corresponding to the number of gate passing memories = n−1. To store.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the normal random number for determination per symbol from the random number storage buffer (step S724), and determines whether to win or not based on the read random number value (step S725). 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, control is performed so that the hit determination values are 3 and 7, and the random number for normal symbol determination is updated in a numerical range of 3 to 13. In this case, the winning probability of the normal symbol hit determination is 2/11. Further, the CPU 56 determines the stop symbol of the normal symbol using the normal symbol determining random number. In the case of winning, the stop symbol of the normal symbol is “7”, for example.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S726A). If the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 sets the normal symbol change time for normal change in the normal symbol process timer (step S726B). If the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 sets the normal symbol variation time for shortening variation in the normal symbol process timer (step S726C). And CPU56 starts the fluctuation | variation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 (step S727). In this embodiment, as shown in the explanatory diagram of FIG. 25A, the variation time of the normal symbol in the normal state is 30.0 seconds, and the variation time of the normal symbol in the short time state is 3.0 seconds. It is. Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “1”) corresponding to the normal symbol changing process (step S171) (step S728).

  When the gaming state is a short-time state, the special symbol variation time is 1 to 2.5 seconds as shown in FIG. 11, whereas the normal symbol variation as shown in FIG. The time is as long as 3.0 seconds. For this reason, there is no situation in which the normal symbol variation starts and stops during the special symbol variation display. For example, if the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, there is a situation in which the fluctuation of the normal symbol is started and the winning symbol is stopped and displayed during the special symbol fluctuation display. In this case, since the change display of the special symbol is not yet finished when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the number of reserved memories increases by one. In this case, the number of reserved memories tends to be accumulated, and since the number of reserved memories is not 0 when the time limiter is applied, a special symbol variation display is immediately started and a big hit is likely to occur. Therefore, it is not possible to ensure an appropriate gambling ability in the game. In this embodiment, since the variation time of the normal symbol is configured to be longer, it is possible to prevent a situation where the normal symbol hit symbol is stopped during the special symbol variation display. It is possible to make it difficult to accumulate the number of reserved memories. Therefore, it is possible to ensure an appropriate amount of gambling in the game.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol changing process (step S171). In the normal symbol changing 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 timed out (step S731). If the normal symbol process timer has not timed out, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S735).

  When the normal symbol process timer times out, that is, when the variation time of the ordinary symbol has elapsed, the CPU 56 stops the variation of the ordinary symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10 (step S732). Also, the normal symbol stop symbol display time is set in the normal symbol process timer (step S733). Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) corresponding to the normal symbol stop process (step S172) (step S734).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol stop process (step S172). 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 timed out (step S741). If the normal symbol process timer has not timed out, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S742).

  When the normal symbol process timer times out, that is, when the normal symbol stop symbol display time elapses, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol stop symbol is a winning symbol (step S743). When the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S744). If the hour / hour flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the release pattern set in the hour / hour hour table in which the values shown in the lower part of FIG. S745). If the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 selects the release pattern set in the normal time table in which the values shown in the upper part of FIG. S746). In the example shown in FIG. 25, the normal time table has an open pattern with an open time of 0.3 seconds (0.3 s), a close time of 1.0 seconds (1.0 s), and an open count of 2 times. Data indicating that is set. In this embodiment, in the normal state, 2.6 seconds is set as the normal electric accessory operating time in the normal symbol process timer, and after the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for 0.3 seconds, it is closed, After the closing time of 1.0 second elapses, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened again. Then, when the opening time of 0.3 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed again, and when the closing time of 1.0 seconds elapses, a normal electric timer which will be described later times out, and the value of the normal symbol process flag Goes from 3 to 0. In the time reduction table, as an opening pattern, data indicating that the opening time is 1.2 seconds (1.2 s), the closing time is 1.5 seconds (1.5 s), and the number of times of opening is three times. Is set. In this embodiment, when the time is short, the normal symbol process timer is set to 8.1 seconds as the normal electric accessory operating time, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed after being opened for 1.2 seconds, After the closing time of 1.5 seconds has elapsed, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened again. Next, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed after being opened for 1.2 seconds, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened again after the closing time of 1.5 seconds has elapsed. Further, when the opening time of 1.2 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed again, and when the closing time of 1.5 seconds elapses, a normal electric timer which will be described later times out, and the normal symbol process flag Shifts from 3 to 0.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a first pre-release flag (step S747). Also, the release pattern selected in step S745 or S746 is set in the release pattern buffer (step S748). Thereafter, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) corresponding to the normal electric accessory release pre-processing (step S173) (step S749).

  If the stop symbol of the normal symbol is an off symbol, the CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically, “0”) corresponding to the normal symbol normal process (step S170) (step S170). S743, S750).

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the ordinary electric accessory release pre-processing (step S173). In the normal electric accessory release pre-processing, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first pre-open flag is set (step S761). If the first pre-release flag is set, the first pre-release flag is reset (step S762), and the number of releases set in the release pattern buffer is set in the release number counter (step S763). . Further, a value corresponding to the release time set in the release pattern buffer is set in the normal electric timer (step S764). Further, the solenoid 15a is driven to open the variable winning ball device 15 (step S765), and the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value (specifically “4”) corresponding to the normal electric release process (step S174). (Step S766).

  When the CPU 56 confirms that the flag before the first opening is not set in the process of step S761, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the normal electric timer (step S767). Then, when the value of the normal power combination timer becomes 0, that is, when the normal power combination timer times out, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the number-of-releases counter is 0 (steps S768 and S768A). If the value of the opening number counter is not 0, the process proceeds to step S764. If the value of the number-of-releases counter is 0, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) corresponding to the normal symbol normal process (step S170) (step S768B). In addition, the process of step S767 and S768 is a process for measuring the closing time after the opening | release after the 1st time is complete | finished.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the process during the opening of the ordinary electric accessory (step S174). In the process for releasing the normal electric combination, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the normal electric combination timer (step S771). When the value of the ordinary electric combination timer becomes 0, that is, when the ordinary electric combination timer times out (step S772), the drive of the solenoid 15a is stopped and the ordinary electric combination (variable winning ball apparatus 15) is removed. Close (step S773).

  Further, the value of the opening number counter is decremented by -1 (step S774), and a value corresponding to the closing time set in the opening pattern buffer is set in the normal electric timer (step S776). Thereafter, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) corresponding to the normal electric release pre-processing (step S173) (step S777).

  It should be noted that the opening of the second start winning opening 14 in a short time is configured to end the opening when one winning is detected. Therefore, when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is released by one winning of the normal symbol variation, the opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is controlled to be terminated when approximately one (for example, about 90%) is won. However, there are cases where two or more game balls continue to win while the variable winning ball device 15 is opened, and in this case, the ball is put on hold. Winning two or more balls is about 10% of the short-term opening. When the winning of two or more balls occurs at the end of the time-limit limiter, the time-saving state is continued until the time is reached 200 times.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80. The production control microcomputer 100 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 start interval of the effect control processing (step S701). Thereafter, the effect control microcomputer 100 proceeds to a loop process for confirming the monitoring of the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interruption occurs, the production control microcomputer 100 sets a timer interruption flag in the timer interruption process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer 100 clears the flag (step S703), and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 first analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs 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 effect display device 9 is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  In the case where the decorative symbol variation display is also performed in synchronization with the special symbol variation display, the rendering control microcomputer 100 displays the left, right and right decorative symbols displayed on the effect display device 9 in the rendering control main process. Count value of a counter for generating random numbers such as a random number for determining an off symbol for determining an off symbol, or a random number for determining a big hit display symbol for determining a big hit symbol of a decorative symbol displayed on the effect display device 9 It is also possible to execute a random number update process for updating.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing command analysis processing (step S704) in the main processing. The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is stored in the command reception buffer in the command reception process executed by the INT interrupt. In the command analysis process, the production control microcomputer 100 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. If the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control microcomputer 100 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612).

  When the effect control command received by the command reception process executed by the INT interrupt is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines whether the received command is an effect control command existing in the program. You may make it confirm whether or not. For example, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether the MODE data of the first byte of the received command exists in the program such as “95”, “A0”, “A1” (see FIG. 10). If the MODE data does not exist in the program, it may be determined that the effect control command has not been correctly received due to garbled data or the like, and the received command may be discarded. Further, even if the MODE data exists in the program, it is confirmed whether or not the EXT data of the second byte exists in the program with respect to the MODE data (see FIG. 10), and the EXT that does not exist in the program. If it is data, it may be determined that the effect control command has not been correctly received due to garbled data or the like, and the received command may be discarded. In this case, the received command is not stored in the command reception buffer, and is processed in the command analysis process as if the effect control command has not been received.

  If the received effect control command is a fanfare-designated effect control command (fanfare command: A000 (H), A001 (H)) (step S613), the effect control microcomputer 100 stores the EXT data of the command in the RAM. Is stored in the fanfare data storage area (step S614), and a fanfare flag indicating that the fanfare command has been received is set (step S615).

  If the received effect control command is an ending-designated effect control command (ending command: A300 (H), A301 (H)) (step S616), the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the EXT data of the command. Is stored in the ending data storage area in the RAM (step S617), and an ending flag indicating that the ending command has been received is set (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command for specifying a short time end notice (short time end notice designation command: A400 (H)) (step S619), the effect control microcomputer 100 performs one more special operation. A short time end notice flag indicating that a short time end notice effect for notifying that a short time limiter is applied when the symbol variation display is performed is set (step S620).

  If the received command read in step S612 is another effect control command, the effect control microcomputer 100 sets a flag corresponding to the received command (step S621). For example, the effect control microcomputer 100 stores the number of rounds indicated by the EXT data in the data storage area in the RAM when the received command is a display command during the opening of the big prize opening or a display command after the big prize opening is opened. At the same time, a display reception flag during opening of a special prize opening indicating that the display command is during opening of a special prize opening and a display reception flag after opening of a special prize opening indicating that it is a display command after opening of the special prize opening are set.

  In the case where the decorative symbol variation display is performed in synchronization with the special symbol variation display, for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 receives a variation pattern command, a display result command, and a decorative symbol stop from the game control microcomputer 560. Receive the specified command. In this case, the production control microcomputer 100 stores the variation pattern indicated by the EXT data and the display result data in the data storage area in the RAM, and also receives the variation pattern command, the display result command, and the decorative symbol stop designation command. A variation pattern command reception flag, a display result reception flag, and a decorative symbol stop designation reception flag are set to indicate that this has occurred. Further, for example, when an effect storage information designation command is received, the reserved storage number indicated by the EXT data is stored in the data storage area in the RAM.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process. In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs one of steps S800 to S804 in accordance with the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fanfare command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether a fanfare-designated effect control command (fanfare command) has been received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (fanfare flag) indicating that a fanfare command has been received is set. The fanfare flag is set when it is confirmed that a fanfare-designated effect control command (A000 (H) or A001 (H)) has been received in the command analysis processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100. (See step S615). When the fanfare flag is received, the internal state (effect design process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to step S801.

  Big hit display process (step S801): A fanfare effect is executed. Also, when receiving a display command indicating that the special winning opening is open, the internal state (effect design process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) according to step S802.

  In-round processing (step S802): Display control during round is performed. For example, the display control of the number of rounds is performed on the basis of the received winning command opening display command. Also, when a display command after opening the big prize opening indicating that the big prize opening is after being opened (closed) is received, the internal state (production symbol process flag) is set to a value (3 in this example) according to step S803. Update.

  Post-round processing (step S803): Display control between rounds is performed. For example, the interval display is performed based on the received display command after opening the big winning opening. Then, when the display command for opening the special winning opening is received, the internal state (effect symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) according to step S802. When the ending command for designating the end of the big hit is received, the internal state (effect design process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) according to step S804.

  Big hit end effect processing (step S804): Control of the big hit end display after the end of the big hit game is performed. For example, an ending effect is executed based on the received ending command. When the effect period of the ending effect ends, the internal state (effect symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S800.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the fanfare command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process. In the fanfare command reception waiting process, first, the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) checks whether or not the fanfare flag is set (step S810). That is, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a fanfare command has been received. When the fanfare flag is set (Y in step S810), the effect control CPU 101 resets the fanfare flag (step S811).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the second fanfare command has been received (step S812). Specifically, in the command analysis process, it is confirmed whether or not the EXT data (see step S614) stored in the fanfare data storage area in the RAM is 01 (H). If the second fanfare command has not been received (that is, if the first fanfare command has been received), the production control CPU 101 processes the process data corresponding to the fanfare 1 production informing the start of the jackpot 1 gaming state. Is selected (step S813). If the second fanfare command is received, the effect control CPU 101 selects process data corresponding to the fanfare 2 effect informing the start of the big hit 2 gaming state (step S814).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 starts a process timer (step S815), and sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S801) (step S816).

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S801) in the effect control process. In the big hit display process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not the big winning opening open flag indicating that the big winning opening open display command has been received is set (step S820). When the big prize opening open flag is not set (N in step S820), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S821). Then, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device (the effect display device 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28a to 28c, etc.) according to the contents of the process data n (step S822). For example, the effect display device 9 performs an effect of displaying characters or characters indicating that a big hit has occurred. Note that, for example, different characters and characters may be displayed when the big hit 1 gaming state is started and when the big hit 2 gaming state is started. For example, a character string such as “2 round jackpot” may be displayed when starting a big hit 1 gaming state, and a character string such as “5 round jackpot” may be displayed when starting a big winning 2 gaming state. . In addition, for example, the same mode of effect may be performed when the big hit 1 gaming state is started and when the big hit 2 gaming state is started.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S823), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S824). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer, and the process timer is started (step S825).

  When the big prize opening open flag is set (Y in step S820), the production control CPU 101 produces the round presentation (the round display corresponding to the number of rounds) based on the contents of the big prize opening open display command. An effect to be executed is selected (step S826). Next, the special winning opening open flag is reset (step S827), and process data corresponding to the effect during the round is selected (step S828). Then, the process timer is started (step S829), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S802) (step S830).

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing mid-round processing (step S802) in the effect control process. In the in-round processing, the production control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a flag after opening the big prize opening indicating that the display command after opening the special prize opening has been received is set (step S840). When the flag after opening the big prize opening is not set (N in step S840), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S841), and the effect device (effect display) Control of the apparatus 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28a to 28c, etc.) is executed (step S842). For example, the effect display device 9 performs an effect of displaying characters indicating the number of rounds, other backgrounds, characters, and the like.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the time-short-end notice flag is set (step S843). If it is set, the effect control CPU 101 superimposes and displays on the effect display device 9 that the time limiter will be applied once another special symbol change display is performed (step S844). For example, the effect control CPU 101 executes a time-short end notice effect by superimposing and displaying a character string such as “time-short last chance !!” or “one more time until the time-short end!” On the effect display device 9.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S845), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S846). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer setting value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S847).

  When the flag for opening the big prize opening is set (Y in step S840), the effect control CPU 101 performs interval presentation (interval display according to the number of rounds) based on the contents of the display command after opening the big prize opening. (Production) is selected (step S848). Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the flag after opening the special winning opening (step S849) and selects process data corresponding to the selected interval effect (step S850). Then, the process timer is started (step S851), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the round post-processing (step S803) (step S852).

  34 and 35 are flowcharts showing the post-round processing (step S803) in the effect control process. In the round post-processing, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an ending flag is set (step S860). If the ending flag has not been set (N in step S860), it is checked whether or not the big winning opening opening flag indicating that the big winning opening open display command has been received is set (step S861). When the big prize opening open flag is not set (N in Step S861), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (Step S862), and the effect device (effect display) Control of the apparatus 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28a to 28c, etc.) is executed (step S863). For example, the effect display device 9 performs an effect of displaying a predetermined background or character.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the time-short-end notice flag is set (step S864). If it is set, the effect control CPU 101 superimposes and displays on the effect display device 9 that the time limiter will be applied when another special symbol change display is performed (step S865). For example, the effect control CPU 101 executes a time-short end notice effect by superimposing and displaying a character string such as “time-short last chance !!” or “one more time until the time-short end!” On the effect display device 9.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S866), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S867). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer, and the process timer is started (step S868).

  When the big prize opening open flag is set (Y in step S861), the production control CPU 101 produces the round presentation (the round display corresponding to the number of rounds) based on the contents of the big prize opening open display command. An effect to be executed is selected (step S869). Next, the special winning opening open flag is reset (step S870), and the process data corresponding to the effect during the round is selected (step S871). Then, the process timer is started (step S872), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the mid-round process (step S802) (step S873).

  The ending flag is set (Y in step S860) when an ending command is received from the game control microcomputer 560. In this case, the effect control CPU 101 first resets the ending flag (step S874) and confirms whether or not the second ending command is received (step S875). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the EXT data (see step S617) stored in the ending data storage area in the RAM is 01 (H) in the command analysis process. If the second ending command has not been received (that is, if the first ending command has been received), the effect control CPU 101 processes the process data corresponding to the ending 1 effect to notify the end of the jackpot 1 gaming state. Is selected (step S876). If it is a case where the 2nd ending command is received, CPU101 for production control will select the process data according to the ending 2 production which alert | reports completion | finish of jackpot 2 game state (step S877).

  Next, the production control CPU 101 starts the production period measurement timer and starts the process timer (step S878). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect process (step S804) (step S879). In step S878, for example, 10 seconds is set in the effect period measurement timer as the effect period.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end effect process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the big hit end effect process, the effect control CPU 101 first decrements the value of the effect period measurement timer by 1 (step S890) and checks whether the effect period measurement timer has timed out (step S891).

  When the production period measurement timer has not timed out (N in step S891), the production control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S892), and the production device (production display device 9) according to the contents of the process data n. , The speaker 27 etc.) is executed (step S893). For example, by displaying that the jackpot ends or by displaying a predetermined character on the display screen of the effect display device 9 and displaying a sentence such as “See you!” As a character line, the jackpot ends. Is notified. Note that, for example, different characters and characters may be displayed when the jackpot 1 gaming state is terminated and when the jackpot 2 gaming state is terminated. For example, a character string such as “End of 2 rounds of jackpot” is displayed when starting a big hit 1 gaming state, and a string of characters such as “End of 5 rounds of jackpot” is displayed when starting a big jackpot 2 gaming state. Also good. In addition, for example, the same aspect of the effect may be performed when the jackpot 1 gaming state is terminated and when the jackpot 2 gaming state is terminated.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S894), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S895). Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S896).

  When the production period measurement timer has timed out (Y in step S891), the production control CPU 101 resets predetermined flags such as a short time end notice flag (step S897), and waits for the reception of the fanfare command. A value corresponding to the process (step S800) is set (step S898).

  Next, an effect aspect of the effect during the round executed in the effect display device 9 will be described. FIG. 37 is an explanatory view showing a display example of the effect during the round executed in the effect display device 9. As shown in FIG. 37, the effect control CPU 101 displays a background such as a cherry tree on the effect display device 9 together with a character string indicating the number of rounds such as “Round 1” in the effect during the round (see step S842). In addition, when the short-time end notice flag is set, the effect control CPU 101, as shown in FIG. 37 (B), displays a character string indicating that the short-time limiter is applied when another special symbol change display is performed. (In the example shown in FIG. 37B, the character string “shortest time chance!”) Is superimposed and displayed on the effect display device 9 (see steps S843 and S844).

  In this embodiment, even in the interval effect executed between rounds, a predetermined background, character, etc. are displayed, and in the same manner as the effect during the round when the short-time end notice flag is set. , If you display the variation of the special symbol one more time, a character string indicating that it will be applied to the time limiter (for example, a character string such as “Time Last Last Chance!” Or “One Time Until Time End!”) Is displayed. The image is superimposed on the device 9 (see steps S864 and S865). When the short-time end notice flag is set, a character string indicating that the short-time limiter is applied is displayed in the effect display device 9 when another special symbol change display is performed once in the round effect or the interval effect. The display may be superimposed.

  Next, the variation display of special symbols, the execution timing of the big hit game, and the control timing of the gaming state will be described. 38 to 43 are timing diagrams showing special symbol variation display, jackpot game execution timing, and game state control timing. In the example shown in FIG. 38, it is assumed that the gaming state is controlled to the normal state before the change of the special symbol starts. In addition, the time limiter value is 200, and it is assumed that the time limiter is applied when the 200th special symbol variation display is executed after a big hit occurs once.

  When the gaming state is the normal state, the second start winning port 14 is extremely difficult to start winning compared to the first start winning port 13, so the player first starts to the first start winning port 13. Aiming for winning, the hitting operation handle 5 is operated so that a game ball is launched to the left of the game board 6. When the game ball passes through the entrance 33 and further wins the first start winning opening 13, it is determined to be a big hit with a probability of 100% in the special symbol normal processing (see step S 300) (see steps S 505 and S 506). As shown in FIG. 38, the special symbol variation display is executed (see steps S205, S206, S351 to S353). In the example shown in FIG. 38, a case where it is determined that the jackpot is 1 is shown.

  When the variation time of the special symbol elapses (see Y in step S352), in the special symbol variation stop process (see step S303), the variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display 8 is stopped and the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed (step At the same time, the fanfare command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (see step S364).

  In response to the reception of the fanfare command from the game control microcomputer 560, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the effect display device 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28a to 28c, and other effect devices (the example shown in FIG. 38). Then, a fanfare effect for notifying the player that the jackpot 1) starts is executed for a predetermined period (see step S822). For example, a character (“big hit!”) Or the like indicating that the big hit is displayed on the effect display device 9. In addition, a sound effect when the big hit is made from the speaker 27 is sounded, or the lamps 28a to 28c and the like are turned on in a lighting pattern when the big hit is made.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, in the big winning opening opening pre-processing (see step S304), the measurement of the big hit display time (the time from the start of the fanfare effect until the start of the first round of the big hit) is started. When the jackpot display time has elapsed (see Y in step S402), a display command during the opening of the big prize opening is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 (see step S407). The display state of the effect display device 9 during each round is designated by a display command during opening of the big prize opening. Further, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening (see step S405). As a result, the first round in the big hit game starts.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 uses the effect display device 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28 a to 28 c, and other effect devices such as the effect display device 9 in response to reception of the display command for opening the big prize opening from the game control microcomputer 560. A round effect (round display) for notifying the player that the current round is in progress is executed (see step S842). For example, characters indicating the current round (“first round”), other backgrounds, characters, and the like are displayed on the effect display device 9. Further, a sound effect during the round is emitted from the speaker 27, and the lamps 28a to 28c and the like are lit in the lighting pattern during the round.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, round time measurement is started in the special winning opening opening process (see step S305). When the round time has elapsed (see Y in step S423), or when the game ball has won the big prize opening and the count switch 23 is turned on (see Y in step S421), the solenoid 21 is driven. The big prize opening is closed (see step S426). Thus, the first round during the big hit game is completed. In addition, a display command after the special winning opening is opened is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (see step S427).

  The production control microcomputer 100 uses the production devices such as the production display device 9, the speaker 27, and the lamps 28 a to 28 c in response to reception of the display command after the special winning opening is opened from the game control microcomputer 560. An interval effect (interval display) for notifying the player that the interval is within a predetermined period is executed (see step S863).

  In the game control microcomputer 560, in the post-opening process for the special winning opening (see step S306), the measurement of the interval time (the time from the end of the round to the start of the next round) is started. When the interval time elapses (see step S442), if the number of rounds has not reached 2 (see N in step S444), a special winning opening opening display command is produced in the pre-opening process for the big winning opening (see step S304). It is transmitted to the control microcomputer 100 (see step S407). Further, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening (see step S405).

  The above-described pre-opening process for the big prize opening, the process during the opening of the big prize opening, and the post-processing after the opening for the big prize opening are repeatedly executed until two rounds are completed. FIG. 38 shows a case where the jackpot is 1, but when it is determined that the jackpot is 2, the big prize opening pre-processing, the big prize opening opening process, and the big prize opening are performed according to the same processing. The post-opening process for the winning opening is repeated until 5 rounds are completed.

  In the post-opening process for the special winning opening (see step S306), when the value of the round number counter becomes 2 (see Y in step S444), an ending command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 (see step S445). ).

  In response to the reception of the ending command from the game control microcomputer 560, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the effect display device 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28a to 28c and other effect devices to end the big hit. An ending effect (a jackpot end display) to notify the person is executed for a predetermined period (see step S893). For example, a character indicating the end of a big hit (“See you !!”) or the like is displayed on the effect display device 9, a sound effect for the ending effect is sounded from the speaker 27, or the lamps 28a to 28c are used for the ending effect. Light up with a lighting pattern.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, in the jackpot end process (step S307), the measurement of the jackpot end time (the execution time of the ending effect for notifying the player of the end of the jackpot) is started. When the big hit end time has elapsed (see step S462), the time reduction flag is set (see step S463), and the gaming state is shifted to the time reduction state.

  When the gaming state is shifted to the short-time state, the second start winning opening 14 is easier to start than the first starting winning opening 13, so that the player can start to the second start winning opening 14. Aiming for winning, the hitting operation handle 5 is operated so that a game ball is launched to the right of the game board 6. For example, if the game ball successfully wins the second start winning opening 14 at the timing when the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the special symbol normal process (see step S300) will be a big hit with a probability of 100%. As shown in FIG. 39, the special symbol variation display is executed (see steps S205, S206, S351 to S353).

  Thereafter, according to the same processing as in FIG. 38, the opening control of the big prize opening and the jackpot game effect (fanfare effect, effect during the round, interval effect, ending effect) are executed, and when the jackpot game is ended, the hourly flag is set ( In step S463, the gaming state is again shifted to the time-saving state.

  Thereafter, according to the same processing, the opening control of the big winning opening and the big hit game effect are repeatedly executed based on the fact that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 according to the same processing until the time limiter is applied.

  When the special symbol variation time has elapsed and the special symbol variation is stopped and the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed (see Y in step S352, S361), the value of the short-time counter after subtraction is 1. Then (see step S367), as shown in FIG. 40, a short time end notice designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (see step S368).

  The effect control microcomputer 100 performs the time limiter when another special symbol change display is performed in the effect during the round and the interval effect based on the reception of the time-short-end notice designation command from the game control microcomputer 560. Is superimposed and displayed (see steps S844 and S865). For example, a time-short end notice effect is executed by superimposing and displaying a character string such as “time-short last chance !!” or “one more time until the time-short end!” On the effect display device 9.

  When the big hit game state is entered based on the display result of the 200th special symbol variation display after the big hit has occurred once, as shown in FIG. 41, the value of the short-time counter after subtraction becomes 0. ing. In this case, when the jackpot end time has elapsed (see step S462), the game control microcomputer 560 determines that the value of the time reduction counter is 0 (see Y of step S463), The value is returned to the initial value (200) (see step S465), and the big hit game is terminated without setting the time reduction flag. In other words, a time limiter is applied, and control is performed so as not to shift to the time-saving state after the big hit game ends (that is, control to the normal state).

  In this embodiment, since it is rare to start winning continuously after the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, the number of reserved memories becomes 0 when the big hit game is finished. It is almost that. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 41, in most cases, after the big hit at the time limiter end, the next special symbol variation display is not started, and the gaming state is controlled to the normal state.

  On the other hand, in some rare cases, the start winning prize may be consecutively given to the first starting prize opening 13 or the second starting prize opening 14. In this case, as shown in FIG. 42, when the big hit game is ended, the number of stored memories is accumulated (in the example shown in FIG. 42, the number of stored memories is one). In such a case, in the special symbol normal process (see step S300) after the big hit game is finished (see step S300), it is immediately determined that the number of reserved memories is not zero (see N in step S502). FIG. 42 and FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the special symbol variation display is executed immediately after the big hit (see steps S205, S206, S351 to S353).

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 43, the jackpot symbol is displayed with a probability of 100% as in FIG. 38, the jackpot game is started, and after the jackpot game is over, the state is shifted to the time-saving state. Similarly to FIGS. 39 to 41, until the special symbol variation display of 200 times is completed (until the time limiter is applied), the state is shifted to the time reduction state after the repeated big hit game is ended. Therefore, from the viewpoint of the player, the state where the bag is shifted to the short-time state after the big hit ends is twice as long as usual (that is, until the change display of 400 special symbols, which is twice as long as the normal short-time limiter), is completed. ) It can be shown to continue, and can further improve the interest in games.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 40, in the effect during the round and the interval effect in the previous big hit gaming state where the time limiter is applied, the time limiter is applied with another special symbol change display. Is notified (time-short end notice effect). If there is a reserve memory number at the time of the big hit at the time limiter limit, a game state in which the time limiter extends twice as much as normal can be obtained, so the player ends the time reduction in the round effect and interval effect When the notice effect is performed, the second start winning opening 14 is expected in the expectation that the time limiter will be doubled between the end of the jackpot game and the start of the display of the next special symbol. The hitting operation handle 5 is operated to start and win a plurality of game balls continuously (or may be the first start winning opening 13). Therefore, the playability can be further improved by providing the short-time end notice effect.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, a special symbol is displayed based on the fact that a game ball starts winning at the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14 and the execution condition of the variable display is established. There is provided a special symbol display 8 that executes variation display and always derives and displays a jackpot symbol as a display result of variation display of the special symbol. In addition, when a special jackpot symbol is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8 as a display result of the variation display of the special symbol, the special symbol display 8 is shifted to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player. In addition, when the big hit gaming state is finished, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is shifted to the short time state in which the variable winning ball device 15 is likely to be in the open state as compared with the normal state. Therefore, as long as the first winning prize opening 13 or the second starting prize opening 14 wins, the game can always be shifted to the big hit gaming state, and the interest of the game can be improved. In addition, since the game state is shifted to the short-time state when the big hit gaming state is completed, it is possible to provide a gaming state that is continuously shifted to the big hit gaming state, realizing new gaming characteristics and further interest in gaming. Can be improved. Further, when the game state is shifted to the big hit gaming state after being shifted to the short time state continuously for a predetermined number of times, control is performed so as not to shift to the short time state when the big hit gaming state is ended. Therefore, moderate euphoria can be ensured.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, the reserved memory that can specify the number of start winnings of the game balls to the first start winning port 13 and the second starting winning port 14 for which the execution condition up to the predetermined upper limit value is not satisfied. A pending storage number counter for storing the number is provided. Therefore, if there is a reserved memory when the game is shifted to the jackpot gaming state after a predetermined number of times of continuous transition, the jackpot gaming state is generated immediately after the jackpot gaming state is terminated. Thus, it is possible to control to shift again to the time-saving state again a predetermined number of times. Therefore, it is possible to provide a state in which the short-time state continues twice as long as usual, and it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the state is shifted to the time reduction state continuously for a predetermined number of times, or the fact that the transition has been made is notified. Specifically, in this embodiment, the fact that the time limiter is applied is notified by one more special symbol change display. Therefore, the player can grasp that the state is shifted to the short time state continuously a predetermined number of times, and the gameability can be further improved.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the jackpot gaming state is shifted to either the jackpot one gaming state or the jackpot two gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the jackpot one gaming state. Specifically, in this embodiment, the game state is shifted to either a big hit game state of a big hit 1 game state which is a big hit of 2 rounds or a big hit 2 game state which is a big hit of 5 rounds. Therefore, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by shifting to a plurality of types of big hit game states.

  In this embodiment, the case where jackpot 1 and jackpot 2 are 2 round jackpots and 5 round jackpots, respectively, is shown. However, if jackpot 2 is more advantageous to the player than jackpot 1, It is not restricted to what was shown in embodiment. For example, you may make it transfer to big hit 1 and big hit 2 from which the maximum permissible winning numbers (maximum count number) to the big winning opening in one round differ. For example, it may be determined as either a big hit 1 with a maximum count number of 1 or a big hit 2 with a maximum count number of 3.

  Further, in this embodiment, the case where it is decided to make a jackpot with a probability of 100% has been explained, but the jackpot is almost (with a very high probability (for example, a probability of 80% or more, preferably 90% or more)). May be determined. FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the case where it is determined that the jackpot is not a jackpot with a probability of 100% but is almost a jackpot.

  44, the processing from step S501 to S506 is the same as those processing shown in FIG. However, in the example shown in FIG. 44, in the jackpot determination process in steps S505 and S506, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot with a probability of 90% using the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 45, and deviates with a probability of 10%. And decide. When it is determined to be a big hit, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it has been determined to be a big hit (step S506B). When it is determined that the symbol is to be removed, the CPU 56 determines a symbol to be removed (for example, a symbol of “0”) as the special symbol stop symbol (step S506C), and produces a display result command indicating that the symbol is a failure. Control to transmit to the control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S506D). Then, the process proceeds to step S512.

  The processes in steps S507 to S511 are the same as those processes shown in FIG. If the determined type of jackpot is jackpot 2 (Y in step S510), the CPU 56 sets the jackpot 2 flag (step S511) and displays a display result command indicating that the jackpot is 2 in the effect control microcomputer. 100 (step S511A), and the process proceeds to step S512. If the determined big hit type is not big hit 2, that is, big hit 1 (N in step S510), a display result command indicating that the big hit is 1 is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S511B). The process proceeds to step S512.

  The processes in steps S512 and S513 are the same as those processes shown in FIG.

  FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing a special symbol variation stop process (step S303) in the case where it is determined that the jackpot is not a jackpot with a probability of 100% but is almost a jackpot. In the example shown in FIG. 46, in the special symbol variation stop process, the CPU 56 first stops the variation of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and derives and displays the stop symbol (big hit symbol) (step S361). In this case, the CPU 56 derives and displays the jackpot symbol as a special symbol stop symbol with a probability of 90%, and derives and displays a shift symbol with a probability of 10%. Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a decoration symbol stop designation command for designating stoppage of the variation of the decoration symbol in the effect display device 9 to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S361A).

  Next, the CPU 56 informs the player that the jackpot game is started after the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the jackpot control timer that measures the time for controlling the opening / closing of the jackpot. An execution time of fanfare effect) (a jackpot display time (for example, 3 seconds)) is set (step S362). Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S362A). If the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 updates the internal state (special symbol process flag) to a value corresponding to step S300 (step S371).

  The processes in steps S363 to S370 are the same as those shown in FIG.

  In the variation pattern setting process, when determining the variation pattern (see step S204), the CPU 56 transmits a variation pattern command designating the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100. In addition, the effect control CPU 101 executes the decorative pattern variation display on the effect display device 9 in the effect control process (see step S705) based on the received variation pattern command, display result command, and ornament symbol stop designation command. Then, as a decorative symbol stop symbol, a jackpot symbol (for example, a stop symbol in a state where three symbols on the left, middle, and right are aligned with the same symbol) or an off symbol is derived and displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 44 to FIG. 46, the variation display of the special symbol is executed based on the fact that the game ball starts and wins at the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14 and the execution condition of the variation display is satisfied. A special symbol display 8 is provided for deriving and displaying a large jackpot symbol as a display result of the special symbol variation display. In addition, when a special jackpot symbol is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8 as a display result of the variation display of the special symbol, the special symbol display 8 is shifted to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player. Further, when the display result derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8 is determined to be a big hit symbol before the display result is derived and displayed, the variable winning ball apparatus is compared with the normal state when the big hit gaming state is ended. When 15 is likely to be in the open state, the state is shifted to the short state. For this reason, as long as the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14 is started, the game can be shifted to the big hit gaming state, and the entertainment of the game can be improved. In addition, since the game state is shifted to the short-time state when the big hit gaming state is completed, it is possible to provide a gaming state that is continuously shifted to the big hit gaming state, realizing new gaming characteristics and further interest in gaming. Can be improved. Further, when the game state is shifted to the big hit gaming state after being shifted to the short time state continuously for a predetermined number of times, control is performed so as not to shift to the short time state when the big hit gaming state is ended. Therefore, moderate euphoria can be ensured.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the case where the effect of the time limiter is applied in the round effect and the interval effect (the time end end notice effect) is shown in the case of another special symbol change display. Not only at the time of production, but also a time-short end notice production may be performed at another timing. For example, a short-time end notice effect may be performed in a fanfare effect or an ending effect in the previous jackpot game in which the time limiter is applied, or a short-time end notice effect is performed after the previous jackpot game in which the time limiter is in effect. May be.

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end processing (step S307) in the case of performing a time-short end notice effect after the end of the previous jackpot game in which the time limiter is applied. 47, the processes in steps S461 to S465 are the same as those shown in FIG. If the value of the time reduction counter is not 0 in step S463, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag (step S464), and checks whether the value of the time reduction counter is 1 (step S464A). If the value of the time reduction counter is not 1, the process proceeds to step S466 as it is. If the value of the time reduction counter is 1, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a time reduction end notice designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S464B). The processes in steps S466 and S467 are the same as those shown in FIG.

  When the time control end notice designation command is received, the effect control CPU 101 notifies the effect display device 9 that the time limiter will be applied by another special symbol change display after the end of the jackpot (after the end of the ending effect). To start.

  FIG. 48 is an explanatory view showing a display example after the big hit in the effect display device 9. As shown in FIG. 48, the effect control CPU 101 displays a background such as a cloud or a lightning on the effect display device 9 together with a character string indicating a gaming state such as “short time” after the big hit. In addition, when the short-time end notice designation command is received, the effect control CPU 101, as shown in FIG. 48B, displays a character string indicating that the short-time limiter will be applied if another special symbol change display is performed. (In the example shown in FIG. 48 (B), the character string “Last time short chance !!” may be displayed. “It may be displayed once more until the end of time reduction!”) Is superimposed on the effect display device 9. .

  Not only the short-term end notice effect as shown in FIG. 48 (B) is performed only after the big hit, but the short-term end notice effect is provided in the fanfare effect, the round effect, the interval effect, and the ending effect. Alternatively, a short-time end notice effect may be performed.

  Also, in this embodiment, a case where a short-time end notice effect is performed during the previous big hit game where the short-time limiter is applied or after the big hit game ends is shown. You may make it perform short-time end notice effect at other timings, such as after the end of medium or big hit. In addition, when the game state first becomes a big hit from the normal state, it may be notified that the state is shifted to the short time state or has been shifted to the short time state. Absent.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, the case where the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided with one special symbol display 8 is shown, but the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided with a plurality of special symbol displays and performs a variable display of a plurality of special symbols. It may be a thing. Hereinafter, a second embodiment in which the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes two special symbol displays will be described.

  In the present embodiment, detailed description of the parts having the same configuration and processing as those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and parts different from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

  FIG. 49 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the second embodiment viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 49, in this embodiment, on the right side of the effect display device 9, a first special symbol display 8a that variably displays a first special symbol as identification information, and a second special symbol as identification information. Is provided with a second special symbol display 8b. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b are simple and small indicators (for example, 7 segment LEDs) capable of variably displaying numbers “0” to “9”, for example. It is realized with. The first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display more types of numbers such as 0 to 99. In this embodiment, the variable display of the first special symbol is executed based on the start winning game ball at the first start winning opening 13 and the game ball has started winning at the second start winning opening 14. Based on this, the variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

  In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a always has a big hit symbol (for example, symbols “1” to “9” other than “0”) as a display result of variable display of the first special symbol. Derived and displayed. Further, the big special symbol (for example, symbols “1” to “9” other than “0”) is always derived and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b as the display result of the variable display of the second special symbol. Note that the jackpot symbol is not always derived and displayed. Instead, the jackpot symbol is derived and displayed (with a very high probability (for example, a probability of 80% or more, preferably 90% or more)). May be displayed).

  In the upper part of the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b, the number of effective winning balls entered into the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory (both the first start memory or the first start winning memory) A first special symbol storage memory display 18a comprising four displays for displaying numbers is provided. In addition, the number of effective winning balls entered into the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory (the second start memory or the second start winning prize) is provided above the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b. Also referred to as memory.) A second special symbol storage memory display 18b comprising four displays for displaying numbers is provided. Further, each time there is an effective start winning, the display color of one display is changed. Then, every time the variable display of the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is started, the display color of one display is restored. In this example, the first special symbol display 8a and the first special symbol hold storage display 18a are provided separately, and the second special symbol display 8b and the second special symbol hold storage display 18b are provided separately. As a result, the number of reserved memories can be displayed even during variable display. In the display area of the effect display device 9, there is provided a special symbol hold memory display area comprising eight display areas for displaying the total hold memory number obtained by adding up the first hold memory number and the second hold memory number. May be. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number is 4, but the upper limit value may be larger. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing starter switch passage processing according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 50, the CPU 56 uses the second start port switch in the start port switch passing process that is executed when at least one of the first start port switch 13a and the second start port switch 14a is on. It is confirmed whether 14a is an ON state (step S221). When the second start port switch 14a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in the start port pointer (step S222). When the second start port switch 14a is not in the on state (that is, when the first start port switch 13a is in the on state), data indicating “first” is set in the start port pointer (step) S223).

  The start port pointer is formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM. For example, data indicating “first” is “0”, and data indicating “second” is “1”.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the start port pointer is 4 (step S224). If the value of the reserved storage number counter is 4, the process proceeds to step S230. If the value of the reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increments the value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the start port pointer by 1 (step S225). Specifically, when the starting port pointer indicates “first”, the value of the first reserved memory number counter indicating the first reserved memory number is incremented by 1, and the starting port pointer indicates “second”. If it is, the value of the second reserved memory number counter indicating the second reserved memory number is incremented by one. Then, the CPU 56 increases the value of the total pending memory number counter indicating the total pending memory number that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number by 1 (step S226).

  Further, the CPU 56 corresponds to the value of the total reserved memory number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14. Data indicated by the start port pointer is set in the area (step S227). Specifically, when the start port pointer indicates “first”, data indicating “first” is set, and when the start port pointer indicates “second”, “second” is set. Set the data indicating. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the start port pointer indicates “first” in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), and starts When the mouth pointer indicates “second”, 02 (H) is set as data indicating “second”. In this case, when there is no corresponding reserved storage, 00 (H) is set in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area).

  FIG. 51A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 51A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the value of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. FIG. 51A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 51 (A), an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. 2. Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in the order of winning based on winning in the starting winning port 14. Therefore, in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored. Note that the reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55.

  FIG. 51B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (hold buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the hold memory. As shown in FIG. 51 (B), a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  The CPU 56 extracts a software random number (a counter value for generating a big hit symbol determination random number, etc.) and a random R (a big hit determination random number), and uses them as an extracted random number value as a first reserved storage buffer. And the process of storing in the storage area in the holding storage buffer indicated by the start port pointer of the second holding storage buffer (step S228). Specifically, when the start port pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores the software random number and random R in the storage area corresponding to the value indicated by the first reserved memory number counter of the first reserved memory buffer. When the start port pointer indicates “second”, the software random number and random R are stored in the storage area corresponding to the value indicated by the second reserved memory number counter of the second reserved memory buffer.

  Next, the CPU 56 changes the display of the special symbol hold memory display 18a, 18b indicated by the start port pointer to a display indicating the value of the first hold memory number counter or the second hold memory number counter (step S229). . Then, the start port pointer is cleared (step S230).

  In addition, in the case where the effect display device 9 performs variable display of the decorative symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the first reserved memory number counter and the second reserved memory number counter After updating the value (see step S225), for example, the CPU 56 may perform control to transmit the start winning designation command indicated by the start port pointer. Specifically, when the starting port pointer indicates “first”, a first starting winning designation command is transmitted, and when the starting port pointer indicates “second”, the second starting winning specification is specified. Send a command. Also, a total pending storage number designation command may be transmitted.

  In this embodiment, the case where the first reserved memory number buffer and the second reserved memory number buffer are separately provided is described as an example. However, the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are common to each other. A reserved storage number buffer may be provided. FIG. 52 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a common reserved memory number buffer provided in common for the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. As shown in FIG. 52, the common reserved storage number buffer includes eight areas obtained by combining the reserved storage specifying information storage area and the random value storage area. In the common reserved storage number buffer, consecutive addresses are assigned to the reserved storage specific information storage area and the random value storage area.

  When the common reserved memory number buffer is used, the CPU 56 increments the value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the start pointer at step S225, increments the value of the total reserved memory number counter by 1 at step S226, and then proceeds to step S227. Instead of the above process, a process of setting the data indicated by the start port pointer in the reserved storage specifying information storage area at the head of the empty area of the common reserved storage number buffer is executed. Specifically, the CPU 56 determines the position of the pointer that specifies the address of the data storage destination based on the total number of reserved memories (may be obtained by adding the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number each time). By updating, data is set in the reserved storage specific information storage area at the head of the empty area of the common reserved storage number buffer.

  When specifying the head of the free area of the common reserved memory number buffer, for example, the value obtained by multiplying the total number of reserved memories by the number of data stored in the common reserved memory number buffer per one reserved memory (that is, the A value obtained by adding one storage specific information storage area) is obtained as an address offset value, and the pointer is updated according to the obtained offset value. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 52, two data storage areas, a reserved storage specific information storage area and a random value storage area, are provided for each reserved storage in the common reserved storage number buffer. Therefore, a value obtained by adding 1 (that is, one reserved storage specific information storage area) to the value obtained by doubling the total number of reserved storage is obtained as an address offset value, and the pointer is updated according to the obtained offset value. For example, when the total number of pending storages is 3, as shown in FIG. 52, the reserved storage specific information storage area corresponding to the offset value + 7 (a value obtained by doubling the total pending storage number 3 and adding 1). Set the data to. In this case, when the start port pointer indicates “first”, data indicating “first” is set in the reserved storage specific information storage area, and when the start port pointer indicates “second”. Sets data indicating “second” in the reserved storage specific information storage area. For example, in the common reserved memory number buffer, there are a total of three reserved memory specific information storage areas per reserved memory and two random value storage areas (for example, a big hit symbol determination random number and a big hit determination random number). When a data storage area is provided, a value obtained by adding 1 (that is, one area of the reserved storage specific information storage area) to the value obtained by multiplying the total number of the reserved storage by 3 is obtained as an address offset value. The pointer may be updated according to the offset value.

  When the initial position of the pointer for designating the data storage destination address is set as the first area of the common reserved memory number buffer (the reserved storage specific information storage area for the reserved storage 1 shown in FIG. 52), the CPU 56 May be obtained as an offset value of an address by multiplying the total number of pending storages by the number of data stored in the common pending storage number buffer for one pending storage. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 52, a value obtained by doubling the total number of pending storages may be obtained as an address offset value. Then, the CPU 56 may perform control so that the pointer is updated by setting the position of the pointer to the position moved by the offset value from the initial position. For example, in the common reserved memory number buffer, there are a total of three reserved memory specific information storage areas per reserved memory and two random value storage areas (for example, a big hit symbol determination random number and a big hit determination random number). When a data storage area is provided, a value obtained by multiplying the total number of pending storages by three may be obtained as an address offset value.

  Further, instead of the processing of step S228, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (counter value for generating a big hit determination random number, etc.) and random R (big hit determination random number), and extracts them. A process of storing as a random value in a random value storage area at the head of an empty area of the common reserved storage number buffer is executed. Specifically, after setting the data in the reserved storage specific information storage area, the CPU 56 updates the position of the pointer that designates the address by one, and stores the random value in the random value storage area at the address pointed to by the updated pointer. Is stored. Note that the CPU 56 may perform the same processing for the number of types of random number values to be stored.

  FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing special symbol normal processing in the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 53, in the special symbol normal process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) is in a state in which the variation of the special symbol can be started (for example, the value of the special symbol process flag is stepped). When the value indicates S300 (step S501), the value of the total number of pending storage is confirmed (step S502A). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 51A) is data indicating “first”. (Step S502B). If it is data indicating “first”, a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol) is set to “first 1 "is set (step S502C). If it is not data indicating “first”, that is, if it is data indicating “second”, data indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer (step S502D).

  In the RAM 55, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer, and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S503A). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each disturbance stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory number buffer. And stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S504A). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 and shifts the contents of each storage area. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area are shifted.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 saves the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Are stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order.

  Then, the CPU 56 stores the count value of the total pending storage number counter in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 (step S504B), and then decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S504C).

  In FIG. 53, the processes after step S505 are the same as those shown in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern setting process in the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the processes in steps S201 to S204 are the same as those shown in the first embodiment. When the variation pattern is determined in step S204, the CPU 56 starts variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol according to the setting of the special symbol pointer (step S204A). For example, a start flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S35 is set. In addition, in the special symbol display control process of step S35 without using the start flag or the end flag, when the variation of the special symbol is controlled based only on the value of the special symbol process flag, in step S204A, the CPU 56 A flag indicating whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is changed may be set.

  In this embodiment, the processes in steps S205 and S206 are the same as those shown in the first embodiment.

  In the case where the decorative symbol is displayed in synchronization with the first and second special symbols, the CPU 56 transmits a variation pattern command to the effect control microcomputer 100 in the variation pattern setting process. You may make it perform control to perform. Moreover, you may make it perform control which transmits the symbol change designation | designated command which shows which change is a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol. Specifically, when data indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 transmits a first symbol variation designation command indicating the variation of the first special symbol, and the special symbol pointer is transmitted to the special symbol pointer. When data indicating “second” is set, a second symbol variation designation command indicating variation of the second special symbol may be transmitted.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the game ball starts winning at the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14 and the execution condition of the variable display is displayed. The first special symbol which executes the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol on the basis of the establishment of the first special symbol and always displays the jackpot symbol as the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. A display 8a and a second special symbol display 8b are provided. Also, a big hit game that is advantageous to the player when a big hit symbol is derived and displayed on the first special symbol indicator 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b as a display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Transition to the state. In addition, when the big hit gaming state is finished, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is shifted to the short time state in which the variable winning ball device 15 is likely to be in the open state as compared with the normal state. Therefore, as long as the first winning prize opening 13 or the second starting prize opening 14 wins, the game can always be shifted to the big hit gaming state, and the interest of the game can be improved. In addition, since the game state is shifted to the short-time state when the big hit gaming state is completed, it is possible to provide a gaming state that is continuously shifted to the big hit gaming state, realizing new gaming characteristics and further interest in gaming. Can be improved. Further, when the game state is shifted to the big hit gaming state after being shifted to the short time state continuously for a predetermined number of times, control is performed so as not to shift to the short time state when the big hit gaming state is ended. Therefore, moderate euphoria can be ensured.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the first special symbol variation display is executed based on the fact that the first winning condition of the variation display is established when the game ball starts winning at the first start winning opening 13, and the first Based on the first special symbol display 8a for deriving and displaying the display result of the variation display of one special symbol, and the fact that the second execution condition of the variation display is satisfied when the game ball starts winning at the second start winning port 14 And a second special symbol display unit 8b for executing the second special symbol variable display and deriving and displaying the display result of the second special symbol variable display. For this reason, by making it possible to perform a variable display of a plurality of special symbols, it is possible to provide more playability.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine of each of the above embodiments can be given a predetermined game value to a player mainly when the special symbol that is variably displayed on the variable display unit based on the start winning prize becomes 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 is applied even to a pachinko game machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize for a predetermined electric combination that is released when the stop symbol of the symbol variably displayed becomes a predetermined symbol combination. it can. 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 can be applied to a game such as a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to a game of a gaming machine in which a first start area and a second start area are formed in the game area.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram 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 explanatory drawing which shows an example of how to advance the game of a gaming machine. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the table for jackpot symbol setting. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol fluctuation | variation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big prize opening opening pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during big prize opening opening. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process after a special winning opening opening. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot end 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 the process during normal symbol fluctuation. 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 release pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows a process during normal electric-power-object opening. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fanfare command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot display process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during a round. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a post-round process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a post-round process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big hit end effect process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the effect during a round performed in an effect display apparatus. FIG. 5 is a timing diagram showing a special symbol variation display, a jackpot game execution timing, and a game state control timing. FIG. 5 is a timing diagram showing a special symbol variation display, a jackpot game execution timing, and a game state control timing. FIG. 5 is a timing diagram showing a special symbol variation display, a jackpot game execution timing, and a game state control timing. FIG. 5 is a timing diagram showing a special symbol variation display, a jackpot game execution timing, and a game state control timing. FIG. 5 is a timing diagram showing a special symbol variation display, a jackpot game execution timing, and a game state control timing. FIG. 5 is a timing diagram showing a special symbol variation display, a jackpot game execution timing, and a game state control timing. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a special symbol normal process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the table for jackpot determination. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a special symbol fluctuation | variation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a big hit end process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display after the big hit end. It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine in a 2nd embodiment from the front. It is a flowchart which shows the starting port switch passage process in 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding specific area | region and a preservation | save area | region. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the common pending | holding memory number buffer with which a 1st pending memory number and a 2nd pending memory number are provided in common. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern setting process in 2nd Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Production display device 13 1st start winning opening 14 2nd starting winning opening 15 Variable winning ball apparatus 31 Main board 33 Entrance 80 Production control board 85A, 85B Outlet 86 )
87 Route member 100 Production control microcomputer 560 Game control microcomputer

Claims (7)

A gaming machine in which a first start area and a second start area are formed in a game area,
The state changes between a first state where it is difficult or impossible for a game medium to enter the second start area, and a second state where the game medium can easily enter or enter the second start area. Possible variable starting device,
The identification information is variably displayed based on the fact that the game medium enters the first start area or the second start area and the variable display execution condition is satisfied, and must be specified as the display result of the variable display of the identification information. A variable display device for deriving and displaying the display results;
A variable display device for variable approach that executes variable display of the identification information for variable approach based on establishment of a predetermined start condition and derives and displays a display result of the variable display of the identification information for variable approach;
When the predetermined display result is derived and displayed as the display result of the variable display of the variable approach identification information on the variable display variable display device, the variable start device is changed from the first state to the second state, Variable starting device opening / closing means for changing the variable starting device to the first state after changing the variable starting device to the second state;
A game state control means for making a transition to a specific game state advantageous to the player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device as a display result of the variable display of the identification information;
An entry advantageous state control means for making the variable starting device shift to an entry advantageous state that is likely to be in the second state as compared with a normal gaming state when the specific gaming state is terminated;
The entry advantage state control means is configured to enter the entry advantage state when the specific game state is terminated when the game state control means makes a transition to the specific game state after a predetermined number of consecutive transitions to the entry advantage state. A gaming machine that is controlled so as not to shift to a state. A gaming machine in which a first start area and a second start area are formed in a game area,
The state changes between a first state where it is difficult or impossible for a game medium to enter the second start area, and a second state where the game medium can easily enter or enter the second start area. Possible variable starting device,
Based on the fact that the game medium enters the first start area or the second start area and the variable display execution condition is satisfied, the variable display of the identification information is executed, and the display result of the variable display of the identification information is almost specified. A variable display device for deriving and displaying the display results;
A variable display device for variable approach that executes variable display of the identification information for variable approach based on establishment of a predetermined start condition and derives and displays a display result of the variable display of the identification information for variable approach;
When the predetermined display result is derived and displayed as the display result of the variable display of the variable approach identification information on the variable display variable display device, the variable start device is changed from the first state to the second state, Variable starting device opening / closing means for changing the variable starting device to the first state after changing the variable starting device to the second state;
A game state control means for making a transition to a specific game state advantageous to the player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device as a display result of the variable display of the identification information;
Predetermining means for deciding whether or not the display result derived and displayed on the variable display device is the specific display result before derivation display of the display result;
An entry advantageous state control means for shifting the variable starting device to an entry advantageous state that is likely to be in the second state as compared with a normal gaming state when the specific gaming state is terminated;
The entry advantage state control means is configured to enter the entry advantage state when the specific game state is terminated when the game state control means makes a transition to the specific game state after a predetermined number of consecutive transitions to the entry advantage state. A gaming machine that is controlled so as not to shift to a state. Variable display control means for controlling execution of variable display of identification information in the variable display device;
An entry advantage state specifying information setting means for setting entry advantage state specifying information capable of specifying the entry advantage state when transitioning to the entry advantage state;
The variable display control means causes the variable display device to perform variable display of the identification information according to a variable display time shorter than the variable display time of the variable approach identification information,
The variable starter opening / closing means has a longer period when the variable starter is in the second state when the entry advantageous state specifying information is set than when the entry advantageous state specifying information is not set. Change
The entry advantageous state specifying information setting means clears the entry advantageous state specifying information when the state is shifted to a specific gaming state.
The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2. Claim 1 to Claim 1 further comprising hold storage means for storing hold storage data capable of specifying the number of game media entering the first start area and the second start area where execution conditions up to a predetermined upper limit value are not satisfied. Item 4. A gaming machine according to any one of Items 3 to 3 . The game according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , further comprising an entry advantageous state notifying unit that notifies that the entry advantageous state control means has been or has been shifted to the entry advantageous state continuously a predetermined number of times. Machine. Gaming state control means, as the specific game state, claim from claim 1 to migrate to one advantageous second specific game state for a first particular game state or the first specific game state as compared to further player 5. The gaming machine according to any one of 5 . Based on the fact that the game medium has entered the first start area and the first execution condition for variable display is satisfied, the variable display of the first identification information is executed, and the display result of the variable display of the first identification information is displayed. A first variable display device for derivation display;
Based on the fact that the game medium has entered the second start area and the second execution condition for variable display is satisfied, variable display of the second identification information is executed, and the display result of the variable display of the second identification information is displayed. A second variable display device for deriving and displaying,
In the gaming state control means, the specific display result is derived and displayed as the display result of the variable display of the first identification information or the second identification information on the first variable display device or the second variable display device. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the gaming machine is sometimes shifted to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player.

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